Oslob Whale Shark, Aguinid Falls & Moalboal Snorkeling

Travelers looking for a day packed with diverse activities and stunning sights in South Cebu will find this tour to be a compelling option. It combines the thrill of swimming alongside gentle whale sharks, the beauty of cascading waterfalls, and vibrant underwater life—all in one seamless itinerary.

What sets this tour apart is its balance of adventure and comfort, with knowledgeable guides, well-coordinated logistics, and opportunities to experience Cebu’s most iconic sights. However, it’s a long day with early starts and a fair amount of driving, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy active excursions and don’t mind a packed schedule.

If you’re after an authentic, value-packed way to see Cebu’s highlights, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of South Cebu’s top attractions. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day and experience a variety of natural wonders without the hassle of organizing separate trips.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Combines whale shark swimming, Aguinid Falls, and Moalboal snorkeling in a single day.
• Expert Guides and Smooth Logistics: Well-organized with knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and interesting insights.
• Early Start, Long Day: Depart between 3-4 am, returning around 7 pm—perfect for full-day adventurers.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Includes local lunch and visits to less crowded, scenic spots.
• High Value for Price: At $120 per person, the tour offers a diverse itinerary with all major fees included.
• Optional Add-ons: GoPro rental and zipline available at extra cost, providing further adventure options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look: What to Expect from This Tour

Early Morning Departure and Transportation

The tour kicks off between 3 am and 4 am, depending on your pickup location (Cebu City or Mactan). While this early start might seem daunting, it’s necessary to beat the crowds and make the most of the daylight. The private transportation is comfortable and efficient, with a dedicated driver and guide who help keep the day flowing smoothly. Expect a roughly 3-hour drive through scenic Cebu countryside, giving you a taste of the local landscape early on.

Swimming with Whale Sharks in Oslob

Once in Oslob, the highlight is undoubtedly the whale shark encounter. You’ll register beforehand and then have around 30-45 minutes in the water to observe and swim alongside these gentle giants. Many reviewers, like Alexandra, describe this as “the most amazing experience,” noting how close and calm the whale sharks are during the swim.

The guides are experienced and provide safety instructions, making it accessible even for non-swimmers. The encounter is mostly in shallow waters, but it’s important to note that this activity is not recommended for pregnant women or those uncomfortable in deep water, according to the tour info.

Aguinid Falls Adventure

Next, it’s off to Samboan to explore the multi-tiered Aguinid Falls. The journey involves a climbing adventure through natural cascades, which can take around 11.5 hours depending on your pace and the guide’s schedule. The experience is both invigorating and scenic, with the chance to enjoy the cool, refreshing water and spectacular views of the waterfall system.

A guide is provided to help navigate the trails and ensure safety. Many visitors mention that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding a lot to the experience. Alexandra calls this “the coolest and most beautiful waterfall location I’ve been,” highlighting how photogenic and peaceful this spot is away from crowds.

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Lunch and Rest at Base Camp in Badian

After the waterfalls, you’ll enjoy a local lunch at a base camp in Badian. The meal typically features Filipino staples, giving a taste of authentic cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s an excellent chance to rest, recharge, and share stories with fellow travelers. The tour allows time for guests to freshen up and relax before heading into the afternoon activities.

Snorkeling in Moalboal

Post-lunch, the adventure continues with snorkeling in Moalboal. This spot is famous for the sardine run, where thousands of sardines create a shimmering, swirling mass that’s mesmerizing. You’ll also visit the turtle sanctuary, where chances of swimming alongside sea turtles are high—an experience many find deeply memorable.

The snorkeling gear (mask, tube, vest) is provided, but it’s recommended to bring your own if you have sensitive skin or want a better fit. Expect around 1.5-2 hours in the water, with guides helping you spot marine life and ensuring safety. Many travelers, including Alexandra, mention how remarkable it is to see such vibrant marine life up close, with one describing it as “swimming with turtles and thousands of sardines” as a highlight.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a late afternoon drive back to Cebu City or Mactan, arriving around 7 pm. It’s a full day, but with so many diverse experiences, it’s often rated as worth the long hours by those who love active days.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $120 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering all included activities and entrance fees. The cost covers private transportation, guides, snorkeling gear, and government environmental fees, which can quickly add up if you plan to do each activity independently.

The tour’s inclusivity means you don’t have to worry about extra costs or organizing transportation, making it a hassle-free way to see some of Cebu’s best spots. For those who love a busy day of adventure and new experiences, this price tag is quite reasonable.

Why the Tour Works Well for Travelers

The carefully curated schedule maximizes your time, ensuring you hit the top highlights without feeling rushed. The early start is necessary to avoid crowds, especially at the whale shark site, which is a big plus for those wanting a more intimate encounter.

Reviewers like Alexandra also appreciated the knowledgeable guides, who made the experience more engaging and safe. Many mention how the scenic views and friendly atmosphere made the long day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water—it’s a long, sunny day.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and aqua shoes—some activities involve climbing and walking in water.
• Carry a change of clothes and towels for after snorkeling and waterfall activities.
• A waterproof camera or GoPro is optional but highly recommended for capturing underwater moments.
• Snacks and extra water can be helpful, especially during the long wait times between activities.
• Avoid bringing cigarettes or smoking—it’s explicitly not allowed, respecting environmental rules.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers eager to experience diverse natural attractions in one go. It suits active travelers comfortable with early mornings, physical activity, and water-based adventures.

If you’re looking for a memorable, all-day excursion that combines wildlife encounters, waterfalls, and marine life, this is a solid choice. The experience is both authentic and well-organized, thanks to guides who know the area and prioritize safety.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, those with back conditions or non-swimmers, due to the physical nature and water activities involved. The long day and early start might also be a challenge for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace.

In all, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Cebu’s top sights with minimal fuss, making it a worthwhile addition to your trip if you enjoy active, nature-filled days.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While non-swimmers can enjoy much of the tour, swimming with whale sharks and snorkeling do require comfort in deep water. It’s best for those who are confident in the water or willing to wear life vests.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup is between 2:00 am and 4:00 am, depending on your location, and you’ll usually return around 7 pm.

Are the activities weather-dependent?
Yes, all activities are subject to weather conditions and may be adjusted for safety, especially water-based ones.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local lunch is included at the Badian base camp, giving you a taste of authentic Filipino cuisine.

Is the tour private or group-based?
This is a private tour, with no minimum number of participants, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I rent a GoPro or other camera?
Yes, GoPro rental is available at PHP 550 if you wish to capture underwater moments.

Is there an option to add activities like ziplining?
Optional activities like ziplining are available at extra cost, but not included in the standard package.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like hats, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, change of clothes, water shoes, snacks, and a waterproof camera if desired.

This day tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, waterfalls, and marine encounters, all wrapped into an accessible and well-organized package. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to Cebu, it promises a memorable slice of what South Cebu has to offer.

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