BOHOL Tour 2025 – Chocolate Hills, Tarsier and River Cruise Lunch

Bohol Tour 2025 – Chocolate Hills, Tarsier, and River Cruise Lunch Review

Planning a trip to Bohol? This Bohol Countryside Tour offers a fantastic mix of iconic sights and authentic experiences, all wrapped up in a manageable 6-8 hour package. With a mix of nature, culture, and relaxing moments, it promises to be a wholesome introduction to this beloved Philippine island.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its close encounters with the adorable Tarsiers, the opportunity to see the famous Chocolate Hills from a viewing deck, and the chance to lunch on a floating restaurant while cruising along the Loboc River. Plus, the live entertainment onboard adds a lively touch to the cruise. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the floating restaurant can have queueing times, which might extend your lunch break, especially during peak seasons.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. It suits those with limited time but who still want to experience Bohol’s best sights without feeling rushed. If you’re after a day filled with memorable moments and stunning views, this might just be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Close encounters with Tarsiers and local dances bring cultural highlights to life.
• Scenic views: The Chocolate Hills from the observation deck provide one of the island’s most recognizable and breathtaking vistas.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup is offered, and the tour is private, avoiding the chaos of large group tours.
• Value for money: At $64.95 per person, the tour includes transportation, admission fees, lunch, and entertainment.
• Timing considerations: The floating restaurant lunch can involve queues, especially during peak season.
• Traveller insights: Reviewers praise the friendly guides and smooth transportation, making the experience enjoyable and stress-free.

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Countryside Tour

The Experience Overview

For many travelers, a good Bohol tour means hitting the must-see spots without the hassle of planning every detail. This tour hits the highlights efficiently, making it perfect for first-timers or those limited on time. The private nature of the experience ensures your group gets personalized attention, and the pickup service makes logistics much simpler.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Loboc River Cruise and Lunch

The tour kicks off with a scenic cruise along the Loboc River, during which you’ll enjoy a Filipino buffet lunch onboard a boat that offers live music. The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes two quick stops for local dance performances and song renditions. The reviews mention the entertainment onboard as a lively and authentic touch, with one reviewer noting the “live music” added to the festive atmosphere.

The lunch on the floating restaurant is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to relax, enjoy the lush river scenery, and experience local culture. Keep in mind, as a reviewer pointed out, queueing times can extend from 30 minutes to two hours, especially during busy seasons, so patience is key.

Chocolate Hills Lookout

Next, you’ll visit the world-famous Chocolate Hills. These conical hills are a must-see and have been a symbol of Bohol for decades. From the viewing deck, you’ll get a panoramic shot of the over 1,200 hills that turn brown in the dry season, resembling chocolate candies. The short 25-minute stop is enough to snap photos and take in the view, but if you’re keen on a thorough exploration, be prepared for a brief visit.

One reviewer mentioned that climbing the observation deck involves “about 200+ steps,” which is manageable for most but might be tiring for some. The sight of the hills from above is undoubtedly worth the slight effort.

Bilar Man-Made Forest

The tour then takes you to the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a lush stretch of densely planted mahogany trees. This is a great place for a quick walk and photo opportunities. The dense greenery offers a cool respite and is an excellent example of Bohol’s conservation efforts. Though the guide doesn’t dwell here long, the view adds to the overall scenic experience.

Tarsier Conservation Area

Finally, the highlight for many is the Tarsier Conservation Area. These tiny, wide-eyed primates are endemic to the Philippines and are a highlight for visitors seeking authentic wildlife encounters. The 20-minute stop allows you to see these creatures up close in a controlled environment.

Reviewers appreciated that the Tarsiers are kept in a habitat that mimics their natural environment, which is reassuring from an animal-welfare perspective. One reviewer named Jesse as their driver, noting how friendly and efficient the service was, making the Tarsier stop both fun and educational.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: The full tour lasts around 6 to 8 hours, making it doable even for a half-day trip.
• Cost: At $64.95 per person, the package offers good value considering the included transportation, entry fees, lunch, and entertainment.
• Booking: The tour is popular, booked on average 20 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.
• Weather Dependence: The experience is weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to heavy rain or storms, you’re entitled to a full refund or rescheduling.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should note the steps involved at the Chocolate Hills and the potential queueing at the restaurant.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Feedback from past participants adds depth to this overview. MicheleG called it an “excellent day trip” and appreciated the guide Chris for his hosting skills. She highlighted the short climb to the Chocolate Hills observation deck as manageable and rewarding. Margaret_H praised the driver Jesse as friendly and efficient, though she noted a bit of confusion surrounding pick-up arrangements — a reminder to confirm details beforehand.

The reviews collectively emphasize the friendly and attentive service, making the experience comfortable and enjoyable, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with Bohol.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Bohol who want to see the island’s top sights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced day of nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences. If you value comfort, convenience, and authentic local touches, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re someone seeking a more leisurely or in-depth exploration of each site, you might find the quick stops and brief visits limiting. Still, for most, it offers a practical and memorable overview of Bohol’s highlights.

The Sum Up

This Bohol tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the island’s most iconic sights with a touch of local culture and scenic relaxation. The combination of the Loboc River cruise with a Filipino buffet, the chance to marvel at the Chocolate Hills, and the adorable Tarsiers makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want a convenient, engaging day out.

The value for money is good, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and entertainment. Plus, the private setting and positive reviews about guides and drivers add to the overall appeal. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

If you’re after a day that balances scenic beauty, wildlife, and culture without the stress of planning, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for possible queues at the floating restaurant and a few steps at the hills — little hurdles for such a rewarding day.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it convenient whether you’re staying in Tagbilaran or Panglao.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and queue times at the restaurant.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, admission tickets to the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary, a Filipino buffet lunch on the floating restaurant, and onboard entertainment.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund.

Are the sites accessible for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the steps at the Chocolate Hills and potential walking involved at each stop.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended. If you are prone to seasickness, inform your driver in advance.

This detailed review hopefully helps you decide whether this Bohol tour matches your travel style. It offers a great mix of sights, culture, and relaxation—making it a solid choice for a memorable day on the island.