Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise

Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise: An Authentic Day of Discovery

When visiting the Philippines’ stunning island of Bohol, this full-day countryside tour offers a fantastic way to see the best of what the island has to offer. For $130 per person, you’ll spend roughly 5 to 6 hours exploring iconic sights like the Chocolate Hills, the adorable Tarsiers, and the Blood Compact Shrine, with the highlight being a leisurely Loboc River cruise with a delicious lunch. Your guide, often praised for their friendly and knowledgeable demeanor, will pick you up in an air-conditioned vehicle, making transportation comfortable and hassle-free.

What we love about this tour is how it balances nature, history, and fun in one package. First, the Chocolate Hills provide a striking geological panorama that’s hard to forget—especially as the hills turn a rich chocolate brown during the dry season, resembling giant kisses of cocoa. Then, visiting the Tarsier Conservation Area is a chance to meet one of the world’s smallest primates in their natural environment, offering both cuteness and conservation awareness. The Loboc River cruise is a real treat, combining a scenic boat ride with a floating restaurant serving local flavors—an experience that truly captures Bohol’s charm.

One consideration worth noting is the tour’s pace—with so many stops packed into one day, it’s a busy itinerary. If you prefer a more relaxed experience or have mobility concerns, this might feel somewhat rushed. Also, there’s no included guide beyond your driver, so if you’re interested in detailed commentary, you might want to consider hiring a guide separately.

This tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive introduction to Bohol’s highlights in a single day, especially those eager to combine nature, culture, and cuisine in an authentic setting.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Bohol’s top natural and cultural attractions.
• Includes a scenic Loboc River cruise and lunch, providing a relaxing break with local cuisine.
• Multiple stops for photo opportunities at key sites like the Chocolate Hills and Mahogany Forest.
• Flexible, private group experience with pickup and all fees included.
• Highly praised guides make the experience engaging and informative.
• Good value for the price, consolidating transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Countryside Tour

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of Bohol without the need for multiple separate bookings. Starting early at 8:00 am, your day will be filled with stops that showcase the island’s natural beauty and historical significance. The cost of $130 covers transportation, all entrance fees, and a satisfying lunch—making it a solid value when you consider the convenience and breadth of sights.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Chocolate Hills Natural Monument – Your first stop is the famous geological formation of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills. From the viewpoint, you get a sweeping panorama of this unique landscape, which dramatically changes color with the seasons. During the dry months, the hills turn a deep brown, resembling rows of giant chocolates—a truly photo-worthy scene.

Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area – Next, you visit one of Bohol’s most endearing residents, the Philippine tarsier. These tiny primates, no larger than a human hand, are surprisingly active and curious. The conservation area ensures they’re observed ethically in their habitat. One review mentions a guide bringing umbrellas during a rain shower at this stop, highlighting the attentiveness of the service.

Blood Compact Monument – This site commemorates the historic first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. It’s a relatively brief stop but rich with symbolic significance and a good photo opportunity.

Man-made Mahogany Forest – A 2-kilometer stretch of white and red mahogany trees planted as part of a reforestation project. It’s a lovely, shady walk ideal for a quick photo session, and it offers insight into local conservation efforts.

Loboc River Cruise and Lunch – The centerpiece of the tour. For two hours, you’ll glide along the Loboc River aboard a floating restaurant, enjoying a buffet of local dishes. The cruise offers views of lush greenery and the chance to relax after a busy morning. The experience is often praised for its scenic beauty, as one reviewer notes, “a fantastic day to Bohol.” The cruise is not just about eating; it’s about savoring the serenity and natural splendor of the river.

Simply Butterflies Conservation Center – To wrap up, you’ll visit a butterfly sanctuary where vibrant butterflies flit around you. It’s a peaceful, colorful end to a day filled with diverse sights.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

A recent review called it a “fantastic day” with a guide named Marlo, who was described as “friendly, knowledgeable,” and attentive—coming with umbrellas during heavy rain. Many travelers appreciate the balance of attractions and the value of having all fees included. The scenic views, especially from the Chocolate Hills viewpoint and the river cruise, consistently earn praise for their beauty.

Transportation and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the drive between sites, which can sometimes be long or winding, depending on the season. Since this is a private tour experience, your group will have exclusive access, making it more personalized compared to crowded group tours.

Duration and Flexibility

Spanning around 5 to 6 hours, the tour offers a full morning and early afternoon of exploration. The timing allows plenty of photo opportunities and enough time at each stop, although it’s a fairly packed schedule. The tour ends back at the start point, making logistics simple for travelers.

Price and Value

While $130 might seem like a modest expense, it actually covers transport, entrance fees, and lunch. Considering how much ground you cover and the variety of experiences, many find this to be a good deal—especially when compared to booking the parts separately.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Bohol’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown, or for travelers with limited time on the island. Those interested in nature and wildlife, especially if they’re drawn to the tiny but fascinating Tarsiers, will find this particularly rewarding. And if you enjoy scenic cruises combined with cultural history, the Loboc River lunch cruise elevates the experience.

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives

If you prefer a very relaxed pace or have specific interests, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. Plus, travelers wanting a guided narration at each site should consider hiring a guide separately, as this tour primarily includes a driver without detailed commentary.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River offers a practical, value-packed way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, worry-free day with transportation and meal included. The stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase Bohol’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history, making it a well-rounded introduction.

The scenic views and friendly guides are consistently praised, helping ensure a memorable day. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, this tour provides a good balance of activity and relaxation—perfect for first-timers or those wanting a snapshot of Bohol’s highlights in a single day.

If you’re after an authentic and enjoyable experience that blends nature, culture, and cuisine, this tour is likely to exceed your expectations. Just be ready for a busy day, and you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and a greater appreciation for Bohol’s natural wonders.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What does the tour include?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all entrance fees, and a lunch during the Loboc River cruise.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the busy schedule might be tiring for very young children or elderly guests. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, giving you a full day of exploration.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is a guide included?
This is a private tour with just your group. While the driver provides basic assistance, a detailed guide is not included, so you might consider hiring one if desired.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. An umbrella might be useful during rainy weather, as noted in some reviews.

How long is the Loboc River cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours, during which you’ll enjoy scenic views and a meal.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for stops like the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Conservation Area, Blood Compact Shrine, Mahogany Forest, and Butterfly Center are included.

What type of lunch is served?
The cruise offers a local buffet-style lunch, showcasing Bohol’s culinary flavors.

Embark on this tour for a memorable glimpse of Bohol’s diverse landscapes and culture, all within a comfortable, well-organized package tailored for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.