What Truly Makes Cagayan de Oro Stand Out as a Tourist Destination?

When someone asks you about the must-visit tourist attractions in Cagayan de Oro (CDO), what’s your answer? Dahilayan Adventure Park? That’s a great spot, but it’s in Bukidnon. Seven Seas Water Park? Another incredible destination, but that’s in Opol, Misamis Oriental. Camiguin? It’s a gem, but it’s far from the city itself.

So, the real question remains: What does Cagayan de Oro truly have to offer that’s uniquely its own?

The answer lies in an adventure that put CDO on the map—White Water Rafting. Known as the “City of Golden Friendship,” CDO was once synonymous with this adrenaline-pumping activity. Rafting down the Cagayan de Oro River’s powerful rapids was a highlight for locals and tourists alike, and it thrived until the devastation of Typhoon Sendong in 2011 changed everything.

After the tragedy, white water rafting operations paused to regroup. By the time they were ready to return, tourist interest had waned, and the city’s focus had shifted away from promoting its hallmark adventure. Slowly, the once-iconic activity faded from the spotlight.

Today, when we entertain visitors in CDO, we often turn to attractions outside the city—Dahilayan’s cool mountain breeze, the thrill of Seven Seas, or the serene beaches of Camiguin. Within the city, what we typically offer are bustling malls, scenic cafes, and restaurants in the hills, along with a serving of heavy traffic.

But here’s a challenge for all of us: Isn’t it time we revived Cagayan de Oro’s legacy of white water rafting? It’s an adventure that is truly ours, one that defines the spirit of Cagay-anon resilience, fun, and excitement. Imagine the city reclaiming its reputation as Mindanao’s premier adventure destination, reminding the world why CDO is the place to experience unforgettable thrills and natural beauty.

What are your thoughts? Could white water rafting make a comeback, or is it time to discover a new identity for our beloved city? Share your ideas below!