Bohol Day Tour From Cebu City or Mactan (Private Tour)

Traveling from Cebu to Bohol for a day is one of those trips that promises a quick but packed escape into some of the Philippines’ most iconic sights. While it’s not a comprehensive trip that covers every corner of Bohol, this private tour offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s must-see attractions in a single day.

We love that this tour combines natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills and adorable Tarsiers with cultural sights, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and a relaxing river cruise—plus, it’s all wrapped up in the comfort of private transportation. The price of $156 per person may seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in ferry tickets, entrance fees, and a guided experience, it’s quite reasonable for the value.

One thing to keep in mind — this tour starts early, with pickup around 5:30 am if you’re staying in Mactan or 6 am in Cebu City. That means a full day of sightseeing, and while most travelers find it manageable, it’s best suited for those who don’t mind an early start. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced trip, this might feel a bit rushed.

This experience caters best to those looking for a convenient, guided day trip that hits many of Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of planning transportation or tickets. Whether you’re short on time or want a taste of Bohol’s beauty with minimal planning, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Convenience and Comfort: Private transport and ferry tickets included for a seamless trip.
• Diverse Sights: From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, the tour covers a broad spectrum.
• Early Start, Full Day: Starts at dawn and finishes around 8 pm, ideal for travelers eager to maximize their day.
• Local Insight: Tour driver acts as a guide, providing valuable local knowledge.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes iconic attractions like the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River cruise.
• Value for Money: All entrance fees, ferry, and transportation included, making it cost-effective for an all-in-one day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up and Transfer: Starting Early for a Full Day

The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup — 5:30 am if you’re in Mactan or 6 am in Cebu City. This early start might seem daunting, but it ensures you beat the crowds and make the most of your day. The private air-conditioned van provided by H&H Holidays is a comfortable ride, and the driver also doubles as your guide, sharing insights along the way.

The ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol is a smooth, scenic journey that takes roughly 2 hours. Having your tickets arranged in advance is a plus, removing the usual hassle of queues. The ferry experience is straightforward, and most travelers find it a relaxing start to the adventure.

The Iconic Chocolate Hills

Once in Bohol, the tour begins with the famous Chocolate Hills. These over 1,200 symmetrical mounds turn a chocolate-brown during the dry season, creating a surreal landscape. Photos here are a must, and the vantage point offers a sweeping view that justifies the hype.

Some reviews note that the outside view of the “ship-shaped” house is worth a quick stop, even if not all tours include it. While the hills themselves are a straightforward photo op, what makes this stop worthwhile is the panoramic perspective and the chance to understand why it’s one of Bohol’s most iconic sights.

Tarsier Sanctuary: A Loveable Encounter

Next up is the Tarsier Viewing, where you’ll see these tiny primates — often called the world’s smallest monkeys — in their natural environment. The sanctuary ensures that the animals are protected, and you’ll get close enough to appreciate their shy, loving nature.

Reviewers mention that the Tarsiers are quite adorable, but it’s also important to be mindful and respectful of their space. The experience is educational, enlightening, and a highlight for many visitors. Expect a calm, quiet environment that allows these creatures to go about their day with minimal disturbance.

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Man-Made Mahogany Forest

The Mahogany Forest is a quick stop but a visual treat. These tall, uniform trees create a cool, shaded corridor that’s perfect for a short walk or photo session. It’s a reminder of Bohol’s efforts to reforest and restore natural beauty.

Loboc River Cruise and Lunch

The Loboc River cruise is often praised as a relaxing highlight of the day. You’ll board a boat for a buffet lunch while floating along the river, enjoying views of lush greenery and the sounds of nature. The reviews describe the cruise as “pretty peaceful,” with some noting that the buffet can be basic but satisfying.

This part of the tour offers a break from walking and sightseeing, giving you time to relax, take photos, and appreciate Bohol’s natural environment. The river cruise also provides an opportunity to see local life along the riverbanks, which adds an authentic touch.

Cultural and Historical Stops

Throughout the day, your driver will take you to several culturally significant sites, such as the Blood Compact Shrine — a monument commemorating the historic friendship between Filipinos and Spaniards. It’s a small but meaningful site that offers insight into Bohol’s history.

The Baclayon Church is another stop, famous for its age and architecture. While the reviews don’t specify how long you spend here, it’s a good glimpse into Spanish colonial influence.

Blood Compact Shrine and Souvenir Shopping

These stops are well-paced and give you time to browse local souvenirs. The tour doesn’t seem rushed, but it’s important to manage expectations—these are quick visits rather than in-depth explorations.

End of Tour and Return

The day wraps up with a ferry ride back to Cebu, with the return trip starting around 5:40 pm. You’ll arrive back in Cebu City at roughly 7:40 pm, with hotel drop-off around 8 pm. This schedule makes for a long but fulfilling day, ideal for those eager to see a lot without extra planning.

The Experience of the Tour: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews highlight that the driver was helpful and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting tidbits about each site. One traveler mentioned, “Our driver made sure we didn’t miss anything and even gave us some local tips for when we explore Bohol on our own later.”

Many appreciate the well-organized ferry tickets and the ease of transportation, which allow you to focus on sightseeing instead of logistics. However, some note that the tour feels a bit rushed, especially if you want more time at each stop.

The lunch onboard the floating restaurant receives mixed reviews; some say it’s a decent buffet, others mention it’s quite basic. Still, most agree that the experience of floating along the Loboc River adds a peaceful, scenic dimension to the day.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation: Included private, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, plus ferry tickets. The driver also acts as your guide, enriching your understanding of each site.

Timing: Starts early, around 5:30 or 6 am, and ends around 8 pm. Expect a full, intensive day with a mix of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing.

Group Size: Private tour means just you and your companions, providing flexibility and personalized service.

Cost: $156 per person, which covers ferry, entrance fees, and transportation — a good deal considering the convenience and all-in nature.

Additional Costs: Be aware of optional extras like guided ATV rides at the Chocolate Hills or additional river cruise upgrades, which are not included.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience of Bohol’s highlights without the need to arrange logistics themselves. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or visitors who prefer a guided, private experience that maximizes time and minimizes stress.

It also suits families, couples, or small groups who want a personalized trip with flexibility to enjoy each stop at their own pace. However, if you prefer a very relaxed, unhurried pace or want to explore sites in more depth, you might find this tour slightly rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Bohol day tour from Cebu or Mactan offers a solid balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and fun adventures. The convenience of private transportation and guided commentary makes it easy to focus on enjoyment rather than logistics, while the variety of stops ensures you get a taste of what makes Bohol unique.

While the schedule is tight, most travelers will find that the highlights deliver on their promise of stunning views and memorable moments. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day trip that covers Bohol’s must-sees, this tour is worth considering.

It’s especially well-suited for visitors with only a day to spare who want an authentic, guided experience that hits all the major highlights with minimal hassle.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes private air-conditioned transportation from Cebu or Mactan, along with ferry tickets.

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up begins at 5:30 am if staying in Mactan or 6 am in Cebu City, to ensure a full day of sightseeing.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Cebu to Bohol takes approximately 2 hours, providing a scenic and relaxing start to your day.

What are the main attractions?
Highlights include the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Mahogany Forest, Loboc River cruise, Blood Compact Shrine, Baclayon Church, and cultural stops.

Are meals included?
Lunch is provided onboard the floating restaurant during the Loboc River cruise, with a buffet style meal.

Can I customize the tour?
As a private tour, flexibility is possible—discuss your preferences with the driver/guide beforehand.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts around 13-14 hours, ending with hotel drop-off by approximately 8 pm.

Are there additional costs?
Optional extras like ATV rides or upgraded river cruise options are available at additional prices.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with early mornings and walking, this tour can be enjoyed by most age groups.

This Bohol day tour from Cebu or Mactan combines practicality with adventure and culture, promising a memorable slice of the Philippines’ beautiful landscapes and heritage—all in one well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: