If you’re after a day packed with adventure and scenic beauty in Cebu, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. For $147 per person, you get to swim with the gentle giant whale sharks in Oslob and then descend into the stunning canyons of Kawasan Falls, experiencing natural water slides and jumps. It’s a full-day experience that combines marine wonder with thrilling outdoor activity — ideal for those who want a taste of the Philippines’ natural treasures in one well-organized trip.

What we really like about this tour is the thoughtful touches, like the free GoPro rental — meaning you can focus on soaking in the moment, not worrying about capturing it. Plus, the reserved clean facilities at Oslob ensure that you’ll stay comfortable during one of the most popular tourist spots. Another highlight is the skilled, friendly guides who prioritize safety while making sure you enjoy every minute. The only thing to consider is that children under 7 are not allowed, and the price for snorkeling will increase from April 2025 due to government regulation, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who appreciate authentic, guided experiences, and those who enjoy both marine encounters and outdoor activities. If you’re comfortable in water and love being active, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

Unique combination of whale shark snorkeling and canyoning delivers diverse experiences.
Well-organized logistics make the day smooth and enjoyable.
Professional guides prioritize safety and local knowledge.
Natural beauty at Kawasan Falls with water slides and jumps provides fun and excitement.
Includes essentials like lunch, equipment, and insurance, offering good value.
Be mindful of age and health restrictions, especially for young children and those with certain conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting the Journey from Cebu

The adventure begins early in Cebu, with a hotel pickup, which is included in the package. Expect about a 3-hour drive to Oslob, giving you a chance to relax or chat with your group en route. This drive also offers a glimpse of the countryside, setting a peaceful tone before the excitement begins.

Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling: A Marine Marvel

Once in Oslob, you’ll find a reserved, clean facility — a thoughtful touch that compensates for the area’s popularity and crowding. Here, you’ll gear up with snorkeling equipment and a full life jacket, making close encounters safe and accessible even if you’re not a confident swimmer. The whale sharks in this area are known to be tame and harmless, allowing you to get remarkably close without worry.

A big plus here is the GoPro rental you can request ahead of time, which means you’ll have high-quality footage of your underwater moments. While the whale sharks are big, they tend to be gentle giants, and many reviewers mention how unforgettable it is to swim alongside them. One traveler noted, “Filming the whale shark was difficult because I had trouble breathing, so I wish I could have filmed it a little slower.” This highlights that while capturing these moments is tempting, sometimes you just want to experience them fully.

Transition to Kawasan Falls for Canyoning

After the snorkeling, a comfortable drive takes you to the canyon area of Kawasan Falls. This part of the trip is more active — think trekking along the river, sliding down natural water chutes, and jumping into deep pools. Canyoning in Cebu is renowned for its spectacular scenery and adrenaline-pumping fun. Guides accompany you and ensure everyone stays safe during these daring activities.

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The Canyoning Experience: Fun and Safe

Many travelers emphasize how professional and friendly the guides are. One reviewer raved about “Mr. Edmund,” mentioning how hospitable and bilingual he was, which helped make the experience even more enjoyable. Expect to climb over rocks, traverse slippery surfaces, and enjoy multiple water slides — all in a beautiful natural setting. The activity culminates with a jump into a deep pool, which is often the highlight for thrill-seekers.

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Lunch with a View

After the canyoning, you’ll enjoy a filipino-style buffet lunch at Kawasan Falls, with spectacular views of the waterfalls. The lunch is described as a “lauriat style meal with fruits,” giving you a hearty, authentic taste of Filipino cuisine to refuel for the rest of the day.

Return and Reflection

The day wraps up with a comfortable drop-off back in Cebu, usually in the late afternoon. Along the way, you’ll have time to relax, reflect, and enjoy some photos or videos you’ve taken, especially if you took advantage of the GoPro rental.

Practical Details: What’s Included, What’s Not

The tour covers all the essentials: guide and driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear, life jackets, helmets, and access to clean shower and bathroom facilities. It also includes insurance, admission fees, bottled water, and the lunch. You’ll appreciate the free GoPro rental, which adds value to your experience.

Not included are breakfast before the tour, tips, or optional activities like ziplining at Kawasan Falls, which costs around 600 PHP. There’s also an underwater photography fee if you want professional shots taken by boatmen, costing 150 PHP per group.

Important to Know

For safety, children under 7 are not permitted.
Participants must provide full names and DOBs for insurance.
People over 76 or with certain health conditions should consult with their doctor or consider purchasing personal insurance.
Be prepared to bring swimwear, change of clothes, and sandals.
The government snorkeling fee in Oslob is set to increase from 500 to 1,000 pesos starting March 2025, which will affect the tour price from April 2025 onward.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently highlight how knowledgeable guides make a noticeable difference. One traveler enjoyed the friendly Japanese guide, noting that he was “very kind,” which helped improve the experience. Another mentioned, “The guide Mr. Edmund was hospitable, bilingual, and fun to talk with,” illustrating how the right guide can elevate your day.

Canyon enthusiasts loved the activity’s active nature and natural beauty, although one noted, “Filming the whale shark was difficult because I had trouble breathing, so I wish I could have filmed it a little slower,” reminding us that sometimes experiencing these moments beats trying to capture every second.

The overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 12 reviews suggests this tour is well-received, especially for value, organization, and guide professionalism.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable in water and on their feet. If you’re after a full-day, active tour that combines marine life encounters with thrilling outdoor activities, this fits well. It’s perfect for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those eager to check off two major Cebu attractions in one go.

However, if you’re traveling with young children under 7, pregnant women, or individuals with specific health concerns, this tour might not be appropriate. The physical activity involved in canyoning, combined with the swimming in open water, calls for a reasonable level of fitness.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $147, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers two of Cebu’s most iconic experiences. The well-organized logistics, friendly guides, and inclusion of essentials like lunch and equipment make it a good value. You’ll leave with memories of swimming with whale sharks and conquering Kawasan’s natural slides, both of which are authentic and exciting.

For those who love nature, challenge, and bright moments, this tour delivers. It balances adventure and comfort without sacrificing the thrill of the Philippines’ natural wonders.

Whether you’re a first-timer or someone wanting a full-day highlight, this experience provides a well-rounded snapshot of Cebu’s outdoors. It’s a vivid, active way to connect with the environment and meet fellow travelers who share your sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a confident swimmer?
No, you don’t need to be an expert swimmer. Life jackets are provided, and the whale sharks are very tame and harmless.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 are not allowed on this tour for safety reasons. Older children should be comfortable in water and active.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and sandals. Also, consider a towel and perhaps some sunscreen.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and Japanese, making communication easier for international travelers.

What’s included in the price?
All activities, equipment, lunch, insurance, and transfers are covered. You can request a free GoPro rental to record your adventure.

How long does the trip last?
The total experience runs full-day, with about 3 hours’ drive each way, plus activity time at each site.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, ziplining at Kawasan Falls costs around 600 PHP, and underwater photography fees are 150 PHP per group.

What is the government snorkeling fee?
Starting March 2025, the fee in Oslob will increase from 500 to 1,000 pesos, which will be reflected in tour prices from April 2025.

Is insurance provided?
Yes, the tour includes travel accident insurance, but make sure to provide participant details for coverage.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour combines fantastic underwater encounters with thrilling canyoning in a way that feels both authentic and well-managed. It’s an ideal choice for active travelers eager to explore Cebu’s natural treasures in a single, memorable day.