Bohol Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers with roundtrip ferry from Cebu

Introduction

Thinking about a day trip from Cebu to explore Bohol? This tour promises a blend of nature, culture, and fun, all in one well-organized package. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and details paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of round-trip ferry transfers, the chance to see the world-famous Chocolate Hills, and the opportunity to get up close with the tiny, captivating tarsiers. Plus, the included buffet lunch on a river cruise sounds like a relaxing way to break up the sightseeing.

Of course, no tour is perfect. Some travelers mention feeling rushed and wishing they could see more tarsiers or spend more time at each stop. Still, this trip seems ideal for those who value efficient, guided exploration in a small group, especially if you’re keen to tick off Bohol’s top sights without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Convenience: Round-trip ferry transfers from Cebu make logistics easy.
• Small group: Intimate experience with a maximum of 8 travelers.
• Diverse sights: From Chocolate Hills and tarsiers to historical sites and scenic forests.
• Inclusion: Buffet lunch on a river cruise adds a relaxed touch.
• Time management: The itinerary packs several highlights into one day.
• Guide expertise: Positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides like JoJo, enhancing the experience.

The Experience: What to Expect from This Tour

Seamless Transfers from Cebu

The day begins early with a 7 AM hotel pickup in Cebu, easing the stress of transportation. The tour includes round-trip ferry tickets via Oceanjet, departing around 8:20 AM. The ferry ride itself is a highlight—smooth, quick, and comfortable—giving you a taste of island-hopping without leaving the boat. Upon arrival in Bohol, a dedicated guide greets you and immediately starts the adventure.

Exploring Bohol’s Natural Wonders

The Tarsier Sanctuary is the first stop, and it’s a highlight for many travelers. These tiny primates are incredibly captivating—small enough to fit in your hand, with large eyes that seem to hold stories. Reviewers mention that guides like JoJo are full of interesting facts, making the encounter both educational and fun. Be mindful that the sanctuary is a conservation site, so respectful behavior is expected.

Next, you’ll enjoy an hour-long river cruise that offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, complemented by a buffet lunch aboard the boat. The cruise is described as relaxing, providing a break from the busy day while soaking in Bohol’s lush scenery.

The Man-Made Forest & Chocolate Hills

The Man-Made Forest involves walking through a corridor of densely planted trees—an Instagram-worthy spot that looks surreal and well-maintained. Reviewers love the way the guide explains the significance of this site, making it more than just a pretty photo op.

The Chocolate Hills are the undisputed star of the tour. Over 1,200 hills stretch across the landscape, turning brown in the dry season, creating a striking, almost alien landscape. Travelers mention that the viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for photos and absorbing the scale of this natural marvel.

Cultural & Historical Stops

The tour also includes visits to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, and the Blood Compact Site, where a significant historical event took place. These stops give visitors a glimpse into Bohol’s rich past, adding depth to the day.

Finally, the Cultural Village showcases traditional Filipino houses, crafts, and performances. While some reviews note feeling a bit rushed at each site, most appreciate the variety packed into the itinerary.

Return to Cebu

The tour wraps up with a 5:40 PM departure from Bohol and a ferry back to Cebu, arriving around 7:40 PM. The guide will meet you at the exit to ensure a smooth transfer back to your hotel, making for a long but fulfilling day.

The Value and Practicalities

Price and What You Get

At $197 per person, this tour offers significant value considering it covers transportation, entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and a small-group experience. The inclusion of ferry tickets reduces the hassle, and the guide’s insights make each stop more meaningful.

Compared to booking transportation and entry fees separately, this package simplifies planning and ensures you see Bohol’s main highlights efficiently. The small group size (max 8) keeps the tour intimate, allowing for more personalized attention, which many reviews appreciate.

What’s Not Included

Dinner is not included, so you might want to plan a meal after the tour. Activities like ATV rides or ziplining are also extras if you’re craving more adventure. Some travelers mention feeling a bit rushed at times, especially if they want to linger longer at certain sites, so those seeking a more relaxed pace might need to organize additional time or private options.

Group Size & Guide Expertise

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains a cozy atmosphere, and reviews highlight guides like JoJo for their friendliness and depth of knowledge. Travelers appreciated that guides answered questions and shared stories, making the experience more enriching.

Physical Demands

Moderate physical activity is involved, mainly walking and some standing during site visits. Reviewers suggest that travelers with moderate fitness levels will be comfortable, but those with mobility concerns should consider this.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviews reveal that the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge greatly enhance the day. One reviewer called JoJo’s attention to detail “amazing,” which hints at a personalized touch that elevates the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

Another review notes that the cruise lunch was a highlight, with some wishing they could spend more time at each site, especially the tarsier sanctuary. The feeling of being slightly rushed was common, but most agreed the tour hit a good balance considering the number of sites covered.

Some travelers expressed a desire to see more tarsiers, but the sanctuary’s conservation efforts mean limited access for their protection—something to keep in mind for wildlife lovers. The scenic views at the Chocolate Hills and the lushness of the forest made a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Bohol day trip from Cebu is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, guided overview of Bohol’s top sights. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a rich experience that combines nature, history, and culture.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a friendly, personalized vibe. The inclusion of transportation, entry fees, and a buffet lunch offers good value and peace of mind, especially for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with island logistics.

While the schedule can feel a bit packed, it allows you to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself. The scenic views, adorable tarsiers, and interesting historical sites make it a well-rounded trip that many will cherish.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy guided tours, are comfortable with some walking, and want to maximize their time exploring Bohol’s famous sites. If you’re after a reliable, fun, and informative day trip, this could be a fantastic option.

FAQs

• What time does the tour start? It begins with hotel pickup at 7:00 AM.
• Does the tour include ferry tickets? Yes, round-trip tourist class ferry tickets are included.
• How long is the total tour? Approximately 14 hours, from pickup to return.
• Is there food included? Yes, a buffet lunch is provided on the river cruise.
• Are guides provided? Yes, guides like JoJo are highly praised for their knowledge.
• How many people can join? The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, typically smaller for a more intimate experience.
• What sites are visited? Tarsier Sanctuary, river cruise, man-made forest, Chocolate Hills, Baclayon Church, Blood Compact Site, and a cultural village.
• Can I customize the tour? Not directly; this is a fixed itinerary.
• Is physical activity required? Moderate—expect walking and standing at various sites.
• What’s the best time of year for this tour? The tour operates year-round, but the best views of the Chocolate Hills occur in the dry season when the hills turn brown.

Final Words

For those wanting a hassle-free way to experience Bohol’s highlights from Cebu, this tour offers a smart combination of convenience, variety, and authentic sights. The scenic landscapes, adorable wildlife, and historical landmarks are sure to leave lasting memories. While it’s a brisk day with some time constraints, the expertly guided experience ensures you’ll come away with a well-rounded impression of Bohol’s beauty and charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick revisit, this trip provides a meaningful glimpse into one of the Philippines’ most captivating islands.