Bohol: Countryside Tour with Loboc (Buffet Lunch)
This full-day tour offers a chance to explore some of the most iconic sights of Bohol Island, from the world-famous Chocolate Hills to the tiny Tarsiers. For $90 per person, you’ll enjoy a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly guide, making it a comfortable and personalized experience. The tour typically lasts around 8 hours, starting with a hotel pickup — a real convenience in a place where transportation can sometimes be a challenge.
What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it combines natural beauty with cultural history. The Loboc River cruise offers a serene break from sightseeing, and the Baclayon Church provides a peek into the Philippines’ colonial past. Another highlight is the Blood Compact Shrine, a historic site marking the first treaty between Spaniards and Filipinos. Plus, the buffet lunch in a scenic setting adds a satisfying touch of local flavors.
A potential consideration is the long day involved—if you’re not used to full days of sightseeing, it might feel a bit tiring. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, given the amount of walking and sightseeing involved. Nonetheless, for travelers eager to see the major highlights in one day with a flexible, private guide, this experience is a solid choice.
This tour is especially well-suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Bohol’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions or dealing with public transport**. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a personalized experience and the comfort of a private vehicle.
Key Points
- Personalized Private Tour: Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of a dedicated guide and vehicle.
- Major Highlights Covered: Includes Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River, Baclayon Church, and Blood Compact Shrine.
- Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned, private vehicle with driver/guide.
- Cultural and Natural Balance: Mix of scenic landscapes and historical sites.
- All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees, buffet lunch, parking, and fuel are included.
- Ideal for First-timers: Perfect for those who want a well-rounded overview without stress.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
When we think about what makes this tour special, it’s the combination of key sights and ease of access. Starting with hotel pickup, you’re spared the hassle of navigating Bohol’s sometimes confusing roads. The driver/guide is your point person for the day, ensuring you hit all the highlights and learn some background along the way.
Chocolate Hills
This natural wonder is the star of the tour. You’ll visit a viewpoint where the distinctive conical mounds stretch for miles, often described as looking like giant chocolate drops. This is a true photo opportunity and a must-see for first-time visitors. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated seeing these in person after reading about them.
Tarsier Sanctuary
Next, you’ll visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the world’s smallest primates. These tiny, wide-eyed creatures are adorable, and seeing them in a protected environment is a highlight for many travelers. We loved the way guides explained the importance of conservation and how the sanctuary keeps the primates safe from the tourist hustle.
Loboc River Cruise
One of the most memorable parts of the day is the scenic Loboc River cruise. Sitting on a boat, you’ll glide past lush greenery and perhaps spot local wildlife. Many reviews rave about this peaceful experience—some call it the “best part” of their day. It’s a great way to take a breath and enjoy the natural beauty of Bohol.
More Great Tours NearbyBlood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church
History buffs will appreciate the Blood Compact Shrine, marking the site of the first treaty between Spaniards and Filipinos. It’s a small but meaningful monument, with insightful context provided by your guide. The Baclayon Church, built in the 16th century, is one of the country’s oldest stone churches. Its preserved architecture and religious artifacts offer a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past.
Additional Sites
Depending on your guide’s schedule, the tour might include stops at a butterfly sanctuary, man-made forest, or souvenir shop. These optional stops add variety and local flavor.
The Buffet Lunch — A Delicious Break
The buffet lunch is often described as a highlight, especially if you enjoy Filipino cuisine. Set in a scenic spot, the meal typically includes a variety of local dishes, offering good value for the price. Many reviewers mention that the food was tasty and plentiful, providing the energy needed for a full day of sightseeing.
Practical Aspects and Value
The $90 price point covers almost everything: entrance fees, buffet lunch, transportation, parking, and a guide. This all-inclusive approach makes planning easier and eliminates surprises. Travelers appreciated how the tour takes care of tickets and logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sites.
The private format means you can go at your own pace, spend more time at favorite sites, or skip ones that don’t interest you — a flexibility that many reviews highlight as a major plus. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially in the tropical heat.
While the 8-hour duration sounds long, most comment that it’s well worth the effort, especially since the sites are well-organized and the guide keeps the day moving smoothly. The reviews mention that Wilfred, the driver/guide, was patient and friendly, adding to the experience.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Tips
From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace make a real difference. One reviewer noted how Rudy, the guide, was “super kind and available,” which emphasizes the personal touch that makes this tour stand out.
Travelers also appreciated the good value for money, especially since all fees are included. If you’re keen on seeing the main attractions without the stress of planning, this tour delivers on that front.
A few tips: wear comfortable shoes and bring a sun hat—many sites involve some walking and exposure to the sun. Don’t forget your camera and sunscreen! And since the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This countryside tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and fun experiences. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown without worrying about logistics. Couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a hassle-free way to see Bohol’s highlights will find it ideal.
If you’re someone who values personalized service, comfort, and well-organized sightseeing, this tour checks all those boxes. The friendly guide, scenic stops, and included lunch create a hassle-free, memorable day.
However, if you prefer adventure or off-the-beaten-path spots, or want a more active or flexible schedule, you might find this tour somewhat structured. It’s designed to hit the main highlights efficiently, which is exactly what most travelers want for a day trip.
In short, this tour represents great value and comfort for those eager to experience Bohol’s top sites without the stress of planning or navigating alone. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a full, authentic taste of the island in just one day.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned private vehicle, entrance fees to sites, a buffet lunch, parking, fuel, and a driver/guide.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 8 hours, making it a full-day experience. Check specific starting times when booking.
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While it’s generally suitable for most, it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women due to walking and the full-day schedule.
Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can usually discuss your preferences with the guide, but the itinerary covers the main highlights.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and perhaps a bottle of water. Wear light, breathable clothing for comfort.
Is the tour worth the price?
Given all fees are included, and the convenience of a private guide, most reviews say it offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.
Are the sites crowded?
Some sites, like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary, can be busy, especially during peak times, but the private arrangement helps you enjoy them at your own pace.
How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provider’s platform, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now, pay later for flexibility.
This Bohol countryside tour offers a well-rounded, stress-free way to experience the island’s most famous sights. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, historic sites, or a peaceful river cruise, this trip delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and value in a single day of exploration.
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