Cebu City: Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Imagine waking up before dawn in Cebu, then spending your day swimming alongside gentle whale sharks, scrambling through breathtaking cliffs, and sliding down natural water slides at Kawasan Falls. For just around $127 per person, this full-day adventure from Cebu City offers an intense mix of awe-inspiring wildlife encounters and adrenaline-pumping activity, all guided by knowledgeable local guides who make sure you get the most from every moment.

What we love most? First, the chance to swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat—a surreal experience that truly feels like a bucket-list highlight. Second, the canyoneering portion, which combines scenic beauty with heart-racing jumps and climbs, making every moment memorable.

One thing to consider: the long drive to Oslob and Badian can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to early mornings or long rides. Also, during peak season, there’s often a waiting time of 2-3 hours to see the sharks, which might test your patience.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who love nature, enjoy active days, and don’t mind early starts and long hours on the road. Families with older children, thrill-seekers, and anyone craving authentic wildlife encounters combined with scenic beauty will find this experience well worth the effort.

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Key Points

Unique wildlife experience: Swimming with whale sharks in their natural environment.
Active adventure: Scrambling, jumping, and sliding through Badian’s rugged cliffs.
Beautiful scenery: Kawasan Falls offers a tranquil escape after the adrenaline rush.
Full-day experience: Expect a long, sometimes tiring, but rewarding day.
Guided professionalism: Guides are praised for their friendliness and safety awareness.
Value for money: Entrance fees, gear, lunch, and transfers are included, making it a comprehensive package.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your day begins with an early pickup, typically around 2-9 a.m., depending on your location and the tour package. The pickup options include several central points like Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and nearby areas, which helps reduce travel stress.

Once onboard, the long drive to Oslob, where the whale shark interaction takes place, begins. We found that the drive can be lengthy, with some reviews describing it as “horribly long,” but it’s a small price to pay for the chance to see these magnificent creatures. Be prepared for early mornings—some reviews mention waking up at 2 a.m.—but many travelers agree that the experience is worthwhile.

Oslob: Whale Shark Encounter

The main highlight is swimming alongside whale sharks, which are among the largest fish in the world. The experience usually involves about 30 minutes of snorkeling, with the chance to get up close and marvel at these gentle giants.

However, some reviews point out the overcrowding and the fact that whales are often fed to keep them in the area, which raises ethical questions. One reviewer noted that the whales are fed to entice them, meaning they might not be swimming freely in the wild. Nevertheless, many still find it a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Guides like Ronaldo, Jason, and Jo are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, often taking pictures or videos for you so you can focus on enjoying the moment. Keep in mind, during peak season, you might face waiting times of 2 to 3 hours to get into the water, but the scenery and the experience still tend to make it worthwhile.

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Lunch and Rest

After the whale shark experience, you’ll head to Badian for a relaxing lunch. Many reviews mention that the food is decent and that this is a good chance to recharge before the next active segment.

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

Kawasan Falls and Canyoneering

Post-lunch, the adventure shifts gears. You’ll go to Kawasan Falls, a beautiful turquoise pool surrounded by lush greenery. Here, you’ll join a guided tour and gear up for canyoneering, which is described as “mostly jumping off rocks and sliding down natural water slides.” It’s physically demanding but highly rewarding, with guides like Joel and Jay ensuring safety, helping with photos, and making the process fun.

One reviewer highlighted that guides often film and take pictures throughout, so you end up with plenty of memories. Some found the trekking and cliff jumps to be the most exciting parts, with jumps reaching as high as 30 feet, so good health and a sense of adventure are a must.

The Serene Finish

After the adrenaline rush, you cool down with a relaxing swim in Kawasan’s calm waters, a perfect way to unwind. This part of the tour offers a peaceful contrast to the earlier high-energy activities and provides an ideal photo opportunity.

Return and Reflection

The trip usually concludes by returning you to your hotel around 6-7 p.m., depending on traffic and waiting times. The long day, packed with activities, makes for a full but satisfying experience—and many reviews mention how this tour offers great value for money, with all entrance fees, gear, and lunch included.

What We Really Appreciate

The guides’ professionalism and friendliness stand out in reviews. From helping with photos to ensuring safety during canyoneering, their attitude makes a big difference. The scenic beauty of Kawasan and the thrill of swimming with whale sharks make this trip memorable—two experiences that couldn’t be more different but complement each other perfectly.

The value is another highlight. Paying around $127 for such a package—covering transportation, entrance fees, gear, lunch, and guides—offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Some Considerations

The long travel times and waiting periods can be tiring, especially for those not accustomed to early mornings or extended rides. Also, the whale shark activity has been criticized for overcrowding and feeding practices, which some travelers find ethically questionable. If you’re sensitive to these issues, this might influence your decision.

However, if you’re seeking a combination of wildlife, adventure, and scenery, this tour delivers well on all fronts. It’s best suited for adventurers, families with older kids, and anyone eager to see unique natural wonders while staying active.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a full-throttle dive into Cebu’s natural beauty and wildlife. From the awe of snorkeling with whale sharks to the exhilaration of cliff-jumping at Kawasan Falls, it’s packed with moments that will stay with you long after your trip. The guides’ dedication, the stunning views, and the sense of achievement make it a great value for those looking to make the most of their time in the Philippines.

While it’s a long day, with some patience required, the authenticity of the experience and the variety of activities make it a compelling choice. It’s especially ideal if you love adventure and want to combine wildlife encounters with scenic landscapes in a single trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an adventurous traveler craving a diverse, active day with wildlife and scenery, this is a solid pick. Families with older children can enjoy it too, as long as everyone is in good health. Those who appreciate guides with local knowledge and enjoy photography will also find this tour particularly rewarding.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
While snorkeling masks are provided, it’s recommended to bring your own if you have one, especially since some reviewers mention paying extra for a snorkel to make the experience easier.

How long is the drive to Oslob and Badian?
The drive can be quite long; some mention it being “horribly long,” with early mornings making it more tiring. Be prepared for a several-hour journey from Cebu City.

Is there a minimum age for canyoneering?
Yes, the minimum age for canyoneering is 7 years old, making it suitable for families with children who are physically capable.

What’s included in the tour price?
All entrance fees, gear (including canyoneering equipment), lunch, guides, and transfers are included. Fins and insurance are not included.

How crowded can it get at the whale shark site?
During peak seasons, wait times can be 2-3 hours, and some reviewers mention the activity can be quite crowded, which might affect your experience.

Is it safe for people with health issues or mobility challenges?
Canyoneering is quite active and requires good health. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems or mobility impairments.

This tour offers a truly diverse and exhilarating day in Cebu. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of cliffs and waterfalls or the wonder of gentle giants in the sea, it’s a well-rounded adventure that will leave you with priceless memories. Expect some long hours, yes, but also plenty of laughs, stunning sights, and stories to tell for years to come.