Bohol: Choco Tour with Lunch Buffet and Sikatuna Mirror

Thinking of exploring Bohol beyond just the Chocolate Hills? This 8-hour tour for $99 per person offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, and local life. Your day begins with convenient hotel pickups in Panglao or Tagbilaran, and ends with a comfortable return, making it perfect for those who want a thorough yet relaxed experience.

What we love about this tour are two things: first, the inclusion of a buffet lunch during the Loboc River cruise—a highlight for anyone who appreciates good local food paired with scenic views. Second, the visit to Sikatuna Mirror of the World, which provides a unique photo opportunity and a peaceful walk. The only potential downside? The itinerary covers quite a bit in a single day, which might feel rushed for travelers who prefer more time at each site.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Bohol’s main attractions without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s ideal if you enjoy history, nature, and culture in a compact package. Families, first-timers, or those with limited time will find this tour hits all the key highlights.

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Key Points

Conveniently organized: Pick-up and drop-off are included at multiple locations, simplifying logistics.
Cultural insights: Visit historic sites like the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church.
Scenic highlights: Enjoy panoramic views at the Chocolate Hills and drive through the Man-Made Forest.
Wildlife encounter: Observe adorable and endangered Tarsiers up close at the sanctuary.
Culinary experience: Savor a buffet lunch during a Loboc River cruise with local music and performances.
Photo opportunities: Multiple stops for photos, including the Sikatuna Mirror and scenic viewpoints.

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The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and First Stops

We begin the day with a hassle-free hotel pickup in one of four locations—either in Panglao, Tagbilaran, Dauis, or Bohol. The transportation is air-conditioned, a nice touch after a humid morning, and the driver is friendly and knowledgeable, providing basic commentary during the drive. This setup helps you relax and settle in before the day’s adventures.

The first stop is the Blood Compact Shrine, a site that commemorates the historic “Sandugo” or blood compact between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna. It’s a quick 15-minute visit, but the monument offers a meaningful glimpse into Bohol’s early interactions with Europeans. As one traveler noted, “It’s a simple monument, but it felt powerful to stand there and think about the history.”

Next, you’ll visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Dating back to the Spanish colonial era, this church’s facade and interior are remarkably well-preserved. Adjacent is the Baclayon Museum, where religious artifacts and relics tell stories of Bohol’s spiritual past. Expect about 15 minutes here—enough to appreciate the architecture and snap a few photos.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

After soaking in history, the tour moves to Loboc River, where you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise. The highlight is the buffet lunch aboard a floating restaurant, featuring local dishes like grilled fish, vegetables, and fruit. The cruise is more than just a meal; it’s an experience with live traditional music and cultural performances that showcase Bohol’s vibrant heritage. Many travelers mention that the lunch is plentiful and tasty, making it a relaxing and flavorful break.

From the river, we head to the Man-Made Forest, a lush stretch of densely planted mahogany trees. The cool canopy provides a welcome respite from the sun and offers excellent photo opportunities. Expect a quick 15-minute stop, but the scenery is so lush you’ll want to linger.

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Wildlife and Geological Wonders

Next, the tour takes you to the Tarsier Sanctuary. Here, you can observe the tiny, endearing Philippine tarsier in its natural habitat. The sanctuary emphasizes conservation, and guides explain the importance of protecting these endangered primates. It’s a short visit, but many travelers find it a touching and memorable part of the day. One reviewer said, “Seeing the tarsiers up close was a highlight for our kids—they’re even cuter in real life.”

The Chocolate Hills are next—the iconic geological formation of at least 1,260 hills. During the dry season, they turn chocolate brown, hence the name. At the Chocolate Hills Complex, you’ll get sweeping panoramic views and learn about their geological origins. It’s a must-see, and the hour-long visit allows ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

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Ending the Day with Cultural Reflection

The final stop is the Sikatuna Mirror of the World, a peaceful site where you can walk, take photos, and reflect on the day. It offers a calm, scenic setting to wind down before heading back to your accommodations.

Practicalities and Tips

Duration and Timing: The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, with check-in times varying. It’s wise to arrive early and wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking.
Inclusions: Everything is arranged for you—entrance fees, environmental fees, transport, and lunch. This package enhances value by avoiding unexpected costs.
Group Size: Being a private group, the experience feels more personalized and flexible compared to larger tours.
Considerations: The tour involves a fair amount of moving and walking, so it might not suit everyone, especially those with back problems or mobility issues.
Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility if your plans are tentative.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop. It suits first-time visitors eager to see the island’s cultural and natural treasures efficiently. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic views, wildlife, and good food will find it a satisfying experience.

While it’s packed with sights, the tour strikes a balance between guided commentary and free time for photos and reflection. It’s perfect for those who prefer a structured day that covers a lot but still feels manageable.

Final Thoughts

For $99, this Bohol Choco Tour with Lunch Buffet and Sikatuna Mirror offers solid value. You get a taste of Bohol’s most famous landmarks, a river cruise with local flavor, and the chance to see adorable tarsiers in their habitat—all in one well-organized package. It’s a clean, straightforward way to grasp what makes Bohol special, especially if you’re short on time or want an easy, guided experience.

While it’s a fast-paced tour, the variety of stops ensures you’ll leave with a good sense of the island’s culture, landscape, and wildlife. It’s suited for curious travelers who like a bit of everything and appreciate the convenience of a private guide. For those wanting to explore at their own pace, consider whether the schedule might feel a touch rushed.

Overall, it provides a memorable snapshot of Bohol, making it a worthwhile addition to any Philippine island-hopping itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting and ending with hotel pickup and drop-off.

What is included in the price?
The tour price of $99 includes pickup and drop-off, entrance and environmental fees, air-conditioned vehicle, a buffet lunch during the Loboc River cruise, and guided visits.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for people with back problems due to the amount of walking and vehicle rides.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private group tour, there’s some flexibility. However, the itinerary is set to cover the main highlights.

Is the lunch buffet at Loboc River good?
Most reviews praise the buffet for being plentiful and tasty, with local dishes and lively performances adding to the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and walking shoes are recommended. Bring a camera and a hat for extra comfort.

How many stops are there?
There are nine main stops, each offering a different perspective of Bohol’s culture, history, and scenery.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and viewpoints are fantastic for photos.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.