Hailed as the “White Water Rafting Capital of the Philippines”, Cagayan De Oro is a haven of outdoor activities that adventure-seeking tourists would love to go to! From its signature extreme sports river rafting and tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and snorkeling to golf courses, watersports activities, and exciting zipline and aerial adventure parks, you’ll surely get all the adrenaline in your body pumping when you visit CDO!
Situated along the coasts of Macajalar Bay, the City of Cagayan De Oro is a first-class municipality that serves as the capital of Misamis Oriental. With its fast-growing reputation as one of Mindanao’s successful cities, CDO is slowly becoming the focus of investment and businesses in Northern Mindanao. Day by day, Cagayan De Oro City comes closer to its nickname as “The City of Golden Opportunities.”
Aside from the thriving sports culture and economy in the city, CDO is also blessed with breathtaking natural wonders such as beaches, majestic mountains, and lush forests filled with hidden gems like beautiful waterfalls, rivers, and caves.
On top of all these things, there’s another reason why tourists keep on coming back to Cagayan De Oro over and over again and it’s because of their unmatched hospitality. CDO is also known as the “City of Golden Friendship” because the locals called the Kagay-anons are extremely friendly and they always offer a warm welcome to every guest and visitor arriving in the city.
So in addition to being able to enjoy everything that Cagayan De Oro is offering, tourists are also guaranteed to feel safe, secure, and comfortable at any time and place. Well, who would say no to that? Absolutely no one! To help you plan your memorable trip in CDO, join me as we both discover the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Cagayan De Oro City!
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1. Cagayan De Oro River White Water Rafting
Credit: Eco Business
First up, there’s no better way to start your action-packed adventure in Cagayan De Oro than engaging in the city’s famous extreme sport, White Water Rafting! Adrenaline junkies from different parts of the world visit CDO just to experience this adventure and trust me, it’s not gonna disappoint!
The White Water Rafting activities take place at the Cagayan De Oro River itself where the river trail becomes as challenging as it gets. The trail goes through a mangrove forest with scattered giant boulders and huge rock formations that will surely make you paddle for dear life. Top it off with rapid and violent currents that will simply make you unleash the daredevil within you, I wouldn’t be surprised if participants get addicted to the fun and thrill that White Water Rafting brings to them!
As I’ve mentioned, this is an extreme sport. Although beginners are allowed to have fun and enjoy White Water Rafting, you have to remember that safety should still be your first priority. There are three (3) levels of difficulty to choose from: beginner, advanced, and extreme. Nevertheless, there are lifeguards scattered along the river so that gives us an additional layer of comfort and security.
Well, trying the Cagayan De Oro River White Water Rafting activities is undoubtedly going to be one of the highlights of your trip to CDO so I’d say go for it! CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN CDO HERE
2. Garden of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village
Credit: Tieza.gov.ph
Situated on the rolling terrains of Sitio Cugman Watershed in CDO is a 7.2-hectare park filled with beautiful natural attractions and experiences to highlight our vacation. I’m talking about the one and only Garden of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village.
Inspired by the picturesque gardens that can be found in Granada, Spain, and the Bouchart Gardens of Canada, this cultural habitat aims to give visitors a glimpse of Mindanao’s extremely rich ecology and Ethno-Filipino heritage.
The Garden of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village is a one-stop shop that allows visitors to witness and experience a beautiful botanical garden, wildlife habitat, an eco-community, and a learning center that helps us understand more about Mindanao’s rich culture and history.
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3. Mapawa Nature Park
Credit: Appetizing Adventure
Next on the list is a massive natural attraction spanning an enormous area of 2,500 hectares that gives us a clear view of Cagayan De Oro’s breathtaking natural beauty. The Mapawa Nature Park consists of countless spots and viewpoints that allow guests to have a scenic panoramic view of the whole park’s features.
From towering trees and rock formations to crystalline waterfalls and rare species of flora and fauna, your eyes will surely be in for a treat!
Aside from sightseeing and breathing in unlimited supplies of oxygen, the park also offers several activities for adrenaline junkies including a zipline, waterfall rappelling, horseback riding, and cliff diving.
READ THE BLOG POST: Manila to Cagayan de Oro via 2GO Travel
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4. High Ridge
Credit: Cdodev
Finally! With all the adrenaline-pumping activities we’ve done so far, it only seems fitting that we go on another kind of adventure. Yup, you got it right! A delicious gastronomic adventure at High Ridge Cagayan De Oro is the answer to our problems.
High Ridge is a hilltop restaurant famous for serving heavenly dishes while being able to have a breathtaking and romantic view of the whole city of Cagayan De Oro. This top-tier restaurant has long been the go-to destination for tourists and locals who are craving a delicious getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Book Now – BEST HOTELS IN CAGAYAN DE ORO
5. Macahambus Adventure Park
Are you ready? Now that we’ve filled up our tummies. It’s time to take yet again another thrilling adventure at the one and only Macahambus Adventure Park!
The famous park is located in Lumbia, Cagayan De Oro, and features a ton of activities that will surely make you feel that much-needed adrenaline rush. Fun and exciting activities like zip-lining, rappelling, trekking, and more are waiting for you here at Macahambus Adventure Park.
One of the highly anticipated attractions in this park is the iconic Sky Bridge that lets you cross Macahambus Cave and Gorge. Prepare your phones and cameras because you’re in for a wonderful treat of breathtaking and scenic views as you cross the 123-foot Sky Bridge!
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6. Plaza Divisoria
Credit: Geekrepublik.wordpress.com
Alright! Next up, it’s time to take a short break from engaging in daredevil activities. Let us now take our time and enjoy Cagayan De Oro City’s incredible nightlife! And there’s no better place in the city to do that than the famous Plaza Divisoria itself.
Whenever the sun comes down, this thriving nightlife hotspot shines upon those who are looking to have a good time. With dozens of stalls and boutiques offering fantastic souvenir items, apparel, handicrafts, and of course, delicious street foods, I’m sure that you’ll eventually find your way and score great deals for yourself!
Oh, and there’s always a live music band performing in the background to set up the tone and ambiance as you happily shop and dine.
7. Paragliding at Hugo Skye Lounge
Credit: Hugo Skye Lounge
And just like that, we’re back at it again on trying another adrenaline-pumping activity! This time, we’ll be Paragliding at Hugo Skye Lounge which is a famous hilltop cafe that at the same time offers fun and exciting activities for adventurous tourists!
Overlooking the mesmerizing city of Cagayan De Oro along with countless breathtaking sights of the majestic mountains, Paragliding gives us a chance to have an exclusive and thrilling perspective to soar, fly, and float through the sky while admiring these scenic views.
After your Paragliding activities, take the chance to taste some of the best tasting dishes and delicacies of Cagayan De Oro to conclude your top-tier experience here at Hugo Sky Lounge.
8. Catanico Falls
Credit: Boyetstour
Another destination you shouldn’t miss in Cagayan De Oro is the mesmerizing Catanico Falls. This hidden gem is a natural wonder that’s definitely worth seeing especially if you’re a nature lover. The raging crystalline waters that pass through the beautiful rock formations and lush greenery is indeed a relaxing and calming view.
Aside from its undeniable beauty and close proximity to the city which only takes you no more than 20 minutes to reach, Catanico Falls also captures the hearts of many because it is operated by locals. This means that they only charge a cheap entrance fee for you to access this majestic natural wonder.
9. Vicente de Lara Park
Credit: Ivanajemlani
Immersing yourself with Cagayan De Oro’s thriving culture is also one of the best things to do during your visit to the city. Nestled in the heart of Cagayan De Oro is a small beautiful park that plays a huge role in every resident’s everyday life.
The Vicente de Lara Park is a beloved urban park that is filled with countless trees and monuments that are simply aesthetic. Several recreational activities are regularly held here such as Zumba dance sessions, fun runs, bazaars, and many more. The park is also surrounded by dozens of vendors offering delicious street foods so better check them out!
10. Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub
Credit: Sunstar
One of Cagayan De Oro’s most popular attractions is an amusement park that’s perfect for both children and adults. Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub is a huge playground that offers a wide array of activities that will surely entertain guests of all ages!
With fun and exciting designs featuring Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee from the Transformers, the kids will definitely have fun just wandering around! What more when they jump around Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub’s very own Ball Pit which is the largest outdoor version of its kind in the whole country? Awesome!
There are also other fun activities such as Two-Way Zipline, Helicopter Rappelling, and High Ropes at Skye and Grass Levels.
11. Cagayan De Oro Cathedral
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Our next destination, Cagayan De Oro Cathedral is also known as Saint Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral gives us a chance to contemplate and offer prayers during our trip to the beautiful city. Aside from that, we’re also able to admire and learn more about the rich culture and history of Cagayan De Oro City.
The cathedral is also a famous pilgrimage center in the country so expect to see some pilgrims during your next visit. Taking a photograph of yourself with the beautiful Cagayan De Oro Cathedral right behind you would be nice!
12. Seven Seas Waterpark & Resort
Credit: Seven Seas Water Park
Are you ready for another thrilling adventure? Well, you better be because our next destination is the famous Seven Seas Waterpark & Resort in Cagayan De Oro City! It is the first-ever and largest pirate-themed waterpark in the Philippines covering a huge area filled with exciting rides, slides, and activities!
Some of the most anticipated attractions in Seven Seas Waterpark & Resort are 400 meters long Lazy River, Gigantic Slides, and the iconic 5-hectare Dual Wave Pool that will surely take your breath away!
13. Divine Mercy Shrine
Credit: Diocesan.com
Another premier tourist destination in Cagayan De Oro City you shouldn’t miss is the Divine Mercy Shrine or the Archdiocesan Shrine of Divine Mercy which is situated atop the Divine Mercy Hills. This religious landmark is considered by many as one of the most miraculous shrines in the Philippines.
The shrine also serves as a pilgrimage sign for the devotees of the Divine Mercy. The center of attraction in the Divine Mercy Shrine is the 50-foot Statue of the Divine Mercy Christ. Visiting this famous shrine allows us to meditate and contemplate for inner peace and spiritual healing.
Apart from all those things, tourists are also visiting the Divine Mercy Shrine to offer prayers and at the same time marvel over the mesmerizing view around the religious landmark.
READ: Iloilo to Cagayan De Oro By Ferry
14. Side Trip to Camiguin
One of the best things about Cagayan De Oro City is its close proximity to some of the premier island destinations not only in Mindanao but in the whole country. One of those heavenly destinations is the Island of Camiguin.
Photo by Ron Atory on Unsplash
If you’re looking for a place that offers peace and tranquility while still being able to surprise you with its undeniable beauty, then Camiguin Island really is what you’d want. Hailed as “The Island Born of Fire” because of all the volcanic eruptions of Mount Hibok-Hibok that ultimately shaped its present appearance, the island is also blessed with countless features that make it a tropical paradise.
With white sand beaches, sand bars, crystalline turquoise waters, and several breathtaking views, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’d wanna keep on coming back over and over again here at Camiguin Island.
15. Side Trip to Bukidnon
Finally, our last destination is the beautiful province of Bukidnon also known as the “Food Basket of Mindanao”. It only takes a little more than two (2) hours for us to reach Bukidnon from Cagayan De Oro.
Photo by Kharl Anthony Paica on Unsplash
Well, to maximize our trip to Cagayan De Oro and the whole island of Mindanao, the best place to go is definitely Bukidnon. Here, you’ll never run out of options for souvenirs to take home thanks to its rich agriculture and economy.
Of course, I’d recommend that you take home fresh pineapples when you visit the famous Del Monte Pineapple Plantation itself that covers an enormous area of 25,000 hectares. That’s absolutely stunning!
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