Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier, and Loboc River Tour

Imagine a day filled with jaw-dropping views, adorable wildlife, and a delicious floating lunch—all in the lush countryside of Bohol. This popular tour, priced at just $28 per person, offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most famous attractions without breaking the bank.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the stunning panoramic vistas from the Chocolate Hills viewing decks are unforgettable. Plus, you’ll get a close-up look at the tiny, endearing Tarsier monkeys in their sanctuary, and enjoy a relaxed, tasty meal on a floating restaurant cruising the Loboc River. We love that the tour caters to travelers looking for an authentic, scenic day with good value, but be aware that it involves some walking and may not suit those with mobility issues or certain health concerns.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to experience Bohol’s natural charm in a single day. If you’re after a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights, it checks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $28, it offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Beautiful Views: The panoramic vistas from the Chocolate Hills viewing decks are a highlight.
• Wildlife Encounters: The Tarsier Sanctuary provides an intimate look at one of the world’s smallest primates.
• Relaxing Lunch: The floating restaurant on Loboc River offers a delicious meal with scenic surroundings.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides share insights into Bohol’s history and culture.
• Convenience: Round-trip transport from selected hotels simplifies logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour packs a lot into a day, blending natural wonders with cultural touches. Starting with a pickup from your hotel—details communicated via WhatsApp—you’ll spend the day exploring Bohol’s highlights in a comfortable vehicle, with a small group or private arrangements depending on your booking.

Visiting the Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are undoubtedly the star attraction. These 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills turn a rich brown during the dry season, resembling giant chocolates—hence the name. The tour usually includes stops at designated viewing decks, where you’ll get sweeping, panoramic views of the rolling hills. As one reviewer, Paz, mentioned, “We were in the middle of the jungle and a spectacular feeling of how green everything is.” The hills’ unique shape and scale make for fantastic photos, especially if you’re a landscape lover or shutterbug.

Tarsier Sanctuary Encounter

Next on the agenda is the Tarsier Sanctuary. These tiny primates, with their huge eyes and delicate features, are among Bohol’s most famous creatures. The sanctuary provides a safe environment where you can observe these creatures in their natural habitat, away from captivity. One reviewer, Victoria, described it as “a magical experience,” highlighting how adorable the monkeys are. The sanctuary’s careful preservation efforts ensure you see them without disturbing their natural behaviors, which is vital for wildlife conservation.

Loboc River Floating Restaurant

The highlight for many is the Loboc River cruise with lunch. You’ll board a floating restaurant that gently glides along the river, offering a buffet or set menu of local dishes. The peaceful setting, with lush greenery all around, makes it more than just a meal—it’s a relaxed way to soak in Bohol’s scenery. Paz’s review emphasizes how “the boat took us through the jungle, and everything was so green,” creating a truly immersive experience. Expect lively music, traditional performances, and plenty of photo opportunities.

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Practical Details & Experience Quality

Transportation & Group Size

Round-trip transport from selected hotels ensures convenience, especially after a long flight or days of exploring. We appreciate that the vehicle is described as clean and well-driven, with guides who are attentive—an important factor that reviewers noted, with one stating, “They welcomed us on WhatsApp and already knew when and where to pick us up.” This level of organization minimizes stress and helps keep the day flowing smoothly.

Duration & Pace

The tour runs for a full day, with a flexible schedule that balances sightseeing with downtime. Moderate walking is involved, particularly at the hills and sanctuary, so comfortable shoes are a must. The trip ends back at the meeting point, which is convenient for those with late flights or additional travel plans.

Cost & Value

At $28, this tour offers excellent value considering the variety of attractions visited, guided commentary, and included transport. Entrance fees are not included—something to keep in mind if you wish to visit additional sites or buy souvenirs—but the overall package remains budget-friendly compared to private options.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. The weather can be hot and sunny, so staying hydrated and protected is essential. Also, avoid touching plants or littering, respecting Bohol’s natural beauty.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers, those with back or heart issues, or wheelchair users, due to the physical nature of some stops and paths. It’s designed for active participants who enjoy a full day of sightseeing.

Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the punctuality and friendliness of guides, with Paz noting, “They were always attentive,” which adds to the overall positive vibe. The scenery receives special mention— reviewers describe feeling like they’re in “the middle of a jungle” and highlight the spectacular views from the hills. The Loboc River cruise impresses most for its relaxing atmosphere and delicious local food, with Paz calling it a “magical” experience.

Another reviewer, Eve, mentions the tour’s variety, noting the amount of activities packed into one day, though she advises travelers to account for any extra costs, such as souvenirs or additional entrance fees.

The Sum Up

This Bohol tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances breathtaking scenery, adorable wildlife, and culture—all at an accessible price point. The combination of natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary, along with the serene Loboc River cruise, makes it a great choice for travelers seeking a packed, authentic day in Bohol.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic photography, and cultural insights without the hassle of organizing multiple stops independently. The knowledgeable guides, smooth transport, and thoughtful itinerary make this tour a stress-free way to experience Bohol’s highlights.

While it’s not designed for travelers with mobility issues or certain health conditions, for most active visitors, it provides a memorable and authentic glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour delivers excellent value and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children who enjoy walking and wildlife will find it engaging, especially the chance to see tiny tarsiers and explore scenic views. However, keep in mind the moderate walking involved.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a lunch on the floating restaurant, offering local dishes and a relaxing atmosphere. Entrance fees are not included, but the meal itself is part of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting from hotel pickup and ending back at the same spot, with enough time at each attraction to enjoy without rushing.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. Weather can be hot, so stay hydrated.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, which offers flexibility in planning.

Is transportation private or shared?
Transportation is round-trip from your hotel; the reviews suggest a clean vehicle with attentive drivers, but the exact size depends on your booking.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to walking involved at various stops.

Exploring Bohol with this tour means combining natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural flavor into one affordable, well-organized package. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it offers a well-balanced taste of everything that makes Bohol special.

You can check availability for your dates here: