A Taste of Bohol’s Highlights in One Day

If you’re looking to get a solid overview of Bohol’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning, the Bohol Countryside Tour from Panglao Island hits the mark. For $53 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours visiting the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Conservation Area, Loboc River, and Baclayon Church. The tour runs comfortably with an air-conditioned vehicle, small groups (maximum 12 travelers), and includes a stand-up paddleboarding session on Loboc River — an experience many find memorable.

What we love most is the chance to see the Tarsiers, arguably the world’s cutest primates, and the panoramic views of the Chocolate Hills, which truly look like giant Hershey kisses. Plus, the inclusion of a historic church and a peaceful river cruise adds cultural depth and a relaxing break.

A potential consideration is that the itinerary doesn’t include a river cruise as some might expect, but instead offers paddleboarding and riverside lunch, which tend to be more personal and less touristy. If you’re after a relaxing, well-rounded day with authentic sights, this tour suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and a mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

This tour is ideal for first-timers or those with limited time who want a balanced, value-packed experience. If you’re curious about Bohol’s natural beauty, love wildlife encounters, or want a glimpse into local history and culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

Key Points

Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife, geological wonders, history, and river experiences.
Authentic Encounters: Close-up view of the Tarsiers and a chance to learn about local customs.
Comfort & Convenience: Small group, air-conditioned transport, and a friendly guide.
Value for Money: At $53, the tour includes many admissions and a paddleboarding activity.
Flexible & Customizable: Some reviews mention added experiences, like tasting coconut wine or learning salt-making.
Limited River Activities: No actual river cruise, but paddleboarding offers a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Countryside Tour

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Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins early at 8:00 am from Abraham Tours Bohol on Panglao Island. The pickup process is smooth, with most travelers being picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that can seat up to 12 people. This small-group setting creates a more intimate atmosphere, enabling the guide to give more personalized attention and interesting insights. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, wrapping up back at the start point, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

Visiting Loboc River

The first stop is at Loboc River, renowned for its clear water and lush surroundings. Here, you’ll have 2 hours to enjoy the scenery and try stand-up paddleboarding — a highlight for many. The actual paddleboarding experience allows you to get close to the river’s tranquility, and it’s included in the tour, which adds tremendous value.

One traveler noted, “We loved the way the tour included paddleboarding, which was a unique way to enjoy the river.” While some expect a traditional river cruise, this activity offers a more personal, hands-on approach. The riverside setting is perfect for photos and soaking in the peaceful environment, away from busier tourist spots.

Meeting the Tarsiers

Next, we head to the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area. These tiny primates are native solely to the Philippines and are considered the second smallest primates in the world. You’ll get around an hour here to observe these adorable creatures in a protected environment.

The conservation area was built explicitly to protect the tarsiers, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to see them up close while supporting conservation efforts. One reviewer shared, “Seeing the Tarsiers at the sanctuary was a highlight. It’s remarkable how these tiny animals survive in such a delicate environment.”

The Chocolate Hills

No trip to Bohol is complete without visiting the Chocolate Hills. Recognized as the Philippines’ 3rd national geological monument, these cone-shaped hills turn a chocolate brown during dry season, offering a stunning landscape. The tour allocates about an hour here, with free admission.

Expect panoramic views from a designated viewing deck, perfect for photos. The hills’ unique shape and uniform size make them a natural wonder worth the visit. As one traveler put it, “The views of the hills are unforgettable. It’s like nature’s version of a perfect sculpture.”

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Baclayon Church

The final stop is at Baclayon Church, one of the oldest Catholic structures in the Philippines and a designated National Cultural Treasure. Built in the early 1600s, the church’s architecture and historical significance make it a meaningful site. You’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring its interior and learning about its storied past.

Reviewers note that the church’s age and preserved condition make it a worthwhile cultural stop. It’s also a great way to connect with Bohol’s colonial history in a compact visit.

What the Tour Includes and What It Lacks

Included are the services of a knowledgeable tour coordinator, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the paddleboard activity at Loboc River. This makes it convenient and comfortable, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Not included are alcoholic beverages and towels, so plan accordingly if you want a cold drink or need to wipe off after paddleboarding. The tour offers flexibility, but travelers should bring personal essentials.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One said, “Our guide David was great and full of interesting facts,” which speaks to the value of a good guide who can enhance the experience with local insights.

Others mention enjoying added touches like tasting coconut wine made by a local family or observing traditional salt ball making — experiences that deepen the cultural connection. These extras, while not part of the standard itinerary, show how flexible and welcoming the tour can be.

The Value of the Tour

At $53, this tour provides admission to several key attractions, a personal paddleboarding experience, and comfortable transportation. Considering the cost of individual entry fees and transport, this package offers notably good value, especially with the small-group setting that ensures more personalized attention.

Possible Drawbacks

The main point some might find misleading is the absence of a river cruise—despite some expectations from similar tours. Instead, the focus on paddleboarding and riverside dining tends to feel more authentic and less touristy. Also, the regular pace might be a bit rushed for those wanting a leisurely experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that covers Bohol’s top sights without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees. It’s ideal for first-timers, small groups, or couples seeking a mix of wildlife, geology, history, and adventure. If you appreciate authentic interactions with local wildlife and culture and want a well-organized, reasonably priced tour, you’ll likely find this just right.

The Sum Up

The Bohol Countryside Tour offers a balanced blend of nature, culture, and fun activities. It’s a good choice for those who want a value-packed, small-group experience that hits the highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of Tarsier encounters, Chocolate Hills views, and a peaceful river paddleboarding session creates a memorable snapshot of Bohol’s natural beauty and local heritage.

While it doesn’t include a river cruise, the paddleboarding offers a more intimate and personal experience of Loboc River, which many travelers find refreshing. The tour’s cultural stops, especially Baclayon Church, add depth to the day, making it more than just sightseeing.

If you’re after a friendly guide, authentic sights, and a variety of experiences, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value small groups, good value, and a chance to connect with Bohol’s diverse attractions in one easy day.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to relax between stops and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring with me?
You might want to bring a towel, sun protection, water, and possibly a light snack. Towels are not included, and sun exposure can be intense.

Are the stops suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible to a variety of ages and mobility levels. Always check with your guide if you have specific needs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 10 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

Are there any additional activities I can do during the tour?
Some reviews mention extra experiences like tasting local coconut wine or seeing salt-making, but these are not part of the standard itinerary.

Can I expect to see a river cruise?
No, this tour does not include a river cruise; instead, you’ll enjoy paddleboarding and riverside dining, which many find more personal and authentic.

This comprehensive, well-rounded tour is great for those wanting a memorable taste of Bohol’s natural wonders and cultural gems—all in a day that’s both easy and enriching.