Cebu: Whale Sharks, Ka-Treasure Water Terraces & Simala Tour

Imagine waking up before dawn, jumping into a van with other travelers, and heading toward some of Cebu’s most captivating sights. For $102 per person, this full-day tour whisks you from Cebu City to Oslob to swim with gentle whale sharks, then takes you to Ka-Treasure Water Terraces for some serene swimming, and finally, to the magnificent Simala Church. It’s a busy schedule, but one that offers a balanced mix of marine adventure, natural beauty, and cultural awe.

What we really love about this experience is the chance to see the ocean’s gentle giants up close — their immense size and calm demeanor are unforgettable. Plus, the Water Terraces provide a quiet moment, away from crowds, where you can relax and enjoy nature’s calm. The Simala Church is equally impressive, with architecture that feels like a fairytale castle, perfect for those who appreciate both spirituality and stunning design.

One thing to keep in mind: early mornings are a must, with pickup times starting as early as 2:00 AM. The long drive—about 3 hours—means you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the road, but this is part of the adventure, especially if you’re eager to pack a lot into one day. This tour works best for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to combine marine, scenic, and cultural highlights without multiple separate trips.

Key Points

• Early starts are necessary, with pickup between 2:00-3:00 AM.
• The tour offers marine, scenic, and cultural experiences, making it a well-rounded day.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, especially at the whale shark site.
• The Water Terraces and Simala Church are peaceful and visually stunning.
• Expect long drives, so patience and comfort are important.
• The tour is private, providing an exclusive experience for your group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour Experience

We love how this tour packs a lot into one day, giving travelers a chance to see some of Cebu’s most iconic spots without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. From the moment you’re picked up, the journey kicks off with anticipation. The early start might seem daunting, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds at the whale shark site, as reviews like Yesenia’s highlight—”you must insist about your skip the line booking as it is very crowded and there is a long wait.” This makes pre-booking and early arrival key to a smoother experience.

Whale Shark Encounter in Oslob

The highlight for many is swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. These are the world’s largest fish, and their gentle manners make for a truly memorable experience. You’ll receive life vests and snorkel masks, ensuring safety as you float alongside these impressive creatures. Expect a wait of 2-3 hours during peak season, which can test patience but also heightens the anticipation.

One reviewer mentioned, “I was satisfied with the whale sharks,” and many agree that seeing these giants up close is worth the early trip. However, the experience is regulated, and touching or feeding the sharks is strictly forbidden—this isn’t just a rule, but a sign of Cebu’s effort to protect these animals.

Scenic Water Terraces at Ka-Treasure

After the marine adventure, the tour continues to the Ka-Treasure Water Terraces—a less-known gem that offers a peaceful pause. These tiered pools cascade down hills, resembling natural infinity pools. The water is crystal-clear, perfect for a refreshing swim or just lounging with a good book.

One traveler mentioned that the place is a “secluded paradise,” where nature’s beauty feels untouched. It’s a welcome change from the bustling tourist spots, giving you a chance to unwind and soak in the views. The pools might require a short walk or a bit of effort to get to, but the serenity makes it worthwhile.

The Majestic Simala Church

The final stop, Simala Church, is a sight to behold. Its architecture resembles a castle, with ornate details and towering spires. Inside, the atmosphere is peaceful, inviting reflection or prayer. The church’s location also provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect photo op.

As one reviewer noted, “whether for prayer, reflection, or admiration of its beauty, Simala Church is a must-see destination.” It’s a spiritual place, but also an architectural marvel that enchants visitors with its grandeur and intricate decorations.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Start early with pickup at one of six locations—Cebu City, Talisay, Mandaue, Moalboal, Oslob, or Lapu-Lapu. Expect to be on the road for about 3 hours before reaching the whale shark site. The tour includes guided sightseeing with a knowledgeable local guide, who helps you understand and appreciate each location.

At Oslob, you’ll spend approximately 3 hours at the whale shark watching area, enjoying swimming, snorkeling, and viewing these majestic creatures. The experience is regulated, so no touching or feeding, but the sight of them swimming peacefully is incredibly moving.

Then, you’ll head to Ka-Treasure Water Terraces for a couple of hours. Here, you can take a dip or lounge by the pools, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility.

Finally, the journey ends at Simala Church, where you’ll spend time exploring the impressive architecture and spiritual ambiance. The tour concludes with drop-offs at your original pickup location, usually late in the afternoon or early evening.

What’s Included?

The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a silog breakfast (for PHP 200), and the use of life vests and snorkel masks. The guides are helpful and the driver is friendly, making the long day a bit easier.

What’s Not Included?

Guests should plan to buy their own lunch and bring personal items like towels, swimwear, and extra cash. The tour also does not cover excess breakfast costs beyond PHP 200.

Balancing the Experience: Pros and Cons

The main advantage of this tour is convenience—all the major sights are visited in a single day, saving you time and effort. The knowledgeable guides help navigate the busy spots, especially at the whale shark site, where long waits are common. Plus, the diverse activities mean you get a taste of Cebu’s marine, natural, and spiritual sides.

However, the early start and long drives might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person or prefer relaxed paced trips. As one reviewer pointed out, “expect long drive from Cebu and very early pickup time 2 am as the site it’s 3 hours drive.” Also, some travelers found the facilities at the whale shark site to be less than ideal, describing it as “difficult to get there and back,” and not as natural as expected.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an efficient way to see multiple highlights of Cebu in one day, this tour is a good choice. It suits adventure lovers eager to swim with whale sharks, nature fans wanting peaceful water pools, and culture seekers interested in the beauty of Simala Church. It’s particularly good if you don’t mind early mornings and long drives, and if you value guided insight and convenience.

The tour isn’t perfect for those seeking luxury or leisurely exploration, given the early start and packed schedule. But if you want a full sensory experience of Cebu’s best, this trip delivers.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Cebu’s diverse attractions—combining marine encounters, spectacular scenery, and architectural wonder. The combination of carefully chosen stops makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning each detail.

The knowledgeable guides and stunning sights make it a worthwhile adventure, especially if you’re comfortable with early starts and long drives. It’s a fantastic way to tick off some of Cebu’s iconic spots in one go, especially if you’re short on time but want to experience a variety of what the island has to offer.

For adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and cultural explorers, this tour helps you make the most of your visit with a well-organized, memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cebu City, Mactan, or Lapu-Lapu.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM, with the exact time confirmed a day before.

How long is the whale shark activity?
You will spend about 3 hours at the whale shark site, including viewing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Are there any restrictions during the whale shark experience?
Yes, touching or feeding the whale sharks is strictly forbidden to protect the animals.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sunglasses, hat, camera, sunscreen, and extra cash for personal expenses or lunch.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those comfortable with early mornings and long drives. The tour is private, making it more suitable for groups or families.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your plans.

This tour provides a fascinating mix of experiences that showcase Cebu’s natural beauty, wildlife, and architecture. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see a lot in one day, especially with the comfort of guided assistance and a private group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: