Things To Do
in Saguiaran
Saguiaran is a small agricultural municipality in Mindanao, Philippines, nestled near the scenic shores of Lake Lanao. It blends rural charm with a growing local market scene and tight-knit communities. The area experiences a warm, tropical climate with lush fields and rolling hills around every bend.
Visitors come to savor halal cuisine, tranquil landscapes, and a gateway to nearby Marawi and Iligan regions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional breakfast featuring local delicacies like puto and binagoongan at a nearby eatery. Afterward, embark on a guided tour of local villages to observe the daily lives of the Saguiaran residents. Engage with the community by learning about their weaving crafts and the significance of their traditions.
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant serving authentic Maranao cuisine, including the renowned rendang. After lunch, participate in a hands-on workshop where you can learn the art of traditional Maranao weaving. Spend the late afternoon exploring the nearby markets, filled with vibrant textiles and handicrafts.
As the sun sets, savor a delightful dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can enjoy grilled fish caught fresh from Lake Lanao. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere and viewing the stunning sunset. Conclude your evening by attending a local cultural performance showcasing traditional Maranao music and dance.
Begin your exploration at the historic Sultanato ng Lanao, where the rich history of the region comes alive through guided tours. Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its striking architecture and vibrant blue tiles, capturing the essence of Maranao spirituality. Spend some time in the nearby museum to learn about the Islamic heritage of the area.
Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby café, sampling dishes like chicken adobo and sinigang. Afterward, visit the impressive Mindanao State University campus, taking in its beautiful surroundings and learning about its contributions to the region. Explore the university's art gallery featuring works from local artists and students.
Dine at a popular local eatery, where you can try the famous Lanao beef curry while enjoying the friendly ambiance. Spend your evening at a local café, sipping on traditional coffee as you engage in conversations with the locals. If available, catch a film screening at a local cinema to experience Filipino cinema.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-7 |
| 🍜Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi/jeepney ride | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Stunning lake and hillside landscapes with fewer crowds
- Limited nightlife and some infrastructure gaps
- Rural transport can be slower; plan for longer travel times
- "Assalamu alaikum" - Hello / Peace be with you
- "Wa alaikum assalam" - And upon you be peace
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Saguiaran
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the tranquil lake with mist over the water makes for ethereal landscape photos.
Rolling hills with terraced fields and sweeping valley views—great for wide-angle and horizon shots.
Architectural details and minarets framed against blue skies; respect restrictions and avoid restricted areas.
Golden-hour light on irrigation ditches and green paddies delivers classic Southeast Asian pastoral scenes.
Food in Saguiaran
Saguiaran Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, charcoal-black beef stew flavored with coconut milk, spices, and black pepper; best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Grilled or skewered meat served with a rich coconut-based sauce; commonly found in local eateries.
Freshwater fish grilled simply with salt and local herbs, often paired with a sour dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, fish from Lake Lanao, and everyday snacks; great for trying street-side bites.
Vendor stalls offering freshly caught fish and seafood; bargain-friendly and tasty when grilled fresh.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs, especially in villages and places of worship; women may prefer modest clothing.
A sign of courtesy and good manners when greeting locals.
Always ask for consent, particularly in family settings or markets.
Be mindful of food preparation and avoid consuming pork in public or mixed company when near Muslim communities.
Safety
Tipping in Saguiaran
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. For taxi/jeepney drivers and guides, small coins or rounded totals are common.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is widely used; some shops accept debit/credit cards in larger towns; mobile payments are limited in rural Saguiaran; carry small bills for exact change.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with cooler evenings; great for outdoor activities and photography; occasional brief showers possible.
Higher humidity and frequent rain; plan for indoor visits, and carry a lightweight rain jacket and protective gear for cameras.
Saguiaran at Night
Hiking in Saguiaran
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle ridge walk offering expansive views of the lake and surrounding villages.
Short to moderate hike with scenic vistas of fields, palm trees, and distant mountains.
Airports
How to reach Saguiaran by plane.
The main international gateway serving Cagayan de Oro and the broader region; approx. 1.5–2.5 hours by road to Saguiaran depending on traffic.
A larger international airport further afield; may be used for longer trips to Mindanao and onward travel by land.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant Muslim community with rich cultural traditions.
Smaller communities contributing to the region's cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Mindanao; courts are common in towns and schools.
Traditional Filipino martial arts practiced in communities and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saguiaran.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Communicate cravings clearly; many dishes can be prepared without meat, with vegetables and rice as a base; look for fish-free options and request no fish sauce.