Cebu: Whale Sharks, Kawasan Falls, & Sardines Run Snorkeling

Traveling to Cebu offers an incredible array of natural wonders, and this tour packs in some of the most iconic experiences in a single day. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary suggest it’s a thoughtfully curated journey perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? First, swimming alongside the gentle whale sharks in Oslob is truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Second, the visit to Kawasan Falls offers stunning turquoise waters—a perfect spot to relax and snap memorable photos. Third, snorkeling in Moalboal with the sardine run and sea turtles promises mesmerizing underwater sights. The only consideration? The early departure time (around 3:00-4:00 AM) might be challenging for some, but it’s necessary to maximize the day’s activities.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an efficient, all-in-one adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and love seeing the best of Cebu’s aquatic and waterfall attractions, this option will likely be a hit.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines whale shark watching, Kawasan Falls, and marine snorkeling in Moalboal.
• Value for Money: At $113, it includes transportation, entrance fees, gear, and a local lunch, making it a cost-effective way to see major sights.
• Early Start: Departing between 3:00-4:00 AM means waking early but allows maximum time for activities.
• Expert Assistance: Guides and safety gear are included, ensuring a safe and smooth experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to swim with gentle giants, vibrant fish schools, and turtles in their natural habitat.
• Limited for Non-Swimmers & Pregnant Women: Not suitable for children under 7 or those with certain health conditions, for safety reasons.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Early

Expect your day to kick off around 3:00 to 4:00 AM with door-to-door pickup from Cebu City or Mactan Island. The journey to Oslob spans roughly 120 km and takes about 3 hours. While the early start might seem daunting, it’s designed to give you the best chance at seeing the whale sharks with fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.

Whale Shark Encounter in Oslob

Upon arrival, you’ll register and receive a short safety briefing before your swimming with whale sharks experience. These gentle giants are the highlight of many visitors’ trips; they’re docile and curious, making the interaction both thrilling and safe. Expect around 30 minutes in the water per guest, with guides helping to ensure your safety and assist with photography.

A reviewer noted, “The guides were incredibly helpful, making sure everyone was comfortable and getting great shots.” The experience is usually smooth and well-organized, thanks to local operators like Enjoy Cebu Travel and Tours, who take care of entrance fees, boat fees, and safety gear.

Kawasan Falls – A Refreshing Break

After the whale shark encounter, you’ll have the chance to rinse off and grab a quick snack before heading to Badian for Kawasan Falls. This scenic spot is renowned for its turquoise waters and lush surroundings. The guide will assist with gear fitting and provide a brief on the falls, so you know where to swim and take photos.

While Kawasan Falls can get crowded, the natural beauty still impresses. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to cool off in the clear waters and capture photos against the stunning backdrop of the falls.

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Delicious Local Lunch at Badian Base Camp

After Kawasan, a hearty local lunch awaits at the base camp, giving you a chance to recharge. Expect traditional Filipino dishes, fresh seafood, or local favorites—perfect fuel before heading to Moalboal for the afternoon’s marine adventure.

Snorkeling with Sardines and Turtles in Moalboal

The final major part of the day is in Moalboal, about a 30-40 minute drive from Badian. Here, you’ll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, witnessing the famous sardine run—a swirling mass of thousands of sardines moving in perfect unison, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Many reviews emphasize how impactful this sight is, with one noting, “Swimming among the sardines felt like being in a living, breathing aquarium.” Alongside the sardines, sea turtles are often spotted, gliding gracefully in their natural environment, adding to the magic of the experience.

The snorkeling session lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with guides helping everyone find the best spots and ensuring safety. The gear provided, including life vests, supports even less confident swimmers.

Return Trip and Reflection

After snorkeling, you’ll have some time to rinse off and relax before the drive back to Cebu City or Mactan. The return journey can take around 3 hours, depending on traffic, especially in the evening. Expect to arrive back between 6:00 and 8:00 PM, making it a long but rewarding day of adventure.

The Practical Details

What’s Included

This tour covers door-to-door pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free. A private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the long day. The experience includes all necessary entrance fees, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and a local lunch.

What to Bring and Wear

Pack light but be prepared: bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towels, change of clothes, waterproof bags, and a camera (preferably waterproof). Sunscreen is essential; however, smoking isn’t allowed during the activities.

Considerations & Restrictions

• Children under 7 and pregnant women are not permitted to join for safety reasons.
• The tour might be canceled or rescheduled due to weather or maintenance, such as the Kawasan Falls closure on the third Wednesday of each month.
• It’s a full-day tour, so expect early mornings and late evenings.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer shared, “The guides were very attentive, helping with photos and safety every step of the way,” highlighting the professionalism of the team. Another mentioned, “The views and underwater sights exceeded our expectations,” especially at Kawasan and Moalboal.

Most found the early start challenging but worthwhile, considering the value of experiencing Cebu’s top attractions in one day. Many also appreciated the transparency of costs, with everything from gear to environmental fees included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers seeking a packed day of nature and marine life. It suits those comfortable with early starts and active underwater activities. Families with older children will enjoy the underwater sights, but it’s not recommended for very young children or pregnant women.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see some of Cebu’s most iconic sites with knowledgeable guides, this tour ticks the box. It’s also a fantastic choice if you want to maximize your time and get authentic encounters with marine creatures and waterfalls.

The Sum Up

This Cebu tour offers a well-rounded adventure that balances marine life, waterfalls, and stunning underwater scenery. At a reasonable price, it delivers excellent value, especially given the inclusiveness of transportation, gear, and meals. It’s a smart pick for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip without the stress of planning each activity themselves.

While the early start might not be for everyone, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to swim with whale sharks, relax at Kawasan, and snorkel among sardines and turtles—all in one unforgettable outing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second look at Cebu’s natural beauty, this tour promises a day filled with awe and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, door-to-door pickup and drop-off from Cebu City or Mactan are included, with a private air-conditioned vehicle.

What is the cost of the tour? The tour costs $113 per person, which covers entrance fees, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and a local lunch.

How early do we need to depart? Departures are typically between 3:00 and 4:00 AM to maximize the day’s activities and avoid crowds.

Are children allowed on this tour? Children under 7 years old are not permitted for safety reasons, and pregnant women should avoid these activities.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, waterproof camera, snacks, water, and a change of clothes.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers? With provided life vests and guide assistance, non-swimmers can participate in snorkeling, but overall swimming ability is recommended.

Are there any restrictions at Kawasan Falls? Yes, the falls are sometimes temporarily closed on the third Wednesday of each month for maintenance, so check in advance.

This tour combines stunning views with memorable encounters, making it a top choice for anyone wanting to experience Cebu’s natural wonders in a day. It balances adventure, comfort, and authentic beauty, all at a fair price point.

You can check availability for your dates here: