Cebu’s 15 Best Tours & Experiences

Cebu stands out as a top destination in the Philippines thanks to its perfect mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and adventure activities. Whether you’re jumping into Kawasan Falls, swimming with whale sharks in Oslob, exploring historic Cebu City, or island hopping to pristine beaches, Cebu offers experiences that will satisfy both thrill-seekers and culture lovers alike. For instance, the Canyoneering Experience in Kawasan Falls with Lunch is a must-do for adventure fans, combining river jumps, a Tarzan swing, and stunning waterfalls—all with a traditional Filipino meal included. This trip has earned rave reviews for its organization and guides, making it a safe, fun, and memorable outing.

If marine life is your thing, the Whale Watching in Sumilon Island with Ocean View Resort and Lunch delivers a full day of swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling, and relaxing on white sand beaches. The tour’s personalized approach and local guides make it stand out, as does the chance to see Cebu’s iconic gentle giants. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts will enjoy the Cebu City Historical and Food Walking Tour, which reveals the city’s colonial past and lively food scene with insider access to landmarks like Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño.

Quick Overview

Cebu offers a diverse range of tours & experiences that cover high-adrenaline adventures, cultural insights, and island escapes. Highlights include $1, whale shark encounters, city sightseeing, and island hopping excursions. These tours vary from half-day adventures to full-day explorations, often including transportation, meals, and equipment. Below is a detailed look at each experience, helping you decide which is best suited to your interests and travel style.

1. Canyoneering Experience in Kawasan Falls with Lunch

At number 1 on our list, this canyoneering trip combines river jumps, Tarzan swings, and scenic waterfalls with the convenience of included transfers from Moalboal, Badian, or Alegria. For about $55 per person, it’s an excellent choice for thrill-seekers interested in a safe and fully guided adventure. The tour covers a 3-hour exploration of the Matutinao River, where you’ll leap, jump, and swing your way down the river, all with helmets and life jackets provided. The highlight is the Kawasan Falls, where you can relax or take a dip at the end of your adventure.

What makes this tour stand out is its ease of access and excellent reviews—people love the well-organized guides and the traditional Filipino lunch that follows the excitement. Guests say, “Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish,” making it ideal for families or first-timers looking for a safe yet adrenaline-pumping experience. Bottom line: this is a superb mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor.

2. Whale Watching in Sumilon Island with Ocean View Resort and Lunch

This 11-hour tour offers a chance to swim with whale sharks, explore Sumilon Island’s white sand beaches, and unwind at a top ocean-view resort—all in one day. Priced at $124, the tour includes hotel pickup, a licensed guide, and a hearty lunch. The highlight is the whale shark encounter, where you can snorkel alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience.

Afterward, you’ll relax on Sumilon Island’s pristine sands and enjoy the clear waters, perfect for swimming or soaking up the sun. The tour’s small-group format and professional guides ensure a personalized experience, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. Reviews mention how well-organized the trip is, with many noting it “bought the holiday back on track” after a rocky start. Bottom line: this tour delivers a full day of marine adventure with excellent value for its comprehensive itinerary.

3. From Cebu City: Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Loboc Cruise Lunch

For around $149, this full-day Bohol tour takes you from Cebu to explore iconic sights like the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and the Loboc River. The trip begins with a ferry ride, after which you’ll visit historic churches, enjoy a scenic drive, and cruise on the Loboc River with live music and buffet-style lunch.

The tour’s highlight is the Loboc River Cruise, which combines relaxation with cultural entertainment. Guests often mention how well-organized the logistics are, and the opportunity to get up close with Bohol’s tiny tarsiers makes it worthwhile. It is perfect for those interested in natural beauty and local culture, though it’s a long day that requires good walking and patience. Bottom line: a comprehensive, off-the-beaten-path experience that packs in multiple highlights of Bohol in one day.

4. Oslob Whale Shark & Tumalog Falls & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

This 16-hour private tour combines whale shark swimming, Tumalog Falls, and an adventure canyoneering in Kawasan Falls in one seamless package. Priced at $197 per person, it includes all entrance fees, lunch, and personalized guides. Start your day by swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob, then relax with a dip at Tumalog Falls. The adventure peaks with the canyoneering in Badian, which involves rappelling, water slides, and cliff jumps ending at Kawasan Falls.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and tailored experience, with reviews praising the guides’ patience and knowledge. It’s perfect if you want a full-day adventure that balances marine life, waterfalls, and adrenaline. The trip is demanding but rewarding, especially for those eager for a mix of underwater and mountainous action. Bottom line: a fantastic all-in-one adventure, especially suited for active travelers who want variety.

5. The Original Cebu City Historical and Food Walking Tour

For those wanting a taste of local culture and history, this 4-hour walking tour for just $69.99 is a fantastic way to explore Cebu City’s heritage sites and culinary delights. You’ll visit the Heritage of Cebu Monument, Yap Sandiego Ancestral House, and the Santo Niño Basilica—all with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

The tour shines for its insider access and the chance to connect with the local scene, bypassing tourist traps. Reviewers mention that it’s “a great way to see the city if you’re unfamiliar,” with personalized attention from guides who share stories beyond the usual facts. It’s ideal for history and food lovers who want a relaxed yet informative experience. Bottom line: perfect for a half-day culture with a local flavor twist.

6. Whale Shark & Tumalog Falls & Sumilon Sandbar & Pescador Island with Sardines

This 16-hour tour packs four top attractions into one day for $164. You start with whale shark watching, then visit Tumalog Falls and the famous Sumilon Sandbar. The day closes with snorkeling around Pescador Island and a swim in Moalboal’s sardine run.

What makes this experience stand out is its efficiency—covering a lot of ground without repeated travel. Reviews highlight the well-planned logistics and helpful guides, making it a great choice for those on a tight schedule who don’t want to miss Cebu’s marine and natural wonders. It’s perfect for families or groups eager to see marine life, waterfalls, and beaches in one trip. Bottom line: an all-rounder tour ideal for travelers wanting many highlights in a single day.

7. Whale Shark Encounter and Sumilon Sandbar with Kawasan Falls

This private 14-hour tour offers a highly personalized experience for $200, including round-trip transfers from Cebu, whale shark swimming, Tumalog Falls, and Kawasan Falls. It begins early with whale shark interaction, then relaxes at Tumalog and explores Sumilon Island’s sandbar.

Guests note the exceptional guides and smooth logistics, making it suitable for families or anyone who prefers a less crowded, more tailored outing. The tour’s combination of marine encounters and waterfall visits makes it perfect for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and leisure. Reviewers say, “The guides took care of us all day long,” emphasizing the great care and organization. Bottom line: a premium private tour that balances adventure with comfort.

8. From Cebu: Island Hopping to 3 islands with BBQ lunch

This 7 to 10-hour island-hopping tour for $113 includes visits to Nalusan, Hilutungan, and Caohagan islands, with lunch provided. It’s perfect for those who love snorkeling, beach lounging, and tropical scenery. The tour features snorkel gear rentals, lunch, and small-group intimacy.

Guests rave about the diverse marine life and the relaxed pace that allows for plenty of swimming and exploring. It’s best suited for families, couples, or groups looking for a full day on the water without complicated logistics. The review mentions, “the snorkeling and swimming were magical,” making it a great value for the experience offered. Bottom line: ideal for aquatic lovers wanting a laid-back tropical day.

9. Private Cebu & Lapu-Lapu City Tour with Uphill Spots & Lunch at House of Lechon

For $75, this 9-hour private tour covers Cebu’s historic landmarks like Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro, plus the Sirao Flower Garden and a lechon lunch. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a personalized and comprehensive city experience.

Guests appreciate the flexibility and local insights, with reviews praising guides for their knowledge and friendliness. It’s ideal if you prefer a customized tour that mixes history, culture, and local cuisine without the rush of a large group. Bottom line: a well-rounded city highlight tour perfect for history buffs and food lovers alike.

10. Cebu: Scuba Diving Experience beach entry in Mactan

This 2-hour guided scuba experience costs $45 and offers an easy introduction to underwater life. Located in Mactan, it’s perfect for beginners who want to see schools of sardines, sea turtles, and colorful fishes just steps from the beach.

The tour includes free underwater photos and videos, making it a great keepsake. Reviewers highlight the friendly instructors and the ease of the experience, especially for first-timers. It’s suited for anyone wanting a short but memorable underwater adventure. Bottom line: a quick, affordable way to explore Cebu’s marine life even with limited time.

11. Whale Shark Encounter and Sumilon Sandbar & Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls

This full-day private tour for $200 combines whale shark swimming, Tumalog Falls, Sumilon Sandbar, and Kawasan Falls canyoneering. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, personalized experience. The itinerary features breakfast, lunch, and all necessary gear.

Guests praise the well-organized schedule and the friendly guides, especially for those who want a variety of activities in one day. The trip is demanding but rewarding, especially if you like marine life, waterfalls, and canyon adventures. Bottom line: a high-value, action-packed adventure for those with limited time but big energy.

12. Bohol Countryside Day Tour From Cebu City | Lunch at Loboc River Cruise

This full-day tour for $145 takes you through Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Mahogany Forest, Tarsier Sanctuary, and a Loboc River cruise. The lunch is included on a floating restaurant with live music, making it a scenic and cultural highlight.

Guests appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to see top Bohol sights in one go. It suits travelers wanting an immersive experience of nature and local traditions. The review states, “The river trip was relaxing and beautiful,” emphasizing the peaceful vibe. Bottom line: excellent for cultural travelers who want a full overview of Bohol’s best.

13. Kawasan Falls Canyoneering w/ Lunch & Transfers from Cebu City

This private 10-hour adventure for $122 offers canyoneering with transfers, helmets, aqua shoes, lunch, and Kawasan Falls at the end. The activity involves rappelling, water sliding, and jumping in the mountains of Badian.

Guests praise the professional guides and the variety of activities, making it perfect for those craving high-energy outdoor fun. The tour is ideal for people with good fitness levels and a sense of adventure. Bottom line: a comprehensive, active tour combining mountain and river fun.

14. Cebu: Oslob Whale Sharks, Tumalog Falls & Sardine Snorkeling

This 10-hour tour for $105 provides whale shark swimming, Tumalog Falls, and sardine snorkeling in Moalboal. It’s suitable for travelers with limited time who want a diverse marine experience. The itinerary includes breakfast, whale shark watching, and turtle swims, along with waterfalls and local lunch.

Reviewers love its organized logistics and the variety of marine encounters. It’s a great option for families or couples wanting a full day of water-based fun with a reasonable price tag. Bottom line: an efficient tour for marine life enthusiasts with a packed schedule.

15. Moalboal Sardines Run Private Tour w/ Transfers Option

The short but sweet $20 tour offers a chance to witness the famous sardines school off Moalboal’s coast. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget or those seeking a quick, unforgettable underwater spectacle. The private option includes insurance and easy logistics.

Guests mention how spectacular the sardine school is, swimming just 30 meters from the shore, and praise the helpful guides. It’s suited for snorkelers and non-swimmers alike, with life jackets provided. Bottom line: an affordable, must-see experience for anyone wanting a quick hit of Cebu’s marine magic.

How to Choose Your Perfect Cebu Tour

When selecting which tour to book, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you love adventure and don’t mind a long day, the canyoneering in Kawasan Falls offers a thrilling mix of river jumps and waterfalls. For marine life lovers, the whale shark and sardine tours deliver breathtaking underwater scenes, especially if you enjoy snorkeling or swimming.

Those interested in culture and history should opt for the Cebu City tour or the Bohol countryside trip for a deeper understanding of local traditions. For a relaxing day, island hopping provides stunning beaches and coral reefs, with options like the Island Hopping to 3 Islands offering excellent value and variety.

Booking early is advised, especially during peak season or holidays, to secure your preferred dates and ensure a smooth trip. Remember, Cebu’s tours are popular for good reason—each offers a chance to see a different piece of what makes this island special.

Final Thoughts

Cebu’s diverse array of tours makes it easy to tailor your trip to your interests—whether that’s adrenaline-fueled canyoning, serene island beaches, or cultural explorations. The top-rated experiences like the Canyoneering in Kawasan or whale shark encounters guarantee memorable moments, while city tours and island hopping provide a more relaxed pace.

For those seeking adventure and nature, the Kawasan Falls Canyoneering or private whale shark tours offer the most excitement. If culture, history, and food are your focus, the Cebu City heritage tour will satisfy your curiosity. Whatever your style, booking early and choosing the right experience will ensure you make the most of Cebu’s incredible offerings.