Experience Swimming with Whale Sharks in the Philippines
Oslob, located on Cebu Island in the Philippines, has become a famous destination for those seeking an extraordinary adventure: swimming with whale sharks. This is one of the few places in the world where you can almost guarantee encountering these gigantic creatures. Whale sharks, with the scientific name Rhincodon typus, are the largest fish in the world, growing up to 12 meters long, and are known for their gentle nature. While whale sharks can be spotted in various locations such as Australia and some Asian countries, the Philippines stands out for offering a close-up experience with these magnificent animals.
Oslob gained attention from tourists starting in 2012 when locals, primarily engaged in agriculture and fishing, began exploring the potential for whale shark tourism. This not only provided a new source of income but also brought significant changes to the lives of local fishermen. Today, Oslob is renowned as one of the best places to swim with whale sharks, thanks to the perfect combination of natural conditions and methods to attract whale sharks close to the shore.
Visitors have the chance to see whale sharks during early morning sessions from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. Before embarking on the tour, tourists are briefed on important rules to ensure both the whale sharks’ and their own safety. Maintaining a distance of at least 1.2 meters from the whale sharks is crucial; failure to comply may result in a fine. While whale sharks are very gentle and do not pose a threat to humans, they can occasionally cause inconvenience by bumping into or whipping with their tails if you are not careful. Additionally, to protect the environment and the whale sharks, tourists should avoid using sunscreen before entering the water, as chemicals in sunscreens can harm the animals. If sunscreen is used, it must be washed off at beach showers before boarding the boat.
Swimming with whale sharks provides a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. After an initial period of awe and excitement, visitors will find themselves exhilarated and delighted by the opportunity to swim alongside these massive yet gentle creatures. To fully enjoy the experience, it is advisable to plan your visit early to avoid crowds and intense heat. If time permits, arriving in Oslob the night before and waking up early to see the first whale sharks of the day will enhance your experience significantly.
To reach Oslob, you can fly from Cebu to Dumaguete, and then take a ferry from Sibulan Port (Dumaguete) to Liloan Port (Oslob). Ferries operate from 5 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily, and traveling early will help you avoid crowds and excessive heat. The cost to participate in the whale shark tour is approximately 1,000 pesos (about 21 USD), which includes boat rental and snorkeling gear. This fee is considered reasonable for such a wonderful and memorable experience.
While swimming with whale sharks is an exciting and captivating activity, it also raises concerns about the environmental impact of tourism on wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to guidelines and be mindful of the potential harm they could cause to whale sharks and their environment, ensuring that this activity can continue to provide joy for future generations.
