Cebu: Whale Shark, Monkey Sanctuary, & Moalboal Turtles Tour

Planning a trip to Cebu and wondering if you can pack the highlights into a single day? This tour promises just that—an action-packed 10-hour journey through some of Cebu’s most iconic natural attractions. It’s a well-curated experience that combines wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and underwater marvels. For those who love a mix of adventure and authentic local flavor, it’s a particularly appealing option.

We’re drawn to this tour for its small-group setup, which offers a more relaxed and personal experience—no long lines or giant crowds—plus the free GoPro rental and underwater photographer, which means you’ll come home with quality photos without needing your own underwater camera. The only caveat? It’s a long day, with some travel time between spots, so expect to be on the move.

If you’re someone who appreciates marine life, playful animals, and scenic drives but prefers not to spend days on a tour, this one might be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers looking for a value-packed experience that covers several bucket-list sights in just one go.

Key Points

• Concise and varied itinerary covering whale sharks, monkeys, sardines, and turtles.
• Small group size enhances comfort, more personalized attention.
• Free GoPro rental and underwater photography add value and lasting memories.
• Long travel times mean a full day, but also more immersive experiences.
• No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.
• Ideal for travelers who want authentic wildlife encounters in a single day.

If you’re trying to picture what a day with JMPA Cebu Travel and Tours looks like, here’s a detailed look at each part of the journey, based on what travelers have shared and the itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Flexibility and Comfort

The tour begins with hotel pickup from Cebu or Lapu-Lapu City, which is a significant perk. No crowded buses or confusing public transit—just a private vehicle waiting to whisk you off on your adventure. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making those early mornings or long drives more comfortable.

The drive to Oslob takes approximately three hours, giving you time to relax, enjoy some scenery, or chat with fellow travelers. Expect a scenic route, possibly with stops at local spots for quick snacks or photos, depending on the guide’s schedule.

Encounter with the Gentle Giants: Oslob Whale Sharks

The highlight for many is swimming with whale sharks, the gentle giants that glide through the water with an almost regal tranquility. This part lasts about an hour, but it’s not just about the time spent in the water. It’s the quality of the experience that matters.

Guides are attentive and ensure everyone is equipped with snorkeling gear. They emphasize that this is a responsible wildlife experience, meaning the sharks are observed in their natural habitat with minimal disturbance. The water here is usually clear, and the experience of watching such enormous creatures up close is unforgettable.

From reviews, it’s clear that many find this the most memorable moment—”Great time and enough time spent with the whale shark,” one traveler noted. Some mention that the water can be a bit choppy, making swimming a little more challenging, but guides assist with safety.

Visiting the Monkey Sanctuary

Next, you’ll head to the Oslob Monkey Sanctuary, a 45-minute guided tour that brings you face-to-face with playful, sociable monkeys. Visitors rave about watching these animals swing freely and interact naturally. It’s a different pace from the underwater adventure, but equally engaging.

Many reviews highlight how cheerful and friendly the monkeys are, and that the experience is suitable for all ages. It’s a good opportunity to see wildlife in a more relaxed environment, and some travelers mention that the sanctuary provides a fun, wholesome break in the day.

Transition to Moalboal: Scenic Drive and Marine Wonders

After the monkey visit, you’ll hop back into the vehicle for a roughly two-hour drive to Moalboal. During this time, expect scenic views and a chance to stretch your legs. Some stops for local snacks or quick photo ops might occur, adding to the local flavor.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sardine Run and Turtle Snorkeling

Arriving at Moalboal, the real underwater highlight begins. The Sardines Run is one of Cebu’s most spectacular sights—thousands of sardines swimming in unison, creating a shimmering, living tapestry beneath the waves. You’ll snorkel in these waters with a free GoPro, thanks to the tour’s generous rental offer, capturing the swirling mass of fish from your perspective.

Beyond the sardines, you’ll have the chance to see sea turtles gracefully gliding through the water. Many reviewers mention that the snorkelling here feels like an otherworldly experience—so many fish and turtles in their natural environment.

The tour guides are praised for their patience and photography skills—they tirelessly take videos and photos, ensuring you get good shots of the marine life. One reviewer recommended strongly to rent the GoPro since it’s included for free and offers a chance to relive these moments easily.

Optional Seaside Lunch and Local Snacks

While lunch isn’t included, many stops at the beaches offer the opportunity to enjoy fresh local seafood or grab snacks like roasted corn, sticky rice cakes, or fresh coconut. Some reviews mention this as a highlight—a chance to sample Cebu’s simple but delicious traditional treats.

Near the end of the day, there might be some secret local stops, where you can indulge in more traditional snacks. It’s a small but appreciated touch, giving a taste of local life and flavors.

Returning to Cebu

The journey back takes about three hours, with a few quick stops to enjoy the scenery or pick up last-minute snacks. The tour ends with drop-offs at your hotel or preferred location, making it convenient to unwind after a full day.

From traveler reviews and our understanding of the tour, here are some of the best aspects:

• The small-group setting means fewer crowds and more personalized guidance.
• The diverse itinerary covers both land and sea, appealing to those who want variety.
• The free GoPro and photographer turn your underwater moments into lasting memories.
• The long travel times are a trade-off for quick access to several top attractions—be prepared for a full, energetic day.

On the flip side, some points to consider:

• There’s no lunch included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy locally is advisable.
• The duration can be quite long, and the roads are bumpy, which might be tiresome for some.
• Crowds at certain spots, especially for the turtle snorkeling, can be busy, making the experience feel rushed at times.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and see a wide range of Cebu’s natural wonders without multiple days of touring. It’s great if you’re looking for cost-effective value—covering transportation, guides, entrance fees, snorkel gear, and a professional photographer—all in one package.

If you enjoy marine wildlife, playful animals, or simply want a memorable day with friends or family, this tour offers authentic encounters and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s especially ideal for first-timers who want a broad overview without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, less rushed experiences or want to linger longer at each site, this may feel a bit compressed. Also, if you’re sensitive to bumpy rides or long hours in the vehicle, consider whether a more leisurely option might suit you better.

This Cebu tour offers a well-rounded, adventure-filled day that balances wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and underwater marvels. The combination of whale sharks, monkeys, sardines, and turtles makes it a truly diverse experience, highlighting what Cebu has to offer in just one day.

The value for money is solid, especially with the inclusion of a free GoPro and small group size, which elevates the experience from just a standard tour to something more personal and memorable. It’s perfect for travelers eager to pack a lot into a limited timeframe, especially if wildlife and marine life are high on your must-see list.

Just be prepared for an active day, some travel time, and the absence of lunch—bring your snacks, wear comfortable clothes, and get ready for a day of natural wonder.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cebu or Lapu-Lapu City, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the travel time between spots?
The drive from Cebu to Oslob takes about 3 hours, and the drive from Oslob to Moalboal is around 2 hours. Expect a full day on the road with scenic views and some stops.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for all participants, along with environmental fees.

Can I rent the GoPro?
Absolutely, the GoPro is provided free of charge, along with a photographer, for capturing your underwater moments.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included. Many travelers opt for local snacks at stops or bring their own provisions.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personal and comfortable experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is accessible for most ages, but keep in mind the long drives and active snorkeling. It’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and with moderate mobility.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty—making it a fantastic way to experience Cebu’s natural treasures in just one day. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the memories you’ll bring home—especially with those photos—will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: