Philippines: Rappelling and Rafting — 4 Days

Cagayan de Oro whitewater, Camiguin canyon rappelling, and tribal cultural sites

This four-day journey combines technical water sports with cultural immersion across two key Philippine regions. Based in Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin Island, the trip pairs whitewater rafting on regional rivers with rappelling descents down canyon waterfalls, interspersed with visits to indigenous communities and volcanic landscapes. Participants move between the mainland and island by scheduled ferry, with accommodation at local resorts and guided instruction provided throughout. The pacing alternates high-intensity activity days with travel and scenic excursions, making the trip suitable for adults with moderate fitness and some comfort with water and heights.

Highlights

  • Rappelling and canopy walk at Macahambus Adventure Park near Cagayan de Oro
  • Whitewater rafting on Cagayan de Oro rivers before ferry to Camiguin
  • Rappelling down multi-level canyons at Katibawasan Falls on Camiguin Island, with instruction in roping technique
  • Trek to Katibawasan Falls upper pool, approximately one hour from trailhead
  • Visit to Gardens of Malasag to observe tribal dwellings and traditional crafts from regional indigenous groups
  • Boat excursion to White Island for views of Camiguin's volcanic formations

Day by day

1Arrival in Cagayan de Oro and Macahambus Adventure ParkCagayan de Oro · Macahambus Adventure Park · Gardens of Malasag
Participants arrive in Cagayan de Oro in the morning and transfer to their hotel. The afternoon is spent at Gardens of Malasag, where traditional houses representing different local tribal groups stand maintained by indigenous residents, with demonstrations of tribal practices and crafts. The day continues at Macahambus Adventure Park, where activities include rappelling, zip-lining, and canopy walks. Overnight accommodation is at the hotel in Cagayan de Oro.
2Whitewater Rafting and Ferry to Camiguin Islandlocal rivers · Balingoan Pier · a local resort on Camiguin
The group departs for the rafting put-in point and paddles whitewater sections of local rivers, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, transfer takes place to Balingoan Pier to board the ferry to Camiguin Island. Overnight accommodation is at a local resort on Camiguin.
3Katibawasan Falls Canyon Rappelling on CamiguinKatibawasan Falls · White Island · local resort
An approximately one-hour trek from the jump-off point leads to the upper pool of Katibawasan Falls. Participants receive instruction in roping technique before descending, jumping, and sliding through a series of canyon waterfalls. The day involves multiple rappelling descents across different canyon sections. A barbecue meal is prepared at the falls site. Following lunch, a boat excursion to White Island offers closer scenic views of Camiguin Island and its volcanic topography. Overnight at the local resort.
4Departure from CamiguinCamiguin · airport
Transfer to the airport for an onward flight to Cebu, with breakfast provided before departure.

Included

  • Overnight Cagayan de Oro
  • 2 nights Camiguin
  • meals as indicated
  • outfitting during activities as indicated with local or technical guide
  • transfers
  • airfare Manila/Cagayan de Oro/Camiguin/Cebu/Manila inclusive of taxes (excluding airport terminal fees)

Not included

  • Domestic air ticket Manila/Cagayan de Oro /Manila
  • A separate multilingual guide from Manila can be provided at extra cost