Cebu:WhaleShark Watching & Kawasan Canyoneering Private Tour

If you’re looking for a day packed with excitement, natural beauty, and memorable encounters, this private tour in Cebu might be just what you need. For $148 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring two of Cebu’s most iconic attractions: swimming alongside gentle whale sharks in Oslob and tackling the thrilling canyoneering adventure at Kawasan Falls. Expect a mix of awe-inspiring wildlife, scenic landscapes, and adrenaline-pumping activities—perfect for those eager to see and do it all in one day.

Two things we love about this experience are the close-up interactions with the whale sharks, which are surprisingly gentle giants, and the guided, well-structured canyoneering route that makes even extreme jumps feel safer. The guides seem to be genuinely knowledgeable, adding a layer of trust and comfort throughout the day. One potential drawback? The timing can be tight, especially if you want to take your time enjoying each stop, but given the packed schedule, it’s clear this tour is designed for thrill-seekers and explorers who want to maximize their day.

This tour is ideal for adventurers, wildlife lovers, and anyone who wants a safe, organized way to experience Cebu’s natural highlights. If you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity and enjoy guided tours that combine nature with excitement, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounter: Close-up swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat.
• Adventure Level: Canyoneering involves scrambling, jumping, and swimming through scenic landscapes.
• Guided Experience: Expert guides ensure safety and enrich your understanding of the sites.
• Flexible Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off are included across multiple locations.
• Value for Money: Includes all entrance fees, gear, and lunch, making it a comprehensive day trip.
• Age & Health: Suitable for ages 7+, but participants should be in good health due to the physical nature of activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Your Day: Convenient Pickup and Early Morning Begins

The tour begins with hotel pickup from any of 13 locations around Cebu, from Mactan to Cebu City and even Moalboal. This sort of flexibility is great, especially if you’re staying in a different area or have multiple hotels. Expect to be picked up early, as the day starts with a breakfast stop in Oslob, giving everyone time to fuel up before the main activities.

Oslob: The Close Encounter with Whale Sharks

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the chance to swim and snorkel with whale sharks. The experience is described as “amazing” by past participants, who appreciate the opportunity to see these gentle giants up close. The tour includes snorkeling gear—mask and life jacket—so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own unless you want to.

The 30-minute whale shark encounter is a highlight, often described as mesmerizing. While the tour admits that during the swimming session, you’ll share space with other visitors (due to Oslob’s policy), guides will do their best to make everyone feel close to these incredible creatures. The near-constant presence of whale sharks makes this a rare and memorable experience, especially for wildlife enthusiasts.

Lunch: A Rest in Badian

Following the whale shark experience, the tour takes you to Badian for a well-deserved lunch. The 30-minute break provides a good chance to relax, discuss the morning’s highlights, and fuel up for the next adventure. It’s a practical inclusion that helps keep energy levels high for the more physically demanding canyoneering.

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Kawasan Falls Canyoneering: An Adrenaline Rush

The second half of the day is dedicated to Kawasan Falls canyoneering, which lasts around 3 hours. This guided activity involves scrambling, climbing, jumping, rappelling, and swimming through stunning canyon landscapes and waterfalls. The gear provided, such as helmets, life jackets, and trekking shoes, ensures safety while allowing you to focus on the thrill.

Past participants, like one reviewer, highlighted how Jerry and Jerome made the experience “very special”. The route offers scenic views and encounters with cascading waterfalls, providing not just adrenaline but also fantastic photo opportunities. The canyoneering is described as “extreme”, but the guides do an excellent job of making even the most daring jumps feel safer.

Ending the Day: Drop-offs and Reflection

After the exhilaration at Kawasan, the tour concludes with drop-offs at multiple locations. This flexibility is convenient, especially if you want to explore more or have other plans. The entire experience is designed to be seamless, with hotel transfers included, so you can reflect on your adventure without worrying about logistics.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The personalized nature of this private tour means you’ll get more tailored attention from your guides. They seem to be well-versed and genuinely helpful, according to reviews, making sure you’re comfortable and informed throughout.

Another standout is how the activities are integrated to showcase the natural beauty of Cebu. From the marine biodiversity of the whale sharks to the lush canyons of Kawasan, each stop offers a distinct and authentic taste of the region.

Practical Considerations

While the day is packed, it’s worth noting that timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger at each site. You should also be prepared for physical activity—canyoneering requires good health and comfort with jumping and climbing. The minimum age is 7, making it suitable for families with children in good health, but pregnant women and very young kids are advised against participating.

Summary: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for active travelers who want a full day of adventure with knowledgeable guides. It offers great value, considering it includes transfers, gear, entrance fees, and lunch—all in one package. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to see whale sharks or someone craving an adrenaline-filled day, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you prefer more leisure or have mobility issues, the physical demands of canyoneering may be a challenge. Also, those who want a more relaxed pace might find the schedule a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This private Cebu tour delivers an exciting blend of wildlife encounters and outdoor adventure. The close-up whale shark swimming offers an unforgettable connection with nature, while the Kawasan Falls canyoneering provides a rush of adrenaline amid stunning scenery. The guides’ professionalism and local knowledge shine through, making the experience both educational and fun.

For adventure-loving travelers who appreciate well-organized outings, this tour provides excellent value. It’s a fantastic way to tick off two of Cebu’s most popular attractions in one day—without the stress of planning or navigating on your own.

If you’re looking for a lively, active day that combines wildlife, scenery, and adrenaline, this tour is hard to beat. Just come prepared for a full day, and be ready to get a little wet and a lot exhilarated.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations across Cebu, including Cebu City, Mactan, Moalboal, and Oslob.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including activities, meals, and travel time.

What gear do I need to bring?
You should bring a change of clothes, towel, and toiletries. If you want to bring your own snorkeling or waterproof gear, you can, but the tour provides masks, life jackets, and canyoning equipment.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children 7 years and older can participate in the canyoneering, provided they are in good health. Pregnant women and very young children are advised not to join.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch break in Badian, giving you a chance to relax and refuel before the afternoon activities.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the whale shark experience crowded?
While you’ll share the water with others, guides do their best to make the encounter intimate. The main priority is safety and respecting the animals’ natural behavior.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Cebu adventure fits your travel style. Whether you’re craving the thrill of canyoneering or the awe of swimming with whale sharks, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: