Embark on an unforgettable outdoor journey at the stunning Kawasan Falls, one of Cebu's most popular natural attractions. This thrilling canyoneering adventure will take you through the lush landscapes and turquoise waters of Badian, Cebu. Your experience begins with a safety briefing and gearing up with a life jacket, helmet, and aqua shoes. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will leap off cliffs, swim in freshwater pools, slide between canyon walls, and witness the majestic waterfalls from different angles. The final drop at Kawasan Falls, with its picturesque cascading waters, provides a refreshing reward after an adrenaline-packed activity. This is a must-try for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an immersive experience in the Philippines.
Just a few hours' drive from Cebu City, Oslob has gained international fame for its whale shark watching activities. In this unique and educational encounter, participants have the chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. While the safety of both the whale sharks and participants is a priority, this activity allows for snorkeling and swimming in close proximity to the world's largest fish. After meeting the whale sharks, guests can visit the nearby Tumalog Falls, a picture-perfect cascade nestled in a verdant forest. The falls create a serene and inviting natural pool, perfect for a refreshing dip to cap off the adventure. This activity combines the thrill of marine life interaction with the relaxation of a waterfall retreat.
Located in the hilly landscape of southern Cebu, Simala Shrine is a towering castle-like structure that is a place of worship and pilgrimage for many Filipinos. Known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, it's home to the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary which is believed to have performed miracles, including the spontaneous weeping of a statue of Mary in 1998. The shrine offers a peaceful and reflective environment where visitors can light candles for prayer intentions, attend Mass, or simply wander and admire the grand, ornate architecture of the church complex. Whether you're there for spiritual reasons or to appreciate the site's beauty and serenity, Simala Shrine provides a soul-soothing excursion unlike any other in Cebu.
Take a step back in time with a historical tour of Cebu City, the Philippines' oldest city. The tour usually begins at Fort San Pedro, the smallest and oldest tri-bastion fort in the country. It continues to Magellan's Cross, a symbol of the country's Roman Catholic origins. A must-visit is the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, which houses the oldest religious relic in the Philippines. Another highlight is the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, one of the oldest residential homes that provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of Chinese-Filipino families during colonial times. The Heritage of Cebu Monument, a tableau of sculptures made of concrete, bronze, brass, and steel, showcases scenes from the city's history. This tour is both an educational and cultural journey, ideal for history buffs and those interested in the Filipino heritage.
With Mactan Island's crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, island hopping is a popular way to explore the natural beauty of the region. A standard island hopping package often includes visits to Hilutungan Island, famed for its vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling; Nalusuan Island, renowned for its protected marine sanctuary; and Pandanon Island, where you can relax on the white sand beaches or take a dip in the shallow waters. The trip typically includes snorkeling equipment, a barbeque lunch on one of the islands, and round-trip transfers from your hotel. This marine adventure is perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand for a day.
Head to the small town of Moalboal for a marine adventure like no other – snorkeling with millions of sardines in what is known as the 'Sardine Run.' Just a short boat ride takes you to the waters where dense clouds of sardines swim in amazing synchronization, often attracting divers and snorkelers from all over the world. The tour typically includes a visit to Pescador Island, another highlight offering vibrant coral gardens and a chance to spot sea turtles. After exploring the underwater landscape, you may also relax at the white-sand Basdaku Beach. This activity promises a mesmerizing experience as you immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Cebu’s waters and observe marine life in their natural environment.
Perched high atop the mountains of Busay, Tops Lookout offers one of the best panoramic views of Cebu City and the surrounding islands, especially at night when the city lights shimmer below. It's an ideal spot for tourists hoping to catch a scenic sunset or take incredible pictures of Cebu's skyline. The cool mountain breeze adds to the ambiance, making it a relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the urban environment. The fortress-like viewing deck, shaped in a circular architecture, adds character to the space, ensuring that your visit is not only about the view but also about experiencing a unique landmark. A trip to Tops Lookout is often combined with stops at other attractions, such as the Temple of Leah and Sirao Flower Garden, rounding out a perfect half-day tour up the Cebu highlands.
Spread over 170 hectares, the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is an expansive wildlife sanctuary that is home to thousands of animals from around 120 species. It is one of the largest zoos in the Philippines and provides a habitat for animals like giraffes, white tigers, camels, and many more. Aside from the safari tour, the park also offers thrilling adventure rides, including a zip line, sky bike, and giant swing, allowing visitors to experience nature from different perspectives. The park's mission is to educate visitors about wildlife conservation while providing a fun and interactive experience. With lush vegetation and a scenic mountain backdrop, a day spent at Cebu Safari is both educational and enjoyable for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary is a tropical haven for butterfly lovers and those interested in learning more about these colorful insects. It's not just a sanctuary but also a museum and art gallery built by Professor Julian Jumalon, beginning in the early 1970s. This sanctuary is home to many species of butterflies in various stages of their lifecycle, offering guests the opportunity to observe them up close as they flutter in their natural habitat. The museum aspect showcases a collection of preserved butterfly species, interesting artifacts, and Professor Jumalon's mosaic artwork made from butterfly wings. This peaceful and educational attraction is a short drive from the city center and provides a serene environment for a leisurely visit.
Immerse yourself in Cebuano culture with a night market food tour. The lively streets of Cebu City come alive in the evening, offering a diverse range of street food that reflects the rich culinary traditions of the region. Sample local delicacies such as 'lechon' (roasted pig), 'balut' (fertilized duck egg), 'ngohiong' (a deep-fried spring roll), 'puso' (hanging rice), and 'kinilaw' (raw fish in vinegar). Food tours provide a taste of the local lifestyle and offer insights into the unique flavors that make Cebu’s cuisine delightful. Strolling from stall to stall, visitors are bound to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and maybe even discover new favorite snacks. This gastronomic adventure satisfies not only your hunger but also your curiosity about the city's culinary heritage.
