Cebu: 2-Day Private Tour Moalboal and Oslob

Planning a trip to Cebu and looking for an adventure-packed yet relaxed way to see the highlights of Southern Cebu? This 2-day private tour offers a personalized look at some of the island’s most iconic spots, from the famous whale sharks in Oslob to the stunning Kawasan Falls and snorkeling with sardines and turtles in Moalboal. It’s a well-balanced mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and culture — all tailored to your pace.

What really sets this tour apart is its private setup — meaning you get a dedicated driver and guide, flexible itinerary options, and skip-the-line access for whale shark encounters. We love how it combines comfort with authentic experiences, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups eager to see Cebu without feeling rushed or overly crowded. One thing to keep in mind: the itinerary is flexible but involves early mornings, so be prepared for an active start to your days.

Three things we particularly like? The personalized service, the chance to snorkel with sardines and turtles in calm waters, and the opportunity to see the majestic whale sharks without the long wait. The only consideration? It’s not suitable for those with serious back problems or colds, given the early starts and water activities.

If you’re after a comfortable, customizable, and value-packed way to explore Southern Cebu’s highlights, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Flexibility and privacy make this tour perfect for personalized experiences.
• Skip queues for whale sharks, saving you time and frustration.
• Snorkeling with sardines, turtles, and whale sharks offers unforgettable marine encounters.
• Comfortable transportation with an English-speaking guide ensures smooth logistics.
• Overnight stay in Moalboal allows you to relax and enjoy the sunset and local vibes.
• Additional activities like Tumalog Falls or Sumilon Island can be added for more adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Kawasan Falls to Moalboal Snorkeling

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cebu City or Mactan, usually around mid-morning. The tour kicks off with a visit to Kawasan Falls, a highlight for many travelers thanks to its stunning emerald-green waters and natural limestone formations. The experience is not just about taking photos — the cool water and lush surroundings make it a refreshing start to your trip.

The operator’s attention to detail shows in their planning; you’ll have support from your driver for memorable photos and some downtime to relax. After Kawasan, the focus shifts to snorkeling in Moalboal, a renowned spot for marine life. You’ll snorkel with sardines and turtles, accompanied by an instructor who ensures safety and helps you get the most from your underwater experience.

Guests have described this part of the tour as “amazing,” with reviewers noting the calm waters and vivid marine life. One reviewer, Hai, shared that the sardine and turtle encounters were “really amazing,” and appreciated the relaxed, private atmosphere of the trip. The sunset in Moalboal offers a perfect backdrop for unwinding, topped off with some of the best local ice cream and relaxing music.

Overnight stays in Moalboal allow you to enjoy the small-town charm, local eateries, and a relaxed vibe that’s different from larger tourist spots. The accommodation is included in the price, making it convenient and straightforward.

Day 2: Whale Sharks and More

Early morning pickup from Moalboal is typical, with the star of the day being the whale shark encounter in Oslob. Thanks to the Express ticket, you can skip the long lines that often bother visitors, giving you more time to enjoy this majestic experience. Reviewers, like the GetYourGuide traveler, mentioned that the whale sharks were very close and the experience “very cool”, with fewer crowds than expected.

The whale shark swim is the highlight for many and is often described as surreal, especially with knowledgeable guides ensuring your safety and comfort. Afterward, there’s flexibility to add on extra stops like Tumalog Falls, Sumilon Island, or even a quick monkey sighting or visit to the nearby church. These add-ons come at extra cost but can enrich your day with more local flavor and scenic beauty.

You’ll be back in Moalboal by mid-afternoon, giving you time to relax and reflect on your marine adventures. This part of the tour allows for a personalized approach, with your driver ready to accommodate your preferences.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

More Great Tours Nearby

Personalization and Comfort

One of the biggest advantages is that this is a private tour. Your driver and guide are dedicated to your group, which means flexible scheduling and the ability to tweak the itinerary if you want to linger longer at a certain spot. Guests like Hai appreciated the adjustability of the schedule and the helpfulness of the driver, Leo, who even showed them local food spots like a renowned lechon restaurant in Carcar.

Ease of Access and Shorter Wait Times

The skip-the-line whale shark tickets are a game-changer, especially during peak season when queues can be long. The express ticket lets you maximize your time in the water and avoid the usual fuss. This focus on efficiency makes the experience less stressful and more enjoyable.

Marine Life Encounters

The snorkeling with sardines, turtles, and whale sharks is what many travelers rave about. The clear waters of Moalboal and Oslob give excellent visibility, and the guides ensure safety while helping you get close to these gentle giants and school of sardines. The fact that reviewers mention “not many people” at the whale sharks means you’re likely to have a more intimate experience than on larger group tours.

Scenic Waterfalls and Local Culture

Kawasan Falls offers more than just a photo opportunity — the cool water and lush surroundings make for a memorable experience. Plus, the optional visits to Tumalog Falls or Sumilon Island let you extend your adventure into lesser-known but equally beautiful spots.

Value and Convenience

At $239 per person, the tour packs in a lot — private transport, guided snorkeling, entrance fees, and accommodation — all arranged in advance. When you consider the hassle-free logistics and personalized service, it delivers quite good value, especially for travelers wanting a stress-free, comprehensive experience.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation and Timing

The tour includes private car transfers, which means you won’t be part of a large group or bus. Pickup times are usually early, around 6:00 AM for the whale shark activity, so early risers will appreciate the dedicated attention. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to customize activities like adding Tumalog Falls or visiting Sumilon Island.

Accommodation

Your overnight stay in Moalboal is included, providing a comfortable base to relax after a day of water adventures. Reviewers mention that the local accommodation is cozy and well-suited for unwinding before your early start the next day.

What to Bring

Expect to carry swimwear, towels, water shoes, cash, and essentials like sunscreen (which the tour advises not to bring to the water). Since sunscreen isn’t allowed during water activities, you might want to apply it beforehand or opt for a reef-safe version.

Important Considerations

• Full names, dates of birth, and nationality info are required 10 hours before for whale shark express tickets.
• The tour is not suitable for those with back problems or colds.
• You can book with the option to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand, offering flexibility if plans change.

Additional Activities and Options

While the core tour is packed, there are optional add-ons like visiting Sumilon Island, Tumalog Falls, or doing monkey watching. These are extra and require upfront payment but can significantly enhance your trip if you have extra time.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience of Southern Cebu’s best attractions with the convenience of private transport and a flexible itinerary. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to avoid crowds, enjoy personalized service, and see marine life up close without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

The inclusion of whale sharks with express tickets, snorkeling adventures, and a comfortable overnight stay makes it an excellent choice for those prioritizing both adventure and comfort. It’s especially good for couples, small families, or friends seeking a mix of wildlife encounters and scenic beauty.

If you’re after a worry-free, authentic Cebu experience that balances nature, culture, and marine life, this tour has you covered.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with water activities and early mornings. The tour involves snorkeling and water-based adventures, so children should be good swimmers.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The whale shark encounter in Oslob with an express ticket is the standout experience, allowing close-up views of these gentle giants without long lines.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour’s schedule can be adjusted based on your preferences, and additional activities like Tumalog Falls or Sumilon Island can be added at extra cost.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling masks and safety gear are included. However, bringing your own might add comfort if you prefer a familiar fit.

Can I visit other attractions like Simala Church or Monkey Watching?
Yes, these are available as optional add-ons but require extra payment and prior arrangement.

What should I pack for the trip?
Swimwear, change of clothes, towel, water shoes, cash, passport or ID, toiletries, and sun protection (applied before water activities).

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
While food isn’t included, you can bring your own snacks and inform your guide of any special dietary needs for meal stops.

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