From Cebu: Bohol Countryside Private Tour & Loboc River Cruise

From Cebu: Bohol Countryside Private Tour & Loboc River Cruise — A Balanced Look at the Beauty and Bumps

If you’re heading from Cebu and want to get a taste of Bohol’s most celebrated sights, this private tour offers a full day of adventure, nature, and culture for around $139 per person. It covers key attractions like the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Sanctuary, a walk through the Man-Made Mahogany Forest, and a memorable Loboc River cruise with a buffet lunch. The roughly 12-hour experience starts early (around 4:30 am) — ideal if you’re eager to maximize your day and see as much as possible.

What we love about this tour is how it combines comfort with authentic sights. The round-trip ferry from Cebu to Bohol makes the journey convenient, and the air-conditioned transport ensures you stay cool while traveling between stops. Plus, the Loboc River cruise with local music and a buffet is a highlight—relaxing and tasty, all at once.

On the flip side, a notable drawback is that not all guides seem to provide the same level of engagement. As one reviewer bluntly put it, “the driver was very lovely but could not speak English and was just there to drop us off,” which could mean less insight during some parts of the day. The price may seem high for those seeking a more guided experience, but the inclusion of entrance fees, transportation, and lunch does make it a solid value for a full-day tour.

This tour best suits those who want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics. It also appeals to travelers looking for authentic experiences—from the tiny tarsiers to the panoramic hills—and don’t mind a very early start to pack in everything in one day.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Cebu with ferry included.
• Visit to iconic sights like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary.
• Loboc River cruise with buffet lunch and cultural performances.
• Flexible, private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Price includes entrance fees, ferry tickets, and lunch, offering good value.
• Guides vary in their level of engagement, affecting the experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Early for a Full Day

The tour kicks off before dawn at around 4:30 am with hotel pickup, which might seem rough, but it ensures you beat the crowds and maximize daylight hours. The ferry ride from Cebu to Tubigon is part of the package, allowing you to keep your transportation smooth and hassle-free. The ferry is included in the price, along with private transport once in Bohol, making this a convenient all-in-one package.

Tarsier Sanctuary — Tiny Faces, Big Impact

Your first stop is the Tarsier Sanctuary. Here, you’re encouraged to respect these delicate primates, which are among the smallest primates in the world. The experience is about observing them in their natural habitat, and guides often offer valuable insights. One reviewer found the sanctuary fascinating, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts. Expect a 30-minute visit, with free entrance tickets, making it an accessible yet meaningful encounter.

Man-Made Mahogany Forest — A Green Corridor

Next up is the Man-Made Mahogany Forest, a 15-minute walk through towering trees that form a natural tunnel. It’s a favorite for photographers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful moment amid lush greenery. The trees are planted deliberately to serve as a windbreak and landscape feature, and walking through this “green corridor” offers a real break from the busier tourist spots.

The Star: Chocolate Hills

No trip to Bohol is complete without visiting the Chocolate Hills. You’ll explore the Chocolate Hills Complex, where you can climb the viewing deck for panoramic vistas of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills. The geological wonder is particularly stunning during the dry season when the hills turn a chocolate brown, creating a landscape straight out of a fairy tale. Learning about their unique formation adds depth to the experience, though some may find the short stop enough to snap photos and move on.

Tasty Moments: Loboc River Cruise

The highlight for many is the Loboc River cruise with a buffet lunch. This floating restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, with local live performances enhancing the experience. The scenic surroundings and gentle cruise make it a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing. The lunch includes Filipino favorites, and many describe it as a delightful feast that’s well worth the included price. One reviewer called it “an unforgettable journey amidst nature’s beauty,” emphasizing its value as a cultural and scenic experience.

Additional Stops and Close Encounters

Depending on the itinerary, you might also visit the Sikatuna Mirror of The World or pass through the Man-Made Forest again. These add layers of natural beauty and provide excellent photo opportunities.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

The price of $139 covers most essentials—entrance fees, ferry tickets, a buffet lunch, and private transportation. Since the tour operates only for your group, you get personalized attention and flexibility during the day, though the early start might not be ideal for late risers.

The transportation quality varies—while the driver is friendly, some reviews mention the vehicles having dents and lacking guide commentary. This may mean you’ll get minimal insight into the sites unless you hire an additional guide or do your own research.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Bohol’s top sights. It’s also good for families or groups who prefer the convenience of door-to-door service and all-included pricing. However, if you’re seeking a deeper guide-led experience, or more time at each site, you might want to consider other options.

A Word of Caution

While most travelers find the tour enjoyable, a noteworthy point is that not all guides provide the same level of commentary. One reviewer expressed disappointment, noting the driver was “not a guide, just there to drop us off,” which could make the experience feel more like a shuttle than an informative tour. If engaging guides are important to you, consider asking about guide credentials beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you want a full-day guided look at Bohol’s highlights with the convenience of hotel pickup, ferry, and lunch included, this tour offers great value. It’s well-suited for those who prefer organized logistics and a relaxed pace. The sights—Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, and Loboc River—are truly special and the inclusion of cultural performances adds a nice touch.

However, be prepared for an early start, and remember that guide engagement can vary. For travelers who value authentic, scenic, and comfortable experiences, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup, round-trip ferry tickets, entrance fees to attractions like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary, the Loboc River cruise with buffet, and all transportation within Bohol.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 12 hours, starting early around 4:30 am and ending with hotel drop-off later in the day.

Is the ferry ride between Cebu and Bohol part of the tour?
Yes, the round-trip fast ferry from Cebu to Tubigon is included, making the journey straightforward without extra planning.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
This is a private tour, so you might have some flexibility, but the itinerary is generally fixed to include the main sights.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The lunch buffet is at the Loboc Floating Restaurant, featuring Filipino dishes. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check ahead or bring snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most likely, yes, but keep in mind the early start and some walking involved. Always check with the provider if special accommodations are needed.

Do guides offer detailed commentary?
This varies. Some guides are very knowledgeable, explaining landmarks and history, while others simply drop you off at each site.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, camera, and water. Also, consider bringing cash for souvenirs or tips.

The Sum Up

This From Cebu to Bohol private tour offers a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally engaging way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights. It delivers good value for money by bundling transport, entrance fees, and lunch into one package. The early start and variable guide engagement are considerations, but most travelers will find the itinerary rewarding. Perfect for those who want an organized, hassle-free day that hits all the main attractions without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If you’re looking for a balanced introduction to Bohol’s natural wonders and cultural highlights, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you prioritize convenience and scenic views. Just go in with realistic expectations about guide commentary, and you’ll likely come away with some fantastic photos and memorable experiences.