Top 5 Activities in Cagayan de Oro - Philippines

Although not yet as popular a destination as other places, Cagayan de Oro will no doubt in the future lure more visitors especially as word of its natural (and man made) beauties and attractions spread.

Gardens of Malasag EcoTourism Village

The natural marvels and wonders of the city are best appreciated at the Gardens of Malasag EcoTourism Village, a site owned and supervised by the Philippine Tourism Authority.

The entire site, located in a 7 hectare forest reserve at Malasag Hill, was built to keep alive the memory of the life of the local tribes. Upon entering you will see that the living shelters of the tribes have been reconstructed. There is also a beautiful view of the Macajalar Bay, which remains untainted by pollution.

Kagayan Festival

Virtually every major city in the Philippines has a patron saint, and in Cagayan de Oro it is Saint Augustine, whom they honor by way of the Kagayan Festival held every August 28.

The parade consists of several groups that march along the streets, including civic organizations. Every year there is a chosen theme or message to be highlighted, although the reason for the whole celebration honoring Saint Augustine is never completely lost. As with other fiestas and festivals in the country, the participants are clad in colorful costumes, dance to drums and other instruments and are accompanied by floats.

Explore the Museo de Oro

The Museo de Oro holds a vast collection of historical relics and artifacts and is a must for those interested in understanding the history of the province.

There are items and various antiques stored in the building dating from several periods. Among the most amazing are the belongings and religious artifacts from pre Spanish cultures, including those from the Maranao peoples.

Journey to the Macahambus Cave and Gorge

An excursion to the Macahambus Cave and Gorge is an exciting blend of history and nature trekking.

The cave and the gorge are actually one, because the gorge which is some 130 ft deep and roughly circular in shape is located in the cave, which in turn is underground. Around you are several trees and plants of varied shapes and sizes. What makes the place even more interesting is that it was here that the soldiers did battle during the AmericanPhilippine War.

Go to the Gaston Park

Near St. Augustine Church is Gaston Park, where you may relax after touring the whole day.

The park was named to honor Segundo Gaston, the first mayor of Cagayan de Oro, and for a time served as training facility for the Katipuneros during the early 1900s. Today it is a cozy park, with beautiful trees, greens and a playground.