Cebu: Whale Shark Snorkeling & Kawasan Canyoning Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with both marine marvels and lush waterfalls, this tour in Cebu might just be your perfect match. It combines two of the region’s most celebrated adventures: swimming with gentle whale sharks in Oslob and tackling the thrilling canyoning adventure at Kawasan Falls. The result is a full-day trip that promises encounters with nature that are both exciting and awe-inspiring.

What we really like about this experience is how it manages to balance adventure and comfort—you get to see some of Cebu’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making what could be a daunting day into something truly special. On the downside, the long drive might be tiring for some, but it’s a small price to pay for the unforgettable sights awaiting you.

This trip suits travelers who love nature, marine life, and active outings. If you enjoy being outdoors and want a well-organized, comprehensive day out with easy logistics, this tour will deliver. It’s also a good choice for those who want a safe, guided experience rather than trying to piece together these spots on your own.

Key Points

• Unique Marine Encounter: Swim with harmless whale sharks in Oslob, an experience hard to match elsewhere.
• Adventurous Canyoning: Navigate Kawasan Falls’ natural water slides and swimming spots with professional guides.
• Convenience & Value: All transportation, activities, and meals are included, making it a hassle-free day.
• Expert Guides: Recognized for their kindness and knowledge, enhancing the overall experience.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning waterfall views and scenic drives through Cebu’s countryside.
• Balanced Pace: Long day but well-paced, with plenty of time to enjoy each activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup & Travel

The tour begins with early morning pickup from Cebu City or Mactan Island hotels, usually between 2:00 and 4:00 a.m., depending on your location. This might seem early, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and make the most of the day. The roughly three-hour drive to Oslob sets the tone for the adventure—expect comfort, with a small group limited to nine participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling: A Marine Marvel

Arriving in Oslob, you’ll be greeted by guides who have led many first-time snorkelers. The experience is designed to be accessible—snorkel gear is provided, and full life jackets ensure safety and buoyancy. You won’t need to be an expert swimmer; the guides are there to keep you safe and comfortable.

What sets this apart is how tame and harmless these whale sharks are. Their gentle nature guarantees a non-intimidating encounter—no aggressive behavior here. The reviews highlight how friendly guides make a difference: “The Japanese guide was very kind! Everyone was nice and it was a lot of fun,” one reviewer shares. You’ll float alongside these enormous creatures, marveling at their size and calm presence.

Note that, starting in April 2025, the snorkeling fee in Oslob is increasing from 500 to 1,000 pesos. The tour price will be adjusted accordingly, or if you booked before the change, an additional fee might be collected on-site. This fee supports conservation and management efforts but adds to your overall cost—something to keep in mind when budgeting.

Traveling to Kawasan Falls: Scenic Journey

After your marine adventure, you’ll hop back into the van for a roughly two-hour drive to Kawasan Falls. The scenic route offers glimpses of lush landscapes and rural life, providing a nice break before the next activity. The journey helps build anticipation for the canyoning experience that awaits.

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Kawasan Canyoning: A Splash of Excitement

Kawasan Falls is famous for its crystal-clear waters and towering waterfalls, and this tour allows you to experience it in an active way. You’ll be guided by professionals who will provide a safety briefing before descending into the canyon. The activity involves sliding down natural chutes, jumping into deep pools, and navigating rocky paths—an adrenaline rush for adventure lovers.

What we love is how accessible this activity is, with safety gear and guidance. The reviews emphasize the experienced guides: “Everyone was nic…” and “The Japanese guide was very kind!” highlighting the importance of knowledgeable supervision for such an energetic activity.

You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the largest basin of the waterfall, swim in the cool waters, and appreciate the stunning scenery. This part of the tour is particularly popular for its natural water slides and the chance to cool off amid Cebu’s lush scenery.

Lunch and Relaxation

A well-organized sit-down lunch is included, featuring lauriat-style meals with fresh fruits, providing fuel for the rest of the day. Afterward, there’s time to relax, take photos, or explore the area further.

Return Journey & Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a roughly three-hour drive back to Cebu, arriving in the evening. The convenience of included hotel pickup and drop-off means you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads after a long day. You’ll be dropped at your hotel or your preferred location, leaving you free to unwind or explore Cebu’s vibrant dining scene.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour offers quite a bit for $147 per person. Included are lunch, all activities, safety gear, guided support, insurance, and hotel transfers. The added convenience can justify the price, especially since all logistics are handled for you.

Optional extras include underwater photography (via GoPro rentals), fin rentals, or ziplining at Kawasan Falls. These are paid separately, but they allow for capturing the memories or adding a little extra thrill.

Not included are breakfast (so consider arriving early enough to grab something), tips, and optional activities like ziplining or additional underwater photos. Remember, tips are customary if you’re pleased with the guides’ service.

Value and Practicality

At first glance, $147 might seem steep, but when you consider that it covers transport, all activities, meals, and insurance, it becomes quite competitive. The tour’s comprehensive nature means you won’t need to organize separate transport or worry about entrance fees—everything is taken care of. Plus, small-group sizes enhance the experience, allowing guides to give more attentive support.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideally suited for adventure seekers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want a reliable, guided tour. It’s perfect if you want to see Cebu’s iconic natural attractions without spending ages figuring out logistics or dealing with crowded spots on your own.

Families with children over 7 will find it manageable, especially since safety measures and professional guides are in place. Those interested in marine life or waterfalls will find the tour particularly fulfilling. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or anyone with mobility issues due to the physical nature of canyoning.

Final Thoughts

This combined Cebu experience offers an authentic taste of nature’s best—the chance to swim with the world’s most famous gentle giants and then get your adrenaline pumping with canyoning. The guides’ friendly approach and the carefully curated itinerary make it a great value for adventurous travelers looking to pack a lot into one day.

The long drive is the only real drawback, but it’s a small price for the stunning views, memorable wildlife encounters, and active fun. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour delivers on both excitement and scenery—an excellent choice for anyone eager to see Cebu in one action-packed day.

FAQ

How early do I need to be picked up? Pickup times generally range between 2:00 and 4:00 a.m., to maximize your day and avoid crowds at the attractions.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers? Yes, snorkeling is safe for non-swimmers as full life jackets are provided, and guides are there to assist you.

What is the main highlight of the tour? Many say swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob is unforgettable, and the scenic beauty of Kawasan Falls adds to the appeal.

Are meals included? Yes, a lauriat-style lunch with fruits is included, providing a good energy boost amid the day’s activities.

Can I request a GoPro for photos? Absolutely, just request this when booking. It’s a great way to capture the moments without carrying your own camera.

Are children allowed? Only children over 7 years old can participate, making it suitable for most families with older kids.

What if I want to skip part of the tour? Since it’s a full-day guided experience with transportation, skipping parts would require personal arrangements outside the tour package.

Will I need to pay any additional fees? The tour price covers most activities, but keep in mind the upcoming increase in whale shark snorkeling fees starting in 2025. Optional extras like ziplining are paid separately.

Can I customize the drop-off location? Drop-off is available at your hotel or preferred location within Cebu City or Mactan, but special arrangements, such as a private Oslob trip, may require contacting the provider directly.

This tour offers a chance to combine marine wonder and waterfall adventure in one seamless, well-organized day. With trusted guides, stunning scenery, and thoughtful logistics, it’s a memorable way to experience Cebu’s natural treasures—ideal for those hungry for both excitement and authentic encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: