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Home / Destinations / Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro

Philippines · Coast · PHP · 8.482500, 124.647000
Family friendly 9.4/10 · Rank 3 of 2 709
Best season: December-May

Best for

Outdoor and rafting enthusiasts, families with children, adventure seekers

Best season

December-May

Daily budget
$50.00 (≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 2 800 PHP)
For 7 days
$350.00 (≈ 29 372 ₽ · ≈ 19 600 PHP)
Cagayan de Oro is the "City of White Water" on the northern coast of Mindanao, known as the rafting and adventure capital of the Philippines. The city offers thrilling river rafting, ziplining, and canyoning, as well as excellent beaches and historical landmarks. This is the perfect destination for active travellers seeking adventure.
Summer
35.0°C
Winter
22.0°C
Sea
31.5°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Friendly, open, hospitable, love music and food

Pros and cons

Pros

  • River rafting
  • Scenic nature
  • Affordable prices
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Friendly locals

Cons

  • Hot and humid climate
  • Rainy season with heavy rainfall
  • Limited nightlife
  • Traffic congestion
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
35.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
27.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
22.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.5°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
31.5°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
June-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Macahalas Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Main dangers: jellyfish during the rainy season, swimming at designated beaches is recommended

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are rarely found in coastal waters of Cagayan de Oro
  • Water shoes are recommended for swimming in rocky areas

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent near Cagayan de Oro
  • No danger to swimmers

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are found in coastal waters of Cagayan de Oro, especially during the rainy season
  • Jellyfish can cause skin irritation on contact, avoid them

Sharks — details

  • Sharks in coastal waters of Cagayan de Oro do not pose a danger to humans
  • Only small species occur that do not attack humans
Attractions

Cagayan de Oro River Rafting

One of the most popular adventure activities in the Philippines, rafting with rapids from Class 1 to Class 4

Family Park

Family park with rides, pools and picnic areas

Museum of Cagayan de Oro

Museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Northern Mindanao region

Maria Cristina Falls

Scenic waterfall with natural pools for swimming, located 30 minutes from the city

Macahalas Gardens and Parks

Scenic gardens with tropical plants and recreation areas

Higalaay Night Market

Lively night market with local food and crafts

Best areas

City Centre

Business and shopping district with shops, restaurants and main attractions

Puerto

Coastal area with beaches and restaurants, popular for seaside holidays

Carmen

Residential area with markets and local restaurants

Must-try food

Lechon

Whole roasted pig, national dish of the Philippines, popular in Cagayan de Oro

Kinilaw

Northern Mindanao dish of raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices

Pancit

Traditional Filipino noodles with vegetables and meat

Halo-halo

Refreshing dessert of ice, fruits, beans and ice cream

Bicol Express

Rice with coconut milk, shrimp and chilli, popular dish of the Bicol region

Where to go next

Maria Cristina Falls

Scenic waterfall with natural pools, 30 minutes by car

Bukidnon

Mountain province with pineapple plantations and waterfalls, 1.5 hours by car

Iligan

City with waterfalls and natural attractions, 2 hours by car

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
medium
Getting there
Nearest airports
Аэропорт Лагуиндинган (CGY).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-May
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 960 PHP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 3 360 PHP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 5 600 PHP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 6 720 PHP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 2 240 PHP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 224 PHP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 84 PHP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$1.20
≈ 101 ₽ · ≈ 67 PHP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 28 PHP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 196 PHP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 140 PHP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 224 PHP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.30
≈ 25 ₽ · ≈ 17 PHP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 112 PHP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 680 PHP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 1 120 PHP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 680 PHP
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 2 240 PHP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
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Frequently asked questions
Cagayan de Oro: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-May. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Cagayan de Oro: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +35.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Cagayan de Oro: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Cagayan de Oro: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +31.5°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Cagayan de Oro: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on June-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Cagayan de Oro: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Macahalas Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Cagayan de Oro: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Cagayan de Oro: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Main dangers: jellyfish during the rainy season, swimming at designated beaches is recommended. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Cagayan de Oro: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $50.00 (≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 2 800 PHP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Cagayan de Oro: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $10.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $35.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $60.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $100.00 per night, an apartment — $40.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Cagayan de Oro: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $4.00, dinner at a restaurant — $10.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $1.20, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Cagayan de Oro: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $10.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.30, a short taxi ride — $2.00, car rental — $30.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Cagayan de Oro: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Cagayan de Oro River Rafting — One of the most popular adventure activities in the Philippines, rafting with rapids from Class 1 to Class 4; Family Park — Family park with rides, pools and picnic areas; Museum of Cagayan de Oro — Museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Northern Mindanao region; Maria Cristina Falls — Scenic waterfall with natural pools for swimming, located 30 minutes from the city; Macahalas Gardens and Parks — Scenic gardens with tropical plants and recreation areas. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Cagayan de Oro: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Lechon — Whole roasted pig, national dish of the Philippines, popular in Cagayan de Oro; Kinilaw — Northern Mindanao dish of raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices; Pancit — Traditional Filipino noodles with vegetables and meat; Halo-halo — Refreshing dessert of ice, fruits, beans and ice cream; Bicol Express — Rice with coconut milk, shrimp and chilli, popular dish of the Bicol region. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Cagayan de Oro: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: City Centre — Business and shopping district with shops, restaurants and main attractions; Puerto — Coastal area with beaches and restaurants, popular for seaside holidays; Carmen — Residential area with markets and local restaurants. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Cagayan de Oro: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Cagayan de Oro: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Лагуиндинган (code CGY). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $10.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Cagayan de Oro: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — PHP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $50.00 (≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 2 800 PHP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Cagayan de Oro: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Cagayan de Oro: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Cagayan de Oro: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Maria Cristina Falls — Scenic waterfall with natural pools, 30 minutes by car; Bukidnon — Mountain province with pineapple plantations and waterfalls, 1.5 hours by car; Iligan — City with waterfalls and natural attractions, 2 hours by car. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

9.4/10
Overall rank: 3 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1

Best season

December-May

Useful information

Currency: PHP
Coordinates: 8.482500, 124.647000