Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet

This Bohol Choco Tour offers a taste of the island’s most famous sights, all for $75 per person, lasting about 7 to 8 hours. It’s a guided experience that takes you from the historic Blood Compact Shrine to the natural wonder of the Chocolate Hills, with a scenic river cruise and a visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area. What’s unique about this tour? It’s designed as a “free & easy” adventure, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, while still hitting the highlights.

We appreciate that this trip includes a buffet lunch on a Loboc River floating restaurant, a peaceful setting with live performances, and the chance to see some of Bohol’s most iconic landmarks without rushing or feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a blend of history, nature, and culture, and want to avoid cookie-cutter group tours.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the quality of the experience can vary depending on your guide and transportation, as one review pointed out some frustrations about the vehicle and the driver’s attitude. If you’re someone who values smooth logistics and friendly guides, it’s worth considering this when booking.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate flexibility and authentic sightseeing — especially those interested in understanding Bohol’s cultural and natural treasures at a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day with highlights, but don’t mind a few quirks, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous exploration and relaxed pacing.
• Includes a scenic Loboc River buffet cruise with live music and cultural performances.
• Highlights the island’s history and geology, from the Blood Compact Shrine to the Chocolate Hills.
• Visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area offers an up-close look at one of the world’s smallest primates.
• Transportation and meals are included, but the quality depends on your guide and vehicle.
• Averages good reviews for scenic views and cultural insights despite some criticisms.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting early at 8:00 am, the tour whisks you across Bohol’s countryside in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real plus for comfort. The first stop, the Blood Compact Shrine, offers a fascinating glimpse into the Philippines’ history, marking the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. The bronze sculpture by Napoleon Abueva captures the moment when Datu Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi shared a goblet of blood, symbolizing peace. The site’s coastal views make it a pleasant introduction to Bohol’s historic significance.

Next, the Baclayon Church stands as one of the oldest stone churches in the nation, dating from 1596. Inside, you’ll find a museum with religious artifacts and relics that tell stories from over 400 years of Christian influence. The coral stone walls and intricate carvings provide a tangible sense of Spanish colonial architecture. Visitors often find this stop both educational and awe-inspiring, especially for those interested in the architectural history of the Philippines.

The third stop at the Man-made Mahogany Forest is a highlight for nature lovers. This two-kilometer stretch of densely planted mahogany trees is a testament to Bohol’s reforestation efforts in the 1960s. The uniform rows of tall trees create a canopy that seems almost fantastical, offering excellent photo opportunities and a chance for some quiet reflection. The fact that it’s a reforestation project makes it a meaningful stop for eco-conscious travelers.

The Scenic Loboc River Cruise

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the Loboc River cruise. As you glide along the jade-green waters on a floating restaurant, you’ll be treated to a buffet of local dishes while enjoying live music and cultural performances. The cruise, which lasts about two hours, offers a relaxing break amid lush greenery, making it ideal for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty. The floating platform with local folk performances makes this a culturally rich experience, although some travelers note that the quality of the cruise can vary, and it’s sometimes crowded.

Encounter with the Tarsiers

The Tarsier Conservation Area provides a rare opportunity to see one of the world’s smallest primates. These creatures, famous for their enormous eyes, are sensitive and nocturnal, so guided paths ensure you observe them without causing stress. Guides here typically share insights into the primates’ biology and conservation, which adds educational value. The visit lasts about an hour and is a highlight for many, especially those interested in wildlife and conservation.

The Chocolate Hills

Finally, the Chocolate Hills are the tour’s crown jewel—an iconic landscape of over 1,200 nearly identical hills that turn brown in the dry season. Spread across several towns, the hills are formed from ancient coral deposits and eroded over millennia. Visitors can often climb to viewpoints for sweeping panoramas, which are breathtaking and somewhat surreal. This stop is a must for any first-time visitor to Bohol, and the views are a perfect way to end the day.

What Travelers Say

One review summarized the experience as “Bof,” citing issues with the driver’s attitude and the condition of the vehicle. The critic appreciated the cruise as the only truly enjoyable part, suggesting that the overall trip could be inconsistent. Conversely, many other travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, particularly the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary, as memorable highlights.

This mixed feedback points to the importance of managing expectations around transportation and guide quality. Still, the tour offers a solid overview of Bohol’s best sites in a relatively short day, especially if you prefer to keep your schedule flexible.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance, as this tour is popular and tends to fill up about 10 days ahead.
• Bring cash for tips or souvenirs, as some stops may have small stalls or donation areas.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially for walking around sites like Baclayon Church and the Chocolate Hills.
• Prepare for the weather, especially during the dry season when hills turn brown, and the sun can be intense.
• Be aware of the vehicle’s condition and guide’s attitude, as these can significantly influence your experience.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour For?

This Bohol Choco Tour is a balanced mix of history, nature, and culture, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of the Loboc River lunch buffet adds a relaxing touch, perfect for those wanting a peaceful meal surrounded by scenic views. If you’re someone who appreciates flexible scheduling and authentic encounters with Bohol’s landmarks, this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

However, if you’re particular about guide quality or vehicle comfort, it’s worth reading reviews carefully before booking. The tour’s success hinges on the guide’s attitude and the smoothness of logistics. Overall, for a first-time visitor eager to tick off key sights in a single day, this is a practical and enjoyable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, making travel between stops comfortable and convenient.

What is the duration of the tour?
Expect about 7 to 8 hours, including all stops, the river cruise, and lunch.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is served on the Loboc River floating restaurant as part of the package.

Can I customize or skip any stops?
Since it’s a guided tour, it’s best to follow the planned itinerary. However, the “free & easy” nature allows some flexibility for spontaneous exploration or relaxing.

What are the main highlights?
The Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Blood Compact Shrine, and the Loboc River cruise are the key highlights, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural history.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, but small children should be supervised around wildlife and historical sites. The tour is accessible to most travelers who can manage short walks.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, a hat, and some cash. Comfortable shoes and a camera are also recommended for capturing the scenery.

In the end, the Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet provides a practical way to see Bohol’s top sights in one day, especially if you value flexibility, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. While it has some quirks, its highlights make it a worthwhile option for those looking to make the most of their visit without feeling rushed.