With barely 3 hours of sleep subsequent to amazing CDO nightlife and to complete the CDO trip, we needed to jump off the bed with energy and sporty vibes at around 7:00 A.M. since KAGAY, the group scheduled to offer the Whitewater Rafting, was about to pick us up at 8:00 A.M. To my surprise, a jeepney with rafts at its top fetched us in the hotel. Their guides, with all smile, welcomed us aboard. By all guts, we took the challenge: CDO Whitewater Rafting Adventure at its finest!
First, we had a stopover at Divisoria to pick up some of the rafters. The guide was kind enough and allowed us to buy some breakfast in the nearby McDo. We needed to fill in our empty stomach for this exciting venture. When we hopped in the jeepney, with all astonishment, the two folks looked familiar and it seemed we already met them during our Camiguin trip. And we were right, the couple, Jay-Ar and Nhice were one of the lovely pairs we saw in White Island. Great!
Kagay is one of Cagayan de Oro’s supreme whitewater rafting outfitters. It offers trips ranging from beginner’s course to advanced and expert courses throughout the year. With high hopes and exhilaration, we were about to experience the basic: Beginner’s Course that is comprised of 14 rapids and shall be completed in 3 hours. This course (Class 1-2) costs around Php 700 per head. This was definitely our first time to try this kind of water adventure. These two ladies never felt outnumbered as fellow adventurers were picked up at their locations since everybody offered golden friendship. The cheery group headed by Ruffa and the guys from Xavier/Searsolin lead by Sir Luther were all nice and warm! The trip to the disembarkation point of Cagayan River took about less than an hour from the city proper.
Gazing at the Cagayan River, which separates CDO and Bukidnon, bestowed us pure adrenaline at a different level. After registration, personal belongings were turned over to the staff where everybody can get them in the finish point. Before proceeding to quest, we were given short briefing on paddling directions and correct positions, rafting basics, do’s and don’ts and capsizing. After demonstrating Forward Paddle, Stop, Back Paddle with our gear, floating vest and helmet.. off we go!
Experiencing the first rapid made me lose my breath and my heart continuously pounding! I felt the rush of whitewater for the first time in the spectacular Cagayan de Oro River! At the same time, it was a moment to discover and unleash the thrill of nature at its wildest.
Ahoo, Ahoo, Ahoo! HIGH FIVE!!! Raise paddles! We survived! Finishing all the rapids was an accomplishment. The guide and the team did a marvelous job on making the rafting not only enjoyable but most significantly, safe and secured as we can be.
The Beginner’s course was effortless! (Ahem! Now, talking like a pro.) In contrast to common belief, it was really not necessary to put forth extra effort when paddling although one had to do so for teamwork and with respect to the other rafters. We were lucky we got the coolest rafting guide in the boat! We never had a dull moment with such a witty and humorous guy. Picture taking also was a good diversion.
Almost all 14 rapids only lasted in mere seconds, giving extra time for calm waters in between where one can jump off the raft, take a dip, float and swim while enjoying the beautiful view. Passing by the caves, the stone formations, snake nest with real snakes resting on it had somehow added more enthusiasm to the journey.
After the last rapid, the group had to get off the finish point wherein delectable set meals in nearby restaurant were served and the jeepney with all the stuff was waiting.
It was fun-filled and must-try adventure that even non-sporty type of individuals like me could enjoy. The delightful thrill of crossing the rapids somehow pushed me to the decision of trying Advanced Course the next time I set my foot to CDO with my friends and experience again the unbeatable water overdrive!
I myself couldn’t believe I was fearless enough to do it. From hesitant to brave, from restless to excited. Joining the perfectly entertaining teams, the adventure was engaging, a really unforgettable part of my life! ♥
Tips:
1. Cover most of your body against the sun’s harmful rays. Wear long sleeves and leggings for girls. Do not wear stripes (where I got my Madagascar tan lines! LOL) Apply sun block generously!
2. You may not bring your DSLR cameras. For safety of your gadgets, you can bring waterproof or point and shoot cameras. You can avail of Kagay photo service and one can pay and share the copy with everybody.
3. Kagay provides waterproof bags to be brought along the adventure where you can put your gadgets inside.
4. Shower rooms are provided. One can bring extra clothes, towel and toiletries.
5. Bring bottled mineral water. Or if somebody from the other boat can give you for free, why not? LOL
Kagay
021 Pres. Aguinaldo Street
Cagayan de Oro City
63 88 3104402; +639177122323
dankaamino@yahoo.com
2 comments:
I love the shots. I hope you guys really had fun with water rafting.
Cagayan de Oro Rafting
I think. so far, no one who had tried the white water rafting in Cagayan de Oro had said they did not enjoyed the activity. I really think that this exhilarating event would give anyone adventure and so much fun especially for friends, barkadas and families.
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