Kawasan Falls Canyoning and Moalboal Sardine Run, Sea Turtles

Canoeing between waterfalls, swimming with sardines, and spotting sea turtles in Cebu—these are just a few highlights of this well-rounded adventure tour. For $144, you will spend roughly 12 hours exploring some of Cebu’s most captivating natural sights, with all transportation and safety gear thoughtfully arranged. Led by professional guides who are praised for their friendly and knowledgeable approach, this tour combines adrenaline-pumping activities with moments of peaceful nature viewing.

What we love most are the diverse experiences—from the exhilarating canyoning at Kawasan Falls to the mesmerizing spectacle of Moalboal’s sardine run, plus the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. The well-organized logistics also stand out, with hotel pickup, secure storage, and all activities included, making the day smooth and stress-free.

A potential consideration is the early start—begins at 3:00 a.m.—which might be a challenge for late risers or those with limited stamina for long travel days. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a taste of adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic local flavor all in one day. If you’re seeking a balance of thrill and tranquility with a touch of Filipino culture, this experience suits you well.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure: Combines canyoning, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting in one organized tour.
• All-inclusive: Transportation, gear, lunch, and entrance fees are covered, offering great value.
• Authentic experiences: Swim with sea turtles, watch sardines whirl, and enjoy fresh local food.
• Guided safety: Professional guides ensure safety and support for all activity levels.
• Early start: Be prepared for an early pickup and a long day on the road.
• Limited group size: Max of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Travel

Starting at 3:00 a.m., the tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Cebu City or Mactan Island. Though the early start might sound daunting, it’s necessary to beat the crowds and make the most of the day. After a roughly three-hour drive, the group stops for breakfast—an opportunity to energize before the day’s adventures. Expect friendly chatter and anticipation as you enjoy Filipino breakfast staples, setting a wonderful tone for the day.

Moalboal’s Sardine Run and Sea Turtles

The first highlight is Moalboal, a renowned snorkeling spot about an hour from Kawasan Falls. Here, the thousands of shimmering sardines create a mesmerizing whirlpool, a spectacle that’s truly unforgettable. You’ll also have the chance to see sea turtles, which are often spotted gracefully swimming or munching on seaweed. The shallow waters are accessible for most levels of swimmers, and the free admission makes this stop excellent value. As one reviewer put it, “It was amazing! The instructors at all the activities were super cool. It’s an experience to repeat!”

Kawasan Falls and Canyoning Challenge

Next, it’s on to Kawasan Falls—the jewel of Cebu’s waterfalls. Known for its turquoise blue water and lush greenery, it’s a perfect spot to forget the noise of urban life. The walk through the forest feels like stepping into a different world, with fresh air and the soothing sounds of rushing water.

This is where the tour really livens up with canyoning. The guides will give instructions, so even beginners can confidently jump from heights ranging from 1.5 to 9 meters, or simply enjoy swimming and climbing the waterfalls. The largest waterfall in Cebu offers a variety of jumping options, allowing you to choose your comfort level. The adrenaline combined with the stunning natural setting makes for a truly exciting experience. One guest summarized it well: “The instructors were super cool, and it’s an experience to repeat!”

Lunch with a View

After a solid dose of adventure, a hearty local lunch awaits at the only restaurant on-site, located right in front of the second waterfall. Expect dishes featuring traditional Filipino flavors, complemented by fresh fruit and drinks. It’s a relaxed break, giving your muscles a chance to recover while you enjoy an authentic meal with a view. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds great value to the overall package.

Return Journey and Reflection

The ride back to Cebu City begins around 3:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Expect to arrive around 6:00 p.m., tired but energized by the day’s adventures. The round-trip logistics—hotel pickup and drop-off—are seamless, making this a hassle-free experience for travelers.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This experience is priced at $144, which covers all activities, transportation, guides, gear, and meals. Given the diverse and high-quality activities included, it’s a solid value. The professional guides and safety equipment give peace of mind, especially important during canyoning and water activities. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention, which enhances safety and enjoyment.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and life jackets means you can focus on having fun rather than worrying about equipment. Plus, optional extras like GoPro rentals or zip-lining are available, allowing you to capture memories or add an extra thrill if you wish.

Authenticity and Safety

As one reviewer expressed, “The instructors at all the activities were super cool,” highlighting how guides contribute significantly to a positive experience. Their knowledge, friendliness, and safety consciousness make this tour accessible to most travelers—though a moderate physical fitness level is recommended, and children under 7 aren’t permitted.

What’s Not Included

While lunch and activities are covered, keep in mind that breakfast, gratuities, and optional add-ons like fin rentals or zip lines aren’t included. Planning for breakfast on your own before pickup is advisable. Also, the early start means you should be prepared for a long day, but most find the adventure worth it.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who craves variety—combining wildlife encounters, adrenaline rushes, and scenic beauty—this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for active travelers comfortable with a physical day, and who appreciate guided safety in outdoor adventures. Nature lovers will enjoy the peaceful walk through Kawasan’s lush forest, while thrill-seekers will love the jumps and swims in the waterfalls. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture stunning scenes, from sardine whirlpools to cascading waterfalls.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from hotels in Cebu City and Mactan Island starting at 3:00 a.m.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, water, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. Breakfast is not included, so plan to eat before pickup.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 7 years old are not permitted, mainly for safety reasons given the activities.

What if I don’t want to do canyoning?
Guides will provide instructions and support, but if you prefer not to jump, you can enjoy swimming and relaxing in the waterfalls.

How long do stops last?
Moalboal snorkeling lasts about an hour, while the canyoning activities are approximately 3 hours. Lunch is an hour, and travel time adds to the overall long day.

Can I see sea turtles?
While turtles are wild animals and sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests do see them swimming gracefully.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Basic swimming skills are recommended, especially for snorkeling and canyoning, but guides will assist throughout.

What should I know about the weather?
The schedule might change due to weather conditions, and safety is the priority. Expect some flexibility.

Can I rent GoPro or fins?
Yes, GoPro rentals are available on a first-come basis, and fin rentals cost 150 PHP per person.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an impressive blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture—all packed into a single day. The guides’ professionalism and the variety of activities make it a top choice for those looking to experience Cebu’s highlights without fuss. The early start demands a bit of stamina, but most travelers find the effort worthwhile when they see the stunning sights and make unforgettable memories.

The authentic flavor of Filipino hospitality, combined with the thrill of canyoning and snorkeling, ensures this experience is both fun and enriching. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or someone eager for a well-rounded adventure, this tour will leave you with plenty of stories and stunning photos.

For travelers wanting an active, scenic, and culturally rich day, this experience hits the sweet spot. Just pack your sense of adventure and your sense of humor, and you’ll be rewarded with one of Cebu’s most memorable outings.