Oslob Whale Shark & Moalboal Tours

Experience the ultimate ocean adventure: Swim with gentle giants, witness the mesmerizing sardine run, and glide alongside wild sea turtles in one unforgettable day.

Disclaimer: This is not an official website. All content is for informational purposes only. We may earn commission from bookings.

12-14 Hours
1 Languages
Small groups & Private options
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place

Experience

The Ultimate Cebu Marine Adventure

This comprehensive day tour combines the southern Philippines' most iconic marine encounters into a single seamless itinerary. Starting with an early morning drive from Cebu City, you'll arrive in Oslob to witness the majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat. Unlike other destinations where sightings are rare, Oslob offers a 99% chance of swimming alongside these gentle giants. The adventure continues to Moalboal, home to the world-famous 'Sardine Run'—a year-round phenomenon where millions of silver fish move in unison like a living underwater wall. You'll also explore the vibrant coral reefs of Pescador Island (weather permitting) or Panagsama Beach to snorkel with resident green sea turtles. With round-trip transportation and logistics managed by expert local partners, you can focus entirely on the experience.

99% Sighting
Whale Sharks
Millions
Sardine Run
4.7/5
Guest Rating
Private
Transfers

Why Book Through Our Platform

Verified Operators

We partner exclusively with DOT-accredited tour providers who adhere to strict marine life interaction guidelines

Hassle-Free Logistics

Skip the confusing public bus schedules—our partners provide comfortable, air-conditioned private transfers from your hotel

Authentic Reviews

Read thousands of real experiences from travelers who have actually taken this specific tour route

Best Price Guarantee

We compare rates across top providers to ensure you get the best deal for this multi-stop adventure

Small Group Focus

Avoid overcrowded tourist buses with options for private cars or small group vans for a more personalized experience

24/7 Support

Get instant confirmation and round-the-clock assistance for any itinerary changes or questions

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks
Moalboal Sardine Run
Sea Turtle Habitats
DOT-Certified Guides
Insurance Coverage

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

Strict Rules
NO SUNSCREEN allowed (rash guard recommended)
No touching marine life
Mandatory safety briefing
What to Bring
GoPro/Waterproof camera
Towel & change of clothes
Cash for local fees/lunch
Water shoes
Physical Level
Moderate swimming ability
Early morning wake-up
Boat ladders to climb
Weather Policy
Rain or shine activity
Typhoon cancellations fully refunded

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Book at least 3 days in advance
  • Choose a weekday if possible to avoid local crowds
  • Request a breakfast stop at a Jollibee or local bakery on the way

What to Bring

  • Swimwear
  • Rash Guard
  • Towel
  • Waterproof Camera
  • Cash
  • Change of Clothes

Best Seasons to Visit

Year-round availability. Best weather is Dry Season (December to May).

What to Wear

Rash guard (REQUIRED for Oslob)|Swimwear|Water shoes (for rocky areas)|Dry change of clothes

Planning

Historical Context

The Spanish-era Cuartel ruins in Oslob date back to the 1860s, offering a glimpse into the colonial past.

Photography Tips

  • Turn off flash (mandatory)
  • Use a red filter for underwater shots
  • Shoot video for the moving sardine ball

Insider Tips

  • Sit on the left side of the van for sunrise views over the ocean
  • Rent fins in Moalboal for better diving down to the sardines
  • Bring a waterproof phone pouch

Our Partners

  • In partnership with Viator and top Cebu operators.

Fun Facts

  • Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, growing up to 40 feet long.
  • The Moalboal sardine run is one of the only ones in the world that is accessible from the shore year-round.

Cancellation Policy

Full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start date.

Social Media

Share your experience: #OslobWhaleSharks #MoalboalSardineRun #CebuTravel #Philippines

Explore More

More Things to Do in Oslob

Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
USA • 2025-12-15

Highlight of our Philippines trip!

The driver picked us up promptly at 3:30 AM in a clean, private van. The whale shark experience was surreal—they are huge! Moalboal was actually my favorite part; swimming through the sardine run felt like being in a movie. Highly recommend bringing a GoPro.

W
Wei Liu
China • 2026-01-08

Efficient and safe

Very well organized. We were worried about the crowds in Oslob, but our guide managed to get us a boat quickly. The 'no sunscreen' rule is strict, so buy a rash guard before you go. The turtles in Moalboal were very friendly.

H
Hans Muller
Germany • 2025-11-20

Long day but worth it

It is a very long drive (3.5 hours one way), but seeing the whale sharks is a bucket list item. The sardine run is just off the shore, which was surprising. Good value for money considering the distance.

M
Maria Gonzales
Spain • 2026-02-02

Incredible nature

Tumalog Falls was breathtaking, like Avatar! The guides were so helpful with my elderly mother. The snorkeling gear provided was decent quality. A must-do if you are in Cebu.

L
Liam Smith
Australia • 2025-10-30

Great guides, early start

You have to wake up insanely early, but it beats the traffic. The whale shark watching is a bit chaotic with many boats, but once you look underwater, it's magical. Moalboal was much more relaxed.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know for your journey

Experience

Ready for Adventure?

Join thousands of happy travelers who have discovered this incredible experience

Book Your Experience Now
4.9/5
Free Cancellation
24/7 Support