Cebu: Moalboal Snorkeling, Mantayupan Falls & ATV Adventure

Exploring Cebu offers a taste of everything—vibrant marine life, lush waterfalls, and countryside thrills. This all-in-one tour promises a full day of adventure, and from the feedback we’ve seen, it’s a fantastic way to experience the island’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour is how efficiently it packs adventure into a single day—starting with the mesmerizing Sardine Run, then whisking you to see Cebu’s tallest waterfall, and ending with a fun ATV ride through scenic hills. Plus, the included lunch and the convenience of hotel transfers keep things stress-free.

The only possible drawback is that it’s a long day—about 10 to 12 hours—so you’ll want to prepare for some early starts and a full schedule. But for those craving a taste of Cebu’s diverse landscapes with professional guides and excellent value, this tour really hits the mark.

Who is this tour perfect for?

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and local flavors, and don’t mind a packed itinerary, this tour is ideal. It suits curious travelers eager to see Cebu’s best spots in one go, especially those who appreciate well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering snorkeling, waterfalls, and ATV riding
• Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off from Cebu, Mandaue, and Mactan
• Professional guides and safety gear provided at each stop
• Affordable price point with a focus on value and authentic local experiences
• Flexible timing with optional beach stop and sightseeing opportunities
• Long but rewarding day with a mix of relaxation and adventure

Discovering Cebu’s Marine Wonders

The day kicks off early, with pick-up between 5:00 and 6:00 AM, depending on your location. From there, your comfortable air-conditioned vehicle whisks you south, setting the tone for a well-organized trip. The first stop is Panagsama Beach in Moalboal, where the snorkeling adventure begins.

This part of the tour is especially praised for its ease and authenticity. You step into the shallow waters directly from the shore—no boat ride necessary—which means less hassle and more time to soak in the underwater spectacle. Here, you’ll witness the famous Sardine Run, a swirling mass of millions of sardines that move in perfect harmony, creating shimmering silver walls underwater. It’s a sight that leaves many visitors in awe and makes for incredible photos.

Besides sardines, there’s a good chance to see sea turtles gliding gracefully, which was highlighted in reviews as a highlight. Guests also mentioned the guides’ attentiveness—“Alison and the team took care of taking impressive photos,” one reviewer noted, which is a bonus for those wanting memories without the hassle of capturing them. The snorkeling gear provided is basic, but fins and wetsuits are available for rent if you want to enhance your comfort.

A relaxing beach stop follows, offering a chance to unwind, sunbathe, or take a quick dip. Many reviewers appreciated this break as a perfect palate cleanser before heading inland. The ease of the shore-entry snorkeling, combined with clear waters and abundant marine life, makes this a highlight for all skill levels.

Visiting Mantayupan Falls: Cebus Tallest Waterfall

Next, it’s off to Barili to see Mantayupan Falls, renowned for its stunning two-tiered cascade plunging roughly 200 feet. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery—a perfect spot for photos and appreciating Cebu’s tropical landscape.

While swimming isn’t always permitted—subject to safety conditions—you’ll still get to enjoy the scenic views, walk around the area, and snap some great pictures. One reviewer mentioned that the waterfall is “quick n ready and gorgeous,” emphasizing how effortless it is to enjoy its natural beauty. If swimming isn’t an option, it still offers a peaceful environment to relax and take in the impressive sight of water streaming down the rocks, often with fewer travelers than other popular spots.

The entrance fee is included in the tour, so it’s straightforward to access this compelling natural feature. Many travelers enjoy the short trek to the viewing areas, which provides a sense of adventure without being overly challenging.

Thrilling ATV Ride through Cebu’s Countryside

The final adventure segment is an exciting ATV ride across Barili’s countryside. This part of the tour appeals strongly to adventurers, with a ride lasting about an hour over muddy tracks, scenic hills, and forested paths.

Guided by professionals and equipped with helmets and safety gear, you’ll speed through natural scenery and get a real sense of Cebu’s rural landscape. The ride is designed to be beginner-friendly, with reviewers noting that even first-timers find it fun. One reviewer shared, “You go through exceptional and very natural places,” highlighting how this part of the tour adds a true sense of exploration.

Availability of larger bikes may vary, but the standard ATVs still provide plenty of fun. Some guests mentioned that the drive across public roads adds a little spice to the experience, making it more authentic and less staged.

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Delicious Cebuano Lunch and Cultural Flavors

After all that activity, a well-earned lunch awaits at a local restaurant. The included meal costs up to 250 pesos, covering a variety of Cebuano dishes—most notably, the famous Lechon (roast pig), which several reviewers highlighted as a standout. It’s a chance to savor authentic flavors and recharge for the rest of the day.

Many travelers appreciated the recommendation from guides like Rey, who suggested local eateries that offered delicious and satisfying meals, rounding out the day perfectly.

Practicalities and What to Expect

This tour is quite comprehensive, lasting around 10 to 12 hours, so being prepared for an early start is key. The round-trip transport is via private, air-conditioned vehicles, which keeps the journey comfortable. Pick-up locations include Cebu City, Mandaue, and Mactan—additional fees may apply if you’re staying elsewhere.

Activities are guided by knowledgeable local guides, with safety gear provided for all outdoor adventures. The tour is suitable for children aged 13 and above, but pregnant women are advised to skip this kind of physically active experience.

Guests have praised the professionalism of drivers like Rey and Val, as well as the overall organization—reviews repeatedly mention how smoothly the day runs, even with so many stops. The tour operates rain or shine, but weather conditions might modify plans, especially around swimming or outdoor activities.

Value for Money

At $119 per person, this tour offers a hefty dose of Cebu’s natural attractions. What’s impressive is how well it balances cost with inclusions: all entrance fees, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, a hearty lunch, and hotel transfers are covered.

Compared to the cost of booking separate activities or transportation, the convenience and coverage make it a good deal. Several reviewers, including Sarah, and Aaron, emphasized the professionalism of guides and the scenic drive—adding to perceived value.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a varied day filled with nature, adventure, and local flavors without stressing about logistics. It’s especially good for those with a sense of adventure who don’t mind a full day, early mornings, and a mix of water and land activities.

It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo explorers eager to tick off Cebu’s top sights in one go. If you’re seeking a more relaxed, leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed, but for active travelers craving diversity, it’s a perfect fit.

The Sum Up

This tour offers expansive exposure to Cebu’s natural beauty and vibrant marine life for a fair price. The snorkeling at Panagsama Beach, with its incredible sardine spectacle and chance to see turtles, is often highlighted as a highlight. The Mantayupan Falls delivers a tranquil, stunning natural sight, while the ATV ride injects a dose of fun and adrenaline into the day.

With professional guides, smooth logistics, and authentic local experiences—including a tasty Cebuano lunch—this adventure is a solid choice for travelers wanting to maximize their Cebu trip. Its combination of scenic sights and active pursuits makes for memorable stories and great photos.

If you love discovering diverse natural landscapes, enjoy outdoor activities, and value good organization, this tour will serve you well. It’s a smart, engaging way to see the best of Cebu in just one day.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off from Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Mactan Island. Additional fees may apply if you’re staying outside these areas.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, including travel time, activities, and meals.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof camera are recommended for the day.

Can I swim at Mantayupan Falls?
Swimming at Mantayupan Falls isn’t always permitted, depending on safety conditions. You might only be able to see and photograph the falls.

Is the ATV ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ATV ride is designed to be beginner-friendly, with safety gear and a briefing provided. Experience may vary based on individual comfort.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Cebuano lunch at a local restaurant is included, typically up to 250 pesos. Extra food or drinks are at your expense.

Are there age restrictions?
Children must be at least 13 years old to ride ATV bikes. Pregnant women are advised not to participate in physically demanding activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine. However, activities like swimming or outdoor rides might be modified or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, reservations can be made with the option to pay later, providing flexibility. It’s advisable to book in advance during peak seasons.

You can check availability for your dates here: