If you want to explore Mindanao, a great starting point would be the province of Misamis Oriental. There is just so much to do in this region, thanks to an abundance of natural attractions (beaches, waterfalls, caves, mountains, and more), a rich local culture, and commercial and tourism developments. If you want to have a truly unforgettable visit, make sure to include the following activities in your To Do list.
- Go whitewater rafting or tubing in Cagayan de Oro
Whitewater rafting in Cagayan de Oro Photo by: boardinggate101.com/Creative Commons
What could add excitement to your trip and pump your adrenaline more than riding an inflatable raft to navigate the ferocious and unpredictable rapids? Whitewater rafting is one of CDO’s top tourist draws, especially for adventure seekers. Via guided tours from certified outfitters, you can get a brief lecture on the basics of rafting and safety, all the required gear, plus an experience of a lifetime.
- Meet an Ostrich in Opol
Ostrich Photo by: Bruce1ee/Wikimedia Commons
Ever fancied meeting this long-necked giant bird in person? Now you don’t have to fly to another country. Instead, you can visit the Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm Inc in Opol. And you won’t encounter just one, but around 600 of these big flightless feathered friends! Plus, you get to meet crocs, sheep, peacocks, Chinese chickens, and even a Hyacinth Macau parrot.
- Check out the magnificent Sagpulon Falls in Jasaan
Sagpulon Falls Photo by: Suzette Gomez
This stunning natural wonder has a wide wall covered in moss where the water cascades. There are beautiful rock formations and lush trees surrounding it, making it even more majestic. It is about a hundred feet high, causing its water to drop into the pool with much power. You won’t want to miss the opportunity of capturing such a perfect example of Mother Nature’s magnificence on camera.
- Scale Mount Lumot in Gingoog
Mount Lumot Photo by: iamnoempty.weebly.com
Locals call it the “Mountain of Souls”, maybe because it was the crash site of Cebu Pacific Flight 387 in 1998, one of the worst aviation accidents in the Philippines. But don’t let the nickname scare you away. ‘Lumot’ means moss, and the rain forest on the mountain is filled with it. This gives the foliage an even more magical touch. Plus, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views, a chance to visit the crash site and a shrine erected in memory of the victims, and an unforgettable climbing and camping adventure. Make sure to bring and wear gear that can keep you warm and dry because it is known to rain, fog, and get really cold during the trek.
- Attend the Kuyamis Festival celebrations
Kuyamis Festival Photo by: cdodev.com
Before the Spanish colonization, Misamis was known as “Kuyamis”, a coconut variety that is very sweet. This plant was the food staple of the earliest known settlers in Misamis. The festival in celebration of the province happens in January. You can buy products made from coconut, check out art exhibits, and just join in on the fun.
How to Get to Misamis Oriental
The most convenient way to get to Misamis Oriental is by flying to Laguindingan Airport from Manila or Cebu. When you arrive, you can take a shuttle to Cagayan de Oro City. And from there, you can take a taxi, jeepney, bus, ship, or ferry, depending on where your next destination in the province is going to be.