Discover Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural treasures on this full-day tour from Cebu. Priced at $145 per person, it includes visits to iconic sites like the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Conservation Area, and a scenic Loboc River cruise with lunch. The tour lasts about 14 hours, with round-trip transfers by land and ferry, making it a seamless, all-in-one adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a comprehensive snapshot of Bohol in a single day—perfect for travelers with limited time but eager to see the highlights. The small group size ensures a more personal feel, and the knowledgeable guides help bring each stop to life. On the flip side, it can be a long, sometimes tiring day, especially if you’re not used to early starts and busy schedules.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips. If you’re keen on seeing biodiversity up close and enjoying a taste of local Filipino life, this is a solid choice. However, those seeking a relaxed pace or overnight exploration might prefer a slower, more in-depth experience.

Key Points

All-in-one experience covering Bohol’s top sights in one day.
Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles and ferry rides.
Authentic cultural moments like traditional dancing and local music.
Great value for the price, including lunch, entrance fees, and souvenirs.
Highly praised guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.
Potential long hours and quick stops, so be prepared for a busy schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Countryside Day Tour

If you’re heading to Cebu and craving an easy way to experience Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural charm, this tour offers a lot for the money. It’s a packaged adventure designed to hit the island’s highlights while minimizing the hassle of logistics—perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Philippines’ laid-back island life.

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The Journey Begins Early

Starting at 6:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported via air-conditioned vehicle to the ferry terminal. The journey involves a roughly two-hour ferry ride to Bohol, which some travelers find a bit lengthy, especially on smaller, less comfortable seats. As one reviewer noted, “The ferry has assigned seats, a 2hr ride to Bohol,” which can feel long, but it’s a small price to pay for the scenery and anticipation.

Once on the island, your driver—who often doubles as a guide—will whisk you off to your first stop: the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument. You’ll have about 30 minutes to marvel at these uniquely shaped hills, which look like giant chocolate drops from afar. This site is truly a must-see and offers fantastic photo opportunities. One traveler described it as “an extraordinary landscape,” and it’s easy to see why.

Exploring Bohol’s Forest and Wildlife

Next, you’ll visit the Bilar Mahogany Forest, a man-made stretch of dense, towering trees that offers a cool contrast to the open hills. This 30-minute stop is free of entrance fees, and many enjoy the shade and serenity of the carefully planted rows of mahogany—an impressive feat of local reforestation efforts.

A highlight for many is the Tarsier Conservation Area, where you’ll spend about 30 to 45 minutes with the tiny primates. These adorable creatures, measuring just 9 to 16 cm, are one of the Philippines’ most iconic animals. Visitors often comment on how “cute” and “fascinating” they are, but it’s important to respect their environment and observe quietly; they are sensitive to noise and light. As one review states, “The tarsiers are very cute,” and it’s a rare chance to see such small, delicate wildlife up close.

The Cultural and Historical Stops

The tour continues with a visit to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines, dating back to the 16th century. With only about 30 minutes allocated, you’ll see the colonial architecture and learn a bit about Bohol’s religious history. Reviewers find it “fascinating” to walk inside this historic site and feel the weight of its centuries-old walls.

Another meaningful stop is the Blood Compact Monument, which commemorates a historic ritual of friendship between Spanish and Filipino leaders. A quick 30-minute visit, but one that adds depth to understanding Bohol’s past.

The Highlight: Loboc River Cruise

No visit to Bohol would be complete without experiencing the Loboc River cruise. For about an hour and a half, you’ll relax aboard a floating restaurant, enjoying a buffet lunch with local dishes, live music, and traditional dancing. Many reviewers describe this as a “memorable” highlight—”the scenery is stunning,” and the entertainment adds a lively Filipino flavor to the experience.

The cruise is a perfect break in the busy day, offering a restful way to soak in the lush river scenery while sampling regional flavors. The included souvenir adds a thoughtful touch to this relaxing and culturally rich experience.

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Wrapping Up the Day

The final stop is back on land at the Baclayon Church area, with a brief visit to the Blood Compact Monument if time allows. The day winds down with the ferry ride back to Cebu, which some find a bit late—around 9 pm—so be prepared for a long day.

The Reviews: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth organization. One said, “Our guide Elba was very knowledgeable,” which makes a huge difference when you want to learn more about each site. Others highlight the stunning scenery and well-organized lunch cruise, describing it as a “great experience”.

However, some note the long travel times—the ferry and shuttle transfers can make this a tiring, full-on day. For instance, one reviewer pointed out, “It can take almost 5 hours to get to Bohol,” and “You only get about 30 minutes at each stop,” which might feel rushed if you prefer a leisurely pace. Weather can also impact the experience; if rain hits, some sites may feel less enjoyable, although the tour is flexible enough to cover the main highlights.

The Value Proposition

At $145, the tour offers a comprehensive package—all entry fees, lunch, transport, and a souvenir included. Many travelers feel it’s good value considering the number of sites covered and the convenience. As one reviewer said, “The tour was very well organized from pick-up to the ferry and transfers,” which saves you time and the hassle of planning each visit independently.

Nonetheless, be aware that for some, the long hours and quick stops might not be ideal if you’re seeking a more relaxed pace. The ferry ride, in particular, can be uncomfortable for those sensitive to small, rougher seats or long durations.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for an efficient, well-organized day trip that hits Bohol’s most famous sights with minimal fuss, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers on a tight schedule who want to see the Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, and enjoy a local river cruise with tasty food and lively entertainment. The guides’ knowledge and the smooth logistics make it a high-value experience, even if the long hours and quick stops aren’t for everyone.

For those who prefer a more leisurely exploration or want to spend more time on each site, consider an overnight trip or a customized tour. But if you’re happy to pack it all in for one day and enjoy the combination of nature, history, and culture, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, with pickup from your hotel, to maximize your day in Bohol.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all entrance fees, round-trip ferry tickets, lunch during the Loboc River cruise, bottled water, all taxes, and a souvenir.

Are the stops brief?
Yes, each stop typically allows around 30 minutes—just enough to see the highlights but not to explore in depth.

Is transportation comfortable?
Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the ferry ride is included, though some find the ferry seats a bit small or uncomfortable.

Who guides the tour?
A professional guide, often the driver, accompanies you, providing commentary and assistance.

Can I customize the tour?
No, this is a fixed itinerary, but reviews suggest the organization is flexible enough to handle weather issues or minor delays.

What if it rains?
The tour proceeds rain or shine. In case of weather disruptions, some sites might be less enjoyable, but major sights are usually still accessible.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially with a guide to keep things engaging. However, very young children should be prepared for a full day of travel and quick stops.

In summary, this Bohol day tour from Cebu offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s scenic landscapes and cultural sites. It’s a smart pick for those short on time but eager to experience a broad slice of Bohol’s charm—if you’re prepared for a busy, action-packed day.