Imagine waking up in Cebu City or Mactan and heading off on a full-day adventure to one of the Philippines’ most captivating islands: Bohol. For $156 per person, this private tour offers a chance to explore iconic sights like the Chocolate Hills and the shy Tarsiers, along with cultural and natural attractions that showcase Bohol’s unique charm. Your journey is managed smoothly by a dedicated driver-guide, ensuring convenience and insightful commentary throughout.

What we love most about this tour are the stunning views at the Chocolate Hills—those perfectly rounded mounds are genuinely mesmerizing—and the opportunity to get up close with the adorable Tarsiers, known for their shy, loving nature. The Loboc River cruise with lunch onboard offers a relaxing break amid lush scenery, and the full itinerary packs in a good variety of sights and experiences.

One possible consideration is the long day’s pace. Starting early (around 5:30 am) and returning late (by 7:40 pm), you’ll be on the move for most of the day. This is perfect for active travelers who want to see many highlights but might be a bit tiring for those seeking a more leisurely pace.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and a bit of adventure—ideal if you’re eager to maximize your Bohol experience in a single day without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

Convenient Private Transportation: Enjoy a personalized experience with air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup within Cebu City or Mactan.
Iconic Sights: View the stunning Chocolate Hills and meet the shy Tarsiers—two must-see Bohol attractions.
Cultural & Natural Highlights: Visit the Blood Compact Shrine, Man-made Forest, and enjoy an adventurous ATV ride or zip line.
Relaxing Experience: The Loboc River cruise offers a peaceful break amid lush surroundings, complemented by a buffet lunch onboard.
Flexible Booking: Keep your plans open with the option to reserve now and pay later; full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Value for Money: All entrance, parking, permit fees, ferry tickets, and a guided driver are included, making this an accessible, stress-free day trip.

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An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Private Day Tour

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Starting Early for a Long, Rewarding Day

The tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup as early as 5:30 am if you’re staying in Mactan, or 6 am for those in Cebu City. This head start is imperative because the itinerary is packed with highlights, and the aim is to maximize time on the island. The ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol is included—a smooth, hassle-free way to begin the journey.

First Stop: The Chocolate Hills

Once on Bohol, the first major stop is the Chocolate Hills. These over 1,200 limestone formations are quite the sight. Depending on the weather and season, the grass covering these hills turns brown, giving them their famous chocolate-like appearance. We love the way the tour emphasizes outside viewing—the best photos often come from the outside lookout—and the fact that you can appreciate these formations without climbing or strenuous activity.

Meeting the Tarsiers: the Shy but Loving Primates

Next, you’ll visit the Tarsier Viewing, where these tiny primates—no larger than a human hand—are at their most adorable. Their large, expressive eyes and shy demeanor make for a memorable encounter that underscores Bohol’s commitment to conservation. Reviews mention how this experience is both charming and intimate; “the Tarsiers are so shy, but you can see their personality shine through,” one traveler noted.

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The Man-made Mahogany Forest

A quick drive through the Man-made Mahogany Forest showcases Bohol’s unique efforts to reforest and create a scenic drive. The tall mahogany trees form a natural tunnel, perfect for photos and a peaceful walk. We appreciate how this stop offers a break from more crowded attractions and allows us to appreciate Bohol’s efforts in ecological preservation.

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The Adventure Highlights: ATV, Zip Line, & Eco Park

For those seeking adventure, optional activities like ATV rides in Loboc or zip lining at the Eco Park are available. The ATV experience can be purchased separately, with prices around PHP 1,300 for an hour or PHP 700 for 30 minutes. These add-ons are not included in the base price but represent an exciting way to get your adrenaline going. Reviewers have expressed that these activities add a fun, energetic dimension to the trip, though they require extra planning and budget.

The Loboc River Cruise & Lunch

One of the tour’s standout moments is the Loboc River cruise, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch onboard while drifting past lush greenery and gentle river currents. The cruise is praised for its relaxing atmosphere and the chance to enjoy authentic Filipino dishes. The review mentions it as the “best meal of the day,” emphasizing how this peaceful scenery complements the hearty local cuisine.

Cultural & Historical Stops

The tour also includes visits to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines, and the Blood Compact Shrine, which commemorates a historic treaty between Spanish explorers and Filipino natives. These stops offer cultural insight and provide a break from outdoor activities.

Souvenir Shopping & Return Journey

Before heading back to Cebu, there’s time allocated for souvenir shopping—a good chance to pick up local crafts or snacks. The return ferry departs around 5:40 pm, with arrival back in Cebu by about 7:40 pm, and hotel drop-offs around 8 pm. This long, full day leaves you with plenty of memories, but also a full schedule.

Overall Value and Practical Tips

This tour balances value and convenience well. The fee covers transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide, making it easier to enjoy Bohol without worrying about logistics. The long duration is ideal for travelers eager to see many highlights, but be prepared for a full, sometimes tiring day.

Reviewers consistently praise the clean, air-conditioned transport and the guide’s attentiveness. “We felt taken care of from start to finish,” one traveler shared. The flexibility to reserve with no upfront payment adds a layer of convenience, especially for spontaneous planners.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for active travelers who want a rundown of Bohol’s best sights in one day. It’s also suitable for those who prefer the comfort of private transport and guided commentary. However, if you crave a slower, more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at each stop, you may want to consider a different arrangement or splitting this into multiple days.

Final Thoughts

This private Bohol day tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of what makes the island special. From the iconic Chocolate Hills and adorable Tarsiers to the scenic river cruise and cultural sites, you’ll get a taste of Bohol’s natural beauty and heritage—all in a manageable, comfortable package.

While the schedule is packed, the balance of sightseeing, cultural learning, and relaxation makes it a worthwhile choice for visitors wanting to make the most of a single day. The inclusion of ferry tickets, guides, and entrance fees provides clarity and ease, making it a good value for the price.

If you’re an adventurous soul eager to see Bohol’s top sights without the fuss of planning every detail, this tour will serve you well. Just remember, it’s a long day—so come prepared with comfortable shoes, an eager attitude, and a camera ready for those picture-perfect views.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $156 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off within Cebu City or Mactan, ferry tickets, entrance, parking, permit fees, and a private air-conditioned vehicle with a guide.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without paying upfront and choose to pay later. Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up begins at 5:30 am if you’re in Mactan or 6 am if in Cebu City, to ensure you maximize your day on Bohol.

What attractions are part of the tour?
Highlights include the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Viewing, Man-made Mahogany Forest, Loboc River cruise with lunch, Blood Compact Shrine, Baclayon Church, and souvenir shopping.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, guided ATV rides and zip lining are available at additional costs (around PHP 700–1,300). These are not included but can add excitement to your day.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Cebu to Bohol and back is included in the package and is generally smooth and comfortable, making for a relaxing start and end to the day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and some cash for souvenirs or optional activities. The tour provides most essentials.

How long does the entire tour last?
From pickup to hotel drop-off, expect around 13 hours—early start and late return—so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the long day and walking involved at some stops. The private nature allows some flexibility.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of natural beauty, cultural sites, and adventure, all managed smoothly with a private guide, offers a well-balanced, hassle-free experience.

To sum it up, this Bohol day tour from Cebu combines convenience, a varied itinerary, and authentic sights that make it a strong choice for those eager to see Bohol in a single, well-organized day. Whether you’re captivated by the Chocolate Hills, the gentle Tarsiers, or the peaceful river cruise, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Bohol’s charm—and plenty of photos to prove it.