Bohol Countryside Day Tour w Lunch at Loboc River From Cebu

Bohol Countryside Day Tour with Lunch at Loboc River From Cebu

If you’re looking to explore some of the Philippines’ most iconic sights on a manageable, well-organized day trip, the Bohol Countryside Day Tour from Cebu might just be what you need. For around $149 per person, this full-day adventure offers visits to Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Conservation Area, a scenic Loboc River cruise, and other cultural landmarks, all in a comfortably paced 12-hour excursion.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it combines natural beauty with cultural heritage — you’ll get to see the famous Chocolate Hills, which are a truly unique landscape of over a thousand rolling hills, and then meet the world’s smallest primates, the adorable tarsiers, in their natural habitat. We also appreciate the seamless round-trip transfers that take the fuss out of traveling between Cebu and Bohol, plus the lunch cruise that offers a relaxing way to enjoy a delicious Filipino meal while drifting along the Loboc River.

A potential consideration is the long travel time involved — with pickups starting as early as 6:00AM, and the entire experience lasting around 12 hours, you’ll need to be prepared for a full day on the road. It’s a packed schedule, so if leisurely exploration is your style, some stops might feel a bit brief.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you’re eager to tick off the main attractions in just one day and don’t mind the early start, this trip offers great value and an authentic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines natural wonders, wildlife, and cultural sites in a single day.
• Includes transportation: Round-trip land and ferry transfers simplify logistics.
• Guided with local knowledge: Enjoy insights from a driver who doubles as a guide, with reviews praising their expertise.
• Scenic highlights: Special moments like the Chocolate Hills and Loboc River cruise create memorable visuals.
• Early start: Pickup as early as 6:00AM from Lapu-Lapu/Mactan Resorts or Cebu City Hotels.
• Long day: Expect around 12 hours of sightseeing, travel, and enjoyment.

Exploring the Details: What to Expect on Your Bohol Adventure

When you book this tour, what truly stands out is how it manages to pack so much into 12 hours without overwhelming you. From the moment you’re picked up, your day is structured around maximizing sights while keeping travel smooth. You’ll find that the small group size makes for a more intimate experience and easier interaction with your guide.

Pickup and Transportation

Starting early, around 6:00AM from Lapu-Lapu or Mactan Resorts or 6:30AM from Cebu City hotels, your driver will arrive promptly. This punctuality is important because the entire schedule hinges on tight timing, especially on a day with multiple stops. You’ll be transported via comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and the ferry ride between Cebu and Bohol is included, making the trip feel seamless.

The Bohol Chocolate Hills

First stop is the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument, where you’ll be greeted with a panoramic view of more than 1,200 uniquely shaped hills. This spot is a must-see because of its geological significance and quirky beauty. The landscape looks like a giant’s playground, and you’ll appreciate how these hills, covered in green grass that turns brown in the dry season, create an almost surreal scenery. Be prepared for some photo opportunities, although the site may be crowded at peak times.

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Bilar Mahogany Forest and Tarsiers

Next, you’ll visit the Bilar Mahogany Forest, a well-maintained man-made forest that offers a cool, shady contrast to the open hills. It’s a good chance to appreciate Bohol’s efforts at conservation and forestry. Then, it’s on to the Tarsier Conservation Area to meet these tiny primates, which are truly adorable and unique to Bohol.

Based on reviews, guide knowledge really shines here. Rickard, for instance, mentioned that the guide was great and made the visit especially enjoyable. Expect the guide to share fun facts about tarsiers’ behavior, habits, and why they’re so tiny.

Heritage and Cultural Sites

The Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, offers a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past. It’s an impressive structure that has survived centuries of natural calamities and remains a symbol of Filipino faith and resilience.

Loboc River Cruise with Lunch

Finally, the highlight for many is the Loboc River cruise. You’ll board a floating restaurant to enjoy a Filipino buffet while gently drifting past lush greenery and local villages. The cruise is often praised for its scenic setting and relaxing pace. Many reviews note that the guide is helpful during this part, making sure everyone gets the best experience.

Additional Sites and Final Stops

Depending on the day, your guide might also take you to the Manmade Forest, an area of carefully planted trees that creates a tunnel-like pathway — perfect for a quick stroll or memorable photos.

The Value of This Tour

At $149, this experience offers good value considering the inclusion of ferry tickets, land transfers, a river cruise, entrance fees, and a guided experience. For travelers who want a rundown of Bohol’s top sights without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets, it’s quite convenient.

The reviews highlight the well-organized nature of the trip and the helpfulness of the guide. One reviewer noted, “well organised, guide was great,” which is a testament to how smoothly the day runs when you travel with a trusted operator.

However, the long travel times are worth noting. The trip involves early mornings and several hours on the road, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re eager to see Bohol’s key sights in one day, it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want an efficient, guided overview of Bohol’s highlights. It also suits those who prefer organized logistics over planning their own route. If you’re okay with a packed schedule and early mornings, you’ll appreciate the value and variety packed into this day.

Travelers who particularly enjoy nature, wildlife, and cultural heritage will find this trip rewarding. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it easier to learn about each site and ask questions. If you’re traveling with family or friends who want a full yet manageable day of sightseeing, this is a good pick.

The Sum Up

The Bohol Countryside Day Tour with Lunch at Loboc River offers a solid, well-rounded way to experience Bohol’s most famous sights in one day. It balances natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural heritage with the convenience of organized transportation and guided insights. The early start may be a challenge, but the smooth logistics and authentic experiences make it worthwhile.

For travelers eager to tick off top sights without the hassle, this tour provides great value and authentic moments. It’s especially suited for those who value guided expertise and want a structured, memorable day that covers Bohol’s highlights.

FAQ

Is the pickup time flexible?
Pickups are scheduled at 6:00AM from Lapu-Lapu/Mactan Resorts or 6:30AM from Cebu City Hotels, and drivers tend to wait no longer than 10 minutes. It’s best to be punctual to avoid delays.

Are ferry tickets included?
Yes, round-trip ferry tickets are included, but they are based on available seats and require communication via WhatsApp to confirm. Prepaid tickets aren’t available, so expect to pay a terminal fee (25 PHP in Cebu and 30 PHP in Bohol).

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially for site visits and walking around the hills and forests.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 12 hours, with the pick-up starting early in the morning and the day wrapping up after the multiple stops.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Filipino buffet lunch is served during the Loboc River cruise, providing a relaxing break and tasty local cuisine.

Will I have enough time at each site?
While the tour is well-organized, some reviewers note that stops are short due to the packed schedule. You’ll see the main highlights, but you might wish for a bit more time at each.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy nature and wildlife, especially meeting tiny tarsiers and seeing the hills, will likely find this tour enjoyable.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Overall, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to explore Bohol’s essence in a single day. It’s best for those looking for a structured adventure with knowledgeable guides and a focus on natural beauty and cultural landmarks—a memorable way to experience the best of Bohol without the hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: