Moalboal Sardine Run, Sea Turtle & Mantayupan Falls

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Cebu’s natural beauty, combining the thrill of snorkeling with sea turtles and vast schools of sardines with a scenic visit to the majestic Mantayupan Falls. While this experience is perfect for those eager to see iconic marine life and enjoy a peaceful waterfall escape, it’s worth noting the early start and the full-day commitment.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s guided by knowledgeable locals who enrich your journey with stories and practical tips. Second, the chance to swim alongside sea turtles and the famous sardine run is truly unforgettable. And third, the visit to Mantayupan Falls offers a cool, refreshing break amidst lush surroundings.

A potential consideration is the early pick-up time—between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m.—which might be a challenge for night owls or late risers. The overall value and authentic experiences make it a compelling choice for active travelers and nature lovers.

If you’re looking for a day packed with unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic beauty, this tour will likely suit you well.

Good To Know

• Authentic marine encounters with sea turtles and sardines in Moalboal
• Scenic waterfall visit with the impressive 98-meter Mantayupan Falls
• Expert guides and small groups ensure personalized attention
• Inclusive price covers equipment, insurance, and activities
• Early start allows for a full, relaxed day of exploration
• Limited age restrictions make it ideal for active travelers

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An In-Depth Look at the Moalboal Sardine Run, Sea Turtle & Mantayupan Falls Tour

Starting Your Day: Early Pickup and Travel Time

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Cebu hotel between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. This early start is designed to maximize your day but requires a bit of an early riser’s spirit. You’ll travel about 2.5 hours in a comfortable van to Moalboal, a well-known snorkeling hub. The drive itself offers a chance to see Cebu’s countryside waking up, with lush greenery and local life passing by.

The Heart of the Tour: Snorkeling in Moalboal

Once in Moalboal, the main highlight is undoubtedly the snorkeling experience. Here, you’ll swim among stunning coral reefs, gentle sea turtles, and the famous massive schools of sardines. These schools are often described as a “mysterious scene,” with thousands of sardines migrating together in a synchronized, almost hypnotic movement.

Reviewers like Petra appreciated that “their diver took charge of their GoPro, capturing videos so they could relax and enjoy the moment.” This thoughtful service alleviates the pressure to take photos or videos yourself, giving you more time to simply marvel at the sight. The presence of a professional diver taking underwater photos and videos adds that extra layer to the experience, especially if you want to remember these moments later.

Wildlife Encounters: Sea Turtles and Sardine Run

Swimming alongside sea turtles is often cited as a highlight. These gentle creatures glide effortlessly through the water, creating a peaceful contrast to the lively sardine schools. Viola described her experience as “amazing,” noting the caring guides, including Danny and Niño, who made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable. The guides are praised for their kindness and local knowledge, often sharing stories about Cebu and its ecosystems.

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The Mantayupan Falls: A Refreshing Break

After a few hours in the water, the tour heads to Mantayupan Falls. This impressive waterfall drops 98 meters, surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery, making it a cool oasis especially during the heat of the day. Reviewers like Camilla loved how the falls offered a chance to relax, swim, and enjoy stunning scenic views. The falls are less crowded than other tourist spots, offering a more unspoiled experience—perfect for those who appreciate quieter natural settings.

The Return Journey: Scenic and Cultural Insights

The return trip involves a 3-hour drive back to Cebu. Along the way, guides often share insights about Filipino culture and delicacies, sometimes stopping at local markets or street food stalls. This adds a personal touch to the day and enhances the cultural richness of the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $95 per person is quite reasonable considering the comprehensive package. It covers transportation, snorkeling gear, life jackets, towels, a guide, insurance, and entrance fees for the waterfalls and marine activities. You’ll also receive bottled water and the option for GoPro rentals—an excellent addition for capturing your adventure.

However, lunch and breakfast are not included, so planning ahead or bringing snacks is advised. Gratuities are optional but appreciated, especially for attentive guides. If you want to take home underwater photos or videos, request the GoPro rental in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

The tour suits active travelers and nature lovers eager to see marine wildlife and enjoy Cebu’s scenic outdoors. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences in small groups—limited to 10 participants—for a more personal touch. Keep in mind, the tour is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or anyone with heart, back, or epilepsy issues.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Dress in quick-drying clothes and bring a waterproof camera if you prefer your own photos.
• Be prepared for an early wake-up—set your alarm!
• Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for the waterfalls and boat rides.
• Confirm your pick-up time and hotel details beforehand.
• Booking GoPro rentals in advance guarantees you’ll get the equipment you want.
• Follow safety instructions carefully, especially during snorkeling and swimming.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Tour Reviews

One reviewer, Petra, shared that their guide was “so well prepared” and even had towels and shampoos ready after snorkeling, which added comfort. Viola praised her guide Danny and driver Niño for their kindness, noting they even stopped in local markets to buy rice cakes and street food—adding a cultural twist to the trip. Camilla enjoyed the personal attention, especially the helpful tips from Mae, making her trip more enjoyable and informed.

The Value of This Tour

At $95, this experience offers a good balance of adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. Compared to standalone activities, the package provides convenience, knowledgeable guides, and all necessary equipment, making it more accessible and less stressful. The early start and long day are offset by the variety of sights and encounters you’ll get—making it great value for those eager to see Cebu’s highlights in one go.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who thrive on outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for first-time Cebu visitors wanting an efficient way to see marine life and waterfalls without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Nature lovers, underwater photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a memorable, authentic slice of Cebu’s natural beauty will get a lot out of this tour.

While not ideal for very young children or those with certain health issues, the small group size and caring guides ensure a safe and personalized experience for most participants. If you want a balanced day of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insights, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., so be prepared for an early start. The exact time will be confirmed the day before.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, snorkeling gear, life jackets, towels, guide, insurance, entrance fees, bottled water, and optional GoPro rental.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?
While the tour provides snorkeling gear, you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 7 are not allowed, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with certain health concerns.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel, activities, and breaks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the set itinerary is fixed, some tours may offer private options for tailored experiences—contact the provider for details.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera if you have one, hats, sunglasses, and snacks for the journey. Towels and shampoos are provided after snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic mix of marine life encounters and natural scenery, wrapped up in a small-group, guided experience that emphasizes authenticity and comfort. The chance to swim alongside turtles, witness the choreographed movement of sardines, and relax at a stunning waterfall makes it a well-rounded day out. The knowledgeable guides and attention to detail, like providing towels and taking care of underwater photos, elevate the experience from standard to memorable.

While the early start might be a hurdle, the diverse sights and the chance to see Cebu’s underwater and waterfalls in one trip make it highly worthwhile. Perfect for adventurous travelers who want a blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and local culture with the support of experienced guides.

In short, if you’re after an active, authentic, and value-packed day in Cebu, this tour delivers a great mix of adventure and relaxation that you’ll remember long after you’re back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby