Bohol Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers with roundtrip ferry from Cebu

Review of the Bohol Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers Tour with Roundtrip Ferry from Cebu

Planning a day trip from Cebu to Bohol might seem ambitious, but this tour makes it surprisingly smooth and rewarding. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive glimpse of Bohol’s most iconic attractions without the fuss of independent planning. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel to your return, the experience is designed to be seamless, informative, and packed with highlights.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking views at the Chocolate Hills, and the well-organized logistics that make the long day feel effortless. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite packed, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full schedule rather than a relaxed pace. If you’re after a mix of natural beauty, history, and cultural insights, this trip might just be your perfect Bohol sampler.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price offers good value for a day packed with diverse activities.
• Seamless transportation logistics ensure a stress-free experience, from ferry rides to guided tours.
• Guides and commentary enhance the visit, with reviewers praising their knowledge and friendliness.
• Varied attractions include wildlife, scenic views, cultural sites, and a river cruise.
• Timing and pacing are well managed, although the day is quite full.
• The tour is ideal for those who want a rundown of Bohol in one day.

Introduction to the Bohol Experience

This tour provides a compelling way to see Bohol’s top attractions in just one day, all while traveling comfortably from Cebu. It’s especially appealing for travelers short on time but eager to experience the best of this unique island.

The combination of natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills and the adorable Philippine tarsiers, along with cultural and historical sites, makes this adventure well-rounded. Plus, the inclusion of a river cruise with lunch and a visit to Baclayon Church delivers a taste of local life and history that lingers.

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is how smoothly everything runs — from the early hotel pickup to the ferry crossing, guided touring, and return transfer. With most travelers booking about 11 days in advance, it’s clear that this is a popular choice for those who want a reliable, well-reviewed day trip.

While the itinerary is tight, it’s designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. The only potential downside? If you prefer slow mornings or long, leisurely explorations, this might be a bit intense. Still, for most, the value packed into these 12 hours makes it worth every minute.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Hotel Pickup and Ferry Ride

The day kicks off early, with hotel pickup around 7 AM. This is a big plus since you won’t have to worry about navigating Cebu’s busy streets or finding transport. The ferry departs at around 8:20 AM on Oceanjet, a reputable company known for reliable service. The boat ride itself takes about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy the ocean views and prepare for your Bohol day ahead.

Traveling in a small group (max 15 travelers) helps keep the experience intimate and flexible, with reviews mentioning seamless transfers and friendly guides, like Gen, who seems to truly love sharing his island’s stories.

Blood Compact Monument

Your first stop is the Blood Compact Monument, a quick 10-minute photo op that offers a glimpse into the Philippines’ colonial history. It’s not a lengthy visit but a meaningful start that sets the tone for understanding Bohol’s cultural importance.

Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary

Next, you visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, where the tiny primates are the stars. Over a 30-minute visit, you’ll see these adorable creatures—one of the world’s smallest primates, and definitely a highlight for many. Reviewers mention the tarsiers are just “gorgeous,” and the experience often leaves travelers with a warm, fuzzy feeling. Guides explain how these creatures are carefully protected, which adds to the appreciation of Bohol’s conservation efforts.

Loboc River Cruise and Lunch

One of the most memorable parts is the Loboc River cruise, lasting about an hour and including a buffet lunch. The river scenery is lush and calming, and the floating restaurant offers a relaxing break amid the day’s busy schedule. Reviewers have loved the cruise, with comments like “beautiful views” and “delicious lunch,” making it a peaceful contrast to the more active stops.

Baclayon Church

After the cruise, you visit Baclayon Church, a 20-minute stop that showcases Spanish colonial architecture and religious heritage. It’s a chance to see one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, with some reviews noting the well-preserved structure and the opportunity to appreciate Bohol’s historical roots.

Chocolate Hills Natural Monument

The pièce de résistance is the Chocolate Hills, where you get approximately 30 minutes to take in the surreal landscape. Over 1,200 hills, which turn brown in the dry season, create a scene that looks almost otherworldly. Reviewers describe the climb up to the view deck as “steep,” but the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort. It’s a favorite for many, especially those eager for iconic photos.

Blood Compact Site and Cultural Village

While not explicitly detailed in the itinerary, the tour includes cultural insights and a visit to the Blood Compact site, which highlights Bohol’s role in Philippine history. The Cultural Village adds a layer of local tradition, giving travelers a taste of Bohol’s cultural expressions.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a 5:40 PM departure from Bohol, returning to Cebu by approximately 7:40 PM. The entire process runs smoothly, with reviews praising the punctuality and friendliness of the guides and drivers, such as Jojo and the team. The ferry ride back offers a chance to relax after the busy day, and the hotel drop-off makes the experience convenient.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Expert Guides: Reviewers repeatedly highlight the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Gen, in particular, is praised for his knowledge, making the experience more enriching.

Beautiful Scenery: From the lush Loboc River to the iconic Chocolate Hills, the views are genuinely breathtaking. Many mention that the landscapes are even more impressive than they expected.

Well-Organized Logistics: The smooth pick-up, ferry, transfers, and timing make the long day feel effortless. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.

Authentic Experiences: Seeing the tarsiers up close, visiting historic churches, and enjoying local cuisine during the river cruise all contribute to a genuine feel.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up to the Chocolate Hills viewpoint.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—as much of the day involves outdoor sightseeing.
• Prepare for a long day—starting early and ending late—but know it’s packed with highlights.
• Booking in advance is recommended, as most travelers do about 11 days prior, and spots can fill quickly.
• The tour costs $188 per person, which includes ferry tickets, lunch, and entrance fees, making it a good deal considering the number of sites visited.
• Note: Activities like ATV or ziplining are not included, so if you want those, plan separately.
• Weather dependency: The tour is weather-sensitive; if canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or full refund is offered.

The Sum Up

This Bohol tour from Cebu offers a well-rounded, convenient way to experience some of the island’s best sights in one full day. For those who appreciate natural beauty, historical sites, and engaging guides, this package delivers excellent value. While it’s a busy schedule, the variety and organization ensure you won’t feel overwhelmed.

Ideal for travelers keen to maximize their time and see key highlights without the hassle of independent planning, this tour balances scenic views, cultural insights, and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting a comprehensive Bohol experience or anyone with limited time but big travel ambitions.

If you’re looking for a reliable, enjoyable, and value-filled day trip that covers Bohol’s most famous spots, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just be prepared for a full day of exploring, and you’ll come away with plenty of stories—and photos—to cherish.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $188 fee covers ferry tickets, guided touring, entrance fees to sites, the buffet lunch during the river cruise, and hotel transfers.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead to secure their spot, as it’s a popular tour that fills quickly.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Cebu departs at 8:20 AM and takes approximately one hour.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect visits to the Blood Compact Monument, Philippine tarsier sanctuary, Loboc River cruise, Baclayon Church, and the Chocolate Hills.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially since the group size is small, and the activities are mostly outdoor and cultural. However, consider the steep climb at the Chocolate Hills.

Are there any activities not included?
Yes, activities like ATV riding or ziplining are not part of this tour. It’s primarily sightseeing and cultural visits.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Be prepared for outdoor exposure and some walking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a great way to see Bohol’s essential sights efficiently, with knowledgeable guides and a well-organized schedule. Perfect for curious travelers eager to explore and capture the island’s beauty in just one day.