Bohol Countryside Tour to Chocolate Hills and Loboc River

If you’re planning a trip to Bohol and want to see the island’s most iconic sights in one day, a guided tour like the Bohol Countryside Tour offers a compelling option. This comprehensive day trip provides a chance to explore the island’s natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and insight, making each stop more meaningful. Second, the value for price is notable, with a well-organized itinerary that covers key attractions along with cultural stories. Third, the comfortable transport and small-group experience ensure you’re never overwhelmed by crowds or long waits. The only potential consideration? The tour involves a fairly full day, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of mobility and a full day to spare.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and some fun with local stories, all without the stress of independent travel. If you’re after a relaxed yet informative day that showcases Bohol’s highlights, this is a great pick.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers major attractions like Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River in one day.
• Excellent guides: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and good at storytelling, making the trip engaging.
• Comfortable transport: Modern, air-conditioned vehicle with spacious seating, suitable for long hours.
• Authentic insights: Small group size enhances the chance to ask questions and learn from your guide.
• Value for money: For around $55, the tour includes entrance fees, transportation, and a rich itinerary.
• Flexible options: Optional lunch during the Loboc River cruise, at extra cost, for a scenic meal experience.

A Practical Overview of the Tour

The Bohol Countryside Tour is designed to give travelers a satisfying look at what makes Bohol special—its natural landscapes, wildlife, and history. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to tick off multiple highlights in one seamless day.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling comfortably is a highlight here. The tour includes a private, air-conditioned high-roof van, ensuring plenty of space for legroom and a relaxing ride between sites. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which feels intimate enough for personal attention from your guide but still lively.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting early at 8:00am, the day begins with a stroll through the Man-made Mahogany Forest. Here, you can appreciate a beautiful reforestation project where tall mahogany trees form a lush corridor. It’s a quick stop—just 15 minutes—but the cool shade and towering trees make it a lovely photo spot and a gentle start to the day.

Next, you’ll visit the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area. These tiny primates are one of Bohol’s most famous critters, and the tour allows a respectful, close-up view. Reviewers consistently praise the 45-minute visit as a highlight—most note the guide’s care in explaining the animals’ behavior and habitat, ensuring the visit is ethical and informative.

Then, the quick stop at Guwaon Cave offers a peek into local legends and rock formations. This 30-minute exploration provides a brief but intriguing insight into Bohol’s underground features, with some reviewers mentioning the unique rock shapes and stories behind them.

The centerpiece of the day is the Chocolate Hills. Over 1,000 hills covered with grass turn a chocolate brown in the dry season—hence the name. The 45-minute stop includes a viewing area perfect for photos and appreciation of this geological marvel. Reviewers mention that seeing the hills in person adds a new appreciation that photos just can’t fully capture.

Afterward, you’ll cruise along the Loboc River for about an hour. Here, you’ll enjoy a scenic buffet lunch with traditional Filipino dishes, often accompanied by cultural performances. While this part is paid separately, many say it’s a peaceful way to relax amid stunning surroundings and enjoy local music and dance.

Next, the tour visits Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines, offering a quick 15-minute look at its historic architecture and cultural significance. It’s a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past without needing a lengthy stop.

Lastly, you’ll see the Blood Compact Monument, illustrating a key moment in Bohol’s history, and visit the Bohol Lemur and Butterfly Park for about 30 minutes. This stop offers a chance to see playful lemurs and colorful butterflies, providing a lighthearted end to the day.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ personalities and knowledge. Kaye, one of the guides, is often mentioned as friendly, enthusiastic, and eager to share stories. Reviewers love her attention to detail, from historical explanations to capturing perfect photos. The driver, Brian, is also appreciated for ensuring smooth and safe transportation.

Many travelers comment on the good value of the tour, especially given the inclusion of entrance fees and the personalized attention. The small group size means you can ask questions freely and enjoy a more intimate experience—some reviewers mention feeling like they explored with a friend rather than a large tour group.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:00am and returning at a reasonable late afternoon time. While the day is packed, the comfortable transportation and well-paced stops help prevent fatigue. The optional lunch at the Loboc River cruise costs around 950 PHP per person, providing a scenic dining experience that many find worth the extra expense.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should note the walking involved at sites like the Mahogany Forest and Tarsier Sanctuary. The small group size and organized schedule make it a hassle-free way to see Bohol’s highlights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For just over $55, the tour includes entrance fees to key attractions, transportation, a guide, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary. You won’t need to worry about logistics or long lines, as the group moves efficiently between sites.

The attention to detail from guides, who are enthusiastic about sharing stories and history, elevates the experience. Plus, the small group setting means you’ll get more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions or snap photos without the chaos of large crowds.

It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a balanced mix of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural insight. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or want to maximize your Bohol experience, this tour delivers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a rundown of Bohol’s most famous sights without the hassle of independent planning. It’s great for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, wildlife lovers, or anyone interested in learning more about local culture through a friendly guide.

If you enjoy small-group tours, value a well-organized day, and appreciate guides who go the extra mile with storytelling, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also a good pick if you prefer air-conditioned comfort and want to make the most of your time on the island.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:00am and ending back at the meeting point later in the afternoon.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch during the Loboc River cruise is optional and paid separately at around 950 PHP per person. The cruise itself offers a scenic Filipino buffet with cultural performances.

What attractions are included?
You will visit the Mahogany Forest, Tarsier Conservation Area, Guwaon Cave, Chocolate Hills, Baclayon Church, Blood Compact Monument, and Bohol Lemur and Butterfly Park, plus a river cruise.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the listed sites are included in the tour price, making it easy to pay upfront and avoid extra costs.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is included, and the tour ends back at the meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are provided if canceled earlier.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved at some sites. The comfortable van and short walking distances make it suitable for most ages.

How many people typically join the tour?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which balances a social experience with personal attention.

To sum it up, this Bohol Countryside Tour offers an excellent way to see the island’s most prized sights in one day, with knowledgeable guides and thoughtful logistics. It’s perfect for people who want to explore without stress and enjoy a meaningful, cultural experience. With its good value, friendly atmosphere, and scenic stops, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Bohol.