Whether you’re a traveler seeking a peaceful home base or a potential resident scouting the area, Ignatius Enclave in Upper Balulang offers a modern, minimalist retreat within the bustling “City of Golden Friendship.” Located just minutes away from the vibrant Uptown CDO district, this gated community serves as an excellent gateway to the best of Northern Mindanao.
Travel Guide: Ignatius Enclave, Cagayan de Oro
Getting Around
- From Laguindingan Airport: Take a shuttle (Magnum Express or LAX) to SM City CDO Uptown, then a short taxi or Grab ride to the Enclave.
- Local Transport: While the community is private and best accessed via car or ride-hailing apps, “tricabs” and jeepneys are available once you reach the main thoroughfares of Masterson Avenue or Macasandig Road.
Top Places to Visit Nearby
- SM City CDO Uptown (3.9 km): The primary hub for shopping, dining, and cinema.
- Eden’s Solace (6.8 km): A hilltop park offering a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Cagayan de Oro River. Perfect for sunset viewing.
- Cagayan de Oro River (Various Entry Points): The city’s crown jewel. You are close to several whitewater rafting jump-off points for an adrenaline-filled morning.
- Gaston Park & St. Augustine Cathedral: Located downtown, these historic sites are a 15–20 minute drive away and offer a glimpse into the city’s heritage.
- Dahilayan Forest Park (1-hour drive): Located in nearby Bukidnon, this is a must-visit for its cold climate, pine trees, and the longest dual zipline in Asia.
Recommended 3-Day Itinerary
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
| Day 1 | Arrival & check-in at Ignatius Enclave. | Visit SM City CDO Uptown for lunch and essentials. | Sunset drinks and dinner at Eden’s Solace. |
| Day 2 | Whitewater Rafting (Beginner Course) on the CDO River. | Refresh at the Enclave’s clubhouse pool. | Food crawl at Divisoria Night Market (weekends). |
| Day 3 | Day trip to Dahilayan Forest Park in Bukidnon. | Visit the Del Monte Pineapple Plantation. | Farewell dinner at Cucina Higala downtown. |
What to Eat: Local Delicacies
- Sinuglaw: A classic CDO dish combining Sinugba (grilled pork belly) and Kinilaw (raw fish ceviche).
- Ostrich Salpicao: Head to Kagay-anon Restaurant to try this lean, tender local specialty.
- Binaki: A sweet corn tamales sold by street vendors or in specialty shops like Cucina Higala.
- Pastel: Soft buns with a creamy yema filling (originally from Camiguin but a staple pasalubong in CDO).
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
“The house was modern and very clean. It feels safe because it’s a gated community. It’s a bit away from the downtown noise, which we loved, but you definitely need Grab or a car to get around easily.”
— Mariel V., Verified Guest
“Perfect for families. We stayed here for 3 days and enjoyed the quiet atmosphere. Close to SM Uptown, so groceries weren’t an issue. The 1-bedroom unit we stayed in was cozy and had a fully equipped kitchen.”
— Jason T., Google Maps Review