Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8–15 | $20–50 |
| Food | $4–10 | $12–25 |
| Transport | $3–8 | $10–30 |
| Activities | $5–20 | $25–60 |
| Entry Fees | $1–5 | $5–10 |
| Daily Total | $21–58 | $72–175 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities receive visa-free entry for 30 days, extendable at immigration offices
- Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) has direct flights from major Asian cities and domestic routes
- Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, return ticket, and travel insurance
Health & Safety
- Travel insurance is essential. Cebu Doctors' University Hospital and Chong Hua Hospital provide good medical care
- Canyoneering carries inherent risks — only use licensed operators with proper safety equipment
- Sun protection is critical for all marine activities. Use reef-safe sunscreen and wear a rash guard
Getting Around
- Grab is the most reliable transport in Cebu City. Jeepneys cost 13 PHP for short routes
- V-hire (shared vans) are the best option for south Cebu — faster than buses and reasonably priced
- Motorbike rental in Moalboal costs 300–500 PHP per day and is the easiest way to explore the coast
Connectivity
- Buy a Globe or Smart SIM at the airport for 4G data. Coverage is good in Cebu City and Moalboal
- WiFi is available at most accommodation and cafes. Download offline maps for rural areas south of the city
- The Grab app is essential for Cebu City transport. Google Maps works well for navigation throughout the island
Money
- Currency: PHP (Philippine Peso). Cards accepted at malls and hotels, cash essential for markets and street food
- ATMs widely available in Cebu City. Withdraw cash before heading to Moalboal — ATM options are limited there
- Tipping is appreciated — 10% at restaurants, 50–100 PHP for dive guides, round up for tricycle and Grab rides
Packing Tips
- Reef shoes, rash guard, and a good snorkel mask are essential for both canyoneering and marine activities
- Quick-dry clothing for the wet activities and light layers for the cooler highland areas above the city
- A waterproof phone case or dry bag is highly recommended for canyoneering and boat trips
Cultural tips
Respect Religious Sites
Cebu is deeply Catholic — the Basilica del Santo Nino is a living place of worship, not just a tourist attraction. Dress modestly, speak quietly, and avoid photographing people during prayer. Remove hats inside churches.
Protect Marine Life
Do not touch, stand on, or collect coral. Do not chase or ride sea turtles. Use reef-safe sunscreen. The sardine run and Moalboal reefs are ecological treasures — their continued existence depends on responsible visitor behaviour.
Photography Etiquette
Cebuanos are generally friendly about photos but always ask first, especially at markets and in residential areas. At Carbon Market, ask vendors before photographing their stalls. Underwater, never disturb marine life for a photo.
Language & Communication
Cebuano (Bisaya) is the local language but English is widely spoken. Learning basic Cebuano — maayong buntag (good morning), salamat (thank you), pila ni (how much) — earns genuine appreciation and warm smiles.
Support Local Communities
Choose locally-owned dive shops, restaurants, and guesthouses. Eat at warungs and market stalls rather than international chains. Tip generously by local standards — your spending directly supports local families and communities.
Embrace the Pace
Cebu runs on Filipino time — allow extra time for everything and avoid getting frustrated with delays. The warmth and friendliness of Cebuano people more than compensate for any scheduling looseness. Flexibility leads to the best experiences.
