Panglao: Dao, Forests, and Tarsier Sanctuary Tour with Lunch

Discover Bohol’s Natural Beauty and Local Life on the Panglao: Dao, Forests, and Tarsier Sanctuary Tour

This full-day private tour from Panglao offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bohol’s natural wonders and cultural charm. For $144 per person, you’ll spend about 9 to 11 hours exploring some of the island’s most iconic sights, all with personalized guides and comfortable transfers. Starting with a local market visit, you’ll get a taste of everyday life, then meet the tiny but fascinating Tarsiers in a cage-free sanctuary. The journey continues through lush forests, scenic landscapes, and some of the most famous Chocolate Hills, topped off with a refreshing waterfall swim and a delicious Filipino lunch cooked by a welcoming family.

Two things we really like about this tour? First, the opportunity to see Bohol’s wildlife up close without feeling like just another tourist — the Tarsier Sanctuary keeps the animals safe and in naturalistic surroundings. Second, the chance to enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine in a family setting, with a view over rice paddies — a simple but memorable way to connect with local life.

A possible consideration? The tour covers quite a bit of ground, so if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace, some parts, like hiking to the Chocolate Hills or climbing to viewpoints, might be more demanding. Still, the itinerary is flexible enough to include plenty of scenic stops and photo opportunities.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, culture, and comfort. It’s especially good for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and a sense of discovery beyond the usual tourist spots. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking to get a comprehensive taste of Bohol in one day will find it particularly valuable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Transfers, entrance fees, lunch, and snacks are covered, making it straightforward for travelers.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit a local market and enjoy a Filipino family lunch — great for those wanting genuine cultural interaction.
• Wildlife Close-Up: The cage-free Tarsier Sanctuary offers a safe environment for these tiny primates, with a guided tour explaining their curious habits.
• Scenic Diversity: From lush forests and rolling hills to waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints, the landscapes are varied and photogenic.
• Flexible and Private: Private group setting provides a personalized experience tailored to your pace and interests.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.9/5 rating from 43 reviews, guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and delicious food.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Market and Cultural Introductions

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Panglao or Tagbilaran. Your driver and guide, often praised for their professionalism and friendliness, will whisk you off to a local market in Tagbilaran. Here, you’ll see local merchants trading fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted goods, providing a lively snapshot of Bohol’s everyday economy. This stop isn’t just window shopping; it’s a chance to try some local snacks and get a sense of life on the ground.

Guests have mentioned feeling very safe and well-cared-for, with guides who are both friendly and knowledgeable. As one reviewer pointed out, “David was so knowledgeable about the area and we felt very safe with the driver.” Expect to spend around 20 minutes here, enough to soak in the sights and sounds without feeling rushed.

Meeting the Tarsiers in Corella

Next, your journey takes you to the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, home to the tiny, endangered primates known for their enormous eyes and curious nature. The sanctuary is designed to be cage-free, reflecting an effort to keep the animals comfortable and closer to their natural environment. Here, your guide will explain their quirky behaviors, such as their nocturnal habits and unique way of moving via jumping and climbing.

Multiple reviews highlight the sanctuary’s thoughtful setup; one traveler shared, “The whole tour was great. Ramon the guide was very knowledgeable friendly and was a great to have conversation with.” Expect about 30 minutes exploring the sanctuary, with ample time for photos and questions.

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Walking Through the Man-Made Forest and Scenic Highlights

From the sanctuary, you’ll drive through the famous Man-Made Forest, a winding stretch of towering mahogany trees planted in the 1960s. The sight of hundreds of trees creating a canopy of shade is quite striking and a favorite for photos. This stop lasts around 10 minutes, giving you just enough time to snap some shots and appreciate the cool shade.

Onward, the journey continues to a scenic Bilar Forest area, where your guide may take you on a short walk or offer insight into the ecological significance of the forest. The route also includes a 50-minute stop for a guided tour, where you’ll get a deeper understanding of the local environment and perhaps spot some lemurs or other wildlife.

Local Lunch with a Filipino Family

One of the tour’s highlights is the authentic Filipino lunch served in an outdoor setting overlooking a rice paddy. Prepared by a local family, the meal offers a taste of traditional flavors in a warm, familial atmosphere. Reviewers consistently mention how generous and delicious the food is; one noted, “Lunch provided by Aunty was delicious but too much food.” The outdoor dining area allows you to relax, soak in the rural scenery, and connect with local life while enjoying coconut water and a variety of Filipino dishes.

Visiting the Chocolate Hills and Panoramic Views

After lunch, your guide will take you to the Chocolate Hills — Bohol’s most iconic natural wonder. Climbing to the viewpoint, you’ll be treated to a sweeping panorama of hundreds of rounded hills that turn chocolate-brown in the dry season, hence the name. The 30-minute stop includes a guided explanation of how these hills formed and why they’re considered a must-see landmark.

Guests universally enjoy this part, with many describing the views as “absolutely unique” and “a photograph dream.” It’s a great spot for a quick walk, some photos, and a little stretching after the morning’s sightseeing.

Refreshing Waterfall and Jungle Swim

On your way back, the driver may take a scenic route to a beautiful waterfall that offers a natural pool perfect for a quick dip. This final stop, lasting around 30 minutes, provides a refreshing and fun way to cool off after a day of exploring. Several travelers mention enjoying the opportunity to relax and take photos amid lush greenery.

Practical Details and Tips

The entire tour is designed to be flexible, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or linger at stops. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and swimwear if you plan to swim. Towels, umbrellas, and soft drinks are provided, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout.

The tour is suitable for most travelers but not for those in wheelchairs, as some stops involve walking or uneven paths. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive experience that combines wildlife, nature, and local culture in a single day.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Great Value

Looking at the content and reviews, this tour strikes a good balance between guided expertise, authentic local experiences, and scenic diversity. The fact that everything is included — from transportation to meals — simplifies planning and provides peace of mind. For just $144, you’re getting a full day of exploration, wildlife encounters, and culture, making it a very reasonable price compared to booking individual activities.

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides— making the experience more personal and enriching. The variety of sights, from the Tarsier Sanctuary to the Chocolate Hills, ensures you leave with a well-rounded impression of Bohol’s natural beauty and local life. Plus, the chance to swim in a waterfall adds a refreshing end to the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full-day, all-in-one adventure with a personal touch. If you’re eager to see Bohol’s wildlife, enjoy scenic vistas, and connect with local families over a homemade meal, this tour delivers. It’s also suitable for families and couples who appreciate a mix of nature and culture, especially those who can handle a packed schedule but value comfort and guided insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
  Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages, but some stops involve walking. Elderly travelers should consider their mobility and the physical demands, especially for hikes or walking to viewpoints.

• What should I bring for the day?
  Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and flip-flops are recommended. The tour provides umbrellas and water, but it’s good to carry your essentials.

• How long is each stop?
  The market visit lasts about 20 minutes, the Tarsier Sanctuary around 30, the forest and scenic stops vary from 10 to 50 minutes, and the waterfall swim about 30 minutes. Lunch is approximately an hour.

• What if I want to skip a stop?
  Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide, and they can adjust the itinerary accordingly.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, a traditional Filipino lunch prepared by a local family is included, along with snacks and drinks.

• Is transportation comfortable?
  Yes, the tour uses a private vehicle with a professional driver, ensuring a smooth and safe ride between stops.

• Can I book this tour last minute?
  Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

• What languages are available for guides?
  The tour is conducted in English and Tagalog, with guides often being fluent in both.

• Are entrance fees included?
  All entrance fees, taxes, and activity fees are included in the price.

• What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
  While not explicitly stated, Bohol generally has good weather from December to May. Check availability for your preferred dates.

In The Sum Up

This Panglao: Dao, Forests, and Tarsier Sanctuary Tour offers a thoughtfully curated day of natural beauty, wildlife, and authentic Filipino culture. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and all fees covered, it’s a hassle-free way to see some of Bohol’s most iconic sights. The combination of scenic landscapes, close encounters with the island’s smallest primates, and a family-style meal creates a memorable experience that’s both fun and meaningful.

It’s especially suitable for those who want to get away from crowded tourist spots and prefer an intimate, guided journey. Families, wildlife lovers, and curious travelers will find this tour delivers excellent value, enriching their understanding of Bohol beyond just postcard-perfect views.

If you want a day that blends adventure with cultural connection, this tour is a solid choice. Just pack your camera, your sense of curiosity, and an appetite for authentic local flavors.

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You can check availability for your dates here: