Moalboal Sardine Run, Sea Turtle and Mantayupan Falls

If you’re after a day packed with vibrant marine life and spectacular scenery, the Moalboal Sardine Run, Sea Turtle, and Mantayupan Falls tour offers just that. This well-reviewed experience combines exhilarating snorkeling in the famed Moalboal waters with a scenic visit to one of Cebu’s largest waterfalls. With a 5.0 rating based on five glowing reviews, it’s clear that this trip resonates with travelers seeking authentic and memorable adventures.

What makes this tour stand out are its expert guides, the stunning natural sights, and the well-organized itinerary. You’ll love swimming alongside graceful sea turtles, witnessing the mesmerizing sardine schools, and relaxing beneath the thunderous cascade of Mantayupan Falls. The only potential downside might be the early start time at 5:00 am, which requires a bit of planning but pays off in the form of unforgettable experiences.

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of underwater marvels and outdoor exploration. Whether you’re visiting Cebu for the first time or looking to add a nature-filled highlight to your itinerary, this trip promises authentic encounters and excellent value for the $90 fee.

Key Points

• Authentic marine encounters with schools of sardines and sea turtles
• Visiting Mantayupan Falls offers a refreshing break from the beach with stunning views
• Guided experience ensures safety, local insights, and smooth logistics
• Good value considering all included activities, transportation, and insurance
• Early start means you’ll need to wake up a bit before dawn, but the experience is worth it
• Limited group size (max 10 travelers) allows for personalized attention

Starting with the Highlights: Snorkeling in Moalboal

Our journey begins bright and early, with a 5:00 am pickup that’s punctual and smooth thanks to the friendly staff at Fun Group Cebu. The drive from Cebu city offers a chance to rest or chat about the day ahead, setting the tone for an organized yet exciting adventure.

Once in Moalboal, the real magic kicks in. The highlight here is the snorkeling experience, where you can directly enter the ocean from Panagsama Beach. This location is famous for large schools of sardines that create shimmering whirlpools—a spectacle that photographically looks unreal, yet is entirely real. As one reviewer notes, “We got picked up on the dot… the tour was well-organized and the guides that helped us with the gears were so patient.”

The guides are not only experienced but also incredibly helpful, especially when managing snorkeling gear or explaining how to best see the marine life. They ensure everyone feels comfortable, making this accessible even for first-timers. You’ll float amidst thousands of sardines, which move in perfect sync, creating the illusion of a massive living cloud.

Expect to see adorable sea turtles swimming gracefully, often resting or munching on seaweed. While these are wild animals, the chances of spotting them are high, and the guides’ knowledge helps increase these odds. As one happy participant shared, “Sea turtles and sardines are wild animals and may not be seen during the tour,” but in practice, many do get to witness these gentle creatures. The experience is both peaceful and exhilarating, a reminder of how magical the ocean can truly be.

Snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and even GoPro rentals (on a first-come, first-served basis) are included, making it easy to focus on enjoying the underwater show. The guides’ patience and enthusiasm really shine here, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.

The Journey to Mantayupan Falls

After hours in the water, the tour shifts gears to the spectacular Mantayupan Falls. This is a chance to see one of Cebu’s largest waterfalls, dropping 98 meters amidst lush cliffs and greenery. The cool mist and shaded surroundings make it a perfect summer retreat, particularly appealing after the morning’s heat and effort.

The admission fee is included, and you’ll spend about an hour exploring the area. The scenery here is breathtaking—water cascading down into a pool where visitors sometimes take a dip, surrounded by cliffs and forest. The peaceful setting offers a nice contrast to the lively underwater scenes and is a favorite among travelers who love nature photography or just want to relax in nature’s embrace.

We loved the way the waterfall’s size and power dominate the landscape, and many reviews mention how surprisingly cool it remains even during the day, thanks to the surrounding cliffs. It’s an ideal spot to breathe deeply and appreciate Cebu’s natural beauty away from the crowds.

Relaxing at Panagsama Beach: A Quiet The Sum Up

The final stop is at Panagsama Beach, where you can unwind and take in the stunning ocean views. This is where you might catch sight of more sardines or turtles, but the real draw is simply relaxing by the shore, listening to the waves, and soaking up the tropical atmosphere.

You’ll have about 90 minutes here, which is ample time for photos, a leisurely walk, or a snack. The area is peaceful, and many travelers appreciate the chance to reflect on the day’s highlights while enjoying the sea breeze.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Timing: The tour kicks off early at 5:00 am, with a prompt pickup and a roughly 3-4 hour drive from Cebu city to Moalboal. This early start means you get the most out of the day, but you’ll want to prepare for a long day with some rest the night before.

Group Size and Guides: Limited to 10 travelers, the small group size ensures personalized attention. The guides are praised for their knowledge, patience, and friendliness, making even challenging gear handling feel straightforward.

Inclusions and Extras: The $90 fee covers all activities, snorkeling gear, life jackets, bottled water, insurance, and transport. You’ll need to pay separately for lunch and optional fin rentals if desired. The tour also offers rental towels and GoPro cameras—handy for capturing underwater moments.

Weather and Cancellation: The schedule is weather-dependent; if poor conditions occur, the tour might be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund, which offers peace of mind.

Age Restrictions: Children under 7 are not allowed, and insurance isn’t available for those over 76 unless you have your own plan.

What Our Reviewers Say

Mario_A summed it up perfectly: “We will do this again,” highlighting the smooth organization and attentive guides. He appreciated that the guides bought snacks for early risers and were patient with gear. This kind of personal touch makes the experience more enjoyable and stress-free.

Another reviewer praised the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides, reinforcing how much travelers value the mix of adventure and expert support. Many mention the early start is worth it, as it allows for ample time to enjoy both snorkeling and falls, without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day tour offers excellent value for anyone eager for a blend of marine life encounters and scenic waterfalls. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, nature, and small group experiences. The inclusion of insurance, equipment, and transportation makes it a practical choice for those who want a hassle-free day.

While the early start might seem daunting, the benefits—fewer crowds, optimal marine viewing, and cooler weather—more than compensate. It’s also a great way to see some of Cebu’s most beautiful natural sights in one seamless trip.

If you’re a lover of authentic, guided experiences that combine education with adventure, this tour will likely leave you eager to return to Cebu’s waters and waterfalls. Just bring your sense of adventure, a good attitude, and a camera to capture the magic.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear? No, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included in the tour, so you can focus on enjoying the marine life.

What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 5:00 am with early pickup, so be prepared for an early morning.

Is there a chance I won’t see the sardines or turtles? Yes, as they are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed. However, guides are experienced in maximizing your chances.

How long is the drive from Cebu city? It’s approximately a 3-4 hour drive to Moalboal, including the pickup.

Can I rent a GoPro or towel? Yes, GoPro cameras and towels are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children under 7 are not permitted, due to safety reasons. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness.

What happens if it rains? The schedule is weather-dependent; if the weather turns poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

This tour delivers a fantastic combination of underwater spectacle and lush scenery, making it a standout option for anyone wanting to experience Cebu’s natural beauty without hassle. It’s well-organized, reasonably priced, and trusted by travelers who leave glowing reviews—definitely worth considering for your Cebu adventure.