Cebu: Whale Shark Swim and Kawasan Canyoneering Tour

Our review of the Cebu: Whale Shark Swim and Kawasan Canyoneering Tour offers a balanced look at one of the most exciting full-day adventures the Visayas has to offer. This trip packs two unforgettable experiences—swimming with the gentle giants of the sea and conquering natural rock formations in stunning Kawasan Falls—into one impressive package. Whether you love wildlife, adrenaline, or scenic landscapes, this tour aims to deliver a little bit of everything.

What we love most? First, the chance to interact ethically with whale sharks—these magnificent creatures deserve respect, and guides do their best to ensure responsible encounters. Second, the thrilling canyoneering section is a true adrenaline rush, packed with cliff jumps and swimming through rugged landscapes.

The only thing to keep in mind? The early start and long hours mean it’s not ideal if you’re averse to early mornings or long drives. But for those seeking a comprehensive adventure in Cebu, this tour clicks many boxes. It’s perfect for active travelers, wildlife lovers, and anyone eager to tick off Cebu’s top natural highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Two-in-one experience: Combines whale shark snorkeling and Kawasan canyoneering for maximum variety.
• Early starts: Be prepared for early pick-up times around 2-3 AM, which is common for this type of tour.
• Expert guides: Well-rated guides help ensure safety, provide lots of photos, and share valuable insights.
• Value for money: At $111, the tour covers transportation, gear, an included lunch, and all entrance fees—offering great value for such an action-packed day.
• Physical activity: Canyoneering is engaging and challenging; suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
• Authentic and safe experiences: The guides emphasize responsible interaction with wildlife and safety during activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Early Morning Pickup and Travel

This tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, or nearby areas, usually between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM. The early start may seem daunting, but it’s designed to beat the crowds and maximize your chances of an optimal experience. As you settle into a comfortable van—shared or private depending on your choice—you’ll enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive south to the town of Oslob, where the famous whale sharks await.

Travel time and early hours are often cited as the main drawbacks—some reviews mention the long hours on the road or waiting in queues—but most agree the experience is well worth it. We loved the way guides help streamline the process, securing your priority number and easing the wait, so you’re in the water sooner rather than later. Expect to arrive early to avoid the congestion of peak times, especially during busy seasons.

Whale Shark Encounter: The Majestic Giants

Once at the whale shark viewing area, your guide will provide a thorough safety briefing and instructions on respectful interaction. This is not just a photo op but an opportunity to observe these gentle creatures up close in their natural environment. Expect to snorkel with enormous whale sharks, which can grow up to 12 meters long.

One thing to note from reviews: the water can be a bit choppy and crowded, especially in peak season. While the guides do their best to ensure ethical interaction, some have expressed concern over the feeding practices used to attract sharks—feeding krill from other islands may impact their natural behavior. Nevertheless, most reviews praise the guides’ professionalism and the unforgettable close-up encounters.

Swimmers have praised the guides for their helpfulness in taking photos and videos, often capturing playful moments with the sharks. The experience lasts about 2.25 hours, which is enough time to marvel at the creatures and get plenty of shots. Many people consider this the highlight of the trip, describing it as “breathtaking” and “a bucket list item.”

Transition and Rest Before the Next Adventure

After the whale shark experience, you’ll meet your driver again for the scenic two-hour drive to Badian, home of Kawasan Falls. This part of the trip is a good time to relax, enjoy the changing scenery, or grab a quick snack. Some reviews appreciate the calm of this drive, while others mention it’s a lot of sitting—just part of the journey.

Kawasan Canyoneering: A Heart-Pumping Adventure

Upon arrival at Kawasan, your guides will fit you with canyoneering gear—life jackets, helmets, and trekking shoes. This is essential for safety and comfort during the roughly 3.5-hour adventure. The guides stand out for their professionalism and helpfulness, often acting as photographers to document your jumps, swims, and climbs.

The route takes you through a series of stunning canyons and natural pools. Expect challenging jumps of various heights—some reviewers mention jumps of up to 5-10 meters, so this activity is best suited for those with a moderate fitness level and no fear of heights. For the less daring, there are options to skip certain jumps or do alternative routes.

Most agree that the natural scenery is incredible—crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and impressive rock formations. Guides are attentive to safety, helping with foot placement and handholds while ensuring everyone has fun. Many reviewers highlight how guides like Anelac and Norbert make the experience both safe and enjoyable, with some even taking the time to photograph their guests at every turn.

The experience culminates in a splash into Kawasan Falls itself, where the cool water offers a refreshing end to the adrenaline rush. You’ll have time here to relax, take more photos, and enjoy the stunning setting.

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Lunch and Wrap-up

After canyoneering, most tours include a local lunch at the Canyoneering Camp. Some reviews mention the meal being delicious, with fresh local flavors. You can choose to have lunch before or after the activity — flexibility depends on your group’s preference.

The tour concludes with a lengthy drive back to Cebu, usually around 3 hours. Expect to arrive back at your hotel in the evening, tired but with a trove of memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers most essentials: airport transfers (if booked), hotel pickup and drop-off, all guide services, gear, and entrance fees. Snorkeling gear is provided for the whale shark activity, and canyoneering gear ensures safety and comfort. Lunch is included, which adds value to the overall experience.

However, extras such as professional photos, videos, or renting a GoPro cost extra. Some reviews mention the optional zipline at Kawasan (around PHP 600), which adds another fun element if you want even more thrills.

Not included are additional meals, snacks, towels, or clothes, so packing light and bringing your own essentials is advisable.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Reviews paint a clear picture of a tour that’s well-organized but demanding—early mornings, long drives, and physically active. Many reviewers emphasize the professionalism of the guides, especially their helpfulness with photos and safety instructions.

One traveler noted, “The guides and people working in the two areas are amazing! They helped us every step of the way and took great photos.” Others commend the scenery and the uniqueness of swimming with whale sharks, calling it “breathtaking” and “a bucket list item.”

A few mention the long wait times and the crowds, especially at the whale shark area, but most agree that the experience’s value outweighs these inconveniences. Many consider it “the best tour ever,” highlighting the combination of marine wildlife and natural adventure as unbeatable.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who don’t mind early mornings and long days. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see whale sharks ethically and adventurers seeking a thrilling canyon experience. The natural beauty of Kawasan Falls appeals to those who love scenic settings, while guides’ professionalism makes it suitable even for first-timers.

However, it’s less suitable for very young children (minimum age 7), pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the physical nature of canyoneering and the boat rides.

This combined tour offers a rich blend of wildlife, adventure, and scenic beauty—all in one day. It’s a fantastic value at just $111, covering transportation, gear, lunch, and entry fees. The early wake-up and long hours are the main trade-offs, but most find the experience exhilarating enough to justify the effort.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that covers Cebu’s top natural highlights—swimming alongside majestic whale sharks and leaping through Kawasan’s rugged canyons—this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those craving a mix of relaxation, adrenaline, and awe-inspiring scenery, all with expert guides ensuring safety and memorable photos.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is provided for the whale shark activity, but you might want to bring your own mask and fins if you prefer.

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is typically between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM. Be ready in your hotel lobby about 5 minutes before scheduled pickup.

Can children join this tour?
Children must be at least 7 years old to participate in canyoneering. It’s best suited for active kids and teenagers.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, due to the physical demands of canyoneering, it’s not recommended for pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Pack a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small backpack for your belongings.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, ziplining is available on site at Kawasan for PHP 600 if you want extra fun.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers say swimming with the whale sharks and the Kawasan canyoneering are the two standout experiences.

How long is the drive to each location?
It’s about 2.5 hours to Oslob and around 2 hours to Kawasan Falls. The return trip takes about 3 hours.

What makes guides special?
Guests frequently praise guides for their helpfulness, safety awareness, and taking great photos and videos.

Can I buy professional photos?
Yes, professional photos and videos are available for purchase, especially at the whale shark area and during canyoneering.

This tour offers an engaging, active day that showcases Cebu’s wildlife and natural beauty, perfect for those seeking adventure and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: