Oslob: Whaleshark Swimming, Inambakan Falls & Moalboal Tour

Taking part in a full-day tour exploring the highlights of Cebu’s southern coast promises a mix of marine marvels and lush waterfalls. This particular package offers a balance between unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic natural sights. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a packed, yet manageable, adventure that covers some of the most iconic spots in less than a day.

What we genuinely like about this tour is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks—an experience that’s as surreal as it sounds—and the chance to cool off at Inambakan Falls, surrounded by tropical greenery. The inclusion of snorkeling in Moalboal, especially with the possibility of seeing millions of sardines and friendly turtles, adds a dynamic underwater dimension.

One thing to keep in mind is that the day can be quite long and busy, with early pickups and packed schedules. If you prefer a relaxed pace or want to linger longer at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s an excellent option for those who want a well-rounded sampler of Cebu’s natural treasures in one go.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic nature, and snorkeling. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see a lot without sacrificing authentic experiences. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a full day of activity, you’ll likely find this tour both worthwhile and memorable.

Key Points

• Wildlife and Nature Combo: Combines whale shark watching, waterfall exploration, and marine snorkelling.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides provide insights into local ecosystems and wildlife.
• Packed but Manageable: A full day’s schedule, ideal for a quick yet diverse experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunity to swim with gentle giants and see vibrant marine life.
• Potential Drawbacks: Long day with limited free time at each site; some may find it rushed.
• Value for Money: At $107, the tour covers transportation, entry fees, gear rental, and guiding, making it a convenient package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup options from eight different locations, including Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and nearby towns like Moalboal and Badian. This flexibility is a major plus, reducing the hassle of arranging your own transport. Expect to be ready about 10 minutes before your scheduled start, and be prepared for a potentially early start—some trips begin as early as 3 or 4 am, depending on your pickup point.

The transportation itself is generally comfortable, and since it’s a private group, you won’t be sharing the ride with strangers, which helps keep the day personalized and relaxed—even amidst the busy schedule.

The Whale Shark Encounter

The first major highlight is Oslob’s famous whale shark watching. You’ll board a boat and spend around two hours at the whale shark viewing area. Guides help you understand these gentle giants, and the experience of seeing them glide effortlessly beneath you is breathtaking.

Many travelers comment on the professionalism of the guides, with positive remarks like, “Our guide was friendly and on time.” Seeing whale sharks in their natural environment is an experience that sticks with you—something very different from zoo or aquarium sightings. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention concerns about water quality at the sardine run later in the day, so the focus here is on the privilege of observing these creatures rather than a pristine environment.

Inambakan Falls: A Tropical Oasis

After the whale sharks, your journey takes you into Inambakan Falls, where the lush surroundings make for an entirely different kind of beauty. The trek involves walking along winding paths through tropical foliage, which is a highlight for nature lovers.

Once at the falls, you’ll find a crystal-clear swimming pool beneath the cascading water, perfect for a refreshing dip. The scenery is impressive, and many visitors comment on how beautiful and peaceful the environment is. One reviewer noted, “The waterfall was so beautiful, and we were the only ones there,” which emphasizes the sense of exclusivity some travelers felt.

That said, in one review, the water at the sardine run was described as “very very dirty,” leading to health concerns and a rash for one traveler. This is a reminder that water quality can vary, especially at popular snorkeling spots.

The tour guides tend to be flexible—some reviewers wished they could have stayed longer at the falls, but time constraints often limit how long you can enjoy this peaceful spot.

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Snorkeling in Moalboal: Vibrant Marine Life

The final stop takes you to Moalboal, renowned for its spectacular underwater scenery. You’ll have around two hours for snorkeling, with equipment provided. Here, you’ll swim amidst schools of tropical fish and coral reefs that are colorful and lively. Many travelers mention the million sardines that form shimmering, swirling clouds, creating one of the most mesmerizing underwater sights in the Philippines.

You might also encounter sea turtles, adding a chance of seeing friendly, slow-moving sea creatures in their natural habitat. Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing fascinating facts about the marine eco-system, making the experience both fun and educational.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of activity, your guide will return you to your accommodation, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire process is designed for convenience, with round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide to answer questions along the way.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $107, the tour covers almost everything—guided tours at each site, boat rentals, entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and transportation. This makes it a good value considering the cost of individual activities and transport arrangements.

However, meals and beverages are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day. Some travelers have expressed disappointment over the lack of a proper lunch, and the tour duration from 3 am to 5 pm leaves little room for sit-down meals unless you organize them yourself.

Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional activities beyond the itinerary are also not included, but with the main highlights covered, most travelers find this acceptable.

Important Tips for Travelers

• Bring a change of clothes, towel, waterproof camera, and biodegradable sunscreen.
• Expect to spend some time in the water, so waterproof bags are recommended.
• Be prepared for a long day, especially if your pickup is early.
• Some reviews mention additional charges for equipment rental (like life vests or helmets), so clarify with your guide beforehand to avoid surprises.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Reviews offer a balanced view. Many praise the friendly, punctual guides and stunning scenery. One reviewer said, “We ended up being the only people for that day, which was great,” highlighting the flexibility and personalized feel of a private tour.

However, some critics point out issues like water quality at the sardine run and a lack of proper meals, which can impact the overall experience. One traveler shared, “I got a bad rash from the water at the sardine run,” emphasizing that water conditions aren’t always perfect.

Another expressed frustration about extra hidden charges for equipment, which suggests that travelers should clarify what’s included upfront.

Despite these concerns, most found the tour to be an exciting, well-organized way to see key sights in Cebu, especially if you’re eager to tick off multiple experiences in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is particularly suited for active travelers who enjoy a full schedule and don’t mind early mornings. It works well for those looking to maximize limited time and experience a variety of natural attractions without organizing multiple trips.

It’s ideal for family groups, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate guided tours, convenience, and the chance to learn from passionate local guides. However, if your priority is a relaxed, slow-paced experience or to spend more time at each site, you might prefer to explore these destinations independently or opt for a different itinerary.

The Sum Up

In all, this tour offers a fantastic overview of Cebu’s natural and marine treasures. For around $107, you get guided visits to whale sharks, waterfalls, and vibrant reefs, all with the comfort of private transport. The highlights—swimming with whale sharks and snorkelling amidst sardines—are truly memorable and worth the investment.

Travelers who enjoy adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty, and don’t mind a busy schedule, will find this tour fulfilling. It packs a lot into a single day, offering excellent value and authentic encounters.

While water quality concerns and the long hours might not suit everyone, most will leave with a sense of having truly experienced some of Cebu’s best natural sites. It’s a smart choice for those eager to see a lot without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $107 fee covers guided tours at each site, boat rental for whale shark watching, entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and round-trip transportation from your accommodation.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 14 hours, typically starting early around 3-8 am depending on pickup location, and returning around 5 pm.

Are meals provided?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so bring snacks or plan to purchase food during the day.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, waterproof camera, biodegradable sunscreen, toiletries, and waterproof bags for your belongings.

Can I swim with the whale sharks?
Yes, you will have around 2 hours at the whale shark viewing area to observe and swim alongside these gentle creatures.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While generally suitable for active participants, consider individual mobility and water comfort levels. The itinerary involves walking, water activities, and a long day.

This tour offers a dynamic and authentic way to experience some of Cebu’s most treasured sights—all in one well-organized package. If you love nature, marine life, and a bit of adventure, it’s well worth considering for your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: