Oslob Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Oslob Whale Shark Swimming & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering: An Unforgettable Day in the Philippines

Traveling through the Visayas, few experiences promise the same blend of awe and adrenaline as visiting Oslob for its famous whale sharks and then heading to Badian for the exhilarating Kawasan Falls Canyoneering. Priced at around $108 per person, this full-day tour offers an impressive mix of marine wonder and waterfall adventure, guided by friendly local experts. The journey begins early, with departures from Cebu City or Mactan around 2:00-5:00 am, covering approximately 120 km along scenic coastal roads—an early start that rewards you with a day packed with memorable moments.

Two things we love about this tour are its diverse activities—swimming with the gentle giants of the sea followed by jumping, climbing, and sliding through turquoise waterfalls—plus the professional guides who keep safety and fun front and center. The beachfront lunch offers a chance to unwind and enjoy fresh local flavors while soaking in ocean views, making the experience feel well-rounded and authentic. One thing to consider is that the schedule can be tight, and some reviews mention delays or unplanned changes, especially at Kawasan Falls, which can sometimes affect your pace or expected activities.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who appreciate a mix of marine wildlife and outdoor physical activity. It’s also ideal for those looking for a value-packed day with knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics, especially if you’re comfortable with early mornings and some physical exertion. However, keep in mind the activity restrictions—it’s not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or anyone with certain medical conditions like heart or back issues.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences combine marine wildlife and waterfall canyoneering in one day.
• Professional guides prioritize safety and provide helpful assistance throughout.
• Early departures maximize your day’s activities but require a willingness to wake up early.
• Good value for the price, including transportation, activities, and lunch.
• Limited time at each site may mean rushing slightly or missing optional activities.
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with physical activity and outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from Cebu City or Mactan, usually between 2:00 am and 5:00 am. While the early start might seem daunting, it’s the best way to beat the crowds and make the most of your day. The drive along the scenic southern coastline takes about three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and chat with your guides.

Once in Oslob, you’ll step into the water for the iconic whale shark encounter. These gentle giants, sometimes called the “largest fish in the world,” are both impressive and approachable. The experience typically lasts around 30-45 minutes, giving enough time to snorkel, photograph, and marvel at their size and calm demeanor. Several reviews mention that the guides are attentive and professional, ensuring safety and providing tips—though one reviewer noted that their guide was not very attentive, highlighting that guide quality can vary.

After the whale shark activity, a beachfront lunch serves as a relaxing break, offering local dishes with a view of the ocean. It’s a great chance to recharge before the afternoon’s Kawasan Falls Canyoneering.

The canyoneering adventure is the tour’s adrenaline rush. Guides lead you through a series of treks, climbs, jumps, and swims in the turquoise pools beneath waterfalls. Expect to jump from heights of 5-7 meters into the water—an exhilarating experience that some reviews describe as “incredible” and “worth every sore muscle.” Be aware that this part of the tour lasts about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and group size, and involves some physically demanding sections. Participants are required to wear safety gear, including helmets, life vests, and shoes, provided by the guides.

While most travelers find the activity thrilling and well-organized, certain reviews highlight some disappointments—for example, unplanned changes to the itinerary or difficulty navigating the canyon if you’re out of shape. It’s important to be prepared for hiking, jumping, and climbing, and to ensure you’re in good health and comfortable with water-based activities.

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Cebu, arriving around 7:00 pm. Along the way, most guides ensure your safety and comfort, making the long day manageable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active, adventure-minded travelers who enjoy being outdoors and trying new things. It’s perfect for those who want to see marine wildlife up close and are comfortable with physical activity, including swimming, jumping, and hiking. The friendly, professional guides add a layer of reassurance, especially for first-time snorkelers or canyoners.

However, not ideal for children under 7, pregnant women, or travelers with health issues such as heart or back problems. The early start and physical demands mean it’s best for fit and adventurous individuals. If you’re looking for a relaxed day on the beach or are not comfortable with water or hiking, this may not be the best fit.

A Well-Balanced Look at the Tour

The value of this tour is quite high considering the included transport, guides, activities, and lunch. The $108 price covers a comprehensive day with two of the Philippines’ top natural attractions. You won’t find many tours offering such a mix at this price point, especially with professional safety gear and an English-speaking guide.

The transportation is generally reliable, but some reviews point out logistical hiccups—like unpredictable pick-up times or delays. The early departure is both a plus and a minus; it maximizes your experience but requires patience and a willingness to wake up before dawn.

The water activities at Oslob are highly praised—many mention how close the whale sharks swim, and guides are often described as attentive and helpful. The canyoneering portion, while physically demanding, is generally appreciated for its thrill and stunning scenery. The visit to Kawasan Falls is often highlighted as a highlight—you’ll get to jump, slide, and swim beneath waterfalls, creating lasting memories.

One review noted that the guides at Kawasan were excellent, ensuring safety and capturing photos, which maintains the fun without the worry. Conversely, some travelers expressed disappointment when unplanned changes prevented certain activities like ziplining, so flexibility might be necessary.

The lunch is described as delicious and served with a view, providing a moment to relax and reflect on the morning’s activities. Bottled water and entrance fees are included, simplifying planning and budgeting.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Bring comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and water activities.
• Don’t forget your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen—the sun can be intense, especially after early mornings.
• A camera or GoPro is essential for capturing the moments, and the optional GoPro rental for PHP 550 can help you get some professional-quality shots.
• Arrive prepared for physical exertion—if you’re out of shape or have medical conditions, discuss with your guides beforehand.
• Plan for the early start; a good night’s sleep will help you enjoy the day’s activities fully.
• Be aware of activity restrictions: kids under 7, pregnant women, or those with serious health issues should reconsider participation.
• Expect some flexibility in schedule, especially at Kawasan Falls, where unplanned delays can happen.

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The Sum Up

This tour offers a fantastic combo of marine and waterfall adventures that few other experiences provide in the Philippines. The chance to swim with whale sharks—the gentle giants of the sea—and then climb and jump through waterfalls makes for a memorable day that appeals to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. The guides’ professionalism and the well-organized logistics help make the experience smoother, though some reviewers note occasional schedule hiccups.

While the early start and physical demands may not suit everyone, those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and are comfortable in water will find this tour to be a good value for the price. It’s especially perfect for travelers wanting a full day of authentic adventure—a true taste of what the Philippines has to offer.

If you’re seeking a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and adrenaline-pumping activity, and don’t mind a long day with some physical effort, this tour is an excellent choice. For those looking for a relaxing beach day or with health restrictions, it might be better to consider other options.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
Departures are typically between 2:00 am and 5:00 am, depending on your preferred schedule, so early mornings are expected.

Is the whale shark swimming experience safe?
Yes, guided by professionals, the activity lasts about 30-45 minutes, ensuring safety and plenty of time to observe and photograph the gentle giants.

Can children participate in the canyoneering?
Participants must be 7 years or older, and everyone should be in good health and comfortable swimming and climbing.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. Consider renting a GoPro for capturing moments.

Are there any activity restrictions?
Yes, activities are not suitable for pregnant women, children under 7, or those with back, heart, or pre-existing medical conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled due to weather for safety reasons, with a 24-hour notice. Rescheduling or refunds are usually offered.

Is the tour worth the price?
Considering the inclusion of transportation, guides, the whale shark encounter, canyoneering gear, lunch, and entrance fees, most find the $108 fee to be a good value for an action-packed day.

This tour is an ideal choice for adventure travelers eager to experience two iconic Philippine attractions in one go. Prepare for an active day, be flexible, and you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: