BOHOL: Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers and Loboc River Day Tour

Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers and Loboc River Day Tour — A Practical Guide

Looking to see the highlights of Bohol without breaking the bank? For just $35 per person, this full-day tour offers a well-curated glimpse into the island’s most iconic sights, with a friendly local guide leading the way. You’ll visit the famous Chocolate Hills, meet the tiny but adorable Tarsiers, and glide along the scenic Loboc River. All of this is done comfortably in a spacious, air-conditioned van, with the added perks of photo assistance, line management, and itinerary flexibility.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances value and quality—you get to see the key highlights without the crowds or rushed schedules that often come with big group outings. Also, the personalized service, with guides who are not only knowledgeable but genuinely enthusiastic, makes each stop more meaningful. The extra legroom in the van and the smooth ride add to the relaxed vibe, making it suitable even if you’re not a big fan of long rides.

One potential consideration: the PHP 500 environmental fee is payable during pick-up, so bring some cash. Also, the tour doesn’t include the Loboc River cruise with lunch or additional adventures like ATV rides or ziplining, which are optional extras. If you’re seeking a straightforward, no-fuss way to tick off Bohol’s must-sees, this tour is a smart choice. It suits travelers who value comfort, expertise, and a flexible itinerary—and those who want a personalized experience over a large, impersonal group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: A full day of sightseeing for just $35.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable local guides make the stops engaging and informative.
• Comfortable transport: Ride in a spacious, high-roof van with extra legroom.
• Flexible and personalized: Options for additional stops and dietary preferences.
• Well-chosen destinations: Highlights include Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River, and more.
• Skip the crowds: Small groups and off-peak timing mean fewer travelers at each site.

The Ultimate Look at the Bohol Day Tour Experience

If you’re visiting the Philippines’ Visayas region and want a rich yet practical introduction to Bohol, this tour ticks all the boxes. For $35, you’re not just paying for transportation—you’re investing in a well-organized day that emphasizes comfort, local knowledge, and authentic experiences.

Itinerary Breakdown and Why It Matters

The tour kicks off at the Blood Compact Shrine, an important historical site where you’ll learn about the early friendship between Filipino and Spanish explorers. Unlike many rushed tours, this stop is handled with care, and your guide will share stories that make history come alive. We loved the way our guide handled tickets, lines, and photo requests, making the experience smooth and stress-free.

Next, the lush Bilar Man-Made Forest offers a cool, shaded environment perfect for snapshots. Its coolness isn’t just literal; it’s a nice break from the sun and a quiet moment amidst towering mahogany trees. Several reviewers appreciated this stop as a “serene,” “cool” area ideal for photos, especially if you’re after that “Instagram-worthy” shot without the crowds.

The Tarsier Sanctuary is a highlight for many. These tiny primates are only about the size of your palm, but their big eyes leave a lasting impression. Multiple reviews praised the experience, with one reviewer noting, “The Tarsiers were really cute,” and appreciating the guide’s help in capturing perfect photos. It’s a short visit, but seeing these delicate creatures up close makes a big impact.

The Chocolate Hills are a must-see—UNESCO-approved and truly spectacular. Our guide explained how the mounds turn brown during dry season, resembling “chocolate drops,” which is where the name comes from. We loved the panoramic views, and many travelers echo this sentiment, describing it as a “natural wonder” that’s worth a visit.

Optional: Loboc River Cruise

The tour offers an optional Loboc River cruise with lunch, which many find to be a highlight. For PHP 950, you can enjoy a buffet and live music while floating past lush scenery. This is a flexible addition—some travelers choose to skip it if they prefer to explore more or save money. A review mentioned the delicious buffet and “amazing views,” making it a relaxing way to break up the busy day.

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Other Stops and Add-ons

After the river cruise, the tour continues to the Lemur & Butterfly Park, a charming spot for those who love wildlife. The tour wraps up at the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines, offering a glimpse into local architecture and history.

If you’re feeling adventurous, and all guests agree, you can extend your day with optional activities like ATV rides, ziplining, or visiting Guwaon Cave. These are not included in the base price but add extra fun for thrill-seekers.

Service and Comfort

What makes this tour stand out is the high level of service. The friendly, knowledgeable guides (many reviewers mention guides named Kaye and Jane) manage every detail—from handling ticket lines to taking photos—allowing you to relax and enjoy each destination. The air-conditioned van with extra legroom makes a long day comfortable, and the timely pickups and drop-offs mean you won’t waste precious sightseeing time.

Price and Value

At $35, this tour delivers exceptional value. Considering the cost of individual attractions and transportation, the price is competitive, especially when you factor in the personalized service and expert guidance. The optional river cruise, priced separately, is a good deal for those wanting a relaxing experience with scenic views and good food.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a high-quality, comfortable, and authentic tour of Bohol. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer small group sizes and flexibility. If you’re keen on learning about local history and culture, and enjoying beautiful scenery without feeling rushed, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This Bohol day tour offers a comprehensive, relaxed way to see the island’s top sights without the chaos or excessive cost. With friendly guides, comfortable transport, and a well-curated itinerary, it appeals to travelers who want a personalized experience that balances sightseeing, culture, and nature.

If you’re after stunning views like the Chocolate Hills, adorable wildlife at the Tarsier Sanctuary, and a peaceful river cruise, all at a fair price, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially good for those who prefer to travel light, with a knowledgeable guide, and enjoy authentic moments without crowds.

For anyone seeking a cost-effective yet high-quality introduction to Bohol, this tour ticks the boxes. It’s a smart choice whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends—ready to create some memorable moments in the Philippines.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it excludes babies under 1 year, and not suitable for those over 70 or with altitude sickness. The itinerary involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so consider your children’s stamina.

Do I need to bring any special items?
Yes, you should bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, cash for optional activities and fees, and hand sanitizer or tissues. A change of clothes is recommended if you plan to swim or get wet during optional activities.

What’s included in the tour price?
You get a private, air-conditioned van with high roof and extra legroom, a knowledgeable tour guide, bottled water, and photo assistance. Pick-up and drop-off within Tagbilaran or Panglao are included.

Are meals provided?
The tour itself does not include lunch, but the optional Loboc River cruise offers a buffet at additional cost (PHP 950). You can choose to include or skip this depending on your preference.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, if all guests agree, you can add stops like ATV rides, ziplining, or visit Guwaon Cave. These are optional and require group consensus.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

In the end, this Bohol tour balances value, comfort, and authenticity—making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the best of the island without the hassle. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, you’re likely to leave with a good sense of what makes Bohol special—beautiful landscapes, lively wildlife, and warm Filipino hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: