Wandering Juans backpack through Northern Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines - In Northern Mindanao alone, adventures await those who thirst for travel and love  nature. Through Cebu Pacific (CEB) and its trademark lowest fares, there are more opportunities to explore Northern Mindanao. The major jump-off point for Northern Mindanao is Cagayan de Oro. Home to intense whitewater rafting action, breathtaking canopy walks, and bustling night life, Cagayan de Oro is accessible through CEB’s direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo or Zamboanga.

Backpackers looking for an adrenaline rush can also head to the Mapawa Adventure Park. A 30-40 minute ride from the city proper, this hotspot is known for thrilling zipline and rappelling activities. From Cagayan de Oro, backpackers can also travel 90 minutes to Bukidnon, where daredevils can explore the Sumalsag cave, the longest cave in Northern Mindanao known for its exciting underwater adventure exit. Another attraction is the Dahilayan Adventure Park’s Zipzone, the longest dual zipline in Asia at 840 meters. Backpackers can reach Dahilayan by taking a van bound for Camp Phillips from the Agora Market Terminal in the city, and hiring a habal-habal to get to the adventure park.

Travelers can also revel at the powerful Maria Cristina Falls, the stunning Tinago Falls and the serene Mimbalot Falls in neighboring Iligan, Lanao del Norte. Touted as the City of Majestic Waterfalls with over 20 in the area, Iligan’s natural wonders are sure to please outdoor enthusiasts. To get there, they can head to the Bulua Bus Terminal in Cagayan de Oro, and take the one and a half hour bus ride to Iligan. A ferry ride from Iligan is nearby Ozamis in Misamis Occidental. Snorkel and swim with the dolphins in Dolphin Island Resort at the Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park. Those who love mountains can enjoy rugged Hoyohoy Highlands, with its 1,250-meter zipline, charming stone chapel and spacious camp site.

Wandering Juans can get rest and relaxation in Camiguin Island. The underwater cemetery is an attraction unique to the island, as well as the oft-visited White Sandbar. There is also the majestic Mount Hibok-Hibok, as well as numerous falls, springs and lagoons. Just hop on the bus heading to Balingoan Port for a two-hour journey to Cagayan de Oro, get off at the Agora Market terminal and take the two-hour ferry ride to Camiguin Island.