Cagayan De Oro Tour: Macahambus Cave

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour

Day 4

After our fear-conquering experience at the skybridges and zipline, our next stop is about nature and history - the Macahambus Cave.

The Macahambus Cave is at the Macahambus Hill. Filipino spelunkers would surely like this cave's picturesque cavern and at the same time feel some national pride because of its historical significance.


The cave provided strategic location because of its elevation and view of the Cagayan de Oro river. That is perhaps the main reason why Filipinos won the Battle of Macahambus Hill in 1900 against the Americans. That was the first ever victory of the Filipinos over the Americans.


The cave is dark inside so the overhead flash lights over by kids came in handy. For about some 5-10 meter walk, at some point you have to stoop, you will then reach a veranda like platform overlooking the Cagayan de Oro river and the whitewater rafters nearing their disembarkation point. The kids will gladly took our pictures. We rewarded the 3 kids with Php 50.






After Manong Rey brought us to SM Cagayan De Oro where we had a light snack and whil away some time before going to Lumbia Airport to take our flight home.

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Cagayan De Oro Tour: Macahambus Adventure Park

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 4

We thought we already missed the chance to go to Macahambus Adventure Park in Cagayan de Oro in Day 1 and resigned to that fate.

After checking out from Lamar Inn before noon, we have some time before our return flight to Manila. So we thought, we just hang around SM CDO to kill time.

So, we hailed a taxi and soon enough the driver talked us into finishing our Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Tour with a bang - an exhilarating experience at the Macahambus Adventure Park.


Manong Rey was the driver of the cab. While traveling we shared to him that we missed going to Macahambus and try the zipline and sky bridge. He convinced us that our time, effort and money for this tour would be more worth it if we experience Macahambus, especially that it would only take little time. Of course, we suspected that his suggestion would entail a larger rate. We agreed on 300 Php, inclusive of the travel from downtown CDO, to Macahambus Park and then to SM CDO. We found that fair enough.

When we reached the adventure, a class of students was there as part of their own tour. We have no choice then but take pictures as we wait. Hehehe!!!


Finally, its our turn to cross the Skybridge. The Skybridge is a 123 meter long bridge suspended 150 meters above a gorge that I failed to see the bottom. It is divided into 2 sections.



With a harness looking secure, I never really felt as afraid as in the whitewater rafting adventure. At the time, only two of us are crossing that is why less vibration on the bridge.
True, you will get apprehensive when you look down, because you'll notice that the wood you are stepping on has a gap in the middle.

Finally, we reached the hyped Zipline. It is a 120 meter slide with the same gorge beneath. Unfortunately, perhaps due to our excitement and eagerness, we never thought of shooting some pics while riding the zipline. Soon, we were sliding through the cable feeling the rush of air. If I may say, the zipline ride is a bit short.

For a non-adventurous guy like me, the experience was liberating. I encourage you to try it the moment you had the chance. Manong Rey shared that he had never tried it even though he lives near the place.

To give you an idea, here's a picture of zipping through the cable.


If you ever come CDO's way, don't missed the chance to try what Macahambus Adventure Park has to offer.

Expenses

• Taxi - Php 350 ( from downtown CDO to Macahambus to SM CDO) + Php 50 tip)
• Adventure Fee - Php 600 ( Php 300/head)
• Total : Php 950

Tips

We felt some insect bites during the adventure. So, we advise you to apply insect repellant lotion before doing the adventure. Do not forget to take pictures on all the adventure. If you decide to go there in a pair like us, we suggest each of you have his/her own camera.

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Cagayan de Oro-Camiguin, Philippines Tour: Day 3

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Tour Day 3

After our trip to White Island in Camiguin, we had shower and packed our stuff to make our way back to CDO.Again, we rented a multicab to bring us again to the Port of Benoni. We were again referred by Frank to his cousin, Adon.

First, we asked Adon to bring us to Kan-anan sa Parola for our brunch. Perhaps out of shyness, he declined our offer for him to join us. After our meal, we had some pictures taken at the Parola. We would have wanted to climb the old lighthouse but Adon said it is not allowed anymore as the structure is already old and weak.

Our next stop was Vjandep Bakery to buy the famed Pastel of Camiguin.

Pastel is a Spanish term for cake. It was part of Camiguin's cuisine for special occasions in 17th century and commercialized only on 1990. It is a locally made bun win flavored fillings, originally yema flavored. It was a hobby turned to a profitable business venture and now a pride of Camiguin. By the way, VJANDEP stand for Virgilio Jose And Eleanor Popera, the family that reformulated the pastel to what it is now.

We, then, asked Adon to bring us to the port of Benoni. Here are some pics along the way.




This is our ferry leaving Port Benoni. Goodbye for now, Camiguin!


We arrived around and 11 am and had to wait for the 12 noon ferry ride back to Balingoan. The ferry ride this time is a bit rough as waves are a bit greater.

From Balingoan, we took Bachelor Express bus again towards CDO. At first, I put the baggages on the top compartment. But as the bus ride went along the zigzag roads, I put it down for fear that it may fall down to other passengers. Despite the zigzag roads, the bus navigate through swiftly.

We then reached downtown CDO and look for our next place to stay. The LAMAR INN. This is some 3 block walk from Grand City Hotel but cheaper. The room given to us is spacious but seemed very old for 850 Php.

As we had some time to spare, we went to Lim Ket Kai mall for some shopping.

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Cagayan de Oro- Camiguin Philippine Tour: Discovering Camiguin

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 2

After a thrilling whitewater adventure in Day 1, we continued our Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour by embarking to CAMIGUIN.

Camiguin is an island province in Northern Mindanao, Philippines famous for beautiful beaches, ( white island, etc) scenic mountain views (Mt. Hibok-hibok, etc), refreshing springs and waterfalls and famous tourist spots ( sunken cemetery, etc). That is why we need to see it for ourselves. And so are you! :)


We left downtown CDO early in the morning and boarded a jeepney going to Agora Market. Along the way, we saw the Lim Ket Kai Mall. The driver was kind enough to point us where the bus terminal we're looking for is.

In the terminal, a vendor showed us the Bachelor Express. Unfortunately, he insisted that we buy something from him. For him to leave us, we just bought a bottle of mineral water.

The Bachelor Express is a yellow-colored bus bound for Butuan City that will take us to Balingoan. You can choose between the ordinary (Php 89) and the aircon type (Php 110). Travel time to Balingoan took us about one and a half hour along zigzag roads. The best seats going to Balingoan is in the left side of the bus if you want a better view of the blue sea. We were apprehensive that we might pass by the port. Good thing, there is a designated bus stop in Balingoan.

From the bus terminal in Balingoan, you can walk to the Balingoan Port/pier, some 200 meters across the terminal. Or you can ride a tricycle for 10 Php per person like in our case.

At the gate, you will see the booth where ferry ticket is sold for Php 135 each. Inside the port, 5 pesos were charged for terminal fee for both us. From Balingoan Port, the ferry will take you to the port of Benoni, in the town of Mahinog, Camiguin.

The ferry that would take us to Camiguin was boarding a truck when we entered. Passengers are seated on the second deck. Seats are available on the side of the ferry if you like a closer view of the sea and enjoy the sea breeze more.

We set foot on Camiguin after an hour where we were met by Frank. He will be our guide and driver in Camiguin as prearranged the night before.

First stop was the Kan-anan sa Parola for a quick lunch. Food was great and quite affordable. Php 160 pesos for the 3 of us. Next, we checked in at Pabuas Cottages to leave our luggage and proceeded with the tour. The room was detached from the main house. It was spacious with 1 double bed and 2 single bed, aircon, cable TV and bathroom.


Frank then brought us to the Katibawasan Falls. I think the falls is more than 200 feet, cascading down to a greenish pool of water covering a rocky bottom. The falls is surrounded by boulders, shruberries and trees. Our guide shared that rapelling is also conducted here. Visitors are allowed to swim. A change room is provided near the entrance but none when you troop down to the pool of water below. 15 pesos are charged per person for maintenance of this tourist spot.

After a short swim, we went around the souvenir stores found at the entrance.

From there, we proceed to the Walkway to the old Volcano and Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross were put up from the foot of the mountain up. This place is popular during the Holy Week celebration as Catholics revisit the passion and suffering of Jesus especially those who have panata (annual vows). Walking along stations to stations up to the top of the mountain is a good penance. Initially, I was confident I could finish all of the stations and take pictures of all them. But by the 3rd station, I was already tired.

After a short attack on the souvenir store near the walkway, we then went to the famous Sunken Cemetery. A remnant of the town cemetery buried by the volcanic eruption in the 1800's. It is actually allowed to cross the sea and reach the cross. But decided not to as it is high tide and sun is so high up.

Just some short distance from the Sunken Cemetery is the Old Guiob Church ruins. The walls of this old church is made up of sea corrals as pointed out by our guide. There is a small chapel inside if you want to say a prayer.

Off we went our way again. Along the road, we stopped by a Spanish-style house where natural soda is flowing out. Thinking it was like Sprite of 7-up, we tasted it. It was warm and taste different from water.

Next stop is the Ardent Hot Springs. Entrance is only 30 pesos. It features several pools of different depths and a 39° hot pool. We saw quite a number of foreign tourist enjoying the dip. Maybe its because its not yet peak season that we were not charged for the cottage.

Then Frank brought us back to our cottage in Pabuas. Guests are allowed to request cooked food but we decided to have our dinner at the restaurant of Paras beach resort. It is the nearest beach resort to White Island and is connected directly to the sea. Dinner was great but a bit pricey here. After some billiards, we decided to retire for the evening.

Our Expenses for Day 2 :

• Transportation from CDO to Camiguin - Php 523.00
• Mulitcab Rental And Tour - Php 1, 000 ( Inclusive of fetch from port, Tour & back to Pabuas Cottages. We added Php 100 peso tip.)
• Entrance Fees Total - Php 100
• Food - Php 682
• Accomodations in Pabuas Cottages - Php 700
• Miscellaneous - Php 140
• Total - Php 3255

Contacts:

Kuya Frank - 0920.5405582
Pabuas Cottages
Proprietor: Emma Pabuas
Tel: (0088) 387.9033
CP: 0906.4152557

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Cagayan de Oro River Whitewater Rafting Adventure

If you ever go to Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, don't miss an experience of a lifetime by trying the Cagayan de Oro Whitewater Rafting Adventure.

Cagayan de Oro river will fill your heart with adrenaline rush as you conquer its raging rapids after rapids and will leave you mesmerized with its natural beauty and fascinating history in still waters .

To find out what's in store for you in a CDO whitewater rafting adventure, here is the imprinted experience of a recent adventurer.

Cagayan de Oro River Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 1

Around 8:30 am, KAGAY whitewater outfitter staff met us at the downtown CDO, a few steps from Grand City Hotel where we checked in. First order of the day is registration. We are both excited but as I remember in the form, participants in this whitewater adventure should not be susceptible to heart attacks and Kagay will not be held liable.


The rafting starting point is some thirty minutes jeepney ride from downtown CDO. Along the the paved and zigzag roads, you will enjoy mountainous view and witness the simple way of life in the countryside.

On the starting point, rafting gears were distributed to all participants: a head gear, a floating vest and a paddle. Belongings can be turned over to the staff where they will bring them to the disembarkation point. Valuable gadgets may be placed inside a waterproof bagged and be brought along the raft. After which, a short orientation followed.


First to be discussed is what to do when someone falls into the river. If he's near the raft, use the paddle to pull him out of the river. Using your arm may cause injury. If he's further away, throw the floating device and ask him to hold onto the line. If he's too far, he should turn his back on the river current in a lying position, allowing the water to take him to still waters.

Next, is how to hold the paddle and the all important commands of the river guide. First is FORWARD. It means you paddle from front to back and your paddle should be at least 80% into the water. STOP means to desist from paddling and place your paddle in your lap. Lastly, BACK PADDLE, means row from back to the front. Paddle up is raising all paddles as a form of hooray.

And of we go into the river aboard the raft. The Beginner's Level of whitewater rafting involves navigating the Cagayan De Oro river including 14 rapids for about 3-4 hours. As we traverse each rapids, the river guides have stories to tell mostly humorous.


As we are about to reach the fourth rapid, we were asked to stand up by the river guides. On the first impact of the rapids, we simultaneously sat... eliciting laughter from our guides. I do not like bodies of water for fear of drowning. I can not describe how nervous I was. I felt I was holding for dear life on the first rapids.

But as we go along, I was able to calm my fears. Picture taking also was a good distraction. I think the only dangerous part on whitewater rafting is when the raft crash against big rocks. The river guides are there to avoid that. And may I add, that the river guides did a marvelous job on making our whitewater rafting not only enjoyable but more importantly, as safe as we can be.



It was an adventure of a lifetime for me. Pictures are also courtesy of Kagay for an additional fee. At the disembarkation point, shower rooms are provided and food sets for lunch are offered. After lunch, we were suppose to proceed to Macahambus Adventure Park for the zipline and skybridge adventure. But due to some mixed up we were not able to do so. We just went directly to Kagay office to get our pictures.

Tips & Suggestions:

• Wear something lightweight and will cover most of your body. Otherwise, apply sun block generously before plunging to this adventure.
• Do not forget to bring personal effects like towel, soap, shampoo, etc. Turn them over to the staff to be brought at the disembarkation point.
• For valuables, your outfitter ( in our case, Kagay) will provide you with waterproof bags to be brought along the adventure. For good measure, put your gadgets inside waterproof containers as well.
• You can bring your own waterproof digital camera, but its better if you avail of the photo service by your outfitter. Kagay will give you all the photos. If you are one big group, only one need to get and pay for a copy.
• You can save on food cost if you could prepare packed lunch. Also, turn over your food to the staff to be brought at the disembarkation point.

Our Expenses in this Adventure :

• Whitewater Rafting Fee = Php 1400 (700 / pax)
• Photo = Php 250
• Lunch = Php 390
• Total = Php 2040

Contacts

• KAGAY - Whitewater Rafting Voyages Outfitter
  

  Cellphone Nos:
  0917-7122323
  Website:
  http://www.cdorafting-map.com/contact-us.html
  

If you'd like to read on Whitewater Rafting, kindly check out this book from Amazon.

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Cagayan de Oro-Camiguin, Philippines Tour: Day 1

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Tour Day 1

We ( me and my girlfriend) called a taxi directory service to fetch us from Quezon City and bring us to NAIA Terminal 3 around 2 am. To our surprise, the driver did not turn on his cab's meter and told us he will be charging a fix rate of 500 php. We therefore complained and asserted that that was not the case. Reluctantly, he obliged and we were charged 225 Php only.

This was my first domestic flight and a first look at the controversial NAIA Terminal 3 and my girlfriend's first time in an airplane. No wonder we are early by 2 hours and use the time to take pictures. Then we checked in our baggage, some waiting at the boarding lounge and off we go on Cebu Pacific flight 5J 381.

We arrived at Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro Airport passed 6 am.


As expected, the taxis on the outside are offering contractual rates. The guard said 250 Php is minimum. So, we decided to walk further outside the airport and just take a jeepney to downtown CDO. Fortunately, we found a taxi that agreed on meter rate and only cost us 120 Php.

We then reached Grand City Hotel, where we reserved in advance for 1080 Php. After checking in, we had some breakfast and took a nap to wait for our Cagayan De Oro River whitewater rafting adventure.

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Cagayan De Oro-Camiguin, Philippines Tour: Airfare

Our Cagayan de Oro-Camiguin Philippines Tour was conceived on Christmas Day 2008.

My girlfriend was burning the internet lines at the time and found out Cebu Pacific's Zero Fare promo. Her actual choice was Palawan but ended up booking us a flight to Cagayan De Oro instead.

Had she told me earlier of her plan for a Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Philippine Tour, I would have thumbed down the idea for budget reasons. But then, she already booked the flights thru her credit card. She even added it would be our valentine celebration of sorts. What kind of boyfriend would I be to deny her of her first Philippine tour outside Luzon.

Of course, our airfare is not totally free. The taxes and fees summed up to 1, 636.24 Php for two round trip tickets including sure seats reservation.

5J 381 | Manila - Cagayan De Oro
Tues, Feb. 17, 2009 | ETD 0440H ETA 0605H

5J 390 | Cagayan de Oro - Manila
Friday, Feb. 20, 2009 | ETD 1635 ETA 1800H

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