Early Morning Adventure

The day began before the sun had even considered rising. I was picked up from my cozy hostel in Cebu City at the ungodly hour of 3 AM. As a seasoned backpacker, early starts are no stranger to me, but this one felt particularly special. Our driver, Ludz, was a friendly face in the dim morning light, and he quickly briefed us on the journey ahead. The drive to Oslob was expected to take around three hours, but a roadblock meant a slight detour. Despite the hiccup, I managed to catch some sleep, lulled by the gentle hum of the van and the promise of the adventures to come.

Arriving in Oslob just as the first light of dawn broke, the excitement was palpable. The area was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to tick off a bucket list experience: swimming with whale sharks. Our guide, Joy, was a fountain of knowledge and enthusiasm, and she suggested we head to the nearby sandbar while we waited for our turn with the gentle giants. The sandbar was a serene escape, and Joy’s stories about the local culture and history added a rich layer to the experience.

Swimming with Giants

Finally, it was time for the main event. As we donned our snorkeling gear and waded into the water, the anticipation was electric. And then, there they were—whale sharks, gliding gracefully through the water. It’s hard to describe the feeling of being so close to such magnificent creatures. It’s a humbling experience, one that makes you feel both incredibly small and profoundly connected to the natural world.

The 30 minutes we spent in the water flew by, each moment more awe-inspiring than the last. If you’ve ever considered swimming with whale sharks, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve dried off and moved on to the next adventure.

Chasing Waterfalls

After the exhilaration of the whale sharks, we set off for the next leg of our journey: Kawasan Falls. The drive was scenic, and our guide Dan kept us entertained with stories and insights about the region. Upon arrival, a short hike through lush greenery brought us to the falls. The sight was breathtaking—the water a vibrant, almost surreal shade of blue, reminiscent of a frost Gatorade.

We spent a few hours at the falls, swimming, taking photos, and simply soaking in the beauty of the place. It’s moments like these that remind me why I chose this life of travel and exploration. The freedom to experience such wonders, to meet incredible people, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

As the day drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences and the people who made them possible. Our guides and driver were exceptional, and their passion for their work was evident in every aspect of the tour. It’s these connections, these shared moments of wonder, that make travel so rewarding. If you’re ever in Cebu, don’t miss the chance to embark on this unforgettable adventure.