19 Spots To Visit In And Around Cagayan De Oro In 2019

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By Darleen Sy

Anyone down for an adventure?

Cagayan de Oro isn’t tagged as the “City of Golden Friendship” for nothing. Besides the fact that Kagay-anons are extremely friendly and hospitable, most of the tourist spots and activities in the city are best enjoyed with the company of your BFFs. Bonus: There are also several gorgeous views to see outside of this bustling city! Here are 19 places to visit in CDO as well as in its neighboring areas.

1. Seven Seas Waterpark

If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting Dubai and Florida’s famous waterparks, you can make them come true at Seven Seas Waterpark. Located within minutes away from the bustling metropolis of Cagayan De Oro, it’s the first and largest world-class pirate-themed waterpark in the Philippines. Although it’s most known for ‘The Cyclone’ and ‘Plank Drop’—both of which are thrilling rides—there are also other options for those who prefer a laid-back experience.

2. Cagayan River

A trip to Cagayan de Oro isn’t complete without facing the rapids of Cagayan River. You can brave the river throughout the whole year but to get the full white water rafting experience, it’s best to plan your trip from July to December. During these months, the rapids are more challenging and are sure to get your heart pumping.

3. High Ridge

After a jam-packed day of activities, a chill night out over dinner and the twinkling city lights of Cagayan de Oro is the perfect way to relax and cap off the day. High Ridge, one of the most visited restaurants in the city, offers a delectable variety of food with a view that overlooks the city.

4. Macahambus Adventure Park

Macahambus Adventure Park is one of the more well-preserved nature parks in the city. There, you can immerse yourself within the glory of nature while riding through a zip line and crossing sky bridges. It’s also the home of the historical Makahambus Cave and 150 ft. tall gorge.

5. Dahilayan Adventure Park

Home to Asia’s longest dual zipline at 840 meters, Dahilayan Adventure Park is every adrenaline junkie’s dream. Located in Bukidnon, it has quickly become one of the go-to destinations for extreme sports and activities. The park has a total of eight attractions thrill-seekers can choose from.

6. Dahilayan Forest Park

For those who prefer family-friendly activities compared to Dahilayan Adventure Park’s, Dahilayan Forest Park offers activities that are suitable for all ages. Risk-averse people will be more comfortable exploring and trying out its attractions including the bumper boats, ATV adventure, mini golf, and the first and only luge carts (part go-cart, part toboggan ride) in the Philippines that were originally from New Zealand.

7. Mapawa Nature Park

Mapawa Nature Park is an ideal place for people who are looking to get away from the city buzz. It's a 2500-hectare eco-tourism destination that makes for a go-to spot for hiking and canyoneering enthusiasts. You’ll get to rappel alongside a 65-foot-tall waterfall or even try the waterfall slide.

8. Chingkeetea

If you thought the milk tea hype stops in Manila, think again. Cagayan de Oro has its very own local milk tea shop that is claimed to have the best Wintermelon Milk Tea according to Kagay-anons. Apart from offering authentic Taiwanese fruit and milk teas and their aesthetically pleasing interiors, Chingkeetea occasionally holds events such as mini markets and live music performances for local artists.

9. Eden’s Solace

Eden’s Solace is a lowkey hilltop spot that offers a 180-degree view of the whole city. Most tourists visit during the afternoon to catch the sunset and have picnics or dinner over the city lights. While you’re there, take it as an opportunity to catch up with your family or friends as you admire the breathtaking view of Cagayan de Oro.

10. Amaya View

If you love the feeling of free flying, then you’re in for a treat at Amaya View. Experience a full aerial view of the city by paragliding from the highest peak of Cagayan de Oro. It’s another great way to go out of your comfort zone and have a once in a lifetime experience that will surely be one for the books.

11. Mai’s Playground

Though a picture of a junkyard might come into mind when you mention the words "tire wanderland," Mai’s Playground is the exact opposite of what you might imagine it to be. Tires in the playground are upcycled and used as whimsical decor and interactive objects that kids and families can enjoy. While most of the activities on site cater to kids, the place is also filled with colorful Instagram-worthy spots that are perfect for your feed.

12. Panimahawa Ridge

If you have the extra time to spare, then a side trip to Panimahawa Ridge should be in order; it's just in Bukidnon, after all. Trekking to the summit requires little to no experience. But while it’s only approximately a two-hour climb, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the mountain ridges and sea of clouds despite being an easy hike.

13. Mt. Kitanglad Agro-Eco Farm

Contrary to popular belief, Lord of the Ring’s Hobbiton was actually shot in Bukidnon. Just kidding! The Hobbit-inspired houses located in Mt. Kitanglad Agro-Eco Farm look too damn real that any LOTR fan would think they’re actually in Middle Earth. That’s not the only thing you can find in the eco-farm though. If you’ve never been to Bali, no problem! Now’s your chance to take Baliesque photos on their swing and manmade nests.

14. Museum of Three Cultures

Museum of Three Cultures as the name suggests is a museum that focuses on the Christian, Muslim, and Tribal cultures in Mindanao. The museum was created by Madame Laureana San Pedro Rosales in the hopes of preserving the heritage and culture among the tri-people. Inside, there are a total of five rooms or galleries that consists of artifacts such as indigenous crafts and photos.

15. Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism

Gardens of Malasag showcases the rich culture of the Northern Mindanao Tribe. As soon as you enter the site, you are welcomed by native dancers playing their instruments in colorful costumes and jewelry. Apart from the conscious effort to preserve the Mindanaoan culture, it’s where you can also enjoy a panoramic view of Macalajar bay. After a day of exploring the mini bird sanctuary, hanging bridge, and eco trails, treat yourself to a hot kawa bath at the Garden of Joy.

16. Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub

Unlike other mazes, Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub’s Maze Adventure is an upward maze that will test your strength and agility. Some other activities you can enjoy on the site are wall climbing and bungee trampoline. It is also home to the largest ball pit in the country and where kids and adults alike could enjoy. You’ll even spot life-size figurines of Bumblebee and Optimus Prime.

17. Divine Mercy Shrine

Above Macajalar Bay stands a 50-foot-tall statue of Jesus. Located in El Salvador, it has quickly become a pilgrimage site for many Divine Mercy devotees and considered one of the most miraculous shrines in the country.

18. Tubajon Aquamarine Park

Found in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, the Tubajon Aquamarine Park is best known for its white sands and 22-hectare mangrove plantation. Although the cottages and mangroves surrounding the swimming area in itself is already a sight to behold, kayaking through the bamboo pathways and mangrove forest make for an even better experience.

19. Tinago Falls

Tinago Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Iligan City, despite its name. While it takes two and a half hours to get to the waterfall from the heart Cagayan de Oro, travelers who frequent CDO make it a point to include Tinago in their itineraries and with good reason. The waterfall is at 240 feet high and is hidden in a deep ravine that is only accessible through the 500-step winding case. If you’re looking for some more adventure, locals recommend cliff diving off the perch of some of the rocks.