Philippines, Cebu is one of the richest islands in the Philippines and a diverse place when it comes to culture, history, and tourist destinations. However, the best part of Cebu can be found in the southern area. If you are into something rare and extravagant, this is a place you should definitely consider.
Here’s to uncover the extraordinary experience in Southern Cebu, the meet and greet of the mesmerizing gentle giant of the ocean; the whale shark or locally called Butanding and the jaw-dropping adventure in the Philippine’s famous Kawasan falls.
WATCHING & SWIMMING WITH THE BUTANDING
This attraction is nestled in the humble town of Oslob, specifically in Barangay Tan-awan. This activity has been controversial back in 2012-2013 due to some environmentalist and animal protectors claiming that the activity harms the welfare of the whale sharks especially a lot of tourist are now interested in close interaction with the butanding, it was stopped for some couple of days however chairman of the Economic Development Committee (EDC) Mr. Robert Go appealed and it was granted for continuation as he explained that there are no ecological threats both in animals and humans during the interaction.
If you wish to visit Cebu, take note of Oslob, the whale shark experience is one of a kind and will surely bring much excitement for everyone who wishes to experience extraordinary joining the wilds under the ocean.
Now here’s how to experience the adventure:
- Book a flight to Mactan Airport.
- Take a taxi for a 30-minute ride to the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City (estimated fare: 300 PHP/ 6 USD)
- Get on a bus bound for Oslob (3-hour travel, estimated fare: 180 PHP/3.60 USD)
- Get off at Brgy. Tan-Awan and look for the briefing area
TIp: I recommend that you take the bus as early as 4:30 AM to avoid traffic in Cebu which could make that 3-hour ride even longer. So it is better to at least take a flight on Cebu on the night before your Oslob escapade so you can easily go to the bus terminal early in the morning.
You don’t have to pay for any third party agency for booking a tour. On the place itself, they are collecting payments directly. The price is for 500 PHP/10 USD for Filipinos and 1000 PHP/20 USD for foreign nationals, and that includes a 30 minutes interaction with the butanding, a life-vest, and snorkeling gear.
Note: Plan your trip ahead of time if you wish to visit Oslob for whale shark watching. The activity is only available between 8 AM to 12:30 PM. You may contact the tourism office of Oslob at (032) 481 905.
Additional tips:
- Bring extra clothes and some extra money
- Don’t forget your bath towel
- Have your underwater camera ready and your waterproof bags
- Travel with loved ones and friends
Here is something you should also consider in visiting Oslob which we really regret we were not able to go to because of the time hindrance, the majestic Sumilon Island which is only 10-15 minutes small pump boat ride from Oslob’s port. You can rent a boat that will take you to the island from the port for less than 500PHP/10USD. The island offers a beautiful stretch of white sand and priceless tranquility. You can also do snorkeling or just have some relaxing moment by its turquoise blue water. On the island, there is only 1 exclusive resort which is Sumilon Blue Water Island Resort if you wish to spend overnight in paradise.
ONE OF THE FINEST: THE KAWASAN FALLS IN BADIAN, CEBU
Kawasan Falls is a gem located in Barangay Matutinao, Badian. Kawasan Falls is actually divided into two major falls. The other has a height of 40 meters, while the second one has a height of 20 meters, both offer cold, refreshing, and turquoise water and tranquil scenery. The falls is hidden in the middle of the forest which makes it really promising for adventure goers.
From Oslob there’s a lot of options to go to Kawasan Falls, however, I and my friends charted a tricycle which we haggled the price down to 1200PHP/24USD and it took us an hour of a trip. Take note that there is no direct bus from Oslob to Kawasan Falls. However, there are services departing from Oslob and arriving at Matutinao via Bato. The journey, including transfers will take approximately 2h 47m of travel, so if you wish to save time just like us I highly suggest charter a tricycle or any local rides, in that way you can also support the locals in their livelihood.
From the drop point going to the Kawasan Falls itself, you have to walk for 1.5 km. The trail going in is easy and relaxed. You’ll be greeted by a cold breeze from the falls and the locals who will definitely offer you some goods and handcrafted products as souvenirs.
The entrance fee in Kawasan Falls is 45PHP/1USD. In the area they also offer foods and drinks. Kawasan Falls offers also an adrenaline-pumping canyoneering adventure for those who are born with so much courage. The price is for 1500PHP/30USD per head which includes a tour guide, safety gears like life vests, helmet, and aqua shoes, a full lunch and transportation to and from the jump-off point and it are for 3 hours of an extreme and epic experience.
I and my friends choose not to grab the canyoneering temptation, however, we tried the bamboo rafting under the falls. It is quite scary but so much fun. The water splash on your back will make you feel that you are getting a full back massage, so soothing.
Tips:
- Bring extra cash and clothes
- Make sure your camera is ready
- Maintain cleanliness in the area
- Respect the locals
- Be friendly to everyone
Going back from Kawasan to Cebu City is easy, walk back to the main road where the entrance sign to the Falls is and wait for the bus returning from Bato to Cebu City via Barili. The fare is 150PHP/3USD and will take a 3-hour journey.
Tip: The last trip of the bus is around 7 pm so make sure to at least adjust your time or I recommend leaving the area as early as 5 pm. Alternatively, there are also some hotels nearby if you wish to stay overnight.
WRAPPING UP OUR SOUTHERN CEBU ESCAPADE
Overall Southern Cebu is everything special and extraordinary. You can also trek and chill on Osmena peak. Sardine run and sea turtle adventure in Moalboal. Witness the amazing coral sanctuary of Pescador Island. Visit the most religious and miraculous place in Cebu; the Simala Shrine. Or grab the famous Lechon and chicharon in Carcar City which is absolutely a must try.
If you wish to take a break from city life and be with the wild, or if you just want to unwind and de-stress, or in need to take a breath of new places, put southern Cebu on the top of your list. Rest assured, you’ll never run out of things to do while you are in Southern Cebu.