Cebu: Whale Shark Snorkeling & Kawasan Canyoning Tour

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and unique wildlife encounters in Cebu, the Whale Shark Snorkeling & Kawasan Canyoning Tour offers a compelling way to explore the region’s natural highlights. While it’s a full-day affair, this tour balances adrenaline with moments of awe, making it an attractive choice for those craving a mix of activity and scenery.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to swim with the gentle whale sharks in Oslob, the thrilling canyoning descent at Kawasan Falls, and the well-organized logistics and guides. A potential consideration is the early start and the long drive — roughly three hours each way — which might be tiring for some. Still, the value packed into this day makes it worthwhile for active travelers and nature lovers. This tour is perfect if you want a balanced adventure that showcases Cebu’s best natural attractions with the reassurance of safety and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Unique Dual Experience: Combines whale shark snorkeling with canyoning for a full-day adventure.
• Expert Guides and Safety: Certified guides, safety gear, and clear instructions ensure peace of mind.
• Photo Opportunities: Free GoPro rental allows you to capture underwater moments without extra cost.
• Quality Facilities: Reserved clean facilities at Oslob help manage the busy whale shark site comfortably.
• Authentic Filipino Lunch: Enjoy a delicious, scenic meal with spectacular views.
• Value for Money: Includes all activities, transport, insurance, and equipment, making it a comprehensive package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour: What You Can Expect

Starting Early and Driving to Oslob

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is convenient and hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in Cebu City or nearby. After that, it’s about a three-hour scenic drive as you head south to Oslob. While the lengthy journey might seem daunting, it’s an opportunity to relax and get excited about the adventures ahead. The roads are generally good, and the guide often provides interesting facts about Cebu’s countryside along the way.

Whale Shark Snorkeling in Oslob

Once in Oslob, you’ll find yourself at a well-organized, reserved facility—a big plus considering how busy the whale shark spot can be. The site is kept clean and comfortable, with proper infrastructure to handle travelers.

Swimmers are equipped with full life jackets, making it accessible even if you’re not a confident swimmer. The whale sharks here are known to be quite tame and harmless, which reassures many first-timers. As one reviewer pointed out, “the whale sharks were so close and cool,” making the experience utterly memorable.

A major perk is the free GoPro rental, allowing you to document your encounter hands-free—no need to bring your own waterproof camera, which adds great value. Keep in mind, the snorkeling can be quick and busy, so if capturing underwater footage is a priority, request the GoPro early.

While some travelers mentioned difficulty filming due to breathing challenges, most agree that swimming alongside these gentle giants is an experience of a lifetime. It’s a surreal moment to see massive whale sharks glide effortlessly in the water, often just a few meters from you.

Transition to Kawasan Falls Canyoning

After the whale shark adventure, you’ll head to Kawasan Falls — the largest waterfall in Cebu — for the canyoning part of the trip. This activity is what truly sets this tour apart, combining physical activity with the chance to explore the region’s lush, rugged terrain. Expect to go downriver, traverse rocks, slide down natural chutes, and jump into pools.

The canyoning is guided by licensed professionals, including detailed safety briefings and instructions. Several reviewers described the canyoning as “very active and fun,” noting that the guides like Mr. Edmund are both hospitable and skilled. One traveler appreciated the kindness and language skills of guides, including Japanese-speaking guides, which helps non-English speakers feel at ease.

The descent involves natural water slides and jumps that, while exhilarating, are made safe with the provided gear and experienced supervision. The waterfalls and pools you swim in are crystalline and refreshing — a perfect reward after the adrenaline rush.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Lunch and Facilities

Midday, you’ll be treated to a Filipino lauriat-style meal with fresh fruits, served at a vantage point overlooking Kawasan Falls. The view is spectacular, and the meal offers a genuine taste of local flavors. The facilities are clean and comfortable, including access to showers and bathrooms — essential after the water-based activities.

Additional Inclusions and Considerations

The tour package includes all necessary gear, safety equipment, insurance, and entrance fees, so you don’t have to worry about hidden costs. Bottled water and towel rentals are available, and the tour guides are attentive to safety and comfort.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour does not include breakfast, so arriving early or eating beforehand might be wise. Also, if you wish to capture underwater photos beyond the GoPro, there’s an optional fee for underwater photography, which you can arrange with your guide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic hikes. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with physical activity, as canyoning involves some climbing and jumping — but the safety measures make it accessible for most fit travelers. It’s not recommended for children under 7, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

The reviews reveal a lot about what makes this tour special. One traveler noted, “Canyoning was very active and fun,” highlighting the physicality and thrill of the activity. Another mention praises the knowledgeable guides, specifically citing Mr. Edmund, who was described as “kind and hospitable,” making the experience more enjoyable.

The fishy highlight remains swimming alongside gentle whale sharks, with one reviewer saying, “the whale sharks were so close and cool,” emphasizing how near and personal the encounter felt. While some found filming challenging during snorkeling, most appreciated the opportunity to be in the water with these magnificent creatures.

In terms of logistics, the long drive was acceptable for many because of the value and experience gained, with some reviewers expressing a desire to return and do it all again, especially with guides who speak multiple languages, like Japanese.

The Value Proposition

At $147 per person, this tour offers comprehensive value. Everything—from transport, safety gear, and licensed guides to entrance fees, lunch, insurance, and optional GoPro rental—is included. For travelers seeking an active, authentic, and well-organized adventure that combines wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural flavor, this tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck.

While the price increase is forthcoming due to the new whale shark snorkeling fee, the overall experience remains a good deal considering the scope of activities. The quality of guides and facilities adds reassurance, especially for those unfamiliar with such adventures.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventure seekers who want a full day of varied activities. If you love snorkeling, wildlife, and hiking, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s perfect for travelers who want a safe, guided experience with good logistical support and authentic local flavor.

However, it’s less suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those with specific health concerns, given the physical nature of canyoning. Also, if you’re not comfortable with a long drive or early mornings, you might want to consider how this fits into your broader Cebu itinerary.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, because you’ll wear a full life jacket during snorkeling, making it accessible even if you’re not a confident swimmer.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and sandals for comfort. Towels and bottled water are provided at an additional rental fee.

Are the guides experienced?
Absolutely. The guides are licensed, and reviews mention guides like Mr. Edmund being knowledgeable, hospitable, and fluent in multiple languages.

How long is the drive to Oslob?
About three hours each way, which is typical for this kind of full-day trip, giving you a scenic journey through Cebu’s countryside.

Can I capture photos underwater?
Yes, a free GoPro is provided if requested upon booking, but there is an optional fee for additional underwater photography.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 7 are not allowed, mainly for safety reasons. The activity is best suited for those comfortable with water and physical activity.

What about the safety of the canyoning activity?
The activity is guided by licensed professionals, with safety gear and instructions, making it suitable for most active and fit travelers.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping is not included and is at your discretion, usually appreciated for guides and staff if you are satisfied with the service.

Final Thoughts

This Cebu adventure offers a balanced mix of marine wildlife encounters and exhilarating canyoning that will suit travelers eager for active exploration. The professionalism of guides, well-organized facilities, and authentic local cuisine elevate the experience, making it more than just a typical tour.

If you’re after close-up encounters with whale sharks combined with adrenaline-pumping canyon descents, this tour is a fantastic way to spend a day. Great for those who want a safe, well-structured adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and natural beauty, it’s a memorable trip that encapsulates Cebu’s outdoor spirit.

For anyone with a sense of adventure, a love of nature, and a desire to tick off two major highlights in one trip, this tour delivers a meaningful, fun, and value-packed experience. Just be ready for a day that’s active, scenic, and full of stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: