Travelographer

A glimpse of Iligan

(published in itravel Philippines July-august 2009 issue, www.itravelphilippines.com.ph)

They say travelling is a treat to the heart when one wants to rediscover places and leave life’s baggage for a while. If you’re searching for the perfect getaway that would make you breathless and wanting to come back again, Iligan City is a must-visit tourism destination.
Located at the northern part of Mindanao and approximately 800 kilometers south of Manila, Iligan City is famous a tourism gem for thrill-seeking travellers. This city, known for its majestic waterfalls, is bustling with flourishing economic life and natural wonders. Major shopping establishments are sprouting in the city despite economic downfall of some of its major industries (cement and steel). It has become a major shopping destination in Lanao del Norte and Sur. Locals and visitors find the best items or native products for souviners. Its location outside the typhoon belt has made it a suitable place to stay, unwind, spend time appreciating the scenic view of nature and local culture.

Top tourism spots

Topping the list of the best tourism spots for a worthwhile visit is the majestic Maria Cristina Falls. Aside from being a major tourist attraction in the city, the falls also serves as a major vehicle for Iligan’s industrialization. The falls, with its height of over 320 feet, spews 130 cubic meters per second of water thereby making it a hydroelectric potential of about 944 megawatts. For nature-trippers, Maria Cristina Falls is a beautful site to appreciate Mother Nature.

Another interesting place to visit is the Timoga Cold Springs. Its pristine, cool and clear water freely flowing into several swimming pools has made it perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Well, if your heart can take it, another interesting place to see in Iligan City is the Tinago Falls. Literally hidden, in order to go and take a dip in its crystal-clear waters, you have to take more than 100-step of stairs down to the falls. That’s probably easy to descend, but going up is another story. Definitely it adds more excitement and adventure for travellers.

Ideal places to stay

Aside from natural wonders, Iligan is known for great accomadation with its posh hotels scattered around the city. One of them is Elena Tower Inn known among tourists for its close-to-home comfort. It is a 7-storey building boasting with 42 guestrooms located along Tibanga Highway. Maria Cristina Hotel named after the famous waterfalls is considered as the oldest and classy hotel in Iligan City. It is located at the heart of the city fronting the public plaza.

Cheradel Suites is a perfect place to stay and relax with its beautifully landscaped grounds, well-maintained facilities complimented with a very friendly and accommodating staff. This should be on top of your list once you visit Iligan City.


Best bistros

Iligan City takes pride of its attractive bistros and dining destinations that continuous to capture the discriminating taste of locals and tourists. Some of these famous restaurants that serve various kinds of culinary specialties are Sunburst Fried Chicken House along T. Badelles Street in Mahayahay, Dear Manok and Paengs’ Grill both located on Quezon Avenue extension; Tita Fannies along Zamora Street; Chrisven Restaurant situated on Juan Luna Street; and Kuzina Iliganon along Tibanga Hi-way. In fact, some of these bistros offer budget-friendly meals but luscious to the taste buds of diners.

Must-buy pasalubong

Iligan City is popular to some of the yummiest and exotic food pasalubong that visitors never failed to grab before they get home such as Chedings Peanuts, the Sukang Pinakurat, and Timonga’s Lechon (roasted pig).

Reaching Iligan City

The nearest airport to Iligan City is the Cagayan de Oro Airport. Flight time from Manila to Cagayan de Oro Airport is approximately one hour and 20 minutes.
From Cagayan de Oro Airport, get a taxi (to take you direct to Iligan), or get a taxi to drop you off at Bulua Bus Terminal (Cagayan). At Bulua Bus Terminal you can find buses going to Iligan. Travel time from Cagayan de Oro to Iligan is approximately one-and-a-half hour.
From Manila, you can take a boat going to Cagayan de Oro seaport, and then take a taxi or bus to Iligan City. From Cebu, there is a daily boat schedule going to Cagayan de Oro seaport.