Cagayan de Oro

DESTINATIONS philippines cagayandeoro

Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro is a modern, multi-cultural city located on the northern shores of Mindanao Island in the Philippines. It boasts gourmet restaurants, fine hotels, and is known as the shopping capital of the island. Dubbed 'the city of golden friendship' because of the hospitable nature of the Kagayanons, Cagayan de Oro always offers a special welcome to visitors from all over the world.

The City

The name Cagayan de Oro, which literally means ‘River of Gold’, dates back to the arrival of the Spanish Augustinian Recollect friars in 1622. The area was already known as ‘Cagayán’. Linguists believe the name comes from an ancient, lost word meaning river. Known as the gateway to Northern Mindanao province thanks to its strategic location on the northern shores of Mindanao island, Cagayan de Oro is the capital of Misamis Oriental province and the regional government and commercial centre for Region 10, Northern Mindanao. It is a bustling, cosmopolitan city. Home to leading universities such as Capitol University, Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan), and Liceo de Cagayan University, Cagayan de Oro has a vibrant edge and a large student population, with bookshops on almost every corner. The city is surrounded by vast plantations, including those of Bukidnon province, famous for its pineapples. Not to be confused with Cagayan province in Northern Luzon or the Cagayan Islands, Cagayan de Oro can trace its history back to the 1st century AD. Little remains of the original city due to a fire that destroyed most of its buildings in 1901. As a result, Plaza Divisoria, a vast area of parks dividing the city, was designed and developed as a fire break. Today, it is where residents jog, read in the sunshine, or quietly contemplate. Within Plaza Divisoria is Bonifacio Park, where local soldiers who fought for the country are honoured.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

The city offers residents and visitors many attractions, including fine restaurants, great hotels, and the chance to enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking along the Cagayan de Oro River. Festivals, golf, spas and museums like La Castilla Museum and Museo de Oro, known for their antiquities, are also popular. Additionally, horse riding and trekking tours in Mapawa Nature Park are available. With numerous large malls, the city is the shopping mecca of the Mindanao region.

Malasag Eco-Tourism Village

This is a living museum designed to capture how the indigenous tribes of Mandanao island lived in centuries past, including replica houses and crafts, as well as regular tribal shows. The village stands in tropical gardens with panoramic views out over the …

Whitewater Rafting on the Cagayan de Oro River

Cagayan de Oro is famous for its whitewater river rafting and kayaking, and there are many companies that specialise in the sport (Kagay Whitewater Rafting being one). Most are easily found along the riverside. The river has a series of rapids, rocks and boulders that make it a thrilling …

Macahambus Adventure Park

Macahambus Adventure Park is a natural park where you can see the spectacular Macahambus Gorge, take a walk across the Sky Bridge elevated some 36 metres off the ground, enjoy a slide ride through the undergrowth, and walk through ancient …

Catanico Falls

Catanico Falls is one of several natural wonders for which Cagayan de Oro is famous. An area of boulders and rock formations through which raging water passes and then falls in a spectacular fashion, it is a wondrous sight. Journey time from the city is around 30 …

Mapawa Nature Park

Mapawa Nature Park is a vast property abundant with waterfalls, spectacular views, and endless opportunities for exciting activities like horseback rides, hikes, and rappelling down a waterfall. You can even swim in hollows and try waterfall …

Pueblo de Oro Golf & Country Club

Golf enthusiasts will enjoy this 18-hole par 72 course designed by the famous designer Robert Trent Jones II. It is considered one of the best in the Philippines. There is a clubhouse, driving range and practice greens — everything to make for a great golfing …

Rodelsa Hall

Rodelsa Hall is a cultural centre for the performing arts and this landmark building includes a concert hall with state-of-the-art technology. There are areas dedicated to exhibitions too. It is located within the Liceo de Cagayan University and regularly offers a programme of live musical and artistic events and displays. …

Opol Beach

Only minutes away from the city centre lies Opol Beach, a long stretch of land where several smaller beaches sit next to each other. Boat trips to a nearby island are available. There are a number of resorts directly in the area, and affordable cottages for …

Museum of Three Cultures

Located at the Capitol University, the Museum of Three Cultures holds a fascinating cultural archive of Northern Mindanao region and Butuan. It contains a vast array of artefacts of the Manobo and Higaonon cultural traditions, which includes art objects, ceramics, photographs and even furnishing of old sultans' …

Vicente de Lara Park

This centrally located, small park is beloved by the city residents for the jog-perfect, tree-shaded paths, weekend Zumba classes taught by professional instructors (anyone is welcome to join in!), and the food stands with an array of snacks on …

Archdiocesan Shrine of the Divine Mercy

At the Shrine of the Divine Mercy in El Salvador City, you can explore a 15-metre statue of Jesus Christ, which houses a healing chapel and adoration chamber. Enjoy serene gardens, Mary's Rosary Garden, and the Stations of the Cross. The site offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and prayer. Dress respectfully, and pick …

Dining

Dining out in Cagayan de Oro can be as elaborate or as light as you wish. Many local dishes feature fish marinated in wine, lemon and spices, such as the popular Kinilaw (basically Philippine ceviche). Grilled meats and poultry are also common on most menus. As befits a cosmopolitan city, there are restaurants to suit all tastes, including French, Italian, Mexican, Indian and Asian cuisines. Many restaurants offer al fresco dining.

Grand Caprice Restaurant

With an elegant oriental themed décor, subtle lighting and an extensive Chinese gourmet menu, the Grand Caprice is popular with discerning diners and local business people. A fine wine list adds to its reputation as being a place to go for a dining …

Dynasty Restaurant

This is a spacious restaurant with a distinctly oriental theme, located at the Dynasty Court Hotel. The Dynasty serves an extensive range of traditional Chinese dishes with an emphasis on fish and seafood. Its speciality is Peking Duck and Shark-fin …

Thai Me Up

Find all your Thai cuisine favorites and more at Thai Me Up - a restaurant that adds a little local flavor to the beloved pad thai, spring rolls, chicken satay, crab and more. All-you-can-eat deals are available weekly. Don't miss the chance to try crocodile meat served …

Redtail Shrimps & More

Those convinced that shrimp and crab aren't really their cup of tea should give Redtail Shrimps & More a fair shot at changing their mind - the establishment might just succeed. Try the fresh seafood seasoned with signature sauce, now served directly in hot, steaming …

Kagay-Anon Restaurant

For those new to Filipino cuisine, Kagay-Anon Restaurant is a great place to start familiarizing yourself with local culinary delights. Try the Ostrich Salpicao, or any of the other authentic dishes served in artisan wood platters. Orders can be shared in …

High Ridge

With its elevated outdoor terrace and panoramic views over the city, High Ridge boasts a truly unique setting and unique ambiance that becomes most apparent at night, when hundreds of lights shine below. Serves international cuisine with an emphasis on American and …

Cafes

Cagayan de Oro's café scene caters to the Filipino sweet tooth, with an array of creamy and bready desserts on offer. Many of these charming spots can be found within the city's shopping centres, providing a cosy retreat for a coffee and a treat after a day of exploring.

Bigby’s Café & Restaurant

There are three Bigby’s locations in the city, all offering a wide selection of international dishes such as grilled chicken, steaks, fish and seafood, pasta, stews, salads, and fabulous desserts. Specialities include Kamikazee Balls, salmon, and sweet Mango Chantilly …

Goldilocks

For great cakes, pastries, and desserts, head to Goldilocks. Specialities include Black Forest dessert, Chocolate Mousse Cake, Fresh Lumpia, Crema de Fruta, and Filipino favourites like Guisado, Rellenong Bangus, and Dinuguan. Several locations operate around …

Pancake House

Not only are there pancakes with all manner of toppings served at the Pancake House, but also a great selection of American-style salads, roasted chicken and pan-prepared meat dishes, spaghetti dishes and waffles. Great for an informal and inexpensive …

Candy's Cafe

Candy's Cafe is a cosy, ambient establishment with a large selection of high-quality sweet and savory foods on offer. Among the highlights are Italian classics (pizza and pasta) and the heavenly desserts - pecan pie and Red Velvet cake among others. Two locations currently operate in the city. …

Missy Bon Bon Breadshop

Conveniently located at the Limketkai Mall, Missy Bon Bon Breadshop is a hit with both locals and tourists. A one-stop location for quick savory snacks (breakfast menus available) and a varied array of sweets, coffee and gelato. Treats from Missy Bon Bon make for perfect "pasalubong" to bring …

Bars & Nightlife

The nightlife in Cagayan de Oro is a mix of nightclubs and bars that are open from around 7 pm until midnight, or later on Friday and Saturday nights. The city also offers bingo halls, evening sports events, and a variety of restaurants. There is something to suit all ages and preferences, reflecting the vibrant, cosmopolitan nature of the city.

Lifestyle District

Lifestyle District is an outdoor beer garden of all sorts, a cool hang out spot for the young locals that gets busy after sundown. There is a number of bars, restaurants, dessert shops, and entertainment venues in the area (KTV included) to make for a pleasant night out on the …

Wat Ever Family KTV

Wat Ever Family KTV is a popular karaoke bar with live bands every night, making it a great spot to relax with friends. Enjoy tasty pizza and affordable rates in a well-air-conditioned …

Plaza Divisoria

A bustling nightlife hot spot, Plaza Divisoria comes alive after sundown when dozens of vendors set up shop in the street and fast food stalls operate in full mode. Live music is played in the streets, and the area is closed off to traffic every weekend after 6 …

Pulse Live Music Venue

Microphone Hero

This bar attracts a young and happy crowd (most patrons are in their twenties). It offers live music, DJ's and themed nights. Come here to meet new friends and have a great party night, and try out the KTV - an entertainment form beloved by the locals. …

Shopping

Cagayan de Oro is famous for being ‘the’ place to shop in Northern Mindanao. Shopping Centres and boutiques dominate the city centre, and it’s possible to find just about everything from crazy fashion items to works of art, household items and electrical appliances. Some of the popular shopping areas are located along Don Apolinar Velez Street and Jr Borja Street. Among the shopping centres, the first and one of the largest is the landmark Limketkai Center in Lapasan neighbourhood. It has department stores and countless shops selling clothes and accessories, mobile phones and home design items, as well as restaurants, cinemas and play areas for children. Visitors can get their eyes tested, have a spa treatment, do some banking and have their photos printed too. An atrium in the centre often hosts exhibitions and concerts. Other malls include Gaisano City Mall on C.M. Recto Avenue, two Ororama Supercenters, and the SM chopping centres, and thePueblo Business Park. The city has many markets too, the most notable being the city centre Cogon Public Market.