Cebu: Whale Shark Swim, Kawasan Falls & Sardine Run

If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a bit of that tropical thrill, this tour from Cebu offers a compelling option. Priced at $125 per person, it covers some of Cebu’s most iconic sights: swimming with gentle whale sharks in Oslob, exploring the vibrant Kawasan Falls, and snorkeling amidst the famous sardine run in Moalboal. At around 15-16 hours, it’s a full-day outing, but one packed with memorable moments.

What we like most about this tour is how it provides a chance to get up close with marine giants and colorful coral reefs—both thrilling and educational. The guides are generally praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the underwater bits especially engaging. We also appreciate the inclusion of a local Filipino lunch, which offers a taste of regional flavors and a nice break during the busy day.

A key consideration is the long travel time—about 3 hours each way—and the early start at 2:00 AM. Some reviews highlight that the drive can be tiring, especially the bumpy roads to Oslob and the crowded, sometimes chaotic atmosphere at the whale shark site. If you prefer quiet, less touristy experiences or are sensitive to long journeys, this might not be your ideal fit.

This tour suits travelers eager for a full, adventure-filled day that mixes marine encounters with stunning scenery. It’s especially good for those who want a guided experience with everything arranged in advance, so you can focus on enjoying the sights and underwater moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Early start and full-day itinerary with long drives involved
Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, a rare and up-close encounter
Snorkel in Moalboal, famous for sardines and turtles
Guided tour with helpful, knowledgeable guides
Includes local Filipino lunch and all necessary gear
Crowded experiences at popular sites, which can diminish tranquility
Not suitable for pregnant women, infants, or those with serious health issues
Weather-dependent activities, with potential cancellations

Hoping to spot marine life? We've covered these other whale watching options in Moalboal

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting with the logistics, this tour kicks off bright and early, with hotel pickups from Cebu City or Mactan at 2:00 AM. That’s about as early as it gets, but it’s a common timing for trips balancing mountain roads and marine activities. Your ride is an air-conditioned private vehicle—a plus for comfort after a long night’s sleep—driving you through the dark to Oslob.

The whale shark encounter is the highlight for many participants. According to feedback, you’re allocated a specific time slot, typically between 7:40 and 8:30 AM, to snorkel alongside these gentle giants. Watching the massive whale sharks glide effortlessly through the water is unforgettable. One reviewer mentions, “Swim with the whale sharks was a truly unique experience,” though they also note that the site tends to be very crowded, which can detract from the tranquility of the moment. You’ll likely be sharing the water with many other travelers, many of whom may not be as careful around the wildlife, as some reviews recount turtles being accidentally kicked or disturbed.

After the whale shark activity, the tour moves on to Kawasan Falls for a swim and a chance to enjoy the lush surroundings. The falls are well-loved for their crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to cool off after the busy morning. The swimming time here is part of the experience, along with the chance to take photos of the beautiful cascading waterfalls. Reviews note that the falls can get crowded, especially during peak times, which might affect your sense of peace but doesn’t diminish the natural beauty.

The next stop is Moalboal, famous for its spectacular sardine run and the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. Visitors typically rent snorkeling gear, which is included, and plunge into the lively waters of Pescador Island. One reviewer describes the experience as “fun,” especially the sardines’ swirling patterns, but they also mention that the area can be overcrowded with travelers, and some felt the experience was less peaceful because of the crowds. The guides help by taking videos and pointing out turtles, making it easier for you to focus on the moment rather than your gear.

During the day, there’s a local Filipino lunch at the base camp, allowing you to refuel and enjoy regional flavors in a relaxed setting. The guides are helpful here, too, making sure everyone gets their fill. Following the underwater adventures, there’s a brief visit to a nearby waterfall (outside the main itinerary) for a quick photo stop, adding a scenic break to your day.

Transportation between sites is smooth, with a private, air-conditioned vehicle that’s usually praised for comfort. Still, some travelers note that the drive from Cebu to Oslob and back is quite long, with review comments describing the journey as “exhausting,” especially the overnight 3-hour drive on bumpy roads. The return trip around 3:30 PM means a very early start, which might be tough for travelers who prefer sleeping in or are sensitive to long hours in transit.

The guides on this tour are generally described as knowledgeable and helpful, offering insights about the marine environment and assisting with photos and equipment. However, some reviews mention that the information provided can sometimes be sparse or the organization a bit chaotic, especially at busy sites where lines and wait times occur.

Pricing at $125 per person includes most essentials: entrance fees, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and lunch. Considering the all-day commitment and the included activities, this is reasonable value, especially for those wanting an organized, guided experience rather than DIY trips.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

While the tour is well-organized, it’s important to recognize that touristy crowds are part of the package. The whale sharks in Oslob are popular for good reason—they’re impressive, but the site is known for being busy, which can affect the feeling of spontaneity or serenity. The same applies to Moalboal, where large groups often gather to see the sardines shimmer in the water. If you’re seeking a peaceful, less crowded adventure, you might find this tour somewhat overwhelming.

Nevertheless, the guides’ assistance and well-planned itinerary help make the most of the day. What you gain from this trip is an organized way to see key highlights, rather than a completely secluded experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a local meal adds value, removing the hassle of organizing each part separately.

Some travelers, like Jessica, found the experience “overcrowded,” and felt that the long drives—especially starting at 2:00 AM—were tiring. Conversely, Thierry appreciated the timely pickup and the well-paced activities, describing the day as “good” and “well organized.” These mixed reviews highlight that your experience can vary based on expectations and tolerance for crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of marine and natural sights without worrying about logistics. It suits those who are comfortable with early mornings and long drives, and who don’t mind sharing popular sites with other travelers. If you’re eager to swim with whale sharks and snorkel amidst schools of sardines, and value guided assistance, this tour offers a convenient way to tick those boxes.

However, if peace and solitude are your priorities—or if you’re traveling with very young children or pregnant women—you might find the crowds and early start challenging. For independent travelers or those seeking a more relaxed pace, a private or smaller-group tour might be worth considering.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sum Up

This Cebu day trip offers a solid balance of adventure and sightseeing, especially suited for those eager to see marine wonders up close. The guided approach, including transportation, gear, and meals, provides good value for a full day of activities. While the crowds can be a drawback, the experience of swimming with whale sharks and snorkeling with turtles and sardines remains unforgettable.

If you’re after a well-organized, fun-filled day with some of Cebu’s most famous natural attractions, this tour hits the mark. It’s best for travelers who are okay with crowded sites and early mornings but want the convenience of having everything arranged for them.

For those who prioritize tranquility and off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider alternative options or private tours that may better suit your style. But for a full, exciting day with guaranteed marine encounters, this tour is a reliable choice.

While you're exploring Moalboal, here are other experiences we've looked into