The most popular day trip from Cagayan de Oro is to Camiguin Island, a compact volcanic island to the north. Take a bus from the Agora Terminal to Balingoan (about 1.5 hours), then a 45-minute ferry to Benoni port. The island has white sand beaches, hot and cold springs, the Sunken Cemetery (a cemetery submerged by a 19th-century volcanic eruption), and the active Hibok-Hibok volcano. Allow at least two days to do it justice, though many day-trippers fit the highlights into a long day.
Closer to the city, the Huluga Caves, about 8km south, contain evidence of prehistoric habitation and can be reached by tricycle. The Mapawa Nature Park, in the hills above the city, offers zip lines, rappelling, and hiking in the tropical forest — accessible by hired vehicle. For whitewater beyond the main commercial stretch, ask operators about the upper river routes, which include more demanding rapids suited to experienced paddlers.