Whitewater Rafting on the Cagayan River

The defining activity in Cagayan de Oro, and the reason most independent travellers stop here at all. Several operators run daily trips on the Cagayan River through a series of Class II and III rapids accessible to beginners — no previous experience required. The commercial stretch takes two to three hours and is suitable for ages ten and up. Guides are competent and the gear is kept in reasonable condition.

Book through one of the operators clustered near the city market, or through your accommodation. Prices run around 500–800 pesos per person depending on the operator and whether the trip includes transport to the launch point. Bring clothes you don't mind soaking; the operators provide helmets and life vests.

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The commercial rafting route on the Cagayan River uses a stretch of river that runs through steep rock gorges about 20 minutes from the city. The river drops through a series of Class II and III rapids named by locals — among them "The Washing Machine" and "The Cemetery," which gives you a reasonable sense of what to expect. The route ends at a sandy beach where operators provide changing facilities and barbecue.

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