Oslob: Whale Shark Swim & Aguinid Falls Adventure Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day packed with both incredible wildlife encounters and adrenaline-pumping escapades, the Oslob: Whale Shark Swim & Aguinid Falls Adventure Tour might just be your perfect match. This trip promises a blend of serene aquatic wonder and rugged natural beauty, all wrapped into one seamless experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get the chance to swim close to gentle giant whale sharks—an awe-inspiring moment you’ll never forget. Second, the canyoneering through Aguinid Falls offers a totally different thrill, with climbing, sliding, and jumping in crystal-clear pools. Third, the inclusion of meals and expert guides makes the day both accessible and safe.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the length of the day—it’s quite full, so it suits travelers who enjoy active outings and don’t mind a packed schedule. If you’re after a variety of adventures and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this tour offers fantastic value and genuine natural encounters. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic, energetic experience in the Philippines.

Key Points

• Balanced adventure: Combines wildlife interaction with natural canyon scenery.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides ensure safety and enhance the experience.
• All-included meals: Complimentary breakfast and lunch keep you energized.
• Beautiful scenery: Crystal waters, lush landscapes, and multi-tiered waterfalls.
• Physical activity: Moderate fitness needed for canyoneering, climbing, and swimming.
• Family friendly: Suitable for kids over 7, but not for pregnant women or mobility-challenged travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

The Oslob Whale Shark & Aguinid Falls Adventure is a full-day trip that balances two very different but equally memorable activities, starting early with a hotel pickup in Cebu City. The journey is scenic, giving you a glimpse of the beautiful Visayas region as you head south.

Morning: Whale Shark Encounter

After a quick drive, you’ll arrive in Oslob, where breakfast awaits at a local café. The traditional silog breakfast — a hearty mix of rice, eggs, and meat — sets you up for the day. The guides, including well-informed local experts, will give a safety briefing before you board a boat.

The highlight here is swimming alongside the majestic whale sharks. The water is crystal-clear, giving you perfect visibility to observe these docile creatures. Reviewers mention that “the guides are very professional and friendly,” which helps everyone feel comfortable, especially first-timers. Expect about 30 to 45 minutes in the water, plenty of time to snap photos and marvel at these gentle giants’ size and grace.

One reviewer noted, “The experience is surreal, and the guides make sure everyone is safe and well-informed.” Remember, sunscreen isn’t allowed before swimming to protect the whale sharks, so plan accordingly.

Midday: Aguinid Falls Canyoneering

Next, it’s a scenic roughly one-hour drive to Samboan, where Aguinid Falls awaits. This is where the adventure gets physically engaging. You’ll meet your guides, receive safety gear like helmets and life vests, and start your canyoneering trek through a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools.

Expect to climb, slide, and leap into the cold, refreshing waters. The multi-tiered waterfalls are stunning, and the natural pools are perfect for cooling off after some exertion. Reviewers describe the activity as “challenging but exhilarating,” and note that “the guides are very experienced and helpful, making sure everyone is safe while having fun.”

Canyoneering at Aguinid requires moderate fitness and involves climbing rocky cliffs, sliding down waterfalls, and swimming through pools, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with physical activity. It’s a great way to connect with nature on a visceral level, with lush greenery surrounding every step.

Afternoon: Lunch & Relaxation

After your adventure, you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch at a local restaurant. The included meal helps replenish your energy before heading back. Reviewers appreciate the varied local dishes and mention that the food is flavorful and satisfying, making the day feel complete.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey

Post-lunch, you’ll hop back into the air-conditioned vehicle for the return trip to Cebu City. The drive offers a chance to rest and reflect on the day’s highlights, with most travelers arriving back feeling both exhausted and exhilarated.

What’s Included & What to Consider

This tour provides excellent value for $138 per person, especially considering the comprehensive inclusions. The price covers all entrance fees, safety equipment, meals, transportation, and professional guides—a package that keeps surprises and extra costs at bay.

Highlights include:

• Pickup and drop-off from your Cebu City hotel
• Breakfast and lunch at local restaurants
• Equipment like life vests, snorkeling gear, helmets
• Guided boat ride in whale shark viewing area
• Canyoneering gear and safety instructions

Not included are personal expenses, souvenirs, extra snacks, or special equipment like underwater cameras (though rentals are available on-site). Remember to bring your own towel, swimwear, and comfortable clothes, plus a hat, sunscreen (applied after swimming), and water.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Timing: Tour schedules can vary due to traffic or waiting times, especially during peak seasons when whale shark encounters may involve a 2-3 hour wait.
• Comfort level: Canyoneering involves climbing and sliding, so wear appropriate shoes (water shoes are recommended). Expect some physical exertion.
• Age restrictions: Children must be at least 7 years old, and the activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.
• Weather concerns: Activities are weather-dependent. Cancellations or rescheduling can occur if conditions are unsuitable.
• Safety first: Always listen carefully to guides, especially during the canyoneering segment.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves combining wildlife encounters with rugged outdoor activities, this tour is a fantastic fit. It’s perfect for adventure-seeking travelers, families with kids over 7, or anyone wanting a day away from typical tourist spots. The guides are highly regarded for their professionalism, which helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

However, it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or non-swimmers. The physical demands mean it’s better suited for active, reasonably fit travelers who enjoy a challenge.

Final Thoughts

The Oslob Whale Shark & Aguinid Falls Adventure Tour offers a genuine taste of the Philippines’ natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. You’ll leave with incredible photos, a sense of accomplishment, and unforgettable memories of swimming alongside gentle giants and conquering waterfalls.

This tour provides excellent value, with well-organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of relaxing and adrenaline-inducing moments. It’s best suited for curious, active travelers eager to experience two of Cebu’s most iconic natural attractions in one day.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic adventure that combines marine life and mountain scenery, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is there a hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Cebu City hotel or designated meeting point.

How long is the whale shark swimming experience?
You can expect about 30 to 45 minutes in the water with the whale sharks.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen (after swimming), water, and comfortable clothes.

Are meals included?
Yes, a complimentary silog breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant are part of the package.

Is canyoneering suitable for everyone?
It requires moderate fitness, involves climbing, sliding, and swimming, and is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues.

How is the safety managed?
Guides provide safety equipment like life vests, helmets, and instructions to ensure everyone’s safety during activities.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities are weather-dependent; cancellations or rescheduling may happen if conditions are unsafe.

Can children participate?
Children must be at least 7 years old to join the canyoneering activity.

Can I rent underwater cameras?
Yes, underwater camera rentals are available on-site in Oslob for approximately Php 600-800.

This tour offers a balanced mix of thrill, beauty, and culture, making it a standout choice for those wanting a full day of authentic Philippine adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: