From Cebu: Day Trip to Bohol Highlights offers an accessible way to experience some of the most iconic sights of Bohol in just one day. For $210 per person, you’ll enjoy an approximately 8-hour journey starting with a fast ferry ride from Cebu, followed by visits to Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Viewing, and a Loboc River cruise. It’s a packed day that appeals both to first-time visitors and those short on time but eager to see the highlights.
What we love most about this tour is how seamlessly it combines scenic transportation with well-chosen stops that highlight Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Loboc River cruise with a floating restaurant and live music offers a relaxing break amid the touring, making the long day feel more like a mini-adventure than a rush. Plus, the knowledgeable guides receive praise for their ability to share facts with humor and warmth, adding to the overall enjoyment.
However, it’s worth noting that the ferry ride itself takes about 2 hours each way, which can feel like a significant chunk of the day. Plus, since each main site gets about an hour or less, you’ll need to be ready for a tight schedule if you want to see everything. If you prefer leisurely exploration or more time at each stop, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those wanting a snapshot of Bohol’s best, this tour hits the high points.
This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate guided tours that maximize time efficiently without sacrificing the chance to see iconic sights. It suits those interested in cultural landmarks, scenic vistas, and nature, especially if they prefer having transportation and logistics taken care of.
Key Points
- All-in-One Day: Combines ferry, transportation, and guided visits, offering convenience and value.
- Iconic Sights: Visits to Chocolate Hills, Tarsier sanctuary, Blood Compact Monument, and Baclayon Church.
- Scenic Experiences: Loboc River cruise with lunch and live music create memorable moments.
- Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance understanding with humor and facts.
- Time Considerations: Long ferry rides and brief site visits mean you’ll see highlights but not linger.
- Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, fostering a more personal experience.
A Deep Dive into the Itinerary
Starting early in Cebu, the tour begins with a round-trip fast ferry—a highlight in itself—giving you a taste of island hopping. The 1.5-hour ride to Tagbilaran is smooth and quick enough to set the tone for a day of scenic grandeur, but be prepared for a bit of a boat ride. As one reviewer noted, “the ferry ride to Bohol takes about 2 hours,” so be ready for some water travel.
Once on land, the journey takes you through the Bohol countryside, which offers a glimpse of rural life and lush scenery. The first stop is the Blood Compact Monument, an important historical site commemorating a treaty of friendship. It’s a quick photo op but rich in meaning for those interested in Philippine history.
Next, you’ll visit the Baclayon Church & Museum, a 15th-century structure that remains one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Inside, the museum showcases religious artifacts and local history, giving you an authentic glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past. The tour then proceeds to the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a beautifully maintained mahogany plantation that provides a cool, shaded canopy—perfect for a quick walk or photo stop.
The highlight for many is the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of over a thousand uniformly-shaped hills that turn brown in the dry season, resembling giant chocolate mounds. The viewpoint at the top offers a panoramic vista, making it a must-see. As one reviewer noted, “From the viewpoint, you get a splendid vista,” which is true—this is a picture-perfect spot.
The Tarsier viewing presents a chance to see one of the world’s smallest primates. The sanctuary offers a chance for close encounters, but the experience is brief—about 20 minutes according to reviews—so manage expectations if you’re eager for more time with these tiny creatures.
The Loboc River cruise stands out as a relaxing interlude. You’ll dine on a floating restaurant while being serenaded by local musicians, making it more than just a meal. The buffet is generally appreciated, and the live music adds a fun, local touch. One reviewer called it a “great experience,” especially highlighting the “lunch buffet at the floating boat.”
Finally, with some free time at the small stalls near the Chocolate Hills, you can pick up souvenirs or photos. Afterward, the return trip to Cebu involves the ferry back, wrapping up an active day.
Planning more time in Cebu City? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What Makes This Tour Valuable
This tour strikes a good balance between scenic sights, cultural highlights, and relaxing moments. The inclusion of the Loboc River cruise with lunch and live music adds a special local flavor that many travelers find memorable. The guides are praised for their knowledge and sense of humor, making the long rides more enjoyable.
The value for the price of $210 includes transportation, ferry, guide, and food, which is reasonable considering the number of highlights packed into the day. It’s especially convenient if you prefer guided logistics and don’t want to worry about coordinating transport and tickets yourself.
However, the long ferry ride and limited time at each site mean you’ll want to prioritize what interests you most—if you’re after a leisurely pace or in-depth exploration, this might feel rushed. For some, the experience might be more about ticking off sights than savoring each one.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is best for first-time visitors to Bohol or Cebu who want a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s suitable for those with limited time but a desire to see the iconic sights, especially if you enjoy guided experiences. People who appreciate scenic water rides, historical landmarks, and cultural performances will find it particularly appealing.
It’s also ideal for small groups seeking a more intimate setting, given the limit of 8 participants. If you value organization, expert narration, and a well-curated itinerary, this tour ticks those boxes.
The Bottom Line
This full-day Cebu to Bohol tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see Bohol’s most famous sights in one go. It’s a good fit for travelers who want a guided experience that covers history, nature, and culture, with the added charm of a river cruise and lively local music.
While the ferry ride is a significant part of the day, it also provides a scenic introduction to the island. The brief stops mean you’ll want to be prepared for a fast-paced day, but the expert guides, comfortable transportation, and inclusion of a lunch cruise make it a worthwhile choice for many.
If you’re after authentic moments and efficient sightseeing, and don’t mind a packed schedule, this tour delivers on those promises.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
How long is the ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol?
The ferry ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, making it a significant part of the day’s travel time.
What are the main sites visited on this tour?
You’ll visit the Blood Compact Monument, Baclayon Church & Museum, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River for lunch.
Is there free time at each site?
No, the stops are brief—around 1 hour or less—so you’ll see the highlights but won’t have time for extensive exploration.
What’s included in the tour?
Included are hotel pickup and drop-off in Cebu, transportation, round-trip ferry, guided commentary, and lunch during the river cruise.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, drinks and jetty port terminal fees are not included, so expect to pay for beverages and port charges separately.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun hat, sunscreen, and some cash for souvenirs or additional expenses.
How many people are in the group?
The tour limits participants to 8, ensuring a more personalized experience.
What is the tour duration?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying—check availability.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Generally, yes, but consider the long ferry ride and brief site stops if traveling with very young children or elderly.
In all, this tour provides a balanced, memorable snapshot of Bohol’s attractions, perfect for travelers eager to experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks without too much fuss.
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