Getting around Dumaguete City is straightforward with several well-organized tours. The standout experiences begin with the Siquijor Island Tour, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The English-language city tours offer intimate local connections and deep cultural insights. Keep in mind the Half Day City Tour has mixed reviews, but covers essential sights efficiently.
Two tours really shine: The Oslob Whaleshark experience offers unforgettable marine encounters, while the Casaroro Falls & Twin Lakes combo delivers pristine natural beauty with expert guidance. For serious adventurers, the Full Day Apo Island Tour packs tremendous value with its rich marine life viewing.
Let’s explore our picks for the best tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
- The Dumaguete Tours in English led by guide James is highly rated with a 5.0 score and offers a flexible, personalized full-day itinerary.
- The Dumaguete Oslob Whaleshark Tour by CTPH TOUR provides comprehensive inclusions, including van transfers, guide services, and lunch, making it a top choice for adventure seekers.
- The Full Day Apo Island Tour From Dumaguete offers an intimate and personalized marine life experience, featuring snorkeling with equipment provided and the opportunity to observe sea turtles.
- The Dumaguete Half Day City Tour covers the main attractions, but past guests have complained about the tour guide’s absence and lack of engagement, as well as the high price without lunch.
- The Siquijor Island Tour provides a private guided tour to explore natural wonders, but past guests have reported communication and service issues.
Siquijor Island Tour From Dumaguete
Although it’s a quick day trip from Dumaguete City, the Siquijor Island Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the mystical island’s natural wonders.
This private guided tour includes transportation, lunch, and all entrance fees, allowing you to fully experience the highlights of the island.
Visit the Salagdoong Forest Reserve, a lush sanctuary home to diverse flora and fauna, and witness the captivating Cambugahay Falls, where you can opt to take a bamboo raft ride.
Explore the centuries-old Balete Tree, said to be enchanted, and enjoy some local shopping.
The tour includes pickup from your Dumaguete City accommodation between 6:30 and 7:00 AM.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps, it’s a private experience tailored to your group.
However, past guests have reported issues with communication and service, so it’s important to have realistic expectations when booking.
Read our full review: Siquijor Island Tour From Dumaguete Review
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Dumaguete Tours in English
Dumaguete Tours in English offers visitors a comprehensive and personalized exploration of the city’s top attractions. Highly rated with a 5.0 overall score from 17 reviews, the private tour is led by the knowledgeable and friendly guide, James.
Travelers praise the tour for its flexibility, with pickup in a comfortable air-conditioned SUV from flexible points around the city.
The full-day itinerary includes visits to the stunning Pulangbato Falls, the serene Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, and the rejuvenating Red Rock Hot Springs. Admission fees are covered, allowing a seamless experience.
Highlights of the tour include the Baslay Coffee Forest, where guests can learn about local coffee production.
Priced at $189 per group (up to 4 people), the tour offers excellent value, with food and drinks included.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a personalized and hassle-free way to discover Dumaguete’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Dumaguete Tours in English Review
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Dumaguete Half Day City Tour
For those seeking a more concise exploration of Dumaguete’s highlights, the Dumaguete Half Day City Tour provides a convenient and accessible option. This 3-hour private tour covers the city’s main attractions, including a tour guide, air-conditioned land transfer, and entrance fees.
The tour departs at 9:00 am and is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
However, based on the single review provided, the execution of this tour seems to have fallen short of expectations. The tour guide failed to show up, and the driver lacked the necessary knowledge and engagement to provide a satisfactory experience.
Plus, the lunch promised as an inclusion wasn’t provided, despite the $188 price tag. Customers are advised to contact the operator directly for any complaints or requests for refunds.
Read our full review: Dumaguete Half Day City Tour Review
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Dumaguete Oslob Whaleshark Tour
What makes the Dumaguete Oslob Whaleshark Tour a popular choice for visitors to Dumaguete City? The tour, operated by CTPH TOUR, offers a comprehensive experience that includes van transfers, barge fees, guide services, lunch, and all necessary entrance fees and tickets.
Priced from $161.80 per person, the tour provides a low-price guarantee and a private group experience. Pickup is available from select locations within Dumaguete City, with a surcharge for pickups outside the city.
The tour departs at 6:00 AM, providing ample time to witness the majestic whalesharks in Oslob. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes infants who can sit on laps.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience with no penalty, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
With its comprehensive inclusions, competitive pricing, and flexible policies, the Dumaguete Oslob Whaleshark Tour stands out as a top choice for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Dumaguete City.
Read our full review: Dumaguete Oslob Whaleshark Tour Review
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Dumaguete Casaroro Falls & Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes Tour
The Dumaguete Casaroro Falls & Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the natural wonders beyond the city’s bustling streets. This private tour takes guests to the stunning 100-foot drop of Casaroro Falls and the serene Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao.
Travelers will be picked up from their Dumaguete city address and enjoy land transfers, lunch, and bottled water throughout the day. An outdoor guide will lead the way, ensuring safe navigation through the trails and river crossings.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps. Confirmation is provided at booking, and the tour is a private experience for only your group.
Pricing starts at $172.06 per person, with the lowest price guarantee, though there’s a surcharge for locations outside Dumaguete. It’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, so no refunds are available for cancellations.
Read our full review: Dumaguete Casaroro Falls & Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes Tour Review
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Full Day Apo Island Tour From Dumaguete
Discover the captivating underwater world of Apo Island on this full-day tour from Dumaguete. Priced at $145 per person, this excursion immerses you in the vibrant marine life and pristine beaches of this renowned diving destination.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide.
Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a boat ride to Apo Island, where you’ll dive into the crystal-clear waters with snorkeling equipment provided. Witness the diverse array of coral reefs and encounter playful sea turtles up close.
Enjoy a delicious lunch before exploring the island’s scenic hiking trails and beaches.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate and revel in the tour’s highlights, such as exceptional underwater photography and warm hospitality from the crew.
Feedback suggests that this tour provides excellent value, though alternative options at lower costs may be worth considering.
Read our full review: Full Day Apo Island Tour From Dumaguete Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Mode of Transportation in Dumaguete City?
The best mode of transportation in Dumaguete City is public jeepneys or tricycles. They’re affordable, readily available, and allow visitors to explore the city’s attractions efficiently. Taxis and car rentals are also options for those seeking more convenience.
Are There Any Local Festivals or Events to Attend in Dumaguete?
Dumaguete City hosts several lively local festivals and events. The Sandurot Festival in September is a vibrant celebration of the city’s culture and history. Visitors can also enjoy the annual Buglasan Festival, a multi-day event featuring music, dance, and food.
What Are the Recommended Dining Options in the City Center?
Dumaguete City’s downtown area offers a variety of dining options, from local seafood restaurants to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy flavorful Filipino dishes, as well as Western-style fare, in cozy cafes and lively eateries throughout the city center.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Multiple Tours?
Many tour operators offer discounts or package deals for booking multiple tours together. Tourists can often save money by bundling activities like city tours, island hopping, and outdoor adventures. Some companies even provide special rates for group bookings.
What Is the Average Cost of a Day Tour in Dumaguete?
The average cost of a day tour in Dumaguete typically ranges from ₱1,500 to ₱2,000 per person. Prices may vary depending on the specific tour package, number of participants, and additional services included.
The Sum Up
Dumaguete offers a diverse array of tours to suit any traveler’s interests. From island hopping to waterfall hikes, visitors can explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Whether it’s a half-day city tour or a full-day adventure, Dumaguete’s tour options provide an immersive and unforgettable experience. Travelers are sure to find the perfect tour to create lasting memories of their time in this vibrant Philippine city.