Oslob Whale Shark Swimming and Kawasan Falls Swimming Tour

Planning a trip to Cebu and want an unforgettable day that combines marine marvels with lush waterfalls? This Oslob Whale Shark Swimming and Kawasan Falls Tour offers a perfect mix of close encounters with gentle giants and relaxing dips in crystal-clear waters. While the tour lasts about 12 hours, the memories will last much longer.

What we love about this experience is the chance to swim alongside the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, which is both awe-inspiring and humbling. The scenic trek to Kawasan Falls adds a peaceful, tropical vibe, and the professional guides make the day smooth and educational. A potential consideration? The early start at 3:00 am might be a challenge for some, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and catch the whales at their best.

This tour works best for travelers seeking a combination of marine adventure and natural beauty, especially those who enjoy guided outings with all logistics taken care of. Family groups, couples, and solo explorers looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day will find this trip engaging and rewarding.

Key Points

• Close encounters with whale sharks in their natural habitat.
• Scenic scenic trek to Kawasan Falls with lush greenery.
• All-inclusive tour with hotel pick-up, lunch, and guide.
• Flexibility with private tour arrangements.
• Early start to optimize wildlife viewing and avoid crowds.
• Expert guides providing helpful insights and assistance.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This private tour offers an approachable way to tick off two major Cebu attractions in one day. For many travelers, the chance to swim and snorkel with whale sharks is a bucket-list moment—and having it included in a private setup means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. Plus, the visit to Kawasan Falls adds a peaceful, scenic contrast to the marine excitement, making the day well-rounded.

The tour is priced at $159 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusion of hotel transfers, a local guide, lunch, and admission fees, it’s quite competitive for the value it provides. The private nature of the tour ensures your group’s comfort and flexibility, making it suitable for families, friends, or even solo travelers wanting a structured yet intimate experience.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stop 1: Oslob and Swimming with Whale Sharks

The adventure kicks off early at 3:00 am, with hotel pick-up in Cebu City, Mactan, Lapu-lapu, Moalboal, or Oslob. Early mornings are essential here; they guarantee the best chance to see and swim with whale sharks before crowds and boats arrive.

Once in Oslob, the activity itself lasts about 30 minutes and is included in the tour price. You’ll get to stand next to these massive yet gentle creatures, observing their patterns and colors. The guides will emphasize safety and respect for the sharks, maintaining a safe distance while still allowing close-up views. One reviewer mentioned how “these creatures are amazing up close,” and noted they were lucky to see about 7-8 whale sharks in the area that day.

The guides, like Mr. Jung Jung, are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism, making the experience both informative and reassuring. You can also rent a GoPro on-site for around 600-800 pesos or bring your own SD card to capture the moments, which is ideal for sharing later.

Kawasan Falls: A Natural Retreat

After the marine excitement, you’ll head to the scenic trek to Kawasan Falls, which takes roughly 3 hours. The journey involves walking through dense foliage, with vibrant greenery and tropical trees creating a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for shedding the morning rush and soaking in nature.

Upon arrival, you’ll have time to swim and relax in the stunning blue waters of the falls. While jumping from the rocks or waterfalls isn’t part of this tour, the calm, inviting waters are a highlight for many. One reviewer mentioned the “enchanting” trek through lush surroundings, reinforcing how this part of the trip is about appreciating nature’s beauty.

The tour includes admission to Kawasan Falls, so you can enjoy this peaceful setting without extra costs. The focus here is on simple, relaxing swimming rather than adventurous jumps, making it family-friendly and accessible for most travelers.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, typically in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the day’s pace. The entire experience is designed for ease and comfort, with local guides ensuring you get the most out of each stop.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $159 might seem like a significant investment, consider what’s included: hotel transfers, admission fees, lunch, and a private guide. The convenience of door-to-door service, especially for early risers, removes the usual logistical headaches of doing these activities independently.

The tour’s private setup also means that your group won’t be mixed with strangers, creating a more relaxed environment. Plus, the professional guidance adds educational value, helping you understand the sharks’ behavior and ecology, which enhances the overall experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer praised the “helpful, good service-minded” guides, highlighting their professionalism and helpfulness. Another remarked on how “the whale shark swim is so special” and appreciated the luck of seeing multiple sharks that day. The early start was viewed as a necessary aspect to avoid crowds and maximize sightings, though some might find the 3 am wake-up call demanding.

The experience at Kawasan Falls was described as “enchanting,” with many appreciating the scenic trek and tranquil waters—perfect for relaxation after the morning’s marine adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of marine wildlife encounters and natural scenery. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided tours that handle logistics, making the day hassle-free. Families with children, couples seeking a romantic adventure, and solo travelers looking for a comprehensive Cebu experience will all find value here.

Keep in mind the early start, so this tour suits those who are comfortable with early mornings and are eager for a full day of exploring.

Final Thoughts

This Oslob Whale Shark Swimming and Kawasan Falls Tour offers a great balance of adventure and relaxation. The chance to see and swim with whale sharks is genuinely special, especially with knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and education. The picturesque trek to Kawasan Falls provides a serene escape, rounding out a memorable day.

While the morning wake-up call may be tough for some, the rewards are well worth the effort—stunning wildlife, scenic landscapes, and seamless logistics. For travelers wanting a well-organized, value-packed day that captures the essence of Cebu’s natural beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included and available in Cebu City, Mactan, Lapu-lapu, Moalboal, and Oslob areas.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 3:00 am, which is necessary to avoid crowds and optimize the whale shark sightings.

How long do I get to swim with the whale sharks?
You will have approximately 30 minutes to swim and snorkel alongside the whale sharks during your visit.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides like Mr. Jung Jung are praised for their helpfulness, professionalism, and educational insights.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is described as simple and family-friendly, with no jumping or risky activities involved.

What does the tour include?
The price covers private transportation, hotel transfers, whale shark swimming fee, lunch, and Kawasan Falls swimming.

Can I rent a GoPro or bring my own SD card?
Yes, GoPro rentals are available for about 600-800 pesos, or you can bring your own SD card and pay the driver on-site.

What happens if the weather is rough?
If weather conditions lead to cancellation, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Is this a guided tour or self-guided?
It’s a guided, private tour with a local guide providing assistance and information at each stop.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rewarding day for those wanting an authentic, well-organized Cebu adventure. From swimming with gentle giants to relaxing at Kawasan Falls, it combines nature, wildlife, and comfort—perfect for making lasting memories in the Philippines.