Things to Do in Cagayan de Oro: White-Water Rafting & Adventure Guide
Cagayan de Oro (CDO) — the "City of Golden Friendship" — is Northern Mindanao's lively hub and the country's white-water rafting capital. It's a friendly, food-loving city and the launchpad for some of Mindanao's best highland and island adventures.
Getting there
Fly into Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves Cagayan de Oro — direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other hubs — about an hour's drive from the city.
Top things to do
- White-water rafting: the Cagayan de Oro River rapids are the city's signature adventure, with routes for both first-timers and thrill-seekers.
- Highland escapes: head up to Dahilayan in nearby Bukidnon for zip-lines and cool mountain air, or chase waterfalls around the region.
- Gateway to more: CDO is a springboard to Camiguin Island, Iligan's waterfalls, and the plateaus of Bukidnon.
- Eat and explore: a warm food scene and lively markets round out a city stay.
Festivals
CDO's big celebration is the Higalaay Festival every August — a fiesta of street dancing, food, and thanksgiving marking the city's patron and founding.
Tips
- Book rafting with an accredited operator and go in the morning for the best conditions.
- Give yourself extra days for side trips to Camiguin or Bukidnon.
- Come hungry — CDO is proud of its food.
FAQ
What is Cagayan de Oro known for? Being the white-water rafting capital of the Philippines, its friendly "Golden Friendship" reputation, and as a gateway to Bukidnon, Camiguin, and Iligan.
When is the Higalaay Festival? Every August — Cagayan de Oro's founding and patronal fiesta.
Discover more festivals and events or browse what's happening across the Philippines.