Cagayan de Oro Hotels

Welcome to the happiest place in the country, Cagayan de Oro, where people’s ready smiles and kindness will make you feel at home during your stay. Found within its outstanding attractions are different wonders of nature worth exploring.

Cagayan de Oro (CDO) is considered the “Gateway to Northern Mindanao” given its strategic location. Literally translated as the River of Gold, this is home to warm and hospitable locals, rightfully earning another moniker, “City of Golden Friendship.” This progressive regional center features a booming business growth. Del Monte and Nestle are two multinational companies that have set up their plantation and headquarters here. Despite its seemingly modern setting, Cagayan de Oro has retained its natural charm and relaxed environment.

How to Go

By plane

There are domestic flights from Manila as well as Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo to Cagayan de Oro daily. It is served by the Laguindingan Airport. Travel time from Manila is approximately an hour and a half.

By boat/ferry

For those traveling by sea, there are regular trips from the port of Manila to CDO. However, this may take around ten hours or less before you reach the area. 2GO Travel, a domestic sea-travel provider, post schedules of their trips online so you can check it beforehand.

By land transportation

If you’re up for a great adventure, you may commute to get to Cagayan de Oro. This will be a combination of land and sea travel. Brace yourself for it would take one day and a half to reach the province via bus/ferry ride.

Getting Around

Several modes of public transportation are available in CDO. If you want to save on your transportation expenses, there are jeepneys and multicabs that ply around the city. Don’t forget to experience a ride on a motorela, Cagayan de Oro’s unique conveyance that is similar to a tuk-tuk, but is motorized. Taxis also ply around the city, if you want a more comfortable way to reach your destination.  

Tourist Attractions

White water rafting is the ultimate reason people go to Cagayan de Oro. This extreme outdoor activity lets you navigate the challenging Cagayan de Oro river using an inflatable raft. It is an experience worth taking that will test one’s endurance and strength.

In August, the place comes alive during the Higalaay Festival (previously Kagay-an Festival). This more than a week-long celebration honors Saint Augustine, the patron saint of CDO. There are many activities happening including a cultural dancing parade, fairs, and much more.

The General MacArthur Marker commemorates two significant events in the Philippine history: the arrival of General MacArthur and his family in Macabalan Port and the Philippine-American War. This gigantic military hat is found in Macabalan Wharf.

Top Things to Do

Cagayan offers action-packed land and sea adventures that every traveler will love. Again, white water rafting is a very popular activity. You can get reasonably-priced tour packages from different white water rafting professional groups including Great White Water Tours, Kagay, and Bugsay Rafting among others. When you visit Macahambus Hill Cave and Gorge, riding the zipline will satisfy your adrenalin rush and provide you breathtaking views.

Take a break from all these exciting activities and learn about CDO’s culture. Museo de Oro is found in Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan. The museum has a collection of artifacts from Huluga Caves and exhibits featuring Muslim traditions and customs. Make a side trip to the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village where you can see replicas of the tribal houses in CDO.

Where to Eat

Everyone loves to eat in Cagayan de Oro. Their food culture is influenced by a variety of world cuisines including American, Chinese, Korean, and Filipino to name a few. You’ll definitely come across a lot of eateries, coffee shops, and restaurants. Sentro 1850 is a top favorite among locals. Their Ima’s Kawali (Lechon Kawali) is a must-try. Or you can choose their healthier options of seafood menu.

But before you fill up your stomach, make room for dessert. After feasting on a hearty meal, head over to Missy Bonbon Breadshop and eat some pastel. This soft bread stuffed with yema, a traditional Filipino delicacy, is a popular dessert and pasalubong.

Want to grab some quick snack? Street food vendors in CDO have a license to sell, making it safer to eat street food like fish balls and Kwek-Kwek (coated quail eggs) without worrying about your health.

Nightlife

A lively and active nightlife awaits visitors who want to party after their thrilling adventures. There are bars and clubs open until midnight or the wee hours of the morning, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays. You’ll find a good selection of nightspots along Corrales Avenue or you can also gather with the rest of the tourists and locals along the streets of Divisoria. To enjoy great food, music, and company.

Where to Stay

As a top tourist destination in the country, there are many international and local hotels in Cagayan de Oro. This makes it easier to book a room whether you are looking for a deluxe suite or a budget one.

Limketkai Luxe Hotel is an eco-friendly accommodation that features state-of-the-art amenities, well-appointed rooms, and world-class service. It is also said to be the biggest and tallest hotel in the area. Another green residence found in CDO is Primavera Residences. This condotel offers competitive rental prices whether you are staying for a few days or for a month or more.

In the meantime, bargain hostels like St. Nicolas Inn and New Dawn Pensionne provide a relatively comfortable place to stay without breaking your wallet.

Travel Tips