Bohol Countryside Private Tour From Cebu City | Private Tour

A Complete Look at the Bohol Countryside Private Tour from Cebu City

Traveling from Cebu to Bohol for a day of sightseeing offers a wonderful chance to see some of the Philippines’ most famous natural and cultural attractions. This private tour, priced at around $193 per person, promises a full day of exploration that balances iconic sights with authentic experiences. From the rolling hills of Chocolate Hills to the tiny primates of the Tarsier Conservation Area, this tour aims to deliver a memorable glimpse of Bohol’s charm.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the inclusion of round-trip transfers, a scenic Loboc River cruise with lunch, and a knowledgeable guide. But as with any tour, there are some points to consider, such as the travel time involved and the feedback from past travelers. Overall, it seems well-suited for those who want a structured, all-in-one day trip that captures the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

We love the way this tour covers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxing moments, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown. The scenic ferry rides are a definite plus, providing a smooth transition from Cebu to Bohol. Plus, the Loboc River cruise with lunch offers a peaceful break amid lush surroundings, which many travelers find charming. On the downside, some travelers mention the long transfers and wait times, which could be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to early mornings or prolonged transportation.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized, guided excursions that maximize sightseeing while minimizing hassle, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for travelers looking for value, a variety of experiences, and the comfort of private transportation, rather than roughing it out on a self-guided adventure.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip: Combines iconic attractions, cultural sites, and scenic cruising.
• Round-trip transfers: Includes land and ferry rides, making the journey hassle-free.
• Expert guidance: A licensed, knowledgeable guide helps bring the sights to life.
• Authentic experiences: Tarsier viewing, Chocolate Hills, and Loboc River cruise are highlights.
• Value for money: For the price, you get a well-rounded, engaging day out.
• Travel considerations: Long transfers and waiting periods may be a factor for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting Early with Airport or Hotel Pickups

Most travelers are picked up between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM, depending on whether they’re staying in Lapu-Lapu/Mactan or Cebu City. Early starts are common with full-day tours, and this one is no exception, to make the most of the daylight hours. The transportation is by private vehicle, which offers comfort and flexibility—your guide and driver also double as your main source of information and assistance throughout the day.

Despite the early start, some reviews hint at the long journey involved. One reviewer mentioned “30 minutes by car, followed by a 2-hour wait, then a 2-hour boat ride” — a reminder to be prepared for the transit time and to bring snacks or entertainment for the wait.

Cross-Ferry to Bohol

The highlight of the journey is the two ferry rides that connect Cebu to Bohol, which is usually quite smooth, thanks to the included tickets. A key tip is to download WhatsApp beforehand, as you’ll need to message the tour operator with your full name and birthday to receive your e-tickets and confirm your pickup. This process ensures a seamless start, but it’s essential to communicate clearly and promptly.

Chocolate Hills: The Showstopper

No visit to Bohol is complete without seeing the Chocolate Hills—a natural wonder and Philippine Geographical Monument. Over 1,200 rolling hills create a landscape that’s uniquely photogenic. Whether or not they turn brown during dry season, their symmetrical, rounded shapes are captivating. The tour usually includes a stop at a viewpoint, though some reviews note that the view might be hazy or crowded, depending on the day.

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Tarsier Conservation Area: Up Close with Tiny Primates

Next, you’ll visit the Tarsier Conservation Area—home to the world’s smallest primates. These tiny creatures evoke smiles and curiosity, but their fragile environment is protected to prevent disturbance. Many travelers appreciate the chance to observe these adorable creatures up close, but some express concern about the impact of tourism on their habitat. Your guide will typically explain their ecology and conservation efforts, making it a meaningful visit rather than just a photo-op.

Bilar Mahogany Forest: Nature’s Green Canopy

A trip to Bohol wouldn’t be complete without a walk or photo stop at the Bilar Mahogany Forest. This cultivated forest showcases towering mahogany trees, offering a welcome break from the busyness of the day. It also provides a visual contrast to the hills and river scenes, emphasizing Bohol’s diverse landscape.

Baclayon Church: Heritage and History

A quick stop at Baclayon Church offers insight into the Philippines’ colonial past. As the oldest stone church in the country, it’s a historic structure with notable architecture. Many visitors enjoy learning about its history and admiring its preserved facade, although some note that the interior can be crowded or somewhat touristy.

Loboc River Cruise: Relaxing and Tasty

The finale is the Loboc River cruise, an experience that many reviews describe as magical. You’ll board a floating restaurant, enjoying a buffet lunch as you glide past lush greenery and local villages. The river cruise provides a gentle, scenic environment for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Reviewers like Donna mention that Coy runs a well-oiled machine, with precise timings for each event, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

End of the Day and Return

After the cruise, you’ll head back to Cebu, with the journey wrapping up in the evening. Some travelers find the long travel times tiring, but many agree that the sights and experiences make it worthwhile.

The Value of the Tour

At $193 per person, this tour offers comprehensive value through its inclusion of ferry tickets, entrance fees, a scenic cruise, professional guide, and lunch. No hidden costs are mentioned, but travelers should budget for the terminal fee of 25 PHP in Cebu and 30 PHP in Bohol, which are paid locally.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and dropoff further enhances convenience, especially for those staying in Cebu City or Lapu-Lapu. The flexibility to reserve and pay later adds to its appeal, allowing last-minute planning without losing the chance to secure a spot.

In terms of guidance, reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, with some travelers noting their guides’ positive energy and attentiveness. One reviewer praised Ramon for his personality, while others appreciated the guide’s balanced approach—knowing when to share insights and when to let guests rest.

Considerations and Tips

• The long travel times mean that you’ll need patience and perhaps some entertainment for waiting periods.
• The early start might be demanding but ensures maximum sightseeing.
• Be prepared for potential crowds at popular spots like Chocolate Hills and Baclayon Church.
• Remember to send your details via WhatsApp ahead of time to get your ferry e-tickets smoothly.
• Budget extra for terminal fees not included in the package.

Final Verdict: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day Bohol adventure is excellent for first-time visitors eager to tick off the island’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning logistics. It offers a balanced mix of natural wonders and cultural highlights, all while providing the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.

Travelers who value convenience, well-organized itineraries, and a variety of experiences will find this tour worthwhile. However, those who dislike long transit times or early mornings might find the schedule a challenge. The tour is also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive, guided experience that covers the highlights efficiently.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff, round-trip ferry tickets (based on seat availability), a Loboc River cruise with lunch, all entrance fees, a licensed guide, a Bohol souvenir, and bottled water.

Are there any additional costs?
You’ll need to pay a terminal fee of 25 PHP in Cebu and 30 PHP in Bohol, which are not included in the package. These fees are paid locally and are not prepaid.

How early do I need to be ready?
Pickups start at 6:00 AM if you’re staying in Lapu-Lapu/Mactan, or at 6:30 AM from Cebu City hotels. Early mornings help maximize your day, but they require an early rise.

How long is the journey from Cebu to Bohol?
The ferry ride involves two boat trips, and combined with land transfers, the entire journey can take several hours, including waiting times. Be prepared for about 2 hours on the boat, plus additional transfer times.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most reviews suggest that timings are well-managed, but some feel the day is long, especially with transit times. It’s best to set expectations that the day will be busy but rewarding.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, as long as they’re comfortable with early starts, long transfers, and moderate walking. The cruise is a relaxing highlight, and the attractions are generally family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the ferry ride. Comfortable footwear is recommended, especially for walking around spots like the Mahogany Forest and Baclayon Church.

In essence, this private tour from Cebu offers a thoughtfully packaged way to experience Bohol’s most famous sights with ease and comfort. It’s a strong choice for those wanting a guided, hassle-free adventure that combines natural scenery, wildlife, and cultural history—all in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: