Bohol Country Side Tour – Private w/ Lunch

Exploring Bohol with the Private Country Side Tour: A Deep Dive

If you’re planning a visit to Bohol, the Bohol Country Side Tour with lunch offers a well-rounded glimpse of this charming Philippine island. For just over $113 per person, you get roughly 8.5 hours of guided exploration, visiting iconic sites like the Chocolate Hills, the Man-made Forest, and the Baclayon Church, plus an unforgettable river cruise along the Loboc River. With pickup and drop-off included, this tour makes it easy to see the highlights without the hassle of figuring out transportation.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the personalized experience—it’s a private activity, so your group can enjoy a relaxed pace and tailored commentary—and the diversity of sites that balance natural wonders with cultural history. The lunch cruise adds a leisurely, scenic touch, allowing you to sample local dishes while taking in views of the river.

One possible consideration is the physical demands of some stops, like walking through the forest or exploring the church, so travelers should be comfortable with moderate activity levels.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of nature, history, and local culture, especially those who value the insights of knowledgeable guides. If you’re eager to see Bohol’s main attractions without the stress of planning, this private tour offers convenience and depth.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience ensures a relaxed and tailored visit.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers major sights, balancing natural wonders and historical sites.
• Inclusion of lunch on a Loboc River cruise delivers both flavor and scenery.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and appreciation of each stop.
• Transport included simplifies logistics, with pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.
• Good value for the price, considering all fees, entrance tickets, and included meals.

Visiting Bohol’s Top Sights in One Day

We found this tour to be an excellent way to tick off the main attractions of Bohol without feeling rushed. The price of $113.20 includes admission fees, a buffet lunch, and transportation in a comfy, air-conditioned vehicle—all significant when comparing the cost of independent visits and entrance costs. The fact that it’s a private tour means your small group will enjoy the flexibility to spend more time at places that catch your interest.

The itinerary is carefully crafted to showcase the island’s natural beauty alongside its cultural heritage. Here’s a detailed look at each stop:

Chocolate Hills Natural Monument

The Chocolate Hills are a must-see. With over 1,200 hills spread across more than 50 square kilometers, they truly are a geological wonder. We loved the way the tour includes enough time (about 1.5 hours) to appreciate the view, take photographs, and learn about their formation. The name comes from the brown appearance during the dry season, but no chocolate is involved—just a stunning landscape that looks almost otherworldly.

Visitors typically find the sight both surreal and impressive. The viewing platforms offer panoramic angles perfect for photographs, and guides often share insights into how these hills were formed, adding layers to the visual spectacle.

Man-Made Mahogany Forest

This artificial forest is a fascinating example of human effort to create green spaces. Spanning about an hour, this stop allows you to wander among rows of meticulously planted trees. While it’s not a natural forest, the visual effect is quite striking, especially considering the effort it took to establish.

From reviews, we know that guides give insightful commentary here, which enriches the visit. For some, it’s a peaceful walk amid tall trees, offering a contrast to the natural wilderness elsewhere on the tour.

Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

The Tarsier Sanctuary is one of the most charming stops. These second-smallest primates in the world are a highlight for many visitors. The guide’s insights and the opportunity to see these tiny creatures up close make this a memorable experience.

The about 1.5-hour visit allows you to observe the tarsiers—most of which are kept in conditions designed to mimic their natural habitat—and learn about their fragile existence. Visitors often comment on how cute and delicate these animals are, but guides also inform on conservation efforts.

Loboc River Cruise

The two-hour cruise along the Loboc River offers a relaxed, scenic break. The buffet lunch on the boat features local dishes, giving you a taste of Filipino cuisine. We loved the way the floating restaurant provides a peaceful view of the lush riverbanks, giving a sense of the island’s natural beauty.

Reviews mention that the lunch buffet is plentiful and tasty, making it a highlight of the day. The cruise also offers opportunities for photos and quiet reflection amid the gentle flow of the river.

Baclayon Church

As one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Philippines, the Baclayon Church is a cultural treasure. The church’s authentic materials and well-preserved architecture date back to 1727, offering a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past.

An hour here is enough to appreciate the architecture, explore the interior, and learn about its history from your guide. Visitors often mention the church’s historic significance and the peaceful atmosphere during their visit.

The Experience and Practicalities

The air-conditioned van makes the roughly 8.5-hour journey comfortable, especially considering the tropical climate. Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation mean you avoid navigating unfamiliar transport, allowing you to relax and focus on the sights.

The knowledgeable guide (such as Daniel, according to reviews) is a real highlight. Guests praise guides for their insights and friendly attitude, making the experience more engaging and informative.

The ticket price covers all entrance fees and taxes, removing any surprises or additional costs. For an extra fee, you can rent an ATV (at P1100 per person) if you’re looking for a bit more adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Bohol’s highlights. It’s especially suited for those who want small-group attention and personalized commentary. Families, couples, or small groups will benefit from the flexibility and intimate atmosphere.

People who appreciate natural beauty combined with cultural history will find this tour well-suited to their interests. If you’re after a hassle-free experience that covers the main sights while allowing some free time to soak in the scenery, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Bohol Country Side Tour with lunch offers a well-rounded experience that balances natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and authentic local flavor. The private aspect ensures a personalized touch that larger group tours can’t match, and the inclusion of key sites makes it excellent value.

The tour’s diverse itinerary means you see everything from geological marvels to historical architecture, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and expert guidance. For those who want to make the most of a single day on the island without sacrificing depth or comfort, this tour provides an authentic and enjoyable way to explore Bohol.

While it’s advisable to be comfortable with moderate physical activity, most sights are accessible with some walking. If you’re traveling with family or a small group who appreciates knowledgeable guides and scenic, meaningful experiences, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Bohol trip.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, this is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price? The price covers all entrance fees, taxes, environmental fees, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a buffet lunch on the Loboc River.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

What sites will we visit? The tour includes the Chocolate Hills, Man-Made Mahogany Forest, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River cruise, and Baclayon Church.

How long is the entire tour? Expect around 8.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

Is there any physical activity involved? Some walking is required at sites like the church and forest, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What should I wear? Light, comfortable clothing and good walking shoes are advisable, especially for outdoor stops.

Is lunch included? Yes, a buffet lunch is provided on the Loboc River cruise, featuring local dishes.

Are guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews highlight guides like Daniel for their insights and friendly approach.

Can I add activities like ATV riding? Yes, ATV rental is available for an extra fee of P1100 per person if you wish to add some adventure.

This detailed review captures what makes the Bohol Country Side Tour a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see Bohol’s highlights comfortably and authentically. Whether you’re into nature, history, or simply relaxing along scenic rivers, this tour offers a well-balanced, memorable experience.