Oslob: Whale Shark Swim & Aguinid Falls Adventure Tour

Oslob: Whale Shark Swim & Aguinid Falls Adventure Tour
Location: Visayas, Philippines
Country: Philippines
Price: $138 per person
Supplier: Suroy Cebu Tour PH

Imagine starting your day with the awe of swimming alongside the world’s most gentle giants—the whale sharks—and ending with the adrenaline rush of canyoneering through cascading waterfalls. This combined tour in Cebu offers a full day of breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and rugged adventure. For $138, you gain access to two of the region’s most iconic natural attractions, guided by local experts who know these waters and rocks well.

What we particularly like about this experience is its balance of wildlife interaction and active exploration. The guided swim with whale sharks is a highlight, thanks to their sheer size and peaceful nature, while the Aguinid Falls trek adds a burst of adrenaline through climbing, sliding, and swimming. It’s a perfect mix for travelers eager for variety and authentic encounters.

A possible consideration is the long wait times during peak season, often 2-3 hours for whale shark sightings, so patience is required. Also, the activity at Aguinid Falls demands a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with physical exertion, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting a full-on day of natural beauty. If you’re comfortable with a mix of boat rides, water activities, and some physical challenge, you’ll find this an immensely satisfying excursion.

Key Points

• Wildlife Up Close: Swim with the majestic whale sharks in crystal-clear waters, with plenty of time for photos and awe.
• Natural Canyoneering: Explore Aguinid Falls through an exhilarating activity involving climbing, sliding, and swimming.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Meals, entrance fees, safety gear, and knowledgeable guides are included for a hassle-free experience.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy a traditional “silog” breakfast and a local restaurant lunch, giving you a taste of Filipino cuisine.
• Guided Experience: Expert guides ensure safety and share insights about each site, enriching your understanding of the environment.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: The Day Unfolded

Starting with the Whale Sharks in Oslob

Our adventure begins early, with a comfortable hotel pickup in Cebu City aboard a climate-controlled vehicle. The scenic drive to Oslob is about an hour, during which your guide shares interesting tidbits about Cebu’s marine environment. The drive feels quick because anticipation builds — you’re about to swim with the world’s largest fish.

Once in Oslob, it’s time for breakfast. The tour includes a hearty “silog” breakfast at a local cafe— typically consisting of rice, eggs, and either pork or fish— providing the necessary energy for the morning’s aquatic adventure. It’s simple, filling, and a great way to support local eateries, which is a nice bonus.

Before jumping into the water, our guide, Juan, gave a clear safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of respecting the whale sharks and following guidelines. The boat ride to the interaction area is smooth, and once there, the guides handed out life vests and snorkeling gear.

The experience itself is mesmerizing. The whale sharks glide effortlessly through the water, and we loved how calm and approachable they seemed. We heard from other travelers that “swimming with these giants is truly unforgettable,” and I couldn’t agree more. You get roughly 30 to 45 minutes in the water, plenty of time to get close, take photos, and just marvel at their size and gentle nature.

Transition to Aguinid Falls

After the marine adventure, we boarded our bus for the one-hour drive to Samboan, home of Aguinid Falls. The scenery shifts from ocean views to lush greenery, and the excitement builds again—this time for waterfalls and rocks instead of marine life.

A quick stop for a lunch at a local restaurant gave us a chance to refuel with Filipino favorites before gearing up for the canyoneering. The guides provided helmets, and you get a briefing on what to expect—climbing, sliding, and rappelling through a series of multi-tiered waterfalls.

The trek through Aguinid Falls is a physical but very rewarding experience. The natural rock formations and cascading water create a dramatic setting. We loved the way the guides, like Mario, expertly led us through the terrain, ensuring safety while allowing us to enjoy the thrill.

The natural pools are absolutely refreshing, especially after some of the more strenuous climbs. The water is clear and cool, perfect for a quick dip. It’s an active, engaging experience that appeals to those comfortable with a moderate level of fitness.

Post-Adventure Relaxation and Reflection

After this adrenaline-filled activity, we had a well-earned lunch before heading back. The return trip to Cebu City was relaxed, giving us time to reflect on the day’s highlights. We arrived feeling energized, with a camera full of photos and a sense of accomplishment.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions make it excellent value—transportation, meals, entrance fees, safety equipment, and guides are all covered. The professional guides are knowledgeable and personable, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe.

However, a few reviews mentioned that waiting times for whale shark encounters can be long during peak seasons, so patience is key. Some travelers also noted that canyoneering requires moderate fitness, so it’s worth assessing your comfort with physical activity beforehand. An optional underwater camera rental is available, but you’ll need to bring your own towel and change of clothes.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring your own swimwear, towel, and comfortable water shoes or slippers.
• Sunscreen must be applied before the water activity to avoid harming the marine environment.
• A hat, water, and camera are essential for a fun and comfortable experience.
• Children must be at least 7 years old for canyoneering, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or anyone with mobility or heart issues.
• Tours are weather-dependent; bad weather can cause cancellations or delays.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife encounters. Families with children over 7 will appreciate the mix of gentle whale shark interactions and active canyoneering, provided the kids are comfortable with water and physical exertion. It’s also perfect for those wanting a day packed with natural beauty and authentic local flavors.

If you’re looking for a single day that combines marine life and waterfalls, with guides who know the area well, this tour offers great value. Just be prepared for some waiting during the whale shark viewing and a moderate level of physical activity at Aguinid Falls.

Final Thoughts

The Oslob: Whale Shark Swim & Aguinid Falls Adventure Tour provides a compelling blend of wildlife encounters and rugged outdoor fun. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals, you won’t just see these natural wonders—you’ll experience them. The included meals, safety gear, and flexible booking options make this a practical choice for those eager to explore Cebu’s best natural sites.

While it’s not a leisurely sightseeing day—you’ll be active and sometimes waiting—it’s an authentic, fulfilling adventure that offers lasting memories of the Philippines’ extraordinary landscapes and creatures. If you want to feel the thrill of catching a glimpse of a whale shark and then challenge yourself with a canyoning adventure, this tour delivers both with enthusiasm and professionalism.

FAQ

How long is the whale shark swim?
You’ll spend approximately 30 to 45 minutes in the water swimming alongside the whale sharks, which is enough time to take photos and enjoy the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, meals (breakfast and lunch), entrance fees, safety gear, guides, boat rides, and environmental permits necessary for the activities.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children must be at least 7 years old to participate in the canyoneering activity. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or heart conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen (to be applied before swimming), water, and a camera. Water shoes or slippers are recommended for comfort and safety.

Can I rent underwater cameras?
Yes, underwater camera rentals are available on-site in Oslob for around Php 600-800, but it’s best to bring your own if possible.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities are weather-dependent. In case of bad weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so flexible booking and advance notice are important.

Is there a lot of waiting involved?
During peak season, whale shark sightings can involve 2-3 hours of waiting, so patience is essential. Guides will do their best to keep you informed.

This tour balances the thrill of nature with the comfort of guided logistics, making it a fantastic option for travelers seeking a full day of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty in Cebu.

You can check availability for your dates here: