Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, adorable Tarsiers, and historic Baclayon Church make for a delightful combination in this full-day tour. For $66 per person, you’ll spend roughly eight hours exploring some of the island’s best-known sights, with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights along the way. The tour includes a Loboc River lunch buffet, a relaxing break that offers scenic views and tasty food.
Two things we love about this experience are the opportunity to see the iconic Chocolate Hills up close and the chance to visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you can get a glimpse of these tiny primates in a natural, peaceful setting. The river cruise itself also earns points for its scenic views and lively atmosphere, especially with the live music and buffet.
A possible consideration is that the tour covers a lot of ground in a single day, which might feel rushed, especially at busier spots like the Butterfly Sanctuary or the Python Sanctuary. Also, since it’s a shared tour with a maximum of 12 people, groups may vary in dynamics and pace.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and culture without the hassle of planning individual activities. It’s good for those who want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights, especially first-time visitors eager for a well-organized day out.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covering major Bohol attractions
- Includes a scenic Loboc River lunch buffet
- Small group experience with a driver (not a guide)
- Variety of stops from historic sites to wildlife sanctuaries
- Potential for a rushed feel due to tight schedule
- Good value for a full-day guided experience
An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour
When you first hear about the Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour, it’s easy to imagine a simple sightseeing trip. But this tour packs quite a punch, combining natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and animal encounters into a single day. It’s a solid option if you’re looking to maximize your time on the island without the stress of organizing multiple activities.
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Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at McDonald’s Panglao, a familiar and convenient meeting spot for many travelers. From there, you’ll hop into a vehicle with a driver, which is included in the cost. The driver is noted for being friendly and helpful, though he’s not a guide—so don’t expect detailed commentary during the drive. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, covering roughly eight hours of sightseeing.
The group size is limited to 12 people, which balances the need for a social experience with enough space to move comfortably. The pick-up window is about 30 minutes, so expect to be ready early—approximately 8:00 AM—to start your day.
Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
Blood Compact Shrine (30 minutes)
Your journey kicks off with a stop at the Blood Compact Shrine, a significant historical marker commemorating a 16th-century treaty between Spaniards and Filipinos. It’s a quick photo op, but a meaningful introduction to Bohol’s history.
Baclayon Church (30 minutes)
Next, you’ll visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. The structure’s age and architecture give you a tangible sense of the Philippines’ colonial past. It’s also a chance for some beautiful photos and a brief look at religious artifacts inside.
Xzootic Animal Park (1 hour)
This stop offers a chance to see various wildlife. Although some reviews mention this as a highlight, others criticize the zoo-like conditions, describing it as unethical. If animal welfare concerns matter to you, keep that in mind, and perhaps focus on the sanctuary visits.
Man-Made Forest (15-minute stop)
A brief drive through this lush, reforested area provides excellent photo opportunities. The towering trees create a canopy that’s perfect for a quick walk or snapshot, giving a sense of Bohol’s efforts to preserve its greenery.
Tarsier Sanctuary (1 hour)
One of the tour’s highlights—getting up close with tiny, adorable tarsiers. The sanctuary is designed to promote conservation and animal welfare, and travelers are asked to remain silent to avoid disturbing the creatures. The review mentions that the tarsiers are “well treated,” making this a worthwhile stop for animal lovers.
Chocolate Hills (1 hour)
The iconic Chocolate Hills are the star of the show. These over 1,200 limestone formations turn a chocolate-brown during the dry season, creating a surreal landscape. The viewing platform offers spectacular photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at one of the Philippines’ most famous natural wonders.
Loboc River Cruise and Lunch (2 hours)
The day culminates with a scenic cruise along Loboc River, complete with a buffet lunch. You’ll enjoy local dishes while gliding past lush landscapes, often accompanied by live music. Reviewers highlight the beautiful views and delicious food, making it a relaxing end to a busy day. This part of the experience is especially praised for its scenic value and lively atmosphere.
Return to Panglao
The tour wraps up back at McDonald’s Panglao after a full day of exploration.
What You’ll Experience
Historic Sites
Visiting the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church provides a glimpse into Bohol’s rich past. You’ll see colonial architecture and learn about pivotal moments in Filipino history, which adds depth to your island visit.
Wildlife Encounters
The Tarsier Sanctuary offers a rare chance to see one of the world’s smallest primates in a naturalistic setting. The Python and Butterfly Sanctuary is also included, offering a chance to see local species and learn about conservation efforts. The Wildlife viewing at Xzootic can be hit or miss, depending on your interest in zoo-like environments.
Natural Wonders
The Chocolate Hills are undoubtedly the highlight. Standing on the viewing platform, you’ll appreciate the striking landscape that draws visitors from around the world. The Man-Made Forest adds a lush, green contrast, and the Loboc River cruise offers a peaceful escape after a busy morning.
Cultural and Culinary Experience
The Loboc River lunch buffet is a major plus. You’ll enjoy local Filipino dishes served in a scenic setting, making the meal both delicious and memorable.
Authentic Perspectives from Travelers
Reviews suggest that most travelers find the driver to be friendly and helpful, though some mention that guiding commentary during the trip is limited, as the driver is not a guide. One reviewer specifically pointed out that the cruise was “absolutely amazing”, praising the views, buffet, and live singer.
However, the animal sanctuary experience receives mixed feedback. While some appreciate that the tarsiers are well treated and the environment is peaceful, others warn that visiting the Xzootic Animal Park might feel unethical for animal lovers concerned about captive conditions.
The Chocolate Hills are universally admired in reviews, with many mentioning that the view is truly unforgettable. Some travelers note that the time at each stop can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore more thoroughly.
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Practical Details and Tips
Price at $66 includes transportation, entrance fees, and the buffet lunch—a reasonable price for a full day of sightseeing. Keep in mind that extra cash might be necessary for souvenirs or additional snacks.
Timing is crucial; starting at about 8:00 AM and ending around 4:00 PM, the schedule is packed. Be prepared for an early start and a full day.
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must for walking at various stops. A camera is essential for capturing the landscape, wildlife, and historic sites. Dress in light, comfortable clothes, as it can get warm, especially during outdoor stops.
Restrictions?
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and the tour emphasizes respectful behavior, especially at wildlife sanctuaries.
Who is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Bohol who want an overview of the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual outings. It’s also good for travelers interested in nature, wildlife, and local culture. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic views, historical sites, and a bit of wildlife, this tour offers a balanced mix.
However, if you’re particularly concerned about animal welfare, you might want to research sanctuary conditions further or consider alternative wildlife experiences. Also, travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace might find the schedule a bit tight, especially at sites with a lot to see.
The Sum Up
All in all, the Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet provides a solid introduction to Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s a value-packed way to see the island’s top sights, especially with the convenience of an organized, guided day. The scenic river cruise and famous hills are standout features, making this a memorable experience for most.
While it may feel a little rushed at times, the mix of history, wildlife, and scenery offers good variety and ensures you leave with a well-rounded impression of Bohol. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a comprehensive day tour that covers the island’s highlights without requiring extensive planning.
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and want an easy, enjoyable way to explore Bohol, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to bring your camera, your curiosity, and an open mind about animal sanctuaries and busy schedules.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children enjoy seeing the wildlife and the Chocolate Hills. However, keep in mind the busy schedule and some stops involve walking or standing for a while.
What is included in the price?
The price includes transportation, entrance fees, and the Loboc River buffet lunch. Extra cash may be needed for souvenirs or additional snacks.
How long is the Loboc River cruise?
The cruise and lunch last approximately two hours, providing a relaxing break with scenic views and live music.
Will I have enough time at each stop?
The schedule is designed to give you a taste of each site, but some travelers mention that the time is sometimes tight. It’s best to be punctual and stay aware of the schedule.
Can I skip any stops?
Since it’s a pre-arranged tour, skipping stops isn’t typically possible, but you can communicate your preferences to the driver.
Is the guide included?
No, the driver is not a guide and does not provide commentary. If you want detailed explanations, consider hiring a guide separately or asking your driver for insights.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and lightweight, breathable clothing are recommended. Sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, is also advisable.
Are there any restrictions?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the tour. Respectful behavior at sanctuaries and religious sites is expected.
How early should I be ready?
Plan to be at the pickup point by 8:00 AM to start on time and make the most of the day.
This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see Bohol’s most famous sights, combining natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural sites with a comfortable, guided experience. Ideal for those wanting a full-day adventure with good value—just be prepared for a busy schedule and bring your sense of curiosity!
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