Oslob Whale Shark Swimming and Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

If you’re looking to pack a full dose of thrill and wonder into one day, the combined tour of Oslob’s whale sharks and Kawasan Falls canyoneering might be just what you need. This experience promises a mix of marine marvels and lush waterfalls, with plenty of adrenaline to keep your energy high.

We’ve seen plenty of reviews and details, and what stands out is how well this tour balances authentic adventure, professional guidance, and great value. The chance to swim with the gentle giants of the sea early in the morning, followed by navigating rugged canyons, makes it perfect for those who want a day overflowing with natural beauty and excitement.

That said, it’s a long day—about 12 hours in total—so it’s best suited for active travelers eager for a physical challenge and memorable sights. Keep in mind that some parts, like the boat ride in Oslob, are shared, which might mean a bit of crowding early on. Still, the overall experience is highly praised for its organization and the quality of guides.

Key Points

• Unique combination of marine wildlife encounters and thrilling land-based adventures
• Professionally guided with knowledgeable guides and instructors
• Full-day experience that maximizes value for the price
• Private or shared options available for flexibility
• Good for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike
• Crowd levels and early start times are important considerations

The Itinerary Breakdown: What To Expect

Stop 1: Oslob Whale Shark Encounter

The tour kicks off in the early hours, with pick-up around 3:00 am (private options may vary slightly). You’ll be driven to Oslob, where the goal is to swim beside the largest fish species in the world—the whale shark.

From reviews, it’s clear that this part of the trip is a highlight. Swimmers are guaranteed sightings, and the experience is described as mind-blowing. Reviewers like Michael_N mentioned, “Best thing I did while in the Philippines! I’ll definitely come back,” indicating how memorable this encounter is.

Guides and instructors are present to ensure safety and provide insights into these gentle giants, whose distinct color patterns and impressive size make every moment special. The experience typically lasts around 30 minutes and includes snorkeling gear (mask & life jacket), making it accessible even for beginners.

What makes this part of the tour stand out?

• The guarantee of sightings boosts confidence in the experience
• Guides are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism, ensuring safety and fun
• You can take plenty of photos, with optional GoPro rental available for around 600-800 pesos

Potential drawbacks:

• The early start time (around 2-3 am pickup for shared tours) means a very early rise
• The boat ride in Oslob is shared, which can lead to crowding or longer waiting times during peak seasons

Stop 2: Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

In the afternoon, after a short transfer, the adventure moves to Badian for canyoneering at Kawasan Falls. This trip is described as action-packed—think trekking, climbing, jumping, and swimming through rugged canyon channels.

Guides and instructors are included, along with safety gear—life jackets, aqua shoes, helmets—which makes the challenging activity accessible for most physically fit participants aged 7 and up. As one reviewer noted, Jeremiah was described as the “best” guide, making the 3-hour journey both safe and fun.

What makes this canyoneering experience special?

• You’ll traverse beautiful waterfalls and turquoise pools that are inaccessible by vehicle
• The activity is high-energy and physically demanding but tailored with safety in mind
• An optional zipline can add extra excitement for a small surcharge
• The guides do an excellent job of taking photos and making sure everyone stays safe

Food and Facilities

Lunch is included in the tour, and reviewers mention that the food quality varies. Yuki_N, for example, rated the experience highly but found the lunch “really bad,” citing dry chicken and undercooked vegetables. While this may not be a culinary highlight, it’s a small price to pay for the adventure value.

Additional details:

• The tour usually ends at Kawasan Falls around 3 hours after departure
• Changes to the schedule, like Kawasan Falls’ closure on the third Wednesday of every month, are noted, so plan accordingly
• The tour is generally well-organized, with many reviewers praising the guides, especially for their helpfulness and photography skills

What’s Included and What To Consider

Included:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off (private or shared options)
• Swim and canyoneering fees
• Snorkeling gear (mask & life jacket)
• Lunch and safety gear (helmet, aqua shoes, life jackets)
• Guides and instructors with professional training
• Optional GoPro rental

Not Included:

• Insurance (always recommended to check)
• Breakfast (not provided but suggested to prepare for a very early start)
• Additional activities like zipline surcharge (600 pesos) if desired

Practical tips:

• Be prepared with extra swimming clothes, towels, toiletries—there are changing facilities at Oslob and Badian
• Arrive early, especially if you opt for the shared tour, to avoid long lines
• Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for waterproof and rugged terrain
• If you’re not in Cebu City, Mactan Island, or nearby, private transfers are available within those areas for convenience

Real Experiences from Reviewers

Many travelers highlight how well-organized and safe the guides are. One reviewer, Stephanie_R, called the canyoneering at Kawasan Falls “unforgettable,” praising the guides Gimuel and Jomar for their care and enthusiasm. Another noted that the whale shark swim was “absolutely worth the money,” with guides taking the time to ensure everyone had a fantastic experience.

However, some reviews mention logistical hiccups, like crowded areas at the whale shark site or unsatisfactory lunch quality. Yet, these seem to be minor compared to the overall adventure and stunning scenery. The consistent praise for the guides’ professionalism and friendliness suggests the tour is well-managed.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a dynamic mix of marine and terrestrial adventures that appeal to active travelers. The guaranteed whale shark sightings are a major draw, especially with the opportunity to learn from expert guides and capture plenty of photos. The canyoneering at Kawasan Falls adds a thrilling, physically engaging layer that few other tours in Cebu can match.

The experience provides exceptional value for the price of around $111.20 per person. The full-day itinerary, with private or shared options, makes it flexible for different budgets and preferences. It’s best suited for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a memorable, action-filled day.

If you’re ready to wake up early and embrace the outdoors, this tour guarantees a satisfying dose of Cebu’s natural beauty and wildlife, leaving you with stories to tell for years to come.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the canyoneering activity is open to children aged 7 and up, making it family-friendly for active kids.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting from early morning pickup to late afternoon or early evening return.

Are private transfers available?
Yes, private hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Cebu City, Mactan Island, Lapu-lapu, Moalboal, and Oslob areas. Shared tours may have pickup times between 2:00 am and 3:00 am.

What should I bring for the activity?
Bring extra swimming clothes, towels, toiletries, and wear comfortable, waterproof shoes for the canyoneering. You might also want your own SD card for photos or videos.

What if the weather turns bad?
If rough weather causes cancellations, customers can reschedule or get a full refund, as the tour provider prioritizes safety.

Is insurance included?
No, insurance isn’t included, so consider your personal coverage, especially for the more extreme activities.

This tour combines unforgettable wildlife encounters with fast-paced canyon adventures—perfect for thrill-seekers and lovers of natural beauty. Be ready for a long but rewarding day that showcases Cebu’s best outdoor experiences.