10 Fantastic Tours & Experiences In Cebu City

Cebu City is a hub of activity, offering a diverse array of tours that showcase everything from marine wonders to mountain vistas. Whether you’re craving the thrill of swimming with whale sharks, exploring waterfalls, or soaking in the city’s historic sites, Cebu delivers. We’re particularly fond of the Cebu City: Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering tour because it combines two of the area’s most iconic experiences in one day—swimming with gentle giants and tackling rugged cliffs—making it ideal for adventure lovers. Plus, the guides’ professionalism ensures a safe and memorable trip. Want to see how the tours stack up? Check out the full list below, with options suited for different interests and budgets.

Quick Overview

This list covers a broad spectrum of excursions in Cebu, from the adrenaline-pumping kawasan falls canyoneering (see tour here) to peaceful highlands scenic drives (see tour here). You’ll find options for family-friendly outings, cultural explorations, and adrenaline junkie adventures. Each tour offers unique highlights, detailed itineraries, and honest reviews to help you choose.

1. Cebu City: Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

For around $127, this full-day adventure combines the awe of snorkeling with whale sharks at Oslob and the thrill of canyoneering in Badian. The tour begins early with pickup options from multiple locations, followed by a visit to Oslob where you’ll snorkel with these gentle giants—an experience rated 4.7/5 from over 550 reviews. The ethical encounter is guided, ensuring safety and respect for the animals. Afterward, it’s off to Badian for a guided Kawasan Falls tour, scrambling, jumping, and sliding through natural water corridors. The day ends with a refreshing swim at Kawasan and a scenic drive back. Guides like Jo and Marcelo keep the adrenaline high and the fun safe, with photos taken throughout. Perfect for adventure seekers wanting a comprehensive experience.

Bottom Line: A long but rewarding day, especially for those wanting a mix of marine life and rugged outdoor fun. Expect early mornings and a full schedule but plenty of memories.

2. Cebu: Whale Shark Swim and Kawasan Canyoneering Tour

At just $108, this tour offers two breathtaking experiences—snorkeling with whale sharks at sunrise and challenging canyoneering in Badian. It’s a slightly shorter day but still packs in the essentials. The whale shark encounter is described as emotional but ethical, with guides ensuring a respectful experience. Afterward, adrenaline kicks in again during the Badian canyoneering adventure, where jumping, sliding, and swimming through natural rock formations is the highlight. Reviewers often mention the guides’ professionalism, with some emphasizing the fun of the natural water slides and the beautiful scenery. The combo makes it ideal for travelers who want a balanced day of marine life and outdoor action, without the longer, more intensive trips.

Bottom Line: Offers excellent value and two of Cebu’s most famous activities—best suited for active travelers with limited time.

3. Cebu: Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour with Ziplining

For $108, this all-in-one day tour combines canyoneering with ziplining, rated 4.8/5 by visitors. The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to Badian, where you’ll zipline over lush landscapes before plunging into the crystal-clear Kawasan Falls. The canyoneering involves jumping into pools, rappelling, and navigating rugged terrain. Guides like Tito and Lando earn high praise for their safety tips and humor, making the experience accessible even for first-timers. A beachfront lunch provides perfect relaxation after the adrenaline rush. This tour suits adventurers who want a mix of high-speed zip and natural exploration, with the added bonus of stunning vistas and professional guides.

Bottom Line: An energetic, well-rounded adventure for thrill-seekers who want variety in a day.

4. Cebu: Kawasan Falls Canyoneering & Cliff Jump Private Tour

At a premium price of $142, this private tour offers a personalized experience of Kawasan Falls with cliff diving from 30 meters if you’re feeling bold. The tour includes scrambling, climbing, jumping, and swimming through Badian’s rugged cliffs. Rated 4.9/5, guests highlight the customized attention and guides who film your jumps and can take photos of you at every step. The secluded setting makes this perfect for those wanting a more exclusive, intimate experience. The highlight is definitely the cliff diving, which is a true adrenaline moment. The tour is best suited for adventurers comfortable with heights and looking for a more tailored, private trip.

Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers valuing privacy and personalized guides, with the option to go all out on cliff jumps.

5. Cebu: Oslob Whale Sharks, Moalboal Sardine Run & Turtles

At $115, this combination tour is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Snorkel with whale sharks, see sea turtles, and marvel at the sardine run in Moalboal—all in one day. The tour is highly rated at 4.6/5, and includes reserved facilities at Oslob for comfort, plus a free GoPro rental. The highlights include swimming alongside gentle whale sharks and observing colorful marine life in their natural habitat. The tour also visits the Monkey Sanctuary for some playful primates. It’s ideal for aquatic explorers who want a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, with a focus on marine biodiversity.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a full day of underwater encounters and animal interactions.

6. Cebu: Highlands Tour – Temples, Gardens & Scenic Views

For a more relaxed day, this highlands tour costing about $86 takes you to the temples, gardens, and panoramic viewpoints such as Taoist Temple, Sirao Flower Garden, and Temple of Leah. Rated 4.8/5, it offers insights into Cebu’s cultural landmarks and breathtaking vistas. Guides share stories about the sites, making this as much about learning as sightseeing. The drive through lush landscapes provides a break from the more physically demanding activities, making it suitable for families, seniors, or those wanting a peaceful day with scenic photo stops.

Bottom Line: Ideal for cultural and scenic interests, with a focus on relaxed exploration.

7. Cebu Island Hopping with Lunch

At $135, this island-hopping tour takes visitors around Gilutungan, Nalusuan, and Caohagan Islands. The tour includes snorkeling, beach time, and a delicious seafood buffet. Rated 4.7/5, travelers appreciate the clear waters and vibrant marine life, especially in Gilutungan Marine Sanctuary. The boat crew and guides help ensure a smooth trip, with plenty of time to relax and explore. This tour is perfect for families or couples who want a laid-back day with spectacular views and good food.

Bottom Line: Great for casual explorers who want to enjoy the sea and local culture without strenuous activity.

8. Cebu: Whale Shark, Monkey Sanctuary, & Moalboal Turtles Tour

At $129, this combination trip covers swimming with whale sharks, visiting the Monkey Sanctuary, and snorkeling with turtles and sardines. The full-day tour is rated 4.4/5 and features a free GoPro to capture your underwater moments. The monkeys are playful, and the whale shark encounter is both awe-inspiring and respectful. The tour balances wildlife encounters with marine exploration, making it suitable for animal lovers who want variety.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for thrill-seekers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

9. Cebu: Exploring Cebu City’s Rich Heritage and Uphill Tour

For $67, this city and uphill tour offers a deep dive into Cebu’s colonial structures, religious landmarks, and scenic city views. Highlights include Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Temple of Leah. Rated 4.9/5, it’s a great fit for history buffs and those interested in Cebu’s cultural roots. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time for photos and stories from your guide. If you’re interested in understanding Cebu beyond the beaches, this tour makes it easy.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history and culture lovers wanting an insightful half-day trip.

10. Cebu: Whale Shark, Monkey Sanctuary, & Moalboal Snorkel Tour

At $117, this full-day wildlife tour includes swimming with whale sharks, a monkey sanctuary visit, and snorkeling with sardines and turtles. Rated 4.5/5, the free GoPro and friendly guides make it a popular choice. The combination of land and sea wildlife encounters appeals to those seeking variety. The tour’s flexibility and careful planning make it suitable for families and travelers wanting a diverse experience.

Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife fans who want a mix of marine and land animals in one day.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Cebu

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For instance, if you’re after marine encounters, snorkeling with whale sharks or the full island-hopping trips offer great value. For thrill-seekers, canyoneering and cliff jumping are top picks. Culture lovers should not miss the heritage and uphill tour, which provides insight into Cebu’s past. Remember, booking early is advised during peak season, especially for private or limited-group tours.

Final Thoughts

Cebu City offers an impressive variety of tours catering to different levels of adventure, interest, and budget. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Cebu City: Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering tour is hard to beat—it’s a full-day combo of marine wonder and outdoor adrenaline. If you prefer a relaxed cultural day, the Highlands Tour and Heritage Exploration are perfect choices. For those who want more action, the private cliff jump or zipline combo delivers the thrills.

No matter your style, these tours provide a fantastic way to see Cebu beyond its beaches. To ensure a smooth trip, book well in advance, especially if traveling during the high season. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that ignites your sense of adventure or deepens your appreciation for Cebu’s rich cultural tapestry.