Things To Do
in Cagayan de Oro
Cagayan de Oro is a dynamic city on Mindanao's northern coast, celebrated for its warm hospitality and riverfront energy. The city sits along the Cagayan de Oro River, serving as a gateway to waterfalls, gorges, and lush nature just a short drive from the urban core. It’s renowned for white-water rafting and canyoning, making it a magnet for adventure seekers.
Beyond adrenaline, it offers a growing food scene, historic churches, and friendly neighborhoods that invite slow exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Filipino dishes like tapsilog or longsilog. Head over to the iconic St. Augustine Cathedral to admire its neo-gothic architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Plaza Divisoria, where you can enjoy the vibrant local ambiance.
Visit the Museum of Three Cultures to delve into the rich history of Cagayan de Oro, focusing on the fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and American influences. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties such as sinigang na baboy or chicken inasal. Conclude your afternoon with a walk through the bustling Cogon Market, where you can shop for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local eatery known for its grilled dishes, where you can try the famous Cagayan de Oro barbecue. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Cagayan de Oro River, where you can admire the city lights reflecting off the water. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local bar for live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife of the city.
Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before heading out for an exhilarating white water rafting adventure on the Cagayan de Oro River. Join a guided tour where experienced instructors will provide safety briefings and gear for your trip. Experience the rush of navigating through thrilling rapids while surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
After your rafting adventure, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a riverside restaurant, savoring local dishes while reminiscing about the morning's excitement. Spend your afternoon relaxing at a nearby resort or taking a dip in the river to cool off. If you’re up for more adventure, consider trying out zip-lining along the river gorge for breathtaking views.
Return to the city and unwind with a delicious dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in freshly caught fare. After dinner, explore the local night market, where you can sample street food and shop for unique crafts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and mingle with locals as you take in the sights and sounds of the bustling night scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner at a mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨One-night stay in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚆Local transport (short rides, jeepneys, taxis) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, hospitable locals and a welcoming vibe
- Easy access to nature (rivers, waterfalls, gorges) close to the city
- Traffic congestion in peak hours and popular areas
- Some services and places can be crowded or priced for tourists in peak season
- "Maayong adlaw" - Good day
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Asay ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Cagayan de Oro
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic vantage point for sunrise or golden-hour city views with river reflections and evergreen trees.
Dramatic canyon views, hanging bridges, and cave openings—great for dramatic landscape photos.
Forest trails, waterfalls, and lush greenery offering lush nature photography opportunities.
An architectural landmark with Gothic-inspired details, photogenic in the daytime and at night with lighting.
River silhouettes and city lights create a tranquil, reflective composition.
Food in Cagayan de Oro
Cagayan de Oro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting chicken soup with ginger, chayote, and leafy greens; widely found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Raw fish marinated in vinegar, citrus, onions, and chili; a popular starter in coastal and riverfront spots.
Grilled seafood (often fish or squid) prepared simply with salt and lime, served with rice.
Sticky rice dessert served with hot cacao drink for a traditional pairing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling wet market with fresh seafood, produce, and savory snacks; ideal for sampling local bites and buying ingredients.
Night-time street food along the Cagayan de Oro River offering grilled skewers, fried snacks, and cooling drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a polite 'po' or 'opo' and a nod; small talk is appreciated and friendly conversations are common.
Safety
Tipping in Cagayan de Oro
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a service charge is not always included; leaving 5-10% is common if service is good. For casual street food and small stalls, tipping is optional and at your discretion.
Cash is widely accepted, with many shops and markets accepting cards at larger establishments. Digital wallets (GCash, PayMaya) are increasingly common, and ATMs are available in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May bring hot, humid days with plenty of sunshine. Ideal for river activities early in the day and outdoor sightseeing, but stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
June to October sees frequent afternoon showers and higher river levels. Great for lush scenery and waterfall photography, but plan for rain gear and possible activity changes due to weather.
November to February offers cooler evenings and pleasant daytime temps; river levels may be gentler for beginners and more comfortable urban exploring.
Cagayan de Oro at Night
Hiking in Cagayan de Oro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic canyon trail with viewpoints, caves, and forested sections suitable for day hikes.
Forest trails and waterfalls offering accessible hikes just outside the city.
Airports
How to reach Cagayan de Oro by plane.
Main airport serving Cagayan de Oro; located in Laguindingan, with road access to the city in about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant linguistic group with a strong sense of hospitality and local traditions.
A diverse urban population contributing to the city’s cultural mix and business activity.
Nearby rural areas host Manobo and other groups with distinct customs and storytelling traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; courts are common in neighborhoods and schools, with local leagues and pickup games throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cagayan de Oro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetables-tofu dishes in veggie-friendly eateries; in markets, ask for 'wala karne' (no meat) and choose fish-free options when needed.