Cebu: Moalboal Sardines Run Snorkel & Kawasan Canyoneering

Traveling through Cebu, we often look for experiences that combine natural beauty, adventure, and good value—all wrapped into one day. This particular tour, offered by Boss J Cebu Tours, packs in a lot: snorkeling with shimmering sardines, spotting sea turtles, and navigating the dramatic Kawasan waterfalls via canyoneering. It’s a full-day outing that promises both stunning sights and adrenaline rushes.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how well-organized it seems—thanks to attentive guides and seamless transportation. Plus, the mix of underwater marvels and waterfall adventures offers a balanced glimpse into what makes Cebu special. The only thing to consider is the physically demanding nature of parts of the trip, especially the canyoneering, which might not be suited for everyone. Ideal for travelers craving a mix of marine life and rugged outdoor fun, this tour hits the sweet spot for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines snorkeling and canyoneering in a single day.
• Excellent Guides: Known for attentive, safety-conscious, and friendly guides.
• Stunning Natural Sights: Sardines, sea turtles, Kawasan Falls, and waterfalls.
• Good Value: Includes transportation, gear, lunch, and entry fees.
• Physical Demand: Canyoneering involves jumping, sliding, and trekking—best for active travelers.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded peek into Cebu’s natural wonders. If you’re short on time but want to see both marine and terrestrial sights, this is a smart choice. The highlights—swimming with sardines and exploring Kawasan’s waterfalls—are experiences few places can match. We also love the fact that the tour includes hotel transfers from several Cebu locations, removing the hassle of arranging separate transport.

On the downside, the day is packed, so if you’re not used to physical activity or have mobility issues, some parts might be challenging. The canyoneering, in particular, involves jumping off cliffs, sliding down natural water chutes, and navigating rocky terrain. That said, with proper guides and gear, many reviewers felt confident and safe, even if they were in their 50s or had minor health concerns.

This tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who love outdoor activities and want an authentic experience. It’s also ideal for those who don’t mind an early start and a long day filled with diverse activities.

Full Breakdown of the Experience

Transportation and Convenience

From the moment we read about this tour, it was clear that convenience is a priority. Pickup from your Cebu accommodation is included, with several pickup points like Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and nearby towns such as Badian and Dalaguete. The transport is described as a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more bearable—especially after a night of travel or a busy morning.

The driver’s role is noteworthy—many reviews mention punctuality, friendliness, and safe driving. For example, one reviewer praised Raul, calling him “seamless from pick-up to drop-off,” and another mentioned Jave as a “great driver” who kept them entertained all day.

Snorkeling with Sardines and Sea Turtles

The first major highlight is the snorkel with sardines, an experience that often leaves people in awe. You’re taken to clear, shallow waters where millions of sardines swim in a mesmerizing, swirling mass. The sight is truly breathtaking, creating a shimmering, living mosaic beneath the surface.

Many reviewers note how attentive and encouraging guides are—helping with gear, safety, and capturing photos. One review mentions “guided snorkeling with sardines” and seeing turtles, describing it as “unbelievable.” The chance to swim alongside gentle sea turtles adds an extra layer of magic. Several travelers appreciated the option to rent GoPro cameras, allowing them to relive the underwater spectacle afterward.

While some mention that the snorkeling can be busy, the consensus is it’s worth braving the crowds for the chance to witness such a natural display.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kawasan Canyoneering Adventure

After a hearty lunch, the journey moves on to Kawasan Falls for the canyoneering segment. This is what many adventurers come for: a mix of river trekking, natural water slides, jumps, and rappels. Guides are described as “friendly,” “attentive,” and “experienced,” making even the trickiest jumps feel manageable.

The water chutes and waterfalls at Kawasan are stunning, with crystal-clear pools inviting you to cool off after each activity. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Jimwel, Jaymar, or Benji, emphasizing their safety-first approach and willingness to take photos for travelers.

For those who enjoy physical activity, this part of the tour offers a real adrenaline rush—think leaping from 4, 7, or even 10 meters into a pool below. One traveler mentioned that weather conditions sometimes allow for jumps from even higher, like 10 meters. For less daring souls, optional jumps or walking around the more challenging sections are available.

The Scenic Stops and Overall Flow

The itinerary is thoughtfully planned. It starts early, with pickup around 10 AM, and includes stops at Moalboal for the snorkeling, then on to Kawasan Falls, with a lunch break in Badian. The whole day is designed to maximize experience without feeling rushed.

The scenic drive between sites offers glimpses of the lush Cebu countryside, adding to the sense of adventure and discovery. The return trip is comfortably handled, with many reviewers mentioning how they appreciated the smooth, punctual drops back to their hotels.

Pricing and Value

At $148 per person, this tour offers a substantial package: transportation, gear, entry fees, a guide, and lunch. Considering the cost of individual activities, gear rentals, and private transport, many travelers find the price reasonable. Several reviews emphasize the value—pointing out the professionalism of guides and the quality of the experiences.

Some also highlight that booking through the provider offers flexibility—reserve now, pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the trip. This flexibility makes it easier to plan without financial stress.

Safety and Accessibility

The tour explicitly states that canyoneering is an extreme sport, requiring participants to be in good health. The minimum age for canyoneering is 7, making it accessible for families with older children. However, the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility impairments.

Many reviews commend the guides’ attention to safety and their ability to make everyone feel comfortable. If you’re concerned about heights or strenuous activity, it might be best to opt out of jumps but still enjoy the waterfalls and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a well-curated slice of Cebu’s natural beauty. The marine life, especially the sardines run and sea turtles, is genuinely spectacular—many describe it as “once in a lifetime.” On land, the Kawasan waterfalls provide a rugged, refreshing contrast to the underwater scenes, satisfying both adventure-seekers and nature lovers.

The value for the price is clear, especially with the all-inclusiveness of gear, guides, lunch, and transport. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude are consistently praised, making the experience even more enjoyable.

If you’re someone who delights in active pursuits, loves stunning scenery, and wants a trusted, organized way to see some of Cebu’s best sights, this tour is a strong choice. Just remember: it’s a full day and involves some physical effort, so come prepared and with an adventurous spirit.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select cities, a guide, snorkeling gear (life jacket and mask), entry fees, the canyoneering gear, and lunch.

• Are there any additional costs I should know about?

Yes, swimming fins are not included, and if you want to rent a GoPro, that’s an extra fee. Insurance is not included, so consider your personal coverage.

• How physically demanding is canyoneering?

Canyoneering involves jumping off cliffs, sliding down water chutes, and trekking downstream. It’s suitable for those in good health, with a minimum age of 7. It might be tiring for some, especially older travelers or those with mobility issues.

• What should I bring?

Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Wear shoes with proper soles for walking on rocks, as swim shoes might make some sections more difficult.

• Is it suitable for children?

Children over 7 can participate in canyoneering, but the activity is physically demanding and involves heights. Not recommended for very young children or those with special needs.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

• What’s the best time of day for this tour?

The tour usually starts around 10 AM, but check availability for specific starting times. Early mornings give you the most pristine snorkeling conditions.

• How crowded does the sardines run get?

Some reviews mention that the snorkeling area can be busy, but guides are attentive and help you enjoy the experience safely and comfortably.

• Is there an option to skip certain activities?

The tour company doesn’t specify, but guides are experienced and can help you customize your experience if needed. It’s worth mentioning your preferences when booking.

• Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

The activity provider states the tour is wheelchair accessible, but the canyoneering portion involves natural terrain, so recommendations may vary based on individual mobility.

This experience offers a fantastic mix of water-bound marvels and rugged outdoor fun, making it a standout choice for those eager to see the best of Cebu’s natural attractions. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value, it’s a day that offers memories to last a lifetime—and plenty of stories to tell back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: