Cebu Shared Tour: Whaleshark Swimming & Kawasan Canyoneering

Planning a trip to Cebu and wondering if a single day trip can give you a taste of both marine wildlife and adrenaline-pumping adventure? This shared tour offers just that—swimming with whalesharks and canyoneering in Kawasan Falls—all wrapped into one well-organized day. For travelers seeking a blend of natural encounters and physical fun, this tour is quite appealing.

What we particularly like about this experience is its seamless logistics, from hotel pickup to drop-off, making it accessible even for first-timers. Plus, the chance to connect with other travelers from around the world adds a social dimension that many solo or group travelers appreciate. On the flip side, it’s a long day, and some might find the schedule a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to early mornings or active outings.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a comprehensive Cebu experience without the hassle of organizing each activity separately. If you enjoy mixed activities and making new friends along the way, this outing could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines whaleshark encounters and Kawasan Canyoneering in one day.
• Hassle-Free Logistics: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, saving you planning time.
• Diverse Landscapes: The drive features Cebu’s varied scenery, enriching the journey.
• Social Atmosphere: Join a group, share stories, and make international friends.
• Physical Activity & Adventure: From snorkeling to jumping, expect plenty of fun and challenges.
• Value for Money: At $111, the tour packs in a lot of memorable activities and convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What’s Inside This Tour?

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines wildlife encounters with heart-racing activities, the Cebu Shared Tour might be just what you need. It’s designed for travelers who want to see some of Cebu’s most iconic sights without the hassle of booking each part separately.

Two things stand out right away: First, the chance to swim with gentle whalesharks—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s often highlighted in reviews as truly special. Second, the Kawasan Canyoneering offers a perfect mix of nature, challenge, and fun, with natural water slides, jumps, and scenic waterfalls.

One thing to consider is that the tour can be quite long, often involving early pickups and a full day on the move. For those not used to active outings or with limited stamina, pacing might be a concern. Still, for most, this trip hits the sweet spot between adventure and culture.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, first-time visitors, and group travelers who want a well-rounded day in Cebu that’s both exciting and social.

How the Tour Unfolds: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour begins with hotel pickups across nine different locations—ranging from Cebu City to Moalboal and Lapu-Lapu. Expect to be picked up around 9 AM, with the driver arriving promptly. We liked that the process is straightforward: just be ready a few minutes before, with a clear pickup time and vehicle details sent via email.

This early start is necessary to fit all activities into one day, but it also allows for some scenic views from the van as you head out. The interior is comfortable, and the group size tends to be moderate, keeping the journey intimate but lively.

Whaleshark Encounter in Oslob

The first major stop is Oslob, where you’ll board a boat for your whaleshark swimming adventure. This part lasts about 1.5 hours, including safety instructions. Watching these gentle giants glide past in the water is a highlight that many reviews emphasize. As one reviewer put it, “Swimming with whalesharks is absolutely unique,” and it really is a shared moment of awe.

The experience isn’t just about the visuals; it’s also about the feeling of being in the water with these majestic creatures. The tour includes shared snorkeling gear, life vests, and a briefing to ensure safety. It’s worth noting that the experience is well-organized, and most find it to be both safe and memorable.

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The Scenic Drive to Badian for Canyoneering

After the whaleshark experience, the group boards the van for a scenic drive toward Badian. The drive showcases Cebu’s diversity—from coastal views to lush forests. It’s a good chance to rest a bit and enjoy the landscape.

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guides and receive safety instructions. The canyoneering itself involves navigating natural water slides, jumps, and rocky terrains. Expect plenty of splashing, laughter, and camaraderie, as described by one traveler: “Laughter and encouragement echoed as the group navigated the canyons.”

Kawasan Falls and Natural Water Playground

The climax of the day is at Kawasan Falls, where the group gets to relax, swim, and even try cliff jumps if they’re feeling brave. The waterfalls are stunning—three tiers of cascading water surrounded by lush greenery. The natural pools are perfect for cooling down after the physically demanding canyoneering.

Some travelers opt for the more serene experience, soaking in the beauty rather than jumping. Others take on the challenge of cliff jumps, adding a thrill to the visit. The waterfalls are often described as “a fitting reward after the high-energy activities,” and the natural setting makes it easy to unwind and reflect.

Cultural Twist: Lunch and Socializing

The tour includes a hearty local meal, served at a rustic spot near the falls. Sharing food is a great way to bond with your new friends, and the conversation flows easily over Cebuano dishes. Many reviews mention the quality of the lunch as satisfying and authentic, providing a much-needed energy boost for the rest of the day.

Return Journey and Drop-off

After a full day, the group heads back to Cebu City or other designated locations, arriving tired but happy. The convenience of door-to-door transport means you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or arranging separate transport.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour offers excellent value with entrance fees, boat rides, snorkeling gear, canyoneering equipment, lunch, and transportation all covered in the $111 price. The inclusion of a local guide and facilitator ensures safety and local insights, making it suitable even for first-timers.

However, some extras aren’t included, like underwater cameras, dry bags, snacks, or breakfast, so plan accordingly. The tour requires participants to be in good health; it’s not suited for pregnant women, those with back problems, or pre-existing medical conditions.

The tour operates on a “reserve & pay later” basis, which offers flexibility, but you need to check availability and confirm your pickup times. It’s a shared activity, so groups are larger, and luggage isn’t permitted—only small hand-carry bags.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The reviews paint a vivid picture of the tour’s strengths and a few considerations. A common theme is the incredible experience of swimming with whalesharks, described as “absolutely unique” and a highlight of their trip. The Kawasan Canyoneering also gets rave reviews for its fun, challenge, and natural beauty.

One reviewer summed it up: “Swimming with whalesharks is absolutely unique, and canyoning is a challenging, fun activity in which you have all the support you need.” The long, active day can be tiring but ultimately rewarding, especially for those who enjoy physical adventure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This shared Cebu experience delivers a well-rounded slice of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their day without the hassle of organizing individual activities. If you’re comfortable with physical activity, enjoy connecting with others, and crave a mix of ocean and mountain scenery, this tour will suit you well.

The value for the price is compelling, especially considering transportation, equipment, and guided support are included. It’s a fantastic way to check two of Cebu’s top attractions off your list in just one day.

While the long day might not suit everyone, those who thrive on adventure and social experiences will find it highly satisfying. For families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a memorable day, this tour offers a convenient, fun, and enriching experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from designated hotels across Cebu and Mactan Island, starting around 9 AM. Be ready a few minutes early, and check your pickup details via email.

How long does the whale shark encounter last?
The whale shark snorkeling typically lasts about 1.5 hours, including safety briefings and gear preparation.

What activities are at Kawasan Falls?
You’ll enjoy sightseeing, swimming, and possibly cliff jumping. There’s also a scenic walk, and some groups add rafting or bike tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly restricted for children, it involves physical activities like canyoneering and jumps, so it’s better for older kids in good health.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, toiletries, and biodegradable insect repellent. Dry bags and snacks are not included.

Can I book without paying upfront?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Are the activities safe?
Yes, safety is a priority with provided equipment, safety briefings, and guides. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back problems or medical conditions.

What is the overall duration of the tour?
The full experience generally takes around 10-12 hours, depending on group size and pace.

This tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, adventure, and cultural sharing, all in a single, carefully organized day. Whether you’re chasing the thrill or looking for a meaningful connection with Cebu’s natural beauty, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: