Oslob: Whaleshark Swimming, Inambakan Falls & Moalboal Tour

Experiencing the beauty of Cebu through this tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, scenic waterfalls, and vibrant marine life. With a 4.4-star rating based on 17 reviews, this day-long adventure promises both excitement and tranquility. We’re here to give you an honest, detailed look at what to expect, what’s worth your time, and what could be better.

If you’re eager to see whale sharks in their natural habitat, marvel at stunning waterfalls, and snorkel alongside colorful schools of sardines and turtles, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, it’s important to consider the potential for long hours and some variable conditions, such as water quality at the sardine run. This experience suits travelers who value guided insights, diverse sights, and a full day of activity without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Balance of wildlife and scenic experiences makes this tour ideal for nature lovers.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and safety throughout each stop.
• Long hours may require good planning for meals and rest.
• Variable water conditions and extra charges at some sites are worth noting.
• Round-trip transportation simplifies logistics and adds convenience.
• The price of $107 offers good value for a packed day of activities.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This all-in-one adventure packs in three unique experiences—swimming with whale sharks, exploring a lush waterfall, and snorkeling in Moalboal’s vibrant reefs. Each element is designed to give you a broad taste of Cebu’s natural beauty, with guides providing insights that enrich your understanding.

The Whale Shark Encounter: Awe-Inspiring and Well-Organized

The tour kicks off with the star activity: watching and swimming with the gentle giants of the sea. Departing from Oslob, you’ll board a comfortable boat and head into the waters where whale sharks glide effortlessly beneath you. Guides like Eric, mentioned in reviews for being friendly and punctual, help ensure safety and fun. Expect about 2 hours at this site, with a guided tour that explains the creatures’ behaviors and conservation efforts.

While some may find the experience surreal, a couple of reviews mention the water quality being less than perfect—“the water at the sardine run was very very dirty,” one reviewer noted, which led to skin irritation. It’s a reminder that nature isn’t always pristine and that safety and comfort can vary depending on conditions. Still, seeing these massive, peaceful creatures in their natural habitat remains a highlight for many travelers.

Inambakan Falls: Scenic Serenity

Next, you’ll trek through the lush landscape to reach Inambakan Falls. The journey involves walking along winding paths surrounded by tropical flora, which is part of the appeal for nature lovers. The waterfall itself offers a breathtaking view and a chance to cool off in its crystal-clear pool. Reviewers have shared that they were the only visitors there, enjoying a peaceful moment away from crowds, which enhances the sense of exclusivity and tranquility.

A reviewer appreciated the “beautiful waterfall” and wished more time could be spent exploring it. However, the guide’s decision not to wait longer at the falls means you might want to plan your day accordingly if this stop excites you most.

Snorkeling in Moalboal: Colorful Marine Life and Turtles

The final stop takes you to Moalboal, famed for its spectacular underwater scenes. After a guided briefing, snorkelers can expect to swim among millions of sardines, a spectacle that’s hard to match elsewhere. Plus, there’s a good chance to encounter turtles, adding to the excitement.

Snorkeling gear is included, but reviewers note that conditions can vary—“the water was very dirty at the sardine run,” which affected skin health for some. The reefs are teeming with colorful fish and coral formations, making this a visual feast. Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about marine ecosystems, which adds depth to the experience.

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Itinerary Breakdown: A Day Packed with Highlights

Pickup and Departure

The tour offers eight pickup points, including Cebu City, Mandaue, Talisay, Moalboal, and others. This flexibility allows travelers from different areas to join easily. The pickup window usually starts early, around 5-6 am, to maximize the day’s activities.

Whale Shark Watching

Arriving at the Oslob whaleshark watching area, you’ll spend about two hours participating in guided snorkeling and swimming. The boat rental and entrance fees are included, so the focus remains on enjoying the experience. The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and punctuality, which makes the process smooth.

Inambakan Falls

Following the marine adventure, you’ll head to Inambakan Falls. Expect a roughly 2-hour stop involving walking, sightseeing, and swimming. The lush surroundings and the sound of cascading water provide a calming contrast to the morning’s excitement. Some reviews mention that guides did not want to wait longer, so if exploring the waterfall thoroughly matters to you, consider planning your own additional time.

Snorkeling in Moalboal

The final stretch involves another 2 hours in Moalboal, with guided snorkeling and the chance to swim alongside sardines and sea turtles. The tour includes gear rental, but water conditions can influence overall enjoyment.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day, the tour concludes with drop-offs at your hotel or a nearby location, making post-trip logistics straightforward.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included:

• Guided tours at each site
• Boat rental and entrance fees for whale shark watching
• Entrance to Inambakan Falls
• Snorkeling gear rental for Moalboal
• Knowledgeable local guides
• Round-trip transportation from your accommodation

Not Included:

• Meals and beverages (bring your own or plan to eat afterward)
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Any additional activities outside the itinerary

This setup offers good value, especially considering the transportation logistics and guided support. The $107 price covers a lot of ground, but keep in mind that you may want to budget for extra snacks or souvenirs.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring a change of clothes, towel, waterproof camera, and biodegradable sunscreen—waterproof bags are also handy.
• Be prepared for early mornings, especially if you’re coming from the city.
• If water quality is a concern, especially at the sardine run, consider whether snorkeling here is right for you.
• The guides are helpful with safety, but always listen carefully and follow their instructions.
• Plan for some downtime after the tour to rest or explore more on your own.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler shared that they were the only visitors at both the whale shark and waterfall stops, which made for a very peaceful experience. However, another pointed out that the water at the sardine run was “very, very dirty,” leading to skin irritation, which is worth considering if you have sensitive skin.

Another reviewer had a frustrating experience with unexpected extra charges for equipment rental—“they charged an extra 50 euro for gear.” This highlights the importance of clarifying costs beforehand to avoid surprises.

This experience suits travelers interested in marine wildlife and scenic landscapes who don’t mind a long day with multiple stops. If you enjoy guided tours with educational commentary, you’ll appreciate the guides’ insights. The tour is ideal for those who want a cost-effective, comprehensive day without needing to arrange separate trips.

However, those seeking pristine water conditions or a more relaxed pace at each site might find some frustrations—particularly with the variable water quality and the pace of the itinerary. It’s also important to be comfortable with early mornings and the possibility of extra charges.

This tour offers a balanced combination of adventure and relaxation, packed into a single day. While some water conditions and extra costs are worth noting, the guided approach ensures you gain a broad understanding of Cebu’s marine and land environments. The opportunity to see whale sharks, explore waterfalls, and snorkel among the sardines makes it a compelling choice for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

If you’re after value for money and authentic experiences in Cebu, this tour is a solid pick. Just come prepared for a full day, bring your sense of adventure, and enjoy the stunning natural sights this beautiful part of the Philippines has to offer.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your accommodation is included, making it easy to join without logistics worries.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Expect about 2 hours at each main activity: whale shark watching, Inambakan Falls, and snorkeling in Moalboal.

Are guides available during all activities?
Yes, knowledgeable local guides accompany you throughout, providing insights and ensuring safety.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, waterproof camera, biodegradable sunscreen, toiletries, and a waterproof bag.

Can I join this tour from anywhere in Cebu?
Yes, with 8 different pickup options, the tour is flexible for travelers staying in Cebu City, Mandaue, Talisay, Moalboal, and nearby areas.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not provided, so plan to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price, but the water conditions can vary.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Cebu’s most iconic sights. It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine wildlife encounters with scenic views, and who appreciate guided support and practical logistics. With a reasonable price point and diverse activities, it delivers a memorable day that showcases the natural wonders of the Philippines.

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