Things To Do
in Cagayan de Oro
Cagayan de Oro is a bustling city located in the northern coast of Mindanao in the Philippines. It is known for its scenic wonders, such as the breathtaking canyons and rugged rivers perfect for white-water rafting. The city is also a hub for adventure seekers, offering activities like ziplining and horseback riding.
Cagayan de Oro is a vibrant destination with a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Then, head to the Macahambus Cave and Gorge for a morning hike and stunning views.
Enjoy a thrilling White Water Rafting experience on the Cagayan de Oro River. It's a perfect way to bond with friends and enjoy nature.
Relax and unwind at a riverside restaurant while enjoying local cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk to cap your day.
Visit the scenic Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village after breakfast. Explore the lush gardens and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Head to the nearby Philippine Eagle Conservation Center to see these magnificent birds. Take lots of photos to remember this unique experience.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring traditional Filipino dishes. Share stories and experiences from your day amidst a cozy ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a gateway to Northern Mindanao and other regions.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse local community.
- Access to natural attractions such as beaches, mountains, and rivers.
- Growing economy and business opportunities, especially in tourism and trade.
- Friendly and hospitable people.
- Mild climate compared to other regions in the Philippines.
- Development of infrastructure and amenities like shopping malls, schools, and hospitals.
- Occasional flooding due to heavy rain, particularly in low-lying areas.
- Traffic congestion in urban areas, especially during peak hours.
- Limited public transport options, which can affect mobility.
- Issues with waste management and pollution in certain areas.
- Security concerns related to crime in some neighborhoods.
- Unequal access to services and amenities in rural versus urban areas.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons.
Best Activities in Cagayan de Oro
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting adventures in the Cagayan de Oro River. Take on the rapids and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you navigate through the water.
Enjoy an exhilarating zipline experience at Dahilayan Adventure Park, where you can fly above the lush environment and enjoy stunning views.
Explore the natural beauty of Cagayan de Oro through hiking trails at Mapawa Nature Park, offering picturesque landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Embark on an adventure in the national park, where you can trek along the river, swim in natural pools, and immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cagayan de Oro with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cagayan de Oro
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a great view of the city and a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Provides stunning panoramic views of Cagayan de Oro and the surrounding landscape.
Features a rooftop garden that overlooks the city and is perfect for capturing unique shots.
Food in Cagayan de Oro
Cagayan de Oro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sizzling plate of chopped pig's face and liver, marinated in calamansi juice, soy sauce, and chili peppers. It is often topped with a raw egg and served with garlic rice.
Must-Try!
A traditional Filipino dish featuring raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. It is often served as an appetizer and is known for its fresh and tangy flavor.
A comforting chicken soup made with ginger, garlic, onions, and leafy green vegetables like spinach or malunggay. It is a popular dish enjoyed by locals, especially during rainy days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant night market is a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of local street food such as barbecue skewers, grilled seafood, balut (fertilized duck egg), and puso (hanging rice).
A bustling market where visitors can sample a wide selection of local delicacies, including kakanin (traditional rice cakes), pastil (flavored rice topped with shredded chicken or beef), and fresh fruits like mangosteen and durian.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cagayan de Oro, it is important to show respect for elders through actions such as using 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to them, and giving them seats or preference in public places.
When visiting churches or religious sites, it is respectful to dress modestly and appropriately, covering shoulders and knees. Wearing hats or sunglasses inside these places is also considered disrespectful.
Greeting people with a smile and a nod or a handshake is customary in Cagayan de Oro. It is also respectful to use the traditional Filipino greeting 'Mano' where you take the hand of an elder and gently press it to your forehead as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Cagayan de Oro
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cagayan de Oro, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to tip around 10% of the total bill in restaurants, especially if a service charge is not included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also common, with small amounts as tokens of appreciation.
Cash is the most commonly used payment method in Cagayan de Oro, although major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in commercial establishments. Mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity for convenient transactions. When dining in smaller local establishments, it is advisable to carry cash as they may not always accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities and water adventures. Expect crowded tourist spots and higher accommodation prices during peak season.
Expect frequent rain showers, lush green landscapes, and fewer tourists. Outdoor activities may be limited due to rainfall, but prices for accommodations and tours are generally lower.
Cagayan de Oro at Night
Hiking in Cagayan de Oro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain located in Bukidnon, around 1.5 hours from Cagayan de Oro, known for its diverse flora and fauna and beautiful panoramic views.
Located in the western part of Cagayan de Oro, this hiking spot offers trails for both beginners and experienced hikers, along with scenic views of the region.
Just a short drive from the city, this eco-park features various hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic spots, making it perfect for a day trip.
This area offers hiking trails with views of the countryside and access to native huts and gardens, creating a unique blend of nature and culture.
A beautiful waterfall located in the outskirts of Cagayan de Oro, with hiking trails that lead to stunning natural landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Cagayan de Oro by plane.
Located in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, it is the second busiest airport in the Philippines and serves a wide range of international flights.
Located in Davao City, it serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the major airports in Mindanao.
Located in Pasay City, Metro Manila, it is the main airport serving the Philippines with numerous international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cagayan de Oro's largest ethnic group, primarily speaking Cebuano or Bisayan languages.
A significant number, especially for those who migrated from the Western Visayas region.
Representing inhabitants from the Luzon region, contributing to the cultural mix.
Includes various tribes such as the Higaonon and Manobo, reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
A long-established community contributing to the local economy and culture.
A minority group within the city, primarily from the region of Mindanao.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Cagayan de Oro, with numerous local leagues and street games played regularly.
Football has a strong following and is played at various levels, from youth leagues to local clubs that compete regionally.
Volleyball is widely played, particularly among schools and universities, with both indoor and beach volleyball regularly practiced.
Badminton is a favorite recreational sport, with many facilities available for play across the city.
Running events, such as fun runs and marathons, are popular in the community, promoting fitness and health.
Sepak Takraw is a traditional sport in the region, gaining popularity due to its cultural significance and exciting gameplay.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cagayan de Oro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Cagayan de Oro's cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in the city offer vegetarian and vegan options. Dishes like Pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and Ginataang Langka (jackfruit stewed in coconut milk) are excellent choices for those with plant-based diets.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a variety of gluten-free dishes in Cagayan de Oro. Fruits, vegetables, grilled meats, and fresh seafood are safe options, and many restaurants are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions upon request, so it's advisable to communicate clearly with the staff about specific dietary needs.