BEST OF BOHOL: Chocolate Hills & Tarsier w Lunch at Loboc

Imagine spending a day in one of the Philippines’ most scenic spots, with the perfect blend of nature, history, and local charm. For $135, this all-inclusive tour takes you from Cebu or Mactan to Bohol’s iconic sights—think the Chocolate Hills, adorable tarsiers, a relaxing Loboc River cruise, and historic Baclayon Church. It’s a well-organized way to get a taste of Bohol’s highlights in one day, without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most? The stunning views of the Chocolate Hills, especially as they turn a sugar-cube brown in the dry season, and the chance to get up close with the tiniest primates in their natural habitat. Plus, the delicious buffet lunch on the Loboc River cruise, with local seafood and Filipino dishes, makes this trip feel like a mini culinary adventure. The only real consideration? Since it’s a shared tour, you’ll want to be punctual for pickups to stay on schedule.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without spending days in Bohol. If you’re short on time but eager to see the key sights—especially the world-famous hills and adorable tarsiers—this is a good fit. It also suits those who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and engaging guides who know how to keep the day moving smoothly.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Ferry, transfers, entrance fees, and lunch included, making it straightforward and budget-friendly.
• Iconic sights: The Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary are must-see highlights that make Bohol unique.
• Perfect for short trips: This tour packs the main attractions into a single day, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Comfort and organization: Air-conditioned transport and professional guides help ensure a smooth experience.
• Authentic cultural touchpoints: Visit historic Baclayon Church and Blood Compact Shrine for a glimpse into Bohol’s past.
• Informative guides: Travelers often praise the guides, like one who was described as “amazing,” adding depth to the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Getting There and Transportation

Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—either in Mactan at 6:00 AM or Cebu City at 6:30 AM—then transferred to the seaport for your ferry ride via OceanJet. The journey to Bohol’s Tagbilaran is smooth, and the included roundtrip ferry tickets (best available seats) help keep things simple. Once in Bohol, all transportation—air-conditioned, comfortable—takes you between the sites, eliminating any worry about local taxis or confusing public transit.

This focus on comfort is a big plus. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest the experience is well-organized, and the guides manage the flow effectively.

The Highlights of the Day

Chocolate Hills: No visit to Bohol is complete without seeing these geological marvels. Over 1,200 cone-shaped hills stretch across the landscape, creating an almost surreal view. You’ll likely stop at a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas, perfect for photos. When the dry season arrives, the hills turn a chocolate brown, which makes for an especially striking sight. Travelers describe their awe when viewing the hills — one reviewer called it “really good,” highlighting how well the tour is organized.

Tarsier Sanctuary: Standing just inches away from the tiny, wide-eyed tarsiers is a highlight. These little primates are adorable and surprisingly active in their natural habitat. The sanctuary provides insights into their behavior and conservation efforts, making it educational as well as cute. According to reviews, guides enhance this experience, sharing interesting facts about these tiny creatures.

Loboc River Cruise: The leisurely cruise along the lush Loboc River offers a chance to relax amid scenic greenery. The buffet lunch, featuring local delicacies and seafood, is a treat. Reviewers rave about the food, with one describing it as “delicious,” and many appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a meal while soaking in the views. The cruise’s gentle pace makes it feel like a peaceful break in the day’s itinerary.

Baclayon Church and Blood Compact Shrine: These historic sites give a sense of Bohol’s colonial past. Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, showcases Spanish-era architecture. Meanwhile, the Blood Compact Shrine commemorates the first treaty of friendship between Filipinos and Spaniards in 1565. They offer a quick but meaningful glimpse into the history that shaped the Philippines.

Bilar Man-made Forest: A peaceful walk through a dense mahogany plantation that stretches for two kilometers. It feels almost mystical, especially when the sunlight filters through the leaves. It’s a calming break amid a busy day of sightseeing.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is how well it balances the main attractions with practical comfort. The inclusion of professional licensed guides (from the Department of Tourism) ensures you’re getting informed commentary along with a smooth ride. The tour also provides water on board, souvenirs, and all entrance fees—adding to the value.

While some reviews note that the sights are very touristy, this is largely unavoidable when visiting popular landmarks like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary. However, the guides’ expertise helps make the experience more meaningful, and the organized schedule means you won’t waste time trying to figure out logistics.

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What Could Be Better?

Since the tour doesn’t hold ferry reservations, booking less than 8-10 hours in advance might be risky. Also, as a shared tour, you’ll want to arrive promptly for pickups to keep the day running smoothly. For travelers craving a more personalized or off-the-beaten-path experience, this might feel a bit too curated.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to see Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you enjoy organized group tours with knowledgeable guides and appreciate comfort and convenience. Families and first-time visitors especially find value here, as it covers the must-see sights in a manageable day. However, those seeking a more in-depth or private experience might prefer to customize their own itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Best of Bohol tour offers a well-rounded, engaging glimpse into what makes this island special. The combination of stunning landscapes, adorable wildlife, and cultural sites, all wrapped in a comfortable, organized package, makes it a compelling choice for many travelers. For the price of $135, you get a day packed with variety, some of the Philippines’ most recognizable sights, and the chance to learn from passionate guides.

While it’s a whirlwind experience—no surprise given the short duration—it’s a very good way to get a solid introduction to Bohol’s treasures. If you’re after a straightforward, fun, and informative day that hits the highlights, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes roundtrip ferry tickets via OceanJet, hotel-to-seaport transfers, entrance fees to sites, a buffet lunch on the Loboc River cruise, air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, souvenirs, and water onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring an ID card (a photocopy is okay), comfortable clothing, sun protection, and maybe a camera. Since the tour involves outdoor stops, wearing sturdy shoes is advisable.

Are the sites very touristy?
Yes, especially the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary, which are popular. However, guides help make these visits more meaningful, and the scenic beauty compensates for the crowds.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is designed as a full day, starting early with hotel pickups around 6:00-6:30 AM and returning afterward, depending on ferry schedules.

Can I book last-minute?
Booking less than 8-10 hours before the tour may be risky because ferry reservations aren’t guaranteed. It’s best to reserve earlier if possible.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The sights are family-friendly, and the gentle pace makes it accessible for kids and seniors alike.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Bohol’s iconic sights with the ease of organized transport and guided insight. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a snapshot of the island’s best, especially if time is tight but quality matters.

You can check availability for your dates here: