Oslob: Whale Shark Watching Experience

The Oslob Whale Shark Watching Experience promises an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. For just $86.83 per person, visitors can swim and snorkel alongside the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The tour includes transportation, safety briefings, and ample time to explore the area’s attractions. While promoting responsible interaction, this activity offers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of these marine creatures up close. But what exactly can guests expect from this unique excursion?

Key Points

• Visitors can swim and snorkel with Oslob’s famous whale sharks for $86.83 per person, with a 3-hour dedicated experience.
• The activity includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu areas, with a scenic 3-hour drive to Oslob.
• Participants will receive a safety briefing and have access to snorkeling gear, boat rides, entrance fees, and local guide assistance.
• The experience is suitable for ages 7 and above, but restrictions apply for pregnant women and those with back problems.
• Whale shark sightings are likely but not guaranteed, and visitors should be prepared for potential wait times due to high tourist volume.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Experience swimming with Oslob’s whale sharks in clear waters, with a starting price of $86.83 per person.

Visitors enjoy free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. The experience is valid for 1 day, with check-in times available.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Cebu City, Mactan, and Lapu-Lapu areas are included.

Itinerary and Schedule

The experience begins with an early hotel pick-up, scheduled between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM, with the exact time communicated the day prior. From there, guests embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Oslob. Once arrived, the main activities include:

| Duration | Activity |

| — | — |

| 3 hours | Whale shark swimming/snorkeling |

| 1.5 hours | Breakfast, coffee, local sightseeing |

Six convenient pickup and drop-off locations are available: Lapu-Lapu City, Moalboal, Cebu City, Mandaue City, Talisay, and Oslob itself. The day concludes around midday, allowing ample time for further exploration of nearby attractions like Tumalog Falls and Sumilon Island.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can get up close and swim alongside the gentle whale sharks, following the provided safety guidelines. This intimate experience highlights several key elements:

Visitors can get up close and swim alongside the gentle whale sharks, following the provided safety guidelines. This intimate experience highlights several key elements.

1. Expert-guided safety briefing that ensures a responsible interaction with the animals.

2. Ideal snorkeling conditions for underwater photography, capturing the majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat.

3. Optional exploration of nearby attractions, such as the picturesque Tumalog Falls and Sumilon Island, for a well-rounded day.

4. A chance to observe the whale sharks in their natural environment, learning about their behavior and conservation efforts.

Inclusions and Requirements

The experience includes a safety briefing and interaction guidelines, as well as the provision of snorkeling mask, life vest, boat ride, entrance fees, environmental fee, and local guide assistance. Additional requirements and exclusions are as follows:

| Included | Not Included | Suitability |

| — | — | — |

| Safety briefing | Meals | Not suitable for pregnant women |

| Snorkeling gear | Tips | Not suitable for those with back problems |

| Boat ride | Travel insurance | Minimum age of 7 for snorkeling |

| Entrance fees | | |

| Environmental fee | | |

While the activity is designed for most visitors, certain restrictions and limitations apply to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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Important Information

Best visited during the dry season from November to May, whale shark sightings are likely but not guaranteed due to the natural movements and behaviors of these marine creatures.

Visitors should expect an average wait time of 2-3 hours due to the high volume of travelers.

The following guidelines should be followed:

1. Bring swimwear, towel, snacks, water, and biodegradable sunscreen.

2. Flash photography and standard sunscreen aren’t allowed.

3. Whale shark swimming isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or non-swimmers.

4. The minimum age for snorkeling is 7 years old.

What to Expect

Once visitors have reviewed the important information, they can look forward to the exciting whale shark watching experience. The core activities include a 3-hour swim and snorkel with the gentle giants, followed by 1.5 hours of breakfast and local sightseeing. To maximize the experience, guests should refer to this helpful overview:

| What to Do | What to Bring |

| — | — |

| Swim & snorkel with whale sharks | Swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen |

| Explore nearby attractions | Camera (no flash), water, snacks |

| Enjoy a local breakfast | Change of clothes |

With an expert-guided safety briefing and mindful interaction guidelines, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable encounter with Oslob’s renowned whale sharks.

Preparing for Your Visit

To make the most of the whale shark watching experience, visitors should prepare accordingly. This includes:

1. Packing appropriate clothing and gear, such as swimwear, towels, and biodegradable sunscreen.

2. Arranging for early hotel pickup, as the tour departs between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM.

3. Being mindful of the three-hour drive to Oslob and the potential for long wait times due to visitor volume.

4. Familiarizing themselves with the safety guidelines and regulations, including the prohibition of flash photography and standard sunscreen.

Making the Most of Your Experience

Although visitors may be eager to start their whale shark watching experience, taking the time to familiarize themselves with the activity’s guidelines and best practices can help ensure a safe and memorable encounter.

During the safety briefing, guests will learn about proper snorkeling techniques and procedures for interacting with the gentle giants. Guests should follow the expert guide’s instructions and avoid touching or disturbing the whale sharks.

Proper attire, biodegradable sunscreen, and waterproof cameras are recommended to make the most of the experience. By respecting the whale sharks and their habitat, visitors can create lasting memories of this unique wildlife encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Swimming With the Whale Sharks Allowed All Year Round?

The activity is best visited during the dry season from November to May, as whale shark sightings are likely but not guaranteed. The availability of the activity may vary throughout the year based on environmental conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provides a mask and life vest. Using the provided gear helps ensure safety guidelines are followed during the whale shark interaction.

Are Life Jackets Mandatory During the Boat Ride?

Yes, life jackets are mandatory during the boat ride to the whale shark site. The activity includes providing snorkeling equipment, including life vests, to ensure participants’ safety throughout the excursion.

Is There an Option to Visit the Whale Sharks Without Swimming?

Yes, there is an option to visit the whale sharks without swimming. Visitors can observe the whale sharks from the shore or from the boat, though direct interaction is not permitted. This allows for a more passive viewing experience.

Can I Extend My Stay in Oslob After the Tour?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Oslob after the whale shark tour. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, so travelers can choose to stay longer in the area and explore nearby attractions at their own pace.

The Sum Up

The Oslob Whale Shark Watching Experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to encounter these gentle giants up close. Priced at $86.83 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive package with transportation, snorkeling, and expert guidance, all while promoting responsible interaction and conservation efforts. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or nature enthusiast, this experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: