This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Bohol’s most iconic sights. For $64 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours visiting the famous Chocolate Hills, enjoying a river cruise on the Loboc River, and getting a close-up look at the adorable Philippine tarsier. Led by a friendly driver-guide, this experience promises a blend of stunning scenery, cultural moments, and local flavors.
What we really like about this tour is the chance to see the unique geological formations of the Chocolate Hills, which turn a deep chocolate brown in the dry season—a sight that will stay with you. The Loboc River cruise offers a relaxing break amid lush landscapes, accompanied by a buffet of local and international dishes. We also appreciate how this tour showcases Filipino culture through traditional entertainment and visits to local sites.
A possible consideration? The long drive times between stops mean you’ll want to be comfortable with a fair amount of bus travel. But for those eager to see a diverse slice of Bohol in one day, the effort is well worth it.
This tour suits first-time visitors wanting an overview, nature lovers, and foodies interested in trying Filipino cuisine amid scenic surroundings. Based on reviews, it’s particularly popular with travelers who value knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary combining natural wonders and cultural sites.
- Affordable value for a full day of sightseeing including lunch.
- Relaxing Loboc River cruise with buffet and entertainment.
- Expert driver-guide providing local insights.
- Long travel times between stops, so patience is key.
- Authentic food and cultural exposure in a scenic setting.
A Deep Dive into the Bohol Experience
The Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch is designed for travelers who want to see a good chunk of the island without rushing. Starting with the pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point (usually McDonald’s Panglao), you’ll hop into a comfortable van for a roughly 45-minute scenic drive through lush countryside. It’s a chance to get your first glimpses of Bohol’s rural charm—where rice paddies, coconut groves, and small villages unfold in every direction.
Planning more time in Tagbilaran City? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Chocolate Hills — A Must-See Natural Wonder
Your first major stop is the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of over a thousand conical mounds. Depending on the season, the hills turn a chocolate brown, giving the landscape its famous name. We loved the breathtaking views from the designated viewpoint—it’s a perfect spot for photos and to take in the vastness of the landscape.
While the hills are a famous icon, some reviews note that crowds can be intense, especially in peak season, and the lines to get a good view can be long. Still, the impression of the sheer number of hills is undeniable and worth the visit. Your guide typically provides insights into their formation, making the visit more than just a picture opportunity.
The Blood Compact Monument & Baclayon Church — A Dose of History
Next, you’ll visit the Blood Compact Monument, commemorating the historic agreement between Spanish explorers and locals—a small but meaningful piece of Bohol’s colonial past. It’s a quick photo stop, but a nice way to understand local history.
Following that, the Baclayon Church beckons—one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, renowned for its well-preserved architecture. Expect some photos and perhaps a brief walk around its grounds. Some travelers appreciate how these stops give a sense of local history and culture beyond the natural sights.
Seeing the Endearing Philippine Tarsiers
A highlight for many is the visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area. These tiny primates are among the world’s smallest, and catching a glimpse of them up close is a memorable moment. The reviews note the small size and big eyes of these creatures—truly adorable.
The experience is generally positive, with guides explaining the importance of conservation. However, some travelers mention that the enclosure sizes are small, and it’s a brief visit—but seeing the tarsiers in their natural-like habitat remains a special experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Man-Made Forest — A Green Tunnel
The Man-Made Forest is another quick stop—an avenue of towering acacia trees planted in the 1960s. It’s a lovely photo spot and a reminder of human effort transforming the landscape.
The Loboc River Cruise — A Cultural Highlight
One of the most praised aspects of the tour is the Loboc River cruise. For about two hours, you’ll glide along lush riverbanks, passing tropical forests and small riverside villages. The buffet lunch is plentiful, with a mix of local Filipino dishes and international options. Travelers consistently mention the delicious food and the relaxing atmosphere.
The cruise features live traditional entertainment, which adds a lively, cultural dimension—some find it charming, others see it as a touristy but fun addition. The scenery along the river is what makes this such a memorable part of the day. As one reviewer put it, “the lunch on the river was a major highlight, very memorable and sooo worthwhile—delicious food and lovely entertainment.”
The Chocolate Hills Revisited & Free Time
After the cruise, you’ll return to the hills for about an hour of free time and sightseeing. This is your chance to take more photos or just soak in the views. Be aware that crowds can be heavy, and patience might be needed if you want a good shot without others in the frame.
Wrap-up and Return
The final leg involves a roughly one-hour van ride back to Panglao or Tagbilaran City, where you’ll be dropped off at your chosen location. The tour generally finishes around early evening, leaving you with plenty of time to relax or explore nearby areas.
Authenticity, Value, and Practicality
From reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a difference—many mention helpful, friendly guides who tailor the experience and share interesting facts. One reviewer called Julius “great,” noting how he helped with timing and tailored activities to fit the group’s preferences.
The price, at $64, covers transportation, entrance fees, the river cruise, and buffet lunch, which adds up to solid value. The tour’s structure allows you to see key sights without the hassle of planning, though it does involve a fair amount of driving—so patience and comfortable shoes are a must.
Considerations for Travelers
While most reviews are positive, some note that the river cruise can feel somewhat touristy—a “tourist trap,” as one person said. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, this might not satisfy that craving. Also, the long drive times mean you’ll spend a good chunk of the day in transit, which might be tiring for some.
If you prefer more exclusive experiences or less crowded spots, you might want to explore private tours or alternative options. But for the average traveler wanting a comprehensive, enjoyable day that hits the highlights, this tour offers a strong bang for your buck.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, well-organized overview of Bohol’s top sights. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic views, cultural sites, and relaxed river cruises. Food lovers will appreciate the buffet lunch, and those interested in wildlife will find the tarsier visit charming.
It’s also suitable for families, thanks to the wheelchair accessibility and generally easy pace. If you’re someone who values guides with local knowledge and a balanced itinerary, this tour will serve you well.
FAQ
Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included. A comfortable van takes you between sites, with driver and fuel covered in the price.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting and ending at your chosen pickup or drop-off point.
How much walking is involved?
Most stops are brief, just enough for photos and short walks. You should be prepared for some standing and light walking around attractions.
Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the tour, served during the Loboc River cruise.
Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickups are available for an extra fee. The standard meeting point is McDonald’s Panglao.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the tour is generally accessible and suitable for all ages, including seniors and young children, thanks to the comfortable vehicle and relaxed pace.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and light clothing suitable for warm weather. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for outdoor stops.
The Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch provides a well-balanced glimpse into the island’s natural beauty, history, and culture. It’s a cost-effective choice that delivers stunning scenery, delicious local food, and engaging cultural moments—all within a manageable day.
While it involves some long drives, most travelers find the scenery and experiences worth the journey. The tour’s friendly guides, authentic sites, and relaxing cruise make it a particularly appealing option for those new to Bohol or short on time but eager to see the highlights.
If you’re comfortable with a busier schedule and want a comprehensive introduction to Bohol, this tour will serve you beautifully. For those seeking a more personalized or off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to research alternative options—but for many, this trip hits the sweet spot of value and memorable sights.
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