Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet

This Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet promises a laid-back yet enriching day exploring some of the island’s most iconic sights. While it’s not a private, tailor-made experience, it offers a great way to see Bohol’s highlights with the convenience of organized transport and a delicious lunch. Our review leans on real travelers’ insights combined with practical details to help you decide if this tour fits your travel style.

What we love about this experience:
– The chance to visit historic landmarks like the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church.
– The stunning natural scenery of the Chocolate Hills and Mahogany Forest.
– The relaxing cruise along Loboc River with live cultural performances.

A possible consideration:
– The tour has mixed reviews on the transportation and guide service, so managing expectations around the vehicle quality and guide engagement is wise.

This tour is ideal for:
Travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, with the flexibility to enjoy Bohol at a leisurely pace.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: The tour includes visits to the historic Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church, perfect for history buffs.
• Natural Wonders: The Chocolate Hills and Mahogany Forest showcase Bohol’s unique landscape and environmental efforts.
• River Experience: Loboc River cruise involves scenic views, live music, and local performances, making it both relaxing and culturally engaging.
• Wildlife Encounters: The Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area provides a close-up look at the tiny, endangered primate.
• Value for Money: For $75, the tour covers transport, lunch, and entrance fees, offering a reasonable package—though some note vehicle condition and guide quality could vary.
• Flexible Itinerary: The “Free & Easy” style allows you to enjoy each stop at your own pace, which can be a big plus for independent-minded travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

The Blood Compact Shrine

Our journey begins at the Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City. This site marks a pivotal event—the 1565 treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. The bronze sculpture by Napoleon Abueva captures the moment of leaders raising goblets, symbolizing mutual respect. From a visitor’s perspective, it’s not just a photo stop but a chance to reflect on Bohol’s historical significance. The shrine offers sweeping coastal views, making it a scenic and meaningful start. Expect about 30 minutes here, with free admission, so no rush.

Baclayon Church

Next, you’ll visit Baclayon Church, built in 1596. Known as one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, it’s a true relic of Spanish colonial architecture. The coral stone walls and intricate wooden carvings are visually impressive, and the attached museum showcases religious artifacts and centuries-old statues. It’s a quiet, respectful space that invites reflection on Bohol’s religious heritage. As one reviewer noted, “the church houses a museum with religious artifacts, old hymnal books, and centuries-old statues, offering a glimpse into the Philippines’ early Christian heritage.” Expect about 30 minutes here, with free admission.

Man-made Mahogany Forest

Driving along the Bohol countryside, you’ll find the Man-made Mahogany Forest. This 2-kilometer stretch of runway-like trees was planted during reforestation efforts in the 1960s. The tall mahogany trees create a natural tunnel that’s perfect for photos—imagine standing in a green corridor that looks straight out of a fairytale. The uniformity and height of these trees are striking, and it’s a peaceful spot to take a break and appreciate the island’s environmental recovery efforts. Expect about 30 minutes, and it’s free to explore.

Loboc River Cruise

One of the tour’s highlights, the Loboc River Cruise, combines scenic views with cultural entertainment. You’ll board a floating restaurant serving a buffet lunch while enjoying tropical greenery and gentle river currents. The live music and local performances, including traditional songs and dances, add a lively touch. At one point, the boat stops at a floating platform where local performers entertain with songs and dances—an authentic, joyful experience. Travelers mention the serene atmosphere and the friendly vibe, making this a relaxing and culturally rich activity. The cruise lasts about two hours, with the ticket included in the tour.

Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area

No trip to Bohol is complete without meeting the world’s smallest primates at the Tarsier Conservation Area. Located in Corella, it’s designed to allow close yet respectful observation of these tiny creatures. Travelers have noted guides are knowledgeable, offering insights into tarsier behavior, conservation, and biology. Since tarsiers are sensitive and nocturnal, the paths are carefully set up to minimize disturbance, which is a big plus for animal lovers. Expect about 60 minutes here with included admission, and it’s a good opportunity to learn about local conservation efforts.

Chocolate Hills

Finally, the Chocolate Hills are a natural marvel. Over 1,200 hills, ranging in height, create a landscape that looks almost surreal—especially when they turn brown during the dry season. The hills are formed from ancient coral deposits shaped by erosion, and they’ve inspired legends and scientific curiosity alike. You’ll spend about two hours here, often at a viewpoint that offers sweeping views of this geological wonder. The entrance fee is included, so it’s all about soaking in the view and snapping photos of what has become an emblem of Bohol.

Practical Tips and Insights

Transportation and Timing:
The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is comfortable for the approximately 7 to 8 hours of sightseeing. However, reviewer feedback hints that the vehicle might sometimes be a bit worn, and the guide’s attitude can vary. The start time is 8:00 am, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Flexibility:
The tour is designed for groups of up to 50 travelers, which can mean a lively, social atmosphere or a more relaxed experience depending on the day. The “Free & Easy” approach means you can choose how long to linger at each stop, which is excellent for personalized pacing.

Cost and Value:
At $75 per person, the package includes lunch, transport, and entrance fees, which is a fair price for a full-day guided experience. The inclusion of a buffet lunch on Loboc River is a major highlight, offering local dishes amid a scenic backdrop. Some reviews suggest the overall value is good, although the vehicle’s condition and guide quality may affect the experience.

Hidden Gems and Authentic Touches:
The stops at the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church add historical depth that you won’t find on all tours. The Mahogany Forest’s lush symmetry also offers a quiet, reflective contrast to the vibrant river cruise. One traveler mentioned the cruise as the “only moment” they found enjoyable, highlighting how peaceful and immersive it feels.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Tips

• On the Loboc River cruise, you’ll enjoy traditional music that adds a festive mood—don’t forget your camera to capture these lively moments.
• At the Tarsier Conservation Area, guides are well-informed, so ask questions about these delicate primates.
• While exploring Baclayon Church, remember to dress modestly and respect the quiet atmosphere.
• During the Mahogany Forest stop, take time for photos and appreciate the reforestation efforts that transformed barren land into this green corridor.

Reviewers’ insights point out that guides can sometimes be less engaging, and the vehicle’s condition varies, so traveling with an open mind helps. The scenic stops and cultural encounters often make up for these minor hiccups, especially if you’re keen on a relaxed, self-paced experience.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

The Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet is a versatile option for travelers wanting to see Bohol’s highlights without the strict schedule of a traditional guided tour. It’s especially suited for those who value cultural and natural sights, as well as authentic local experiences like the river cruise and tarsier visit. The flexible pacing allows you to linger at the spots that pique your interest most, making it perfect for independent explorers.

While the transportation and guide service may not always be perfect, the overall package offers a good balance of scenery, history, and leisure—delivering real value for the price. If you’re after a comprehensive yet relaxed way to experience Bohol’s best, this tour is worth considering.

Just keep in mind that the experience can vary depending on the guide and vehicle condition, so set your expectations accordingly. For those who prioritize scenic beauty, cultural insights, and genuine local charm, this tour provides a solid introduction to Bohol’s treasures.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a ride in an air-conditioned vehicle that’s comfortable for the day’s activities.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Are all entrance fees covered?
Most entrance fees are included, such as those for the Tarsier Conservation Area and Chocolate Hills. However, be aware that some reviews suggest vehicle quality may vary.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a “Free & Easy” tour, you can spend more or less time at each stop, but the overall itinerary remains fixed.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the package, served during the Loboc River cruise.

What if I want a private experience?
This tour is designed for groups up to 50, so for a private option, consider looking into private tours with similar itineraries.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 7 to 8 hours, covering all the main stops comfortably.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it accessible for most age groups, but consider mobility needs for some locations.

In summary, the Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s history, landscapes, and culture. While it might not be flawless, it’s a practical choice for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, authentic experiences, and good value—especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace.