Cebu: Moalboal Snorkeling and Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Travelers looking to combine vibrant marine life with adrenaline-pumping land adventures will find this tour to be a compelling option. It promises a full day of exploring Cebu’s natural wonders—swimming among sardines, spotting sea turtles, and jumping off waterfalls.

What stands out? We love the chance to get up close and personal with Cebu’s famous Sardine Run—a mesmerizing spectacle of thousands of shimmering fish. We also appreciate the professional guides who keep the experience safe and fun. The lunch included helps sustain you through a busy day of water and land activities.

A potential drawback? The tour’s duration might feel packed for some, especially if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace or want extra time at each site. Plus, it’s not suitable for children under 7, non-swimmers, or those with back problems. This tour fits best for adventurous travelers and thrill-seekers eager for a mix of marine exploration and land-based excitement.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining snorkeling and canyoneering in a single day.
• Includes roundtrip transfers, making logistics hassle-free.
• Professional guides and safety gear ensure a safe adventure.
• Vivid marine sights like sardines and sea turtles are highlights.
• Lush scenery and waterfalls provide scenic rewards on land.
• Value for money with a full day of activities and lunch included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Day of Genuine Adventure in Cebu

If you’re seeking an active day in Cebu that offers both marine life encounters and land thrills, this tour might just be what you’re after. It’s designed for those who enjoy a mix of nature, adrenaline, and a little bit of everything.

We’re drawn to tours that don’t just show you pretty sights but also let you experience them—this one delivers with snorkeling in clarity-filled waters and a canyoneering adventure that gets your heart pounding.

One of the things we really like is how the tour begins with the world-famous Sardine Run in Moalboal. Watching thousands of sardines swirl in unison is a sight few can forget. Plus, the opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles adds a peaceful, almost magical touch.

The second half takes you to the stunning Kawasan Falls, where the thrill of jumping off cliffs and sliding down rocks offers an energetic contrast to the peaceful underwater scenes. However, since the day is quite packed, it might feel rushed for travelers wanting more leisure time.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Cebu’s best water and land activities. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to pack in as much fun as possible.

What Are the Highlights of This Tour?

Snorkeling in Moalboal stands out as the central aquatic highlight. You’ll get to witness the enormous Sardine Run—an awe-inspiring spectacle of thousands of fish dancing in unison—plus possibly spot some graceful sea turtles. Many reviews mention how mesmerizing and memorable the snorkeling is, with one saying, “The sardines are so close you can almost touch them, it’s surreal.”

After the underwater adventure, the tour shifts gears to canyoneering at Kawasan Falls. Here, guided by experienced professionals, you’ll jump off cliffs, slide down natural rock formations, and trek through lush jungle trails. The multi-tiered waterfalls are a stunning backdrop to the adrenaline rush, making it clear why Kawasan is considered one of Cebu’s premier attractions.

The lunch stop offers a welcome break and a chance to refuel, with most reviews praising the quality of the meal as “delicious and filling,” perfect after the morning’s exertions.

Safety is clearly a priority, as the tour includes all necessary gear—helmets, life vests—and professional guides who ensure everyone’s well-being. The group sizes tend to be manageable, making it easier to stay together and get personalized attention.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point & Pickups: The tour begins with convenient pickup options either from Cebu City or Moalboal, reducing any logistical stress. This flexibility is a plus, especially if you’re staying in Cebu City and prefer not to arrange transportation yourself.

Moalboal Snorkeling (45 minutes): Once at Moalboal, it’s time to don your mask and snorkel. The waters are crystal clear, offering excellent visibility to appreciate the bustling marine life. The Sardine Run is the star attraction, with thousands of sardines shimmering in unison—a spectacle that’s often described as “mesmerizing” and “like swimming in a living cloud.” You’ll also have the chance to see and swim with sea turtles, which many guests find to be a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience.

Transfer to Badian & Kawasan Falls: After the morning’s aquatic marvels, the journey continues inland to Badian, a scenic drive that takes roughly an hour. Along the way, you’ll get glimpses of Cebu’s lush natural landscapes.

Canyoneering Adventure (Approx. 3.5 hours): Once at Kawasan Falls, your guide will equip you with safety gear. The route involves jumping off cliffs, some as high as 10-15 feet, sliding down natural rock formations, and wading through the cool, flowing waters. The highlight for many is the final waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim before heading back. The guides’ professionalism and safety briefings are frequently praised, helping even cautious travelers feel confident.

Lunch & Rest: After the adrenaline rush, a hearty lunch awaits—most mention it as delicious, filling, and satisfying. It provides the energy needed to enjoy the rest of the day.

Return to Starting Point: The day wraps up with a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer back to your hotel or designated drop-off location.

Why Do Travelers Rate This Tour Highly?

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the experience safe and enjoyable, often sharing interesting facts about marine life and the waterfalls. The stunning views, both underwater and on land, receive frequent praise—many describe the scenery as “breathtaking” and “picturesque.”

The tour’s value for money is another strong point. For $150, you get a full day of guided activities, all necessary equipment, entrance fees, lunch, and roundtrip transport—an efficient way to cover Cebu’s highlights without the hassle of planning each element yourself.

Some reviewers note the organized logistics and smooth coordination, which keep the day flowing well. However, a few mention that the schedule can be tight, especially if you wish to linger longer at each site. It’s definitely a packed day, but for many, that’s part of the appeal.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your swimwear and towel, as these are essentials for snorkeling and swimming at Kawasan. Remember, touching marine life is not allowed—respect the creatures and their habitat.

The tour is not suitable for children under 7, non-swimmers, or those with back problems due to the physical nature of the activities. If you’re unsure about your ability to jump or slide, it’s best to consult with the guides beforehand.

While the tour includes all entrance and environmental fees, you might want to bring some extra snacks or souvenirs, as these are not included. Also, consider renting or bringing an underwater camera to capture the experience—most tours don’t provide these.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This combined snorkeling and canyoneering adventure offers excellent value for those eager to experience Cebu’s natural beauty and thrill-seeking opportunities in one day. It’s perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts who want a full-spectrum experience—swimming with sardines and turtles, jumping off waterfalls, and exploring lush scenery.

If you’re comfortable with physical activity and looking for a guided, well-organized day out, this tour will likely satisfy your craving for excitement and memorable sights. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas make it especially appealing to travelers who appreciate both safety and authenticity.

However, those seeking a more relaxed or leisurely pace, or traveling with very young children or mobility restrictions, might find the schedule too intense or physically demanding. It’s best suited for active travelers ready for a full day of fun.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, with the scheduled activities spanning roughly 8 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, canyoneering, and lunch.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickups are available from Cebu City or Moalboal, making it flexible depending on where you’re staying.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes all necessary safety gear for snorkeling and canyoneering.

Can non-swimmers participate?
The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, as swimming is a key part of the experience at Moalboal.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps an underwater camera if you wish to capture the underwater moments.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Not for children under 7, and those with back problems should exercise caution due to the physical nature of canyoneering.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers agree the Sardine Run and the Kawasan Falls jumps are unforgettable moments.

How skilled are the guides?
Guides are experienced and professional, committed to safety and sharing interesting info throughout the day.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Is the price worth it?
Considering the full day of guided activities, meals, equipment, and transport, many find the $150 fee to be a good value for such a comprehensive adventure.

This tour offers a fantastic way to pack in Cebu’s best natural attractions, catering especially to those eager for a mix of marine life and land-based fun. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want a memorable day in the Philippines’ lush environment, it’s well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: