In Northern Mindanao, the landscape ranges from protected forests and mountains to white-sand beaches, coral reefs and sheltered coves rich in marine life. The region also has churches with a long history, distinctive regional dishes and experiences ranging from trekking to white-water rafting. Get to know the region and discover nature, culture and local cuisine according to your own interests.
Protected landscapes and island nature
The province of Bukidnon is home to both Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park and Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park. Both are legally designated protected areas. For a different nature experience, visit Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument, an ASEAN Heritage Park suited to trekking, birdwatching and stargazing on clear nights. This offers different options for those interested in exercise, wildlife observation or views of the night sky.
On Camiguin, Mantigue Island Nature Park combines a marine sanctuary, forest and beach: the protected area includes four hectares of evergreen forest and white-sand beaches, making swimming and snorkeling suitable activities. White Island, also on Camiguin, is a sandbar of white sand, coral fragments and pebbles. It is suitable for snorkeling or sunbathing. The comparison can help you decide whether you would rather experience a forest and beach or an open sandbar.
Bawbawon Island, off Plaridel in Misamis Occidental, offers another coastal setting to choose from: white sand and clear water framed by evergreen vegetation. Tiklas Falls in Barangay Lawit, Gingoog City, has been developed into an ecotourism park. As access conditions can change, it is a good idea to check them before visiting.
Churches, festivals and special places
In Jimenez stands St. John the Baptist Church, a centuries-old Spanish Catholic church and one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Old Gui-ob Church, also known as Cotta Bato, is a 19th-century remnant recognized as a national cultural treasure; it was established as a parish church in 1623. Both churches invite visitors to explore the history of religious architecture in the region.
The Kaamulan Festival takes place annually in Malaybalay City. It celebrates the cultures of Bukidnon province’s seven indigenous groups. Tradition is therefore a central theme to explore alongside nature and architecture. Those more interested in activities can find exciting rides and activities at Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon. Impasug-ong Communal Ranch covers 642 hectares and is known as the “Cinema Capital” of Bukidnon.
The Walkway to the Old Volcano is an eight-kilometer path on Mt. Vulcan in Barangay Bonbon. Along the route are 14 life-size Stations of the Cross. Cagayan de Oro River, meanwhile, is known as the white-water rafting capital of the Philippines. These different offerings range from a path with religious stations to a river associated with rafting.
Regional cuisine and getting to Camiguin
There are specific regional specialties to discover when it comes to food, too. Binaki is a steamed corn delicacy from Bukidnon and is most readily available at Aglayan Public Market in Malaybalay City. The municipality of Clarin is known for 17 flavors of suman. Lanzones grow in abundance on Camiguin; surol is a well-known chicken dish on the island, served in various preparations at restaurants and carinderias throughout the province.
To cross to Camiguin, take a ferry or RoRo vessel from Balingoan Port to Benoni Port; the journey takes about an hour. Travel time and operators may vary depending on the service and conditions, so it is worth checking the current schedule. Camiguin Airport (CGM) is in Mambajao; a direct flight with Cebgo (Cebu Pacific) is listed as a connection from Cebu. As flight routes can change, check the connection before you travel.
Camiguin combines the island and nature themes mentioned above with regional cuisine and cultural heritage, while Bukidnon offers protected areas, a ranch, an adventure park and a festival, among other attractions. Choose accommodation based on the places and interests that matter to your trip, and check your travel options to Camiguin in good time.
Discover more destinations: Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Mambajao, Valencia City, Ozamis City, Balingoan, Iligan City and Mimaropa.
For the general travel overview: Philippines.
