Northern Mindanao is a fascinating area of the Philippines renowned for its stunning scenery and lively culture. Its natural beauty abounds, ranging from lush mountains and breathtaking dive sites to towering waterfalls and picturesque beaches. Diverse cultural communities can be found in Northern Mindanao, which offers a wide variety of customs, holidays, and regional food.
Here are the Ultimate Northern Mindanao Tour:
Divine Mercy Shrine, El Salvador City
A serene place for reflection and worship, in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental, it features the 50-foot stunning statue of Jesus Christ, on the statue above the statue, visitors will climb 200 steps to reach the heart, the heart is adorned with two rays that represent hope and faith and it also serves as stairs. Every year the shrine hosts events such as the Feast Day of the Divine Mercy and the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to visit the Shrine, but donations are very welcome to help maintain the shrine and support its activities.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating Hours: Open Daily from 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of The Divine Mercy Shrine: Divine Mercy Hills, PSB-Ulaliman, El Salvador, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- By Bus: Take a bus from Laguindingan to Cagayan de Oro. The bus departs hourly and the journey takes approximately 28 minutes. Once in El Salvador City, follow the signs to the Divine Mercy Shrine.
- By Car: Head south on the Butuan-Cagayan de Oro-Iligan Road (Butuan-Cagayan de Oro-Iligan Road) from Laguindingan. Continue on the same road for about 16 kilometers. Turn left onto the road leading to El Salvador City. Follow the signs to the Divine Mercy Shrine, which is located on Divine Mercy Hills in El Salvador City. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Divine Mercy Hills” as your destination
Museo de Oro, Xavier University
This museum in Cagayan de Oro is dedicated to showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Mindanao, located at Xavier University, it was founded by Fr. Demetrio SJ in 1967, and the museum is known as the first folkloric museum in the Philippines. One of the museum’s most prized artifacts was the discovery of the human skeletal remains in Hulga Caves in Cagayan de Oro which dated back to 377 A.D.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- Entrance Fee: for students ₱30.00 and professionals ₱70.00
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM, closed on Sunday and Monday
- Contact Number: 0918 917 1823
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location of Museo de Oro Xavier University: FJGW+994, Xavier University, Corrales Ave, Cagayan de Oro, 9000 Lalawigan ng Misamis Oriental
- By Jeepney:
- By Car: Cagayan de Oro City from your starting point. Take the main road and continue until you reach Corrales Avenue. Turn onto Corrales Avenue and proceed to Xavier University. Follow the signs to the Museo de Oro, which is located within the university campus. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Museo de Oro Xavier University” as your destination.
City Tourism Hall, Cagayan de Oro City
The City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office is dedicated to promoting tourism and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the city, they also offer assistance for both foreign and local tourists to provide information, such as maps, itineraries, and maps.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee, it is open to the public
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Operating Hours: Open from Monday to Friday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Contact Number: (088) 857 2255
- Email Address: tourismcdo@gmail.com
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of The City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office: Ground Floor, Administrative Building, City Hall, 89 Hayes St, Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental
- From Museo de Oro head towards the main road (Corrales Avenue). Walk or take a tricycle to the nearest jeepney or bus terminal. Take a jeepney or bus heading towards the city center. Get off at the City Hall stop, which is located on Hayes Street. Walk a short distance to the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, which is on the ground floor of the Administrative.
Dahilayan Adventure Park, Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
It is an ideal destination for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and families looking for a fun-filled day in a beautiful setting, and offers a variety of rides suitable for different age groups and thrill levels. The park’s most known feature is the Zipline, it is the longest zipline in Asia, an 840-meter zipline with speeds reaching 90 kilometers per hour. The park also has other activities such as Flying Lizard Canopy Glider, Sky Tower Base Jump, and Razorback Mountain Coaster.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- 840m Zipline: ₱500
- 320m + 150m Zipline: ₱250 (training zipline)
- Dropzone: ₱500 (single rider), ₱750 (tandem/pair)
- Razorback Mountain Coaster: ₱400 (single ride), ₱600 (double ride)
- Sky Tower Base Jump: ₱400
- Python Roller Zipride: ₱300
- Flying Lizard Canopy Glider: ₱250
- Ropes Course: ₱150 (kids below 4ft – 1st level only), ₱300 (adults – all levels)
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating Hours: Open Daily Monday to Sunday – Including Holidays
- Contact Number: 0917-622-3204
- Website: https://www.dahilayanadventurepark.com
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location of Dahilayan Adventure Park: Brgy. Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
- By Bus: Take a bus from Cagayan de Oro to Manolo Fortich. Buses operated are available. From Manolo Fortich, you can take a taxi or a tricycle to Dahilayan Adventure Park.
- By Car: Drive from Cagayan de Oro to Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. The distance is approximately 51 kilometers, and the drive should take around 53 minutes. Follow the signs to Dahilayan Adventure Park once you reach Manolo Fortich. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Dahilayan Adventure Park” as your destination.
Ricardo’s Cucina Higala, Manolo Fortich
Cucina Higala’s Ricardo’s is known for its welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking views of the Mount Kitanglad range, and dedication to using only the freshest, locally produced foods. It’s a wonderful spot to have a leisurely meal while taking in some of Mindanao’s abundant agricultural produce. The restaurant is named after Ricardo, the patriarch of the family that brought Cucina.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Rates:
- MENU
- Soup & Salad Menu
- Creamy Mushroom – ₱250
- Seafood Chowder- ₱270
- Vietnamese Chopped Salad – ₱400
- Ricardo’s Salad – ₱400
- Ceasar Salad – ₱400
- Main Course
- Steak – ₱2200
- Baked Salmon- ₱715
- Baby Back Ribs- ₱715
- Osso Baco – ₱685
- Lamb Curry – ₱680
- Ricardo’s Beef Pot Roast – ₱610
- Grilled Pork Steak – ₱605
- Lechon Baka Sisig- ₱570
- Lamb Sisig – ₱570
- Fish Steak – ₱515
- Grilled Chicken With Pesto Sauce- ₱410
- Burger & Pasta
- Korean Fried Chicken Burger – ₱410
- Smash Burger – ₱410
- Pesto Pasta With Salmon – ₱415
- Seafood Aglio Olio – ₱415
- Beef Carbonara – ₱415
- Spaghetti Bolognese – ₱370
- Mac & Cheese – 300
- All Time Filipino Favorite
- Sinigang Na Salmon – ₱570
- Kare – Kare – 550
- Humba – ₱470
- Fish Tinola – ₱465
- Lumpiang Shanghai – ₱430
- Boneless Bangus Ala Pobre – ₱425
- Fried Chicken – ₱425
- Crispy Sinigang Fried Chicken Wings -₱ 400
- Garlic Calamares- ₱370
- Soup & Salad Menu
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Operating Hours: Open Daily Monday to Sunday from 08:00 AM – 08:00 PM
- Contact Number: 0917 794 6117
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ricardosbyCH
- Email Address: cucinahigala@ gmail.com
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of Ricardo’s Cucina Higala: Camp Philips – Dahilayan Rd, Manolo Fortich, 8703 Bukidnon
- By Car: Start from Malaybalay City: Head south on the Sayre Highway (Route 10). Continue on Sayre Highway: Follow the highway for about 30 kilometers. Turn towards Manolo Fortich: Look for signs directing you to Manolo Fortich. Arrive at Ricardo’s Cucina Higala: Once you reach Manolo Fortich, follow local signs to find Ricardo’s Cucina Higala. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Ricardo’s Cucina Higala” as your destination.
Tourist Rest Area, Manolo Fortich
Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon recently launched its first Tourist Rest Area (TRA)! This rest area is designed to provide convenience and comfort for travelers, It’s a great spot to take a break and explore what Manolo Fortich has to offer!
Here are some features of TRA
- Clean Restrooms: Ensuring a comfortable stop for tourists.
- Information Center: Providing details about local attractions and activities.
- Lounge Area with Charging Stations: A place to relax and recharge your devices.
- Pasalubong Corner: Offering local products and souvenirs.
- Coffee Shop: Enjoying a cup of coffee while taking a break.
- Art Displays: Showcasing works from local artist
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- Entrance Fee: There is no specific fee or rate for the place
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of the Tourist Rest Area: 9V98+JXF, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
- Start from Malaybalay City: Head south on the Sayre Highway (Route 10). Continue on Sayre Highway: Follow the highway for about 30 kilometers. Turn towards Manolo Fortich: Look for signs directing you to Manolo Fortich. Arrive at the Tourist Rest Area: Once you reach Manolo Fortich, follow local signs to find the TRA. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Tourist Rest Area, Manolo Fortich” as your destination.
Kaamulan Park Open Theater, Malaybalay City
A well-known location in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, Kaamulan Park Open Theater is a wonderful venue to enjoy outdoor events, performances, and gatherings. The park is kept up nicely and provides a lovely backdrop with lush foliage and a calm atmosphere.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- The Open Theater does not have any specific fees.
OTHER INFORMATION:
- The park is always open, but for now it is (temporarily closed)
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of Kaamulan Park Open Theater: San Victores, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
- Start from Malaybalay City: Head south on the Sayre Highway (Route 10). Continue on Sayre Highway: Follow the highway for about 5 kilometers. Turn onto J. Barroso Drive: Look for signs directing you to Kaamulan Park. Arrive at Kaamulan Park: The Open Theater is located within the park. The drive should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Lake View Cafe & Lake Apo, Valencia City
Lake View Cafe is a delightful destination situated in Valencia City, Bukidnon, offering breathtaking views of the tranquil Lake Apo. This cafe provides a picturesque panorama of the lake, making it an ideal place for unwinding and appreciating the beauty of nature. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, perfect for a serene getaway or a romantic date. Visitors can also partake in a range of outdoor activities around the lake, including picnicking, hiking, and nature strolls.
Lake Apo is a crater lake situated in Barangay Guinoyoran, within the city of Valencia in Bukidnon province, Philippines. It lies in a hilly region at an elevation of approximately 640 meters, around 11 kilometers west-southwest of the city center
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- Entrance Fee: Lake Apo ₱70 per person
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Operating Hours for Lake View Cafe: Open Daily Weekdays 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM and Weekend and Holidays 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM
- Operating Hours for Lake Apo: 10 AM–6 PM on weekdays and 9 AM–6 PM on weekends and holidays
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of Lake Apo: V2J5+5F5, Lake Apo, Valencia City, Bukidnon
Exact Location of Lake View Cafe: Sitio Lake Apo, Valencia City, 8709 Bukidnon
- By Car: Start from Malaybalay City: Head south on the Sayre Highway (Route 10). Continue on Sayre Highway: Follow the highway for about 30 kilometers. Turn towards Valencia City: Look for signs directing you to Valencia City. Arrive at Lake View Cafe and Lake Apo: Once you reach Valencia City, follow local signs to Barangay Guinuyuran where Lake Apo and Lake View Cafe are located.
Taglucop Strawberry Hills, Kitaotao
Taglucop Strawberry Hills is a beautiful destination in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, known for its strawberry plantations and scenic views. Indulge in the delightful experience of strawberry picking, unwind in the luxurious comfort of dome tent glamping, and immerse yourself in the enchanting coolness of the foggy atmosphere.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- Day Use Rates: Breakfast: ₱450/person, Lunch/Dinner: ₱650/person, Snacks: ₱390/person.
- Tent Rates: Good for 2 pax: ₱7,800 per night, Good for 4 pax: ₱8,800 per night.
- Strawberry Picking: ₱450/box (subject to management’s approval).
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Operating Hours: Open Daily from 07:30 AM – 08:30 PM
- Contact Number: 0936 057 8899
HOW TO GET THERE?
The exact location of Taglucop Strawberry Hills, Kitaotao: G732+J86 Brgy. Lorega, Marilog District, Kitaotao, Bukidnon
- By Car: Start from Valencia City: Head south on the Sayre Highway (Route 10). Continue on Sayre Highway: Follow the highway for about 30 kilometers. Turn towards Kitaotao: Look for signs directing you to Kitaotao. Arrive at Taglucop Strawberry Hills: Once you reach Kitaotao, follow local signs to Barangay Lorega where Taglucop Strawberry Hills is located. The drive should take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Matigsalug Tribe Village, Sinuda, Kitaotao
A fascinating location to learn about the customs and culture of the Matigsalug people is the Matigsalug Tribe Village in Sinuda, Kitaotao, Bukidnon. The village displays the Matigsalug tribe’s rich cultural legacy, which includes traditional crafts, music, and dances. Several traditional dances, including Binanog, Bubudsil, Inagong, Kakayamutan, Kalusisi, Saut, and Sayaw Kulintang, are performed by the Matigsalug tribe. Visitors can get a taste of the traditional way of life by watching and occasionally taking part in daily activitie
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of Matigsalug Tribe Village, Sinuda, Kitaotao: Sinuda, Kitaotao, Bukidnon.
- From Valencia City: Head south on the Sayre Highway (Route 10). Continue on Sayre Highway: Follow the highway for about 30 kilometers. Turn towards Kitaotao: Look for signs directing you to Kitaotao. Arrive at Sinuda: Once you reach Kitaotao, follow local signs to Sinuda where the Matigsalug Tribe Village is located. The drive should take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Kavanah Haven Resort, Kitaotao
Kavanah Haven Resort is a serene wellness and nature haven located in Barangay Lorega, Kitaotao, Bukidnon. Kavanah Haven Resort boasts luxurious nature villas and tranquil camp pods, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort features a variety of non-pork and plant-based dishes, focusing on holistic well-being. Guests can partake in activities such as UTV/ATV rides, bonfires, and exploring the stunning surroundings. The resort is dedicated to sustainable practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
- Nature Villas: Good for 4 pax: ₱7,800 per night. Additional charges may apply on a per-person basis
- Serene Camp Pods: Good for 4 pax: ₱8,800 per night. Additional charges may apply on a per-person basis
- Inclusions: Complimentary breakfast and free drinks for all guests. 30-minute free UTV/ATV ride (as per schedule). Use of amenities, including bonfires
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Operating Hour: Open Daily
- Contact Number: +63 917-159-3362 (mobile), +63 82-308-0865 (landline)
- Email: kavanahhavenresort@gmail.com
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location of Kavanah Haven Resort: Brgy. Lorega, Purok 5, Kitaotao, 8716 Bukidnon
- By Car: Head north on the Bukidnon-Valencia Road. Continue on the Bukidnon-Valencia Road and take the exit toward Kavanah Haven Resort. Follow the signs to Kavanah Haven Resort. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Kavanah Haven Resort” as your destination.
