Northern Mindanao Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Northern Mindanao! Find out the must-visit places, best things to do, where to stay, and other travel tips in this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Northern Mindanao

Northern Mindanao, located in Mindanao, Philippines, is a region that boasts of pristine beaches, lush forests, and rich cultural heritage. Composed of five provinces - Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental - this region has so much to offer to tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Mindanao

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Northern Mindanao takes pride in its rich history and culture. Museums and historical places are a must-see for those interested in learning about the region’s past. The following are some of the culturally important attractions:

  • Museo de Oro in Xavier University, Cagayan de Oro City
  • Capitol Museum in Misamis Occidental
  • House of Mariano and Apolinario in Misamis Oriental
  • Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in Agusan del Norte
  • Rizal Park in Ozamis City

Natural Attractions of Northern Mindanao: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Northern Mindanao is home to natural wonders that offer breathtaking views and exciting outdoor activities. These include:

  • Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park in Bukidnon
  • Tinago Falls in Iligan City
  • Macajalar Bay in Misamis Oriental
  • Agutayan Island in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental
  • Mantigue Island in Camiguin

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Mindanao

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will definitely enjoy Northern Mindanao. The region has several scenic routes that offer adventure and picturesque views. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Northern Mindanao are:

  • Dahilayan Forest Park in Bukidnon
  • Mapawa Nature Park in Cagayan de Oro
  • Mount Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument in Camiguin
  • Timoga Cold Springs in Iligan City
  • Panguil Bay Bridge in Lanao del Norte

Best Things to Do in Northern Mindanao: Activities and Tours

The list of fun things to do in Northern Mindanao is endless. From exploring cultural heritage sites to indulging in outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of activities. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Island hopping in Camiguin
  • Whitewater rafting in Cagayan de Oro
  • Zip lining in Bukidnon
  • Beach bumming in Misamis Oriental
  • Parasailing in Iligan City

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Mindanao

If you’re planning to stay in Northern Mindanao for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Museo de Oro and Rizal Park in Cagayan de Oro
Day 2 Try whitewater rafting in Cagayan de Oro
Day 3 Explore Dahilayan Forest Park in Bukidnon
Day 4 Go island hopping in Camiguin
Day 5 Swim in Tinago Falls and other waterfalls in Iligan City
Day 6 Visit Agutayan Island in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental
Day 7 Relax in a beach resort in Misamis Occidental

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Mindanao

Northern Mindanao’s food scene is a blend of Filipino, Chinese, and Indonesian cuisines, resulting in a unique taste that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar)
  • Sinuglaw (grilled pork belly and raw fish)
  • Lechon (roasted pig)
  • Satti (grilled beef or chicken with peanut sauce)
  • Palapa (spicy condiment)

Local Beverages

  • Tablea (hot chocolate made with cocoa tablets)
  • Durian coffee (coffee with a durian flavor)
  • Lanzones wine (wine made from the sweet lanzones fruit)
  • Buko juice (coconut juice)

Where to Stay in Northern Mindanao: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Mindanao has accommodations to suit various budgets. Here are some recommended hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro (luxury hotel)
  • Hometown Hotel in Cagayan de Oro (budget hotel)
  • Batis Aramin Resort and Hotel in Misamis Occidental (resort)
  • The Loft in Camiguin (boutique hotel)
  • Red Planet in Cagayan de Oro (budget hotel)

What to Buy in Northern Mindanao: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring home a piece of Northern Mindanao by buying these souvenirs and local products:

  • VjANDEP pastel (soft bread with yema filling)
  • Binaki (corn cake)
  • Salakot (traditional hat made from bamboo and palm leaves)
  • T’nalak cloth (handwoven cloth made by the T’boli tribe)
  • Humba (braised pork belly)

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Mindanao

Northern Mindanao is known for its colorful festivals that showcase the region’s diverse traditions and customs. Some of the famous festivals are:

  • Kaamulan Festival in Bukidnon (celebrated every March)
  • Hudyaka Festival in Misamis Occidental (celebrated every July)
  • Lanzones Festival in Camiguin (celebrated every October)
  • Diyandi Festival in Iligan City (celebrated every September)
  • Kagay-an Festival in Cagayan de Oro (celebrated every August)

Best Time to Visit Northern Mindanao

The best time to visit Northern Mindanao is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is sunny and less humid. However, expect higher prices and crowded tourist spots during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Mindanao

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Northern Mindanao:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Try the local delicacies.
  • Bargain when shopping in markets or souvenir shops.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in the local dialect (Cebuano or Tagalog).

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites and practices.
  • Wear revealing clothes when visiting mosques or temples.
  • Leave your valuables unattended.
  • Drink tap water.
  • Wander off alone at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Mindanao

Just like in any other place, it is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings when in Northern Mindanao. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid going to areas with political unrest.
  • Keep your valuables secure.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Follow traffic rules and be careful when crossing the street.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents.

Health in Northern Mindanao

It is recommended to get vaccinated before visiting Northern Mindanao, specifically for typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus. Take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Drink bottled water and avoid uncooked food to prevent digestive problems.

Getting to Northern Mindanao: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northern Mindanao is accessible by land, air, and sea. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Northern Mindanao

  • Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental
  • Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro

Bus Stations Near Northern Mindanao

  • Agora Integrated Bus Terminal in Cagayan de Oro
  • Bulua Westbound Terminal in Misamis Oriental

Other Options

  • Ferry rides from Manila and Cebu to Camiguin Island
  • Car rentals from major cities in the region

How to Get Around in Northern Mindanao

Getting around Northern Mindanao is easy and affordable. You can ride a jeepney, bus, or tricycle to go to tourist spots and other destinations.

Where to Go Next from Northern Mindanao: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to explore more of the Philippines after your Northern Mindanao trip, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Davao City in Davao Region (known for durian fruit and Philippine Eagle)
  • Bohol Island in Central Visayas (known for its Chocolate Hills and tarsier conservation center)
  • Siargao Island in Caraga Region (known for surfing and beach bumming)

Conclusion

Northern Mindanao offers a diverse range of experiences for tourists, from cultural explorations to outdoor adventures. This comprehensive tour guide will help you make the most out of your trip to this beautiful region in the Philippines.



    Cagayan de Oro
    Camiguin
    Gingoog
    Iligan
    Malaybalay
    Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park