Cebu: Moalboal Sardines & Turtle Snorkeling and Canyoneering

Travelers seeking a mix of underwater marvels and adrenaline-pumping adventures will find this tour a fantastic way to explore Cebu’s natural beauty. Combining snorkeling with the mesmerizing thousand sardines and sea turtles with the excitement of canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, it’s a full-day experience packed with highlights.

What we love about this tour is how it balances awe-inspiring marine life encounters with heart-racing canyon jumps and scenic trekking. Plus, the inclusion of professional guides and well-organized logistics makes it accessible for most adventurers.

A potential consideration is that the canyoneering segment can be quite intense, requiring good fitness and agility—so it might not be suitable for everyone. Still, for those in good health and craving action, it’s a perfect fit.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an active day out, love marine wildlife, or are eager to tick off multiple Cebu highlights in one seamless trip.

Key Points

• Balance of marine life and adventure offers a diverse experience.
• Expert guides ensure safety and maximize fun.
• All equipment and entrance fees are included, simplifying logistics.
• Moderate price point for a full-day tour with multiple activities.
• Not suitable for very young children or pregnant women due to physical demands.
• Weather can impact the itinerary—rescheduling or refund options are available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Highlights of the Tour

Snorkeling with the Thousand Sardines and Sea Turtles

One of the most captivating parts of the tour is witnessing Cebu’s famous sardine run at Pescador Island. This natural spectacle features millions of sardines swirling in tight, shimmering formations just beneath the water’s surface. As one reviewer put it, “It’s a breathtaking sight—you don’t need luck, since the phenomenon is year-round.” You’ll suit up with provided snorkeling gear, including masks and life jackets, and glide over the dense, writhing mass of sardines.

The experience doesn’t stop there—if you’re lucky, you might also catch glimpses of green sea turtles paddling peacefully in their natural habitat. Our guide, McRich, was noted for being professional and attentive, making sure everyone kept a safe distance from the turtles while still getting to enjoy their gentle presence. Bringing or renting waterproof cameras is recommended if you want to immortalize these moments.

Island Hopping and Biodiversity at Pescador Island

Beyond the sardines and turtles, Pescador Island itself is a small but vibrant hub of marine biodiversity. The calm waters and coral reefs host a variety of colorful fish, making it an ideal snorkel stop. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often pointing out different species and explaining their importance. Reviews highlight how well-organized the logistics are, with guides going above and beyond to show you everything there is to see.

The Canyoneering Adventure in Kawasan Falls

After a morning of marine marvels, the tour switches gears to the thrilling world of canyoneering in Badian. The trip begins with a hearty lunch (a surprisingly good perk, as many tours skimp on food). Then, it’s off to Kawasan Falls, where an experienced guide will lead you through a sequence of scrambling, jumping, rappelling, and swimming through the scenic river canyons.

Reviewers emphasize that the canyoneering is both challenging and exhilarating. One comment reads, “Wear very good shoes with a hard bottom—your feet and ankles will thank you!” The guides are praised for their professionalism; during the jumps, they carefully instruct and support even those who are a little nervous.

Jumping from cliffs up to 30 feet is a highlight for many, offering a genuine adrenaline rush amid stunning natural surroundings. The cool waters of Kawasan Falls provide a refreshing finish to the physical exertion, inviting everyone to relax after the adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Logistics

The trip kicks off with pickup from your hotel within Cebu City, Mandaue, Mactan, or Lapu-lapu, or even directly from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Once at the dock, you’ll meet your local guide and board a motorized boat that whisks you to Moalboal’s renowned snorkeling spots. The boat rides are smooth, and the provided gear ensures everyone can comfortably snorkel regardless of experience.

The tour is designed to be flexible; if the weather turns rough or the Kawasan Falls are closed, options for rescheduling or refunds are available. The entire day’s activities are well-paced, with some reviewers noting that the guides are attentive and safety-conscious, making even the more daring jumps manageable.

Value for Money and Inclusions

At $154 per person, the tour includes private transport, hotel pickups and drop-offs, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, a lunch, and professional guides. To many travelers, this represents good value considering the variety of activities packed into one day. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and canyoneering gear simplifies planning and reduces extra costs.

Optional extras like fins are available for rent at around 150-200 pesos, which can enhance the snorkeling experience. Insurance isn’t included, so travelers with concerns should consider their own coverage, especially for the canyoneering segment.

What You’ll Experience Step-by-Step

Morning Pickup & Transfer
Your day begins with hotel pickup, usually early in the morning, ensuring you beat the crowds and make the most of daylight hours. The ride to the dock takes about an hour, giving you time to settle in and meet your guides.

Snorkeling at Pescador Island & Sardine Run
Once at the boat dock, the guides prepare your gear and give a quick safety briefing. The boat ride to Pescador Island is short and scenic, often with chances to spot some seabirds or boats in the distance. The snorkeling itself is straightforward: float over the dense sardine shoals, marvel at the swirling silver masses, and then drift to another spot to see sea turtles.

Island Hopping & Marine Biodiversity
Some tours include a second snorkeling stop where you can explore the coral reefs and discover a rainbow of fish and marine life. Guides often point out interesting species, and reviews mention how professional and friendly they are.

Lunch & Rest
A complimentary meal fuels you up for the afternoon’s activities. The lunch is typically served at a local restaurant or a scenic spot, providing local flavors and a chance to relax before the more active part of the day.

Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
Post-lunch, you’ll gear up for the canyoneering adventure. The guides lead you through a series of exciting jumps, swims, and climbs through Kawasan’s lush canyon corridors. Safety is emphasized throughout, and many travelers note how guides like McRich and his team go “above and beyond,” making even the nervous feel secure.

Relaxing at Kawasan Falls
After completing the canyoning, you’ll have time to swim and unwind beneath the waterfalls, soaking in the cool, clear waters. It’s a perfect moment of relaxation after an adrenaline-filled morning.

Return & Drop-off
The day wraps up with a scenic boat ride back to the dock and transportation to your hotel, often arriving in the early evening.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded day with a perfect mix of marine wildlife encounters and high-energy canyon adventures. The expert guides and clear organization make it a safe choice for most travelers, especially those who enjoy active experiences and stunning natural scenery.

For families with children aged 7 and above, this can be a memorable outing—though younger kids might find the canyoneering challenging. The value for money is evident given the inclusions—gear, lunch, transportation, and multiple activities—making it a worthwhile investment for a full day of exploration.

Overall, if you’re after a diverse, fun, and memorable Cebu experience that combines underwater beauty with exciting outdoor sport, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickups are available from hotels in Cebu City, Mandaue, Mactan, Lapu-lapu, and Moalboal, making it convenient to start your day.

What should I bring?
Pack your swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, and toiletries. Fins are not included but can be rented for around 150-200 pesos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 7 and above can join the canyoneering, but younger kids need a private guide and must pay an additional surcharge. The activity requires good health and agility.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of rough weather or if Kawasan Falls are closed, options to reschedule or receive a full refund are available.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local lunch is provided, which is appreciated by travelers and adds to the overall value.

How intense is canyoneering?
Canyoneering involves jumping from cliffs up to 30 feet, scrambling, and swimming through scenic river canyons. It’s physically demanding but led by professional guides ensuring safety.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely. Waterproof cameras are recommended for capturing the sardine run and the underwater scenery.

Is insurance necessary?
Insurance isn’t included, so travelers should consider their own coverage, especially for the more extreme activities.

To sum it up, this Moalboal tour delivers a comprehensive taste of Cebu’s marine and terrestrial natural attractions. It’s best suited for adventurous souls, nature lovers, and anyone looking to make the most of a day exploring both the underwater world and the scenic canyons of Badian. With knowledgeable guides, good organization, and varied activities, it’s a day that promises both excitement and awe—an experience many will cherish long after the trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: