Whale Shark Watching & Tumalog Falls & Kawasan Falls

If you’re dreaming of a day packed with incredible sights and unforgettable moments in the Philippines, this tour from Cebu might just be your perfect match. It promises to take you on a whirlwind journey through some of Cebu’s most stunning natural attractions—without the need to plan every detail yourself. With a smooth pickup, private transport, and all the key visits included, it’s designed for travelers who want a hassle-free experience that maximizes their time.

One thing we really love about this trip is how it balances adventure with comfort. You get to see the majestic whale sharks from underwater, cool off at Tumalog Falls, and then relax by the famous Kawasan Falls—all in one day. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes the logistics simple and stress-free.

Of course, with a packed itinerary, timing is tight, and some stops are quite brief—so if you’re the type who loves lingering over each sight, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those looking to tick off major highlights efficiently, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially perfect for families or travelers who prefer organized trips over self-planned excursions, and who don’t mind an early start to make the most of the day.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Cover three top attractions in just one day—whale sharks, Tumalog Falls, and Kawasan Falls.
• Hassle-Free Travel: Private, air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off make logistics simple.
• Authentic Natural Encounters: Get close to whale sharks and enjoy stunning waterfalls and scenery.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides and safekeeping ensure a smooth trip.
• Good Value: The price includes all entrance fees, meals, and activities for a comprehensive experience.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel free up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

This trip is a well-rounded introduction to Cebu’s natural beauty, thoughtfully designed so you can experience the highlights without the stress of planning every detail. We loved how the tour balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insight, making it suitable for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants a curated experience.

The early start—mainly around 4:00 am—is necessary to beat the crowds and make the most of your day. Despite the early wake-up, the included private transport, air conditioning, and a friendly guide make the long day comfortable. A standout feature? The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the overall experience.

One of the tour’s biggest selling points is the chance to swim with whale sharks, an extraordinary experience that’s often a highlight for travelers. The tour ensures you get ample time for snorkeling or swimming, with the fee included, so you aren’t rushed or worried about hidden costs.

The waterfalls—Tumalog and Kawasan—are equally mesmerizing. Tumalog’s curtain-like cascades are a cool respite after the early morning activity, and Kawasan’s turquoise waters are perfect for unwinding and taking photos. The inclusion of meals—light breakfast and a hearty lunch—adds to the value, allowing you to enjoy local flavors without extra expense or hassle.

Stop 1: Oslob for Whale Shark Watching

Your adventure begins early, with pickup from your Cebu hotel or residence. You’ll head directly to Oslob, where the chance to see whale sharks up close awaits. This is the most coveted part of the tour, and you can expect to spend around 30 minutes in the water. The experience is designed to be safe and respectful of the sharks, with guides on hand to ensure your safety and help you capture photos.

One reviewer, CoraMae_L, mentioned how their friendly driver Angelo made the journey enjoyable, sharing stories about his family along the way. The guides aren’t just there for safety—they’re knowledgeable about the whales and the environment, adding depth to your understanding of these gentle giants.

Stop 2: Tumalog Falls

Next, you’ll visit Tumalog Falls, just a short drive from Oslob. This spot is a delightful contrast to the whale sharks—cooling, lush, and photogenic. The falls are famous for their delicate, curtain-like cascades that create a misty, refreshing atmosphere. Expect about an hour here, giving you enough time to take photos, dip in the cool waters, or simply soak in the views.

According to reviews, guides are friendly and informative, making sure you don’t miss the best angles for photos or the safest spots to swim. Keep in mind, Tumalog Falls is closed every 2nd Wednesday—so plan your trip accordingly.

Stop 3: Kawasan Falls

The final stop is arguably the most iconic. Kawasan Falls is about an hour from Oslob, nestled in the hills of southern Cebu. The turquoise waters and multi-tiered waterfalls are often described as postcard-perfect. You’ll have about two hours here, enough time to relax, swim, and maybe snap some truly memorable photos.

This attraction is closed every 3rd Wednesday for a clean-up, so plan your visit accordingly. Reviewers noted the cleanliness and beautiful scenery, confirming that Kawasan is worth the journey. It’s a popular spot, so expect some crowds, but the scenery more than makes up for it.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The price of $360 for a group of up to three people is quite reasonable when you consider the comprehensive nature of the tour. It covers all major entrance fees, a light breakfast, a full lunch, and equipment for snorkeling or swimming with whale sharks. The private, air-conditioned vehicle is a definite highlight, ensuring comfort during longer drives between locations.

However, if you want to record your underwater moments with a camera, you’ll need to rent an underwater camera (about P1000 for a GoPro and SD card), which adds a small extra cost. Also, the tour is exclusive to your group, making the experience more personalized.

Timing & Practical Tips

The tour starts early at 4:00 am, so be prepared for a long day. It’s essential to have moderate physical fitness—much of the activity involves swimming, walking, and jumping in waterfalls. The early start is designed to avoid crowds and maximize your time at each location, but it does mean waking up before dawn.

The tour is well-suited for those who prioritize convenience and efficiency. With pickup from Cebu City or Mactan Island, you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics or parking. The tour also offers flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for bookings.

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides—like Julie, who was praised for her helpfulness. The driver Sammy also received compliments for his safe driving. These personal touches really enhance the trip, making it feel less like a rushed excursion and more like a guided adventure.

CoraMae_L appreciated how Angelo shared stories about his family, adding a personal element to the journey. Krit highlighted the overall good management, from planning to execution, particularly praising the whale shark experience as “fantastic.”

This experience is ideal if you’re after a full day of natural highlights without the hassle of self-organizing transport or tickets. Families, first-time visitors, or travelers with limited time in Cebu will find this tour offers great value and convenience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water activities and picturesque scenery but prefer a guided, organized approach to maximize time and safety.

Given the early start, it’s best suited for early risers rather than night owls. If you’re looking for a leisurely, all-day adventure with experienced guides, this tour ticks all those boxes.

In a nutshell, this tour offers an efficient, well-organized way to experience Cebu’s most iconic natural attractions. The combination of whale shark encounters, stunning waterfalls, and scenic landscapes makes it a comprehensive introduction to the region’s beauty. The inclusion of hotel pickup, private transport, meals, and guided support adds significant value, especially considering the ease of logistics.

It’s perfect for travelers who want a safe, engaging, and memorable day without the stress of planning every detail themselves. The guides’ warmth and knowledge shine through in reviews, making the experience not just scenic but also educational and personable.

While it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting to linger longer at each spot, the overall value, diversity of sights, and hassle-free setup make this tour a fantastic choice for those looking to see the best of Cebu in one go.

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:00 am, so be prepared for an early wake-up call to maximize your day.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at any hotel, resort, or residence in Cebu City or Mactan Island.

What is included in the price?
The price includes private air-conditioned transportation, all activity fees (snorkeling/swimming with whale sharks, waterfalls), government taxes, service charges, meals (light breakfast and full lunch), and guide services.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is family-friendly, but physical activity levels should be considered.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments (note: camera rental available for P1000). Also, pack some snacks or additional water if you wish.

Is the tour suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with swimming and walking, you’ll enjoy the sights without issue.

This tour from Cebu offers a balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and convenience, making it a fantastic way to spend a day exploring the highlights of the region.