Manila is the capital of the Philippines and in 2016, was considered the most densely populated city in the world. Manila is located in the middle of the 7,107 islands of the Philippines and is home to the countries business districts, a mix of local culture and incredibly warm people.

Best time to fly from Cagayan de Oro to Manila

The peak and best time to travel to Manila is from November to February during the dry season when humidity and temperatures are low. The peak season in Manila is due to its many celebrations and special events. In December there is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, in January, the Procession of the Black Nazarene and in February, Chinese New Year is celebrated in Manila’s Chinatown in Binondo.

Main airports available in Cagayan de Oro and Manila

1. Laguindingan Airport (CGY)

Laguindingan Airport is the main airport that services the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan and the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte and Bukidnon. The airport is newly opened in 2013 and is located 46 km from Cagayan de Oro. Travelers can get to the Laguindingan Airport via a combination of bus and Super 5 Airport Shuttle which will cost around P70. Alternatively, travellers can take the Express Van for approximately P199.

2. Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport or NAIA is one of two international airports serving the Metro Manila Area. Located along the border of Pasay City and Paranaque City in Manilla, NAIA is about 7 km south of Manilla and southwest of Makati City. There are four terminals in NAIA with terminal 1 hosting only international flights. Terminal 2 and three host international and domestic flights while terminal 4, the oldest terminal only hosts flights from local and regional carriers. NAIA is also the hub for AirAsia Philippines, Cebgo, Cebu Pacific, PAL Express and Philippine Airlines.

Climate pattern in Cagayan de Oro and Manila

Both Cagayan de Oro and Manila share the same tropical climate with just a slight difference in the average temperature and rainfall. The average temperature in Cagayan de Oro is 26.7 degrees Celsius with 1771 mm of rainfall while in Manila, the average temperature is 27.3 degrees Celsius and 2047 mm of rainfall annually. The driest month in Cagayan de Oro is in April while in Manila it is in February.

Highlight in Manila

1. Manila Ocean Park – This is the only Oceanarium in Manila and it allows you to interact with hundreds of Marine animals. The best spot in the Ocean Park would be the 25-meter curved glass walkway tunnel where you can encounter 14,000 aquatic animals such as sharks, stingrays, jellyfish and many more.

2. Star City – Amongst one of the most popular amusement parks in the Philippines, Star City is located right in the middle of Manila city. It’s fun for the whole family as the kids can ride on the dragon express and the magic forest while the adults can hop on more extreme rides such as the Viking, Frisbee and Jungle Splash.

3. Fort Santiago – Located in the oldest district of Manila, Fort Santiago was built during the Spanish Colonial Era. With its canons, museums, massive forts and walls, churches and stunning architecture awaiting to be the coolest photograph and selfie spots.