Cebu:Oslob Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Travelers seeking a mix of awe-inspiring encounters and adrenaline-pumping adventures will find this tour to be a standout option in Cebu. It promises a day filled with majestic wildlife, scenic hikes, and exciting cliff jumps, all within a manageable price point of $108 per person.

What makes this experience appealing? We love the chance to swim alongside gentle whale sharks—these peaceful giants are the highlight of any trip to Oslob. The Kawasan Falls canyoneering adds an adventurous element that pushes your limits, with stunning turquoise waters and lush jungle scenery. Plus, the professional guides and included gear help create a safe, organized environment.

A potential drawback? The tour can be crowded at the whale shark interaction site, which might lessen the feeling of intimacy with these majestic creatures. If you’re after a more secluded experience, this could be a point to consider.

In short, this tour suits adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking for a full-day adventure that combines marine encounters with mountain thrills.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife experience: Swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat, with the chance for memorable photos.
• Adrenaline rush: The canyoneering route is action-packed, involving cliff jumps and swimming through scenic gorges.
• All-in-one day: Covers transportation, guides, gear, and meals, offering both convenience and good value.
• Crowd considerations: Expect busy sites, especially at the whale shark viewing area.
• Professional guidance: Experienced guides ensure safety and help enhance your experience.
• Scenic landscapes: From lush jungles to stunning waterfalls, this tour is as much about the views as the activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out Early for a Long Day

Departing around 2:00 to 3:00 am from Cebu City or Mactan, this tour kicks off quite early—roughly a 3-hour drive to Oslob. The early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds at the whale shark site, but it also requires a good night’s sleep beforehand. With a route covering about 120 km, the journey is mostly comfortable, especially if you opt for private transport, which is included in private tours. Shared transport is also available, making the experience more budget-friendly.

Whale Shark Encounter: The Heart of the Tour

Once in Oslob, the main event is the swimming with whale sharks. After a brief orientation, you’ll climb onto a paddle boat and head out to the interaction area. Here, snorkel gear is provided, and you can swim alongside these gentle giants for about an hour. They’re usually quite docile, gliding through the water with their massive, peaceful presence—an unforgettable sight.

However, according to one reviewer, “There were entirely way too many people at one time trying to snorkel/observe the whale sharks,” which can detract from the experience. That said, guides like Eric and Juan are known for their friendly, professional approach, helping ensure everyone gets a good view and stays safe. Remember, rules prohibit touching the sharks or applying sunscreen before entering, as these can harm the animals.

Quick Breakfast Stop

After the whale shark experience, there’s a brief stop at a local restaurant for breakfast—at your own expense, about 30 minutes. It’s a good chance to hydrate and refuel before the next part of the day. Expect simple Filipino fare or grab a quick snack to keep energy levels high.

More Great Tours Nearby

Journey to Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Next up is the scenic drive to Badian, where the canyoneering adventure begins. The trip allows you to enjoy lush mountain views and pass through scenic gorges en route. Upon arrival, your guides will equip you with helmet, life vest, and aqua shoes, essential for safety and comfort during the activity.

The Canyoneering Adventure

Prepare for a roughly 3 to 4-hour trek that involves hiking, jumping, swimming, and sliding through natural rock formations. The guides, well-versed in safety, will take you through the highlights, including jumping off cliffs at various heights—though the heights are adaptable to your comfort level. Expect to pass through gorges and pools before reaching the iconic Kawasan Falls.

The scenic beauty of the turquoise waters and surrounding greenery make this part of the trip particularly memorable. One reviewer, Lori, noted, “the guides were 5 stars, especially in the canyoneering,” highlighting the professionalism and safety they provided.

Relaxing at Kawasan Falls and Lunch

Once you arrive at Kawasan Falls, you can relax, take photos, and enjoy the stunning scenery. After the exertion, a hearty local lunch awaits at the base camp, lasting about an hour. The meal helps replenish energy after the intense activity.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

Post-lunch, you’ll head back to Cebu City or Mactan, with an estimated arrival around 7:00 to 8:00 pm. Long, active days like this mean plenty of stories to tell but also require some stamina.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

This tour offers good value with transportation, all entrance and environmental fees, and professional guides. Snorkel gear and canyoneering equipment are included, removing much of the hassle of organizing your gear. Lunch and bottled water are part of the package, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience.

Extras like breakfast are at your own expense, but the tour provides options to rent a GoPro for about 550 if you’d like to capture underwater moments hands-free.

Not included: Ziplining, which you might find appealing as an add-on if you want to extend your adventure. Pickup from farther locations costs an extra 500, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside the main Cebu area.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes—waterproof bags are recommended for valuables.
• Sunscreen should be applied after the activity to avoid harming the whale sharks; no sunscreen is allowed during snorkelling.
• Wear comfortable aqua shoes for canyoneering, as natural rock surfaces can be slippery.
• Basic swimming skills are recommended, especially for canyoning.
• Pack water, insect repellent, and cash for snacks or additional expenses.
• Join-in tours require a minimum of 4 participants; if not met, you can reschedule, cancel, or pay an extra fee for a private tour.

Summary of Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique opportunity to see and swim with whale sharks in the wild.
• Exciting canyoneering through beautiful gorges and waterfalls.
• Includes meals, gear, and guide services, simplifying planning.
• Scenic views throughout, from mountain vistas to waterfalls.

Cons:

• Crowded whale shark site, which might limit the intimacy of the experience.
• Early departure time requires good planning and early wake-up.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 7, or those with certain health issues.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who love wildlife and outdoor pursuits. If you’re after magnificent photos of gentle giants and want to add some thrilling cliff jumps to your trip, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suited for those who enjoy organized group activities with safety in mind.

However, if you prefer more secluded wildlife encounters or have mobility concerns, you might want to weigh the crowds and physical demands before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Cebu City or Mactan, with options for private or shared vehicles.

How long does the whole tour last?
Expect an entire day, roughly from 2:00 am to around 8:00 pm, depending on traffic and group size.

What gear is provided?
Snorkeling gear for whale shark viewing and safety equipment (helmet, life vest, aqua shoes) for canyoneering are included.

Can I bring my camera or GoPro?
Yes, bringing a camera or waterproof action cam is recommended. You can also rent a GoPro for approximately 550.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 or pregnant women due to the physical nature of canyoneering and the early start.

Are meals included?
Lunch and bottled water or soft drinks are provided. Breakfast is at your own expense.

What if there are fewer than four participants?
The tour requires a minimum of 4 people to proceed as a joiner tour. Otherwise, you may reschedule, cancel, or pay an extra fee for a private experience.

What is the main drawback?
The whale shark site can be crowded, which might reduce the sense of a personal encounter.

Final Word

This combined tour of whale shark swimming and Kawasan Falls canyoneering offers an exciting way to experience Cebu’s natural wonders. It balances wildlife interaction with mountain adventure and scenic beauty at a very competitive price point.

It’s a great choice for adventurous souls wanting a full day of activity, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable memories. Keep in mind the early start and potential crowds, but rest assured that professional guides and included gear aim to make your day both safe and enjoyable.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or nature lover, this tour packs plenty of value. Just be ready for a long, active day, and you’ll leave with stories worth sharing for years to come.

You can check availability for your dates here: