The Complete Cagayan De Oro Itinerary You Need for Your Travel


In the past few years, Cagayan de Oro City has been regarded as a ‘rising metropolis’ in the region. It is also a gateway to Northern Mindanao, which is filled with a number of historical sites, natural wonders, and more. Many of these places are a must-add to every visitor’s Cagayan de Oro itinerary.

Experience the City of Golden Friendship with a fresh perspective through this Cagayan de Oro travel guide, featuring destinations tailored to every kind of traveler, nearby attractions, and food to try!

How to Get to Cagayan de Oro via Ferry

One of the most affordable and scenic ways to travel to CDO is through ferry, especially if you are coming from nearby provinces, such as Cebu or Bohol.

From Cebu to CDO (Daily Trips)

  1. Book a ticket with Trans-Asia Shipping Lines bound for Cagayan de Oro.
  2. Depart from Cebu Pier by checking in at the Pier 3 Passenger Terminal  Port Authority at the designated time of travel.
  3. Arrive at the Port of Cagayan de Oro within 9 hours and 30 minutes, or 12 hours and 30 minutes, depending on your trip of choice.

 

Cebu to CDO Fare

(Discounts apply to students, senior citizen, and PWD, infants ride for free)

  • Economy/2nd class non-aircon: Php 1,405 (Mon-Sat) / Php 1,555 (Sunday)
  • Sitting/2nd class aircon: Php 1,440 (Mon-Sat) / Php 1,590 (Sunday)
  • Tourist: Php 1,585 (Mon-Sat) / Php 1,735 (Sunday)
  • Tourist Deluxe: Php 2,300 (Mon-Sat) / Php 2,500 (Sunday)
  • Cabin (up to 4-5 pax): Php 2,800 (Mon-Sat, per person rate) / Php 3,000 (Sunday, per person rate)
  • Private Room (up to 2 pax): Php 6,200 (per room rate)


From Tagbilaran to CDO (Trips on Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

  1. Book a ticket with Trans-Asia Shipping Lines bound for Cagayan de Oro.
  2. Depart from the Tagbilaran City Tourist Port at the designated time of travel. 
  3. Arrive at the Port of Cagayan de Oro within 10.5-11 hours, depending on your trip of choice.



Tagbilaran to CDO Fare(Discounts apply to students, senior citizen, and PWD, infants ride for free)

  • Economy/2nd class non-aircon: Php 1,230
  • Sitting/2nd class aircon: Php 1,290
  • Tourist: Php 1,440
  • Tourist Deluxe: Php 1,965
  • Cabin (up to 4-5 pax): Php 2,250 (per person rate)
  • Private Room (up to 2 pax): Php 5,120 (per room rate)


For other routes, you can view Trans-Asia Shipping Lines’ passenger fares here.

Before your trip, don’t forget to prepare your:

  • Valid government-issued ID
  • Student or PWD (if applicable)
  • Cash/cards
  • A digital or printed copy of your ticket booking

Your Ultimate Travel Guide to 21 Stunning Cagayan De Oro Tourist Spots
Heritage and Historical Sites in Cagayan de Oro

1. Gaston Park

Barangay 1, Poblacion, Cagayan de Oro City

Located in Cagayan de Oro’s metropolis, Gaston Park was once built during the Spanish colonial period. It was originally named Plaza de Cesar until 1901 when it was renamed after their first mayor, Segundo Gaston. It was renovated several times and is the beautiful, relaxing park it is today.

You can find a huge fountain, gazebo, and tons of flora at the park. This is also a center for different kinds of events, festivals, and night markets. Their pasalubong center is also popular for tourists, so it’s definitely a must for your Cagayan de Oro itinerary.

2. Museo De Oro

Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro City

Located inside Xavier University, Museo De Oro is a great place to be introduced to the archeological and historical wonders of Mindanao. This is one of the Cagayan de Oro tourist spots that tell stories about the culture and folklore of the region. It began with Fr. Francisco Demetrio SJ’s personal collection of artifacts. Now, it has been expanded to three galleries.

Entrance Fee: 

  • Students: Php 30
  • Professionals: Php 70

3. Museum of Three Cultures

Capitol University, Corrales/Osmeña Extensions Cagayan de Oro City

This is one of the Cagayan de Oro attractions that history buffs will definitely enjoy. The Museum of Three Cultures was built to showcase artifacts, antiques, furniture, instruments, tools, and weapons from three different groups found in Mindanao: the Christians, Muslims, and Lumads. The museum is a go-to for those interested in the diversity of Mindanao.

Entrance Fee: Php 50-100

4. St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral

Gaston Circle, Barangay 1, Cagayan de Oro City

You can find this majestic church beside Gaston Park. The St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral was first built by the Spanish friars in 1624 and has been renovated throughout the years to preserve its beauty. It now boasts Gothic stained glass windows and a sleek black facade, a unique approach that is reminiscent of its original dark exterior.

5. Plaza Divisoria

RN Abejuela Street, Tirso Neri St, Barangay 1, Cagayan de Oro City

This Cagayan de Oro tourist spot is formally named Golden Friendship Park, but many call it Plaza Divisoria because of its weekend night market. Unfortunately, it was discontinued in 2013.

During the weekdays, it is a tranquil plaza that many locals frequent to hang out. It is divided into five islands boasting unique structures, such as well-maintained gardens, amphitheater, gazebo, statues, and a tourist assistance center. It is a place that holds a lot of memories for Kagay-anons and welcomes visitors to the heart and soul of CDO.

 

Local Shopping in Cagayan de Oro

6. Cogon Night Market

Lt. Guillermo St, Cagayan De Oro City

The lively Cogon Night Market is the perfect place to satisfy your hunger after exploring Popular Cagayan de Oro tourist spots. At night, the Lt. Guillermo Street in the city becomes abuzz with street vendors, thrift clothes vendors, and fresh fruit and vegetable stalls. 

7. Limketkai Center

Limketkai Drive and Rosario Crescent St., Limketkai Center, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City

The premier mall in Cagayan de Oro, Limketkai Center, is frequented by locals for shopping, dining, and hanging out. It is accessible within the central business district of the city. It features a Robinson’s Mall, its own hotel, cyber tower, corporate buildings, event venues, chapel, and residential condominium units.


Cagayan de Oro Itinerary for Adventurers

8. Jesper Beach

Barangay Bonbon, Cagayan de Oro City

Enjoy the shorelines at Jesper Beach, a clean, spacious beach that is one of the Cagayan de Oro attractions in the Bonbon area. It is an ideal spot for gatherings and events, as the resort has its own function halls and accommodation. Loud speakers and music are prohibited on the beach, so visitors can enjoy a quiet, relaxing time without any disturbances. You are required to pay a small entrance fee to access this tranquil beach.

9. Amaya View

Sitio Sto. Niño, Barangay Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City

Those looking for thrilling outdoor Cagayan de Oro attractions will surely enjoy Amaya View. It is an outdoor hilltop recreational spot known for its location at the highest peak of Sitio Sto. Niño, Barangay Indahag. There are a variety of activities such as ATV, rappelling, paragliding, and the like. There are also amenities like a restaurant and bar, swimming pools, rooms to stay the night, and even an events venue. It is best to spend a whole day enjoying the park.

Entrance Fee (All-Access)

  • For adults: Php 250-300
  • For children below 4ft, seniors, and PWDs: Php 200-240

10. Noah’s Ark

Amaya View, Sitio Sto. Niño, Barangay Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City

This Cagayan de Oro tourist attraction is a large replica of the Biblical ark. It sits at the highest point within Amaya View. It is a family-friendly zoo that is perfect for a day out with the kids, or an educational field trip. This is also included in the all-access fee for Amaya View.

11. Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub

Amaya View, Sitio Sto. Niño, Barangay Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City

Another thrilling spot offered by Amaya View is Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub. This Cagayan de Oro tourist attraction suits thrillseekers, with obstacle courses such as a giant swing, ball pit for children,  rope and rappelling, zipline, and even paragliding. Each activity has its own fee ranging from 150 to 300 pesos each. You may inquire about their paragliding availability through their Facebook page.

12. Crosshair Airsoft Gamesite CDO

Zone 8 Lower, Barangay Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

Adrenaline lovers, this is a must for your Cagayan de Oro itinerary. Prepare for an action-packed afternoon at Crosshair Airsoft Gamesite, located in Barangay Bulua. It offers an open field, with a wartime suburban setup complete with obstacles and fast-paced games. They welcome all players whether you are a beginner or an experienced player. 

Game Fees:

  • Starter Squad (8 players): Php 3,800
  • Blitz (8 players): Php 5,000
  • All Day Warfare (8 players): Php 7,500

13. Macahambus Cave

Zone 8 Lower, Brgy. Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

This Cagayan de Oro tourist spot combines history and nature in Macahambus Cave. The cave was used as a hideout during the American period. Its entrance goes right through the hill and overlooks the rushing Cagayan River. Note that it is not safe to enter without a tour guide. As of May 2025, the nearby gorge is temporarily closed for maintenance works.

14. Eden’s Solace

Upper Sumpong, Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City

Witness an astonishing view of the city and hills at Eden’s Solace, one of the popular Cagayan de Oro tourist spots. This beautiful hilltop garden is located in Indahag. You feel the romantic atmosphere and the refreshing air on your skin while watching the sunset or city lights. It is open daily from 8AM to 10PM. Tables (except those under nipa huts) are free to use and food options are available for you to choose from.

Entrance Fee: Php 20

15. Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village

Malasag Hill, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City

Dedicate an entire day or overnight stay at this 7.2 hectare cultural village located in Cugman. The Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village brings to life the vibrant ecology and heritage of Mindanao through its nature trail, gardens, indigenous village, and picnic area. They also have recreational facilities like a restaurant, swimming pool, and cottages for overnight stays. If you want to reconnect with nature and get familiar with Mindanao’s cultural heritage, you must add this to your CDO itinerary.

Entrance Fee (Day Tour):

  • Regular: Php 50
  • Children 4-10 years old: Php 40
  • Children aged 3 and below: FREE

16. Sinulom Falls 

Barangay Tignapoloan, Cagayan de Oro City

Dip, dive, hike, and picnic at Sinulom Falls, one of the most frequented Cagayan de Oro attractions. It is a series of waterfalls that flow down into the Cagayan River. By paying a 160 pesos entrance fee, you can access the falls, as well as a resort with a view of the falls. You can enjoy Bolao Cold Spring as well, which is included in the entrance fee. It is just a few meters hike from the falls and features its own accommodation areas.

17. F.S. Catanico Falls

Barangay F.S. Catanico, Cugman, Cagayan De Oro City

There are many other waterfalls that deserve a place in your Cagayan de Oro itinerary. In Cugman, the F.S. Catanico Falls is situated in between large boulders, giving it a unique rock formation through which water flows. Although its facilities had slightly deteriorated over time, there are recent restoration efforts from the local government, including a paved access road and a hanging bridge for visitors. 

18. Mintugsok Falls

Mintugsok Falls, Mapawa, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City

The Mintugsok Falls is one of the Cagayan de Oro attractions that is worth the challenge. This stunning 30-meter waterfall can be accessed through an exciting river trek that takes around 30 to 45 minutes, which is just right for beginners. It has three tiers, but the most popular area is the direct water source, or the first tier. It is a complete nature excursion that will leave you feeling whole.

19. Cagayan de Oro White Water Rafting

Office: Corrales Ave. cor J. Rivera St., Cagayan de Oro City
Jump-off Point: Barangay Mambuya, Cagayan de Oro City

Your Cagayan de Oro itinerary won’t be complete without the best thing to do: white water rafting. Conquer several rapids along the Cagayan River and experience the thrill of your life. One of the DOT-accredited tour companies is Kagay Whitewater Rafting, which offers lower, middle, and advanced group rafting. Their fees are inclusive of gears, guides, jeepney transfers, and shower fee. The jump-off point for the river rafting is in Barangay Mambuya. Pay close attention to your guide while they explain safety precautions and how to paddle properly.

Packages:

  • Lower Section: Php 1,200 per head
  • Middle Section: Php, 1,800 per head
  • Photo and video (optional): Php 700
  • Packed meals (optional): Php 250/meal

Cagayan de Oro Itinerary Additions: Nearby Attractions

20. Dahilayan Adventure Park (Manolo Fortrich, Bukidnon)

Ride the viral Mountain Coaster, the longest dual zipline, and many more at Dahilayan Adventure Park, a destination for daredevils near Cagayan de Oro. They also feature their very own Pinegrove Hotel and function rooms for large gatherings.

21. Kinawe Blooming Farm (Libona, Bukidnon)

Walk amidst the sunflowers and experience authentic farm-to-table dining at Kinawe Blooming Farm, also known as the Sunflower Farm. They also accommodate events and workshops in their lush gardens and cafe.

22. Seven Seas Waterpark and Resort (Opol, Misamis Oriental)

Immerse yourself in pirate-themed attractions, water slides, pools, and more at Seven Seas Waterpark and Resort, one of the most popular tourist attractions near Cagayan de Oro. Get swept away by the waves, delicious food, and live music for the whole family.

Must-Try Food and Pasalubong in Cagayan De Oro

Sinuglaw: A salty and sour combination of sinugba (grilled pork) and kinilaw (fish), doused in coconut vinegar and chico extract.

The Grateful Baker’s Famous Ensaymada: Classic ensaymada reimagined with original, ube, and yema flavors. Starts at 360 pesos for 6 pieces, available at their three branches in Cagayan de Oro. Coffee, espresso, and unique latte flavors are also available.

Tropiquantes Hot Sauce: Variety of hot sauce flavors made from locally sourced ingredients. Available at Gaston Park and Tropiquantes’ pop-up stalls.

Loretta’s Empanada: Original empanada from a local family recipe. Empanada boxes, trays, and drink options are available.

Ham: Wide variety of local ham brands or retailers to choose from, such as Oro Ham, Rines or Sler.

 

Types of Accommodation in Cagayan de Oro

Budget Hotels

In many parts of Cagayan de Oro City, you will find many options for affordable hotels fit for backpackers and budget travelers.

  • Ivory Pension House (Osmeña Street, Barangay 31, Behind Limketkai Mall)
  • GV Hotels (beside Capitol University, Corrales Extension, Cagayan De Oro City)

Airbnb

Every Airbnb offers a unique experience to travelers. These bed and breakfast places are usually cozy and home-like, perfect for staycations. You can find them in private residences, apartments, and condominium complexes.

Luxury Hotels

Business and luxury travelers can enjoy private facilities, pools, spas, and high-end service in top-rated hotels in Cagayan de Oro City.

Fill your itinerary in Cagayan de Oro with the treasures of Northern Mindanao. There is so much to explore, whether it be in the bustling city or the tranquil hills and rivers. With this Cagayan de Oro travel guide, you are sure to find the ideal destination for every type of traveler.

ALSO READ: The Essential Backpacker’s Guide for a Low Budget CDO to Cebu Escapade

Kickstart your Cagayan de Oro itinerary with Trans-Asia Shipping Lines’ finest fleet. Avail comfortable air-conditioned seats and cabins at an affordable price, complete with amenities like our very own cafe and canteen. Book the trip you deserve today.