Full-Day Moalboal Islands and Kawasan Falls Small-Group Tour from Cebu

Exploring Cebu’s Natural Wonders: The Full-Day Moalboal Islands and Kawasan Falls Tour

This full-day tour from Cebu combines three of the island’s most iconic sights: the vibrant Pescador Island, the mesmerizing Sardines Run, and the breathtaking Kawasan Falls. For $187 per person, you get around 12 hours of adventure, with hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and all activities included. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this small-group experience is limited to just 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized outing.

What we love most about this tour is the seamless organization—from prompt pickup to smooth transitions between stops—and the opportunity to see sea turtles in their natural environment. The chance to snorkel at Pescador Island and witness the famous school of sardines up close makes this trip stand out. Plus, the Kawasan Falls experience offers both a scenic trek and a refreshing swim beneath cascading waters.

A consideration worth noting is the early start time of 5 a.m.—necessary for beating crowds and making the most of daylight. This means a very early wake-up call, which might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a relaxed morning.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value authentic local experiences, enjoy snorkeling and nature excursions, and want a well-organized adventure that balances activity with comfort. It’s ideal for those eager to explore Cebu quickly but thoroughly, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and memorable moments.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Hotel pickup, transport, lunch, snacks, and entrance fees covered.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 12 people ensures personalized attention from guides.
• Diverse highlights: Island-hopping, snorkeling with sea turtles, sardines, and Kawasan Falls.
• Early start: Necessary for optimal experience, but requires waking up early.
• Expert guides: Locals who know the area and enhance the experience.
• Authentic encounters: Close-up views of marine life and lush waterfalls.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins Early for a Reason

Starting at 5 a.m., this tour might feel like an early alarm, but it’s a strategic move. Beat the crowds and enjoy calmer waters, especially when snorkeling at Pescador Island and Turtle Point. The round-trip transport in a private vehicle makes the ride comfortable and efficient, letting you relax and soak in the scenery on the way.

The hotel pickup is straightforward, and since it’s a private tour, only your group participates—no noisy strangers or long waits. This setup means your guide, like Oliver or Jessel, can tailor the experience, answer questions, and help out during activities. The driver/guide is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly.

The First Stop: Kawasan Falls

The day kicks off with a 15-20 minute nature walk through lush foliage, rivers, and scenic views—perfect for stretching your legs after an early start. The admission to Kawasan Falls is included, so there’s no extra fuss. Once at the falls, you’ll find turquoise waters inviting for a swim, with the sound of rushing water creating a soothing backdrop.

Reviewers highlight the quality of the guide’s assistance, especially for those who might need a bit of support navigating the terrain or entering the water. The waterfalls are described as spectacular, and many mention how refreshing it feels to cool off in the clear waters.

The Island-Hopping Adventure

Next, a 20-minute boat ride whisks you to Pescador Island. This is the star of the snorkeling portion, where you’ll encounter a vibrant marine ecosystem. Expect to see colorful fishes and other marine life—something that reviews rave about. The admission fee is included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Travelers like Makaela S have been face-to-face with sea turtles during the trip, describing the experience as gorgeous and unforgettable. The calm, warm waters make snorkeling easy and enjoyable, even for beginners. The guides are often praised for their knowledgeable assistance and helpfulness, whether helping with gear or pointing out marine creatures.

The Sardines Run: A Natural Wonder

One of the most iconic sights is the Sardines Run. For about 30 minutes, you can witness thousands of sardines moving in perfect unison—a truly mesmerizing sight. Reviewers describe it as magical, with some saying it’s like being in a movie. The spectacle is best appreciated with a snorkel and patience, but the guides do a good job of managing expectations and making sure everyone gets a good view.

The Final Highlight: Kawasan Falls

The last stop is Kawasan Falls again, but this time you’re encouraged to swim, relax, and take photos. Many reviews mention the helpfulness of guides in ensuring safety and maximizing enjoyment. For some, it’s the highlight of the trip, a chance to cool off after a day of activity.

What the Tour Includes and Its Value

This tour’s all-inclusive approach makes it a great value. The price of $187 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all transportation, lunch, snacks, bottled water, all taxes, and admission fees. No hidden costs or surprises, which is often a concern with day trips.

The small-group size ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience. Guides like Oliver and Jessel are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the day not only fun but educational. The timely organization and comfortable transport mean you won’t spend extra time waiting or worrying about logistics.

The Experience’s Strengths

• The seamless coordination helps maximize your time at each location.
• Authentic encounters—like swimming with turtles—are difficult to replicate without a guided tour.
• Stunning views and photo opportunities await at each stop.
• The early start gets you the best experience with fewer travelers around.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start time, which might be challenging for some travelers. Also, the full-day commitment may be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long hours of activity. The walking involved at Kawasan Falls, though manageable, requires a bit of stamina.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who love outdoor activities, marine life, and nature scenery. It’s perfect for those seeking a well-organized, value-for-money day that combines multiple highlights into one trip. If you appreciate small-group experiences and authentic encounters in a relaxed setting, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Travelers who prefer a less crowded experience will especially enjoy starting early, avoiding the busy afternoons when crowds tend to gather. It’s also a good choice for first-timers to Cebu wanting a comprehensive, picture-perfect day.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Moalboal Islands and Kawasan Falls tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. The expert guides, smooth logistics, and inclusive pricing make it a strong choice for travelers eager to see Cebu’s best without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The chance to snorkel with sea turtles and witness the sardines’ hypnotic movement are the kinds of experiences that make this trip memorable. The Kawasan Falls adds a scenic, refreshing finale that leaves you feeling energized and connected to nature.

While the early start might not be for everyone, the quiet mornings and fewer crowds at key sites make it worthwhile. This tour is an excellent value for those who want a comprehensive glimpse of Cebu’s marine and waterfall wonders in one day.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins promptly at 5:00 a.m., which allows for optimal timing at each site and fewer crowds.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the price, making the experience more convenient.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 12 guests, ensuring a more personalized and less hectic experience.

Are all activities included in the price?
All activities—snorkeling, island-hopping, visiting Kawasan Falls, and the sardines run—are included, along with entrance fees, snacks, and lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The review mentions that guides assist with safety, which is especially helpful for younger adventurers.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera or phone, and a sense of adventure. All necessary gear is provided, but personal items like sunscreen help improve your comfort.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic immersion into Cebu’s natural beauty, ideal for travelers who thrive on active, outdoor experiences and value expert guidance. It’s a true highlight for anyone eager to explore the marine and waterfall treasures of the Philippines.