Oslob: Whale Shark Swimming, Tumalog Falls, Sumilon Sandbar

Oslob, a coastal town in the southern Philippines, has become a prominent destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of natural wonders. Whale shark swimming, the jewel of Oslob’s attractions, allows visitors to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Beyond the marine spectacle, the town also showcases the breathtaking Tumalog Falls and the picturesque Sumilon Sandbar, making it a must-visit destination for those eager to enjoy the region’s diverse and captivating landscapes. With a comprehensive tour experience covering these three highlights, visitors are sure to leave Oslob with memories that will linger long after their departure.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Oslob.

Key Points

• The tour offers a comprehensive day-long experience featuring activities like whale shark swimming, visiting Tumalog Falls, and exploring Sumilon Sandbar.

• The tour is priced at Kč2,823 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, breakfast, lunch, snorkel gear, entrance and boat fees, but dinner is not included.

• Negative reviews highlight issues with tour cancellations, lack of communication, and difficulties in obtaining refunds, which prospective customers should consider.

• The tour schedule includes whale shark swimming at 7 AM, Tumalog Falls at 7:30 AM, Sumilon Sandbar at 9 AM, and lunch at 11 AM, followed by island hopping in Moalboal.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour package provides a comprehensive day-long experience, encompassing whale shark swimming, the picturesque Tumalog Falls, the serene Sumilon Sandbar, the marine-rich Pescador Island, and the captivating sardine run.

Lasting 16 hours, the tour is led by live guides fluent in English and Tagalog, offering a private group experience. Guests are picked up from their hotels around 4 AM, enjoying breakfast at 6:30 AM before the day’s activities, which include swimming with whale sharks at 7 AM, visiting Tumalog Falls at 7:30 AM, and exploring Sumilon Island’s sandbar at 9 AM.

After returning to the mainland, the tour continues with a Moalboal island hopping experience.

Pricing and Booking Information

Pricing for this comprehensive tour starts from Kč2,823 per person. A reserve now and pay later option is available for added convenience.

Travelers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires a minimum booking for 2 people, so it’s best to book a few days in advance as last-minute bookings may not be accommodated.

The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, lunch, snorkel gear, and all entrance and boat fees. Dinner, however, isn’t included in the tour package.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities and services.

It provides hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Breakfast and lunch are included, keeping you energized throughout the day.

Snorkel, mask, and life jacket rentals are provided, allowing you to explore the stunning underwater world safely. All entrance fees and boat fees are covered, eliminating any unexpected costs.

While dinner isn’t included, the tour’s solid itinerary and inclusions make it a well-rounded and value-packed experience. Attention to these details allows you to focus on creating lifelong memories during your Oslob adventure.

Important Notes

Noting the estimated timings subject to change, travelers are advised to ensure booking in advance to allow for proper preparations. Refunds are limited only to emergencies, with customer service issues reported by travelers.

As last-minute bookings may not be accommodated, it’s essential to book a few days ahead. Plus, all times provided are approximate and may vary due to unforeseen circumstances.

Travelers should keep in mind the need for flexibility and adaptability throughout the tour experience. It’s crucial to review the tour details carefully and address any concerns with the tour operator to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

Travelers’ experiences with this tour appear mixed, with an overall rating of 2 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.

Negative feedback includes tour cancellations without notification, lack of communication, and difficulty obtaining refunds. Travelers expressed frustration over wasted time and poor customer service experiences.

Despite the tour’s attractive itinerary, which includes swimming with whale sharks, visiting Tumalog Falls, and exploring Sumilon Sandbar, the issues with execution and customer support have significantly impacted traveler satisfaction.

Prospective customers should carefully consider these reviews and weigh the potential risks before booking this tour.

Tour Schedule and Itinerary

The tour schedule and itinerary provide a rundown of the day’s activities, allowing travelers to plan their experience accordingly.

The tour begins with an early hotel pickup around 4 AM, followed by breakfast at 6:30 AM. Whale shark swimming takes place at 7 AM, succeeded by a visit to Tumalog Falls at 7:30 AM.

Travelers will then head to the Sumilon Island Sandbar at 9 AM before returning to the mainland by 10:30 AM. Lunch is served at 11 AM, after which the group embarks on island hopping in Moalboal, arriving back at the hotel by 7:30 PM.

The schedule is designed to maximize the day’s activities while accounting for transit times.

Whale Shark Swimming Experience

The whale shark swimming experience is the highlight of this tour. Participants have the opportunity to swim alongside the gentle giants, the largest fish in the world.

The experience includes:

1. A safety briefing on proper etiquette and guidelines for interacting with the whale sharks.
2. Approximately 30 minutes in the water, with the chance to observe and swim near the whale sharks.
3. Snorkel gear and life jackets provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter.
4. A knowledgeable guide to provide information about the whale sharks and their habitat.

After the thrilling swim, the tour continues on to explore the stunning Tumalog Falls, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Exploring Tumalog Falls and Sumilon Sandbar

After the thrilling whale shark encounter, the tour continues on to explore the stunning Tumalog Falls.

Tucked away in a lush, verdant setting, the falls cascade over a series of terraced limestone formations, creating a serene and picturesque scene. Visitors can wander through the natural pool at the base of the falls, reveling in the refreshing waters and tranquil ambiance.

Following the Tumalog Falls visit, the tour heads to the Sumilon Sandbar, a remarkable natural wonder.

This crescent-shaped sandbar extends into the turquoise waters, offering a unique opportunity for relaxation and exploration. Travelers can stroll along the soft, powdery sand and take in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s recommended that participants be able to swim comfortably and follow safety instructions. Children should be supervised by a responsible adult throughout the tour.

Are Gopro Cameras Allowed During the Whale Shark Encounter?

Gopro cameras are generally allowed during the whale shark encounter, though tour operators may have specific restrictions or guidelines. Travelers should check with the tour provider ahead of time to confirm the camera policy and any limitations.

Can Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Be Provided for Lunch?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available upon request for the lunch provided during the tour. However, travelers should notify the tour operator in advance to ensure proper accommodations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can inquire with the tour operator about adding extra activities or extending the time spent at certain locations for an additional cost.

How Accessible Are the Tour Sites for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour sites vary in accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The whale shark swimming and Tumalog Falls may be challenging, but the Sumilon Sandbar and boat excursions can accommodate most needs. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.

Recap

Oslob’s exhilarating tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to swim with whale sharks, marvel at the stunning Tumalog Falls, and explore the breathtaking Sumilon Sandbar. This comprehensive experience showcases the region’s natural beauty and promises an unforgettable adventure for all visitors. With convenient pricing and inclusions, it’s the perfect way to take in Oslob’s captivating wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: