Bohol Countryside Tour: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier and Loboc River

Thinking about visiting Bohol? This popular full-day tour offers a well-rounded look at some of the island’s most iconic sights, blending natural wonders with cultural treasures. From meeting tiny primates to paddling along lush riverbanks, it’s designed for travelers who want an authentic, manageable adventure without the hassle of self-planning.

What makes this tour special? First, the small group size keeps things personal and engaging. Second, the knowledgeable guides make the history and ecology come alive with interesting stories. Third, the balance of activities—from wildlife encounters to scenic views—ensures you get variety without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration? The itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a slow, leisurely day, this might feel a bit intense. Also, the cost of $53 per person is reasonable, but you’ll want to appreciate the inclusion of transport, guides, and key entry tickets to get good value.

This tour is a fantastic pick for first-time visitors, families, or anyone eager to see Bohol’s highlights with trusted local guides. It offers a blend of fun, learning, and jaw-dropping scenery that makes it a memorable day out.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering top attractions like Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, and Loboc River
• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience
• Expert guides add local insights, making each stop more meaningful
• Includes transport and entry tickets, adding convenience and value
• Well-paced 10-hour adventure suitable for most travelers
• Authentic experiences like meeting rare primates and paddling on the river

What You Can Expect from the Bohol Countryside Tour

This tour is designed to maximize your time on the island, combining several of Bohol’s must-see spots into one manageable day. Starting at 8:00 am, you’ll meet your guide and small group of up to 12 travelers in Panglao. The day’s journey covers roughly 10 hours, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, learn stories, and just soak in the scenery.

Loboc River: Scenic and Cultural Charm

Your day begins with a visit to Loboc River, a favorite for its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. Here, the tour includes a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) experience. No floating river cruise—these are intentionally avoided by the tour providers who find them too touristy—and instead, you’ll enjoy paddling along the gentle currents, surrounded by tropical greenery.

Reviewers note that the SUP activity is a highlight, offering a more active and immersive way to enjoy the river. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the SUP made the experience more fun and personal,” highlighting how this adds a special touch compared to typical boat rides.

Tarsier Conservation Area: Tiny Primates with Big Charm

Next is a visit to the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area, dedicated to protecting these second smallest primates in the world. The site is well-maintained and provides a great opportunity to observe tarsiers up close. Expect to see these shy, wide-eyed creatures in a natural setting, and learn about their delicate conservation status.

One reviewer appreciated the guide’s explanations: “The conservation area was built to protect the tarsiers, and it really shows—they’re adorable and well-cared-for,” adding that the visit is both educational and heartwarming.

Chocolate Hills: Nature’s Candy

No trip to Bohol is complete without seeing the Chocolate Hills. Recognized as the third national geological monument of the Philippines, these uniform, cone-shaped mounds are truly a sight to behold. When dry, they turn a chocolaty brown, giving the hills their name.

The tour allocates about an hour here, enough time for photos and a short walk to enjoy the panoramic views. While entry to the monument is free, the scenery alone makes this stop worthwhile. Several reviews highlighted the stunning vistas: one said, “The hills look like giant Hershey kisses—so surreal and photogenic,” which is quite fitting.

Baclayon Church: A Cultural Landmark

The final stop is Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in Bohol and a National Cultural Treasure. Its historic architecture, ancient altar, and intricate details make it a meaningful visit. The tour includes a 30-minute exploration, enough to appreciate its significance and snap some photos.

Reviewers appreciated the chance to visit a religious and historical site that offers a window into the island’s colonial past. One traveler mentioned, “Baclayon Church’s old charm and well-preserved structure made it feel like stepping back in time.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $53 per person covers the essentials: transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guide (we’ll talk more about the guides shortly), and entry tickets to the Tarsier Conservation Area and Baclayon Church. The SUP paddleboard rental is also included, adding a fun, active element.

Not included are alcoholic beverages and towels, so pack a water bottle and maybe a little snack. Some reviews mentioned that the lunch was good—an optional riverside restaurant—and added to the value, but it’s not included in the tour fee.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, which keeps things intimate and flexible. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives comfortable, and the small group allows the guide to give personalized attention and share interesting tidbits. Reviewers repeatedly praised the comfortable van and the safety of the driver.

Timing and Pacing

Starting at 8:00 am, the tour runs for about 10 hours, wrapping up back at the meeting point later in the afternoon. The itinerary is fairly full, so if you prefer a slow morning or a more relaxed pace, be prepared for a busy day.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Travelers

One of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable guides. Several reviews mention guides like David and Jaira, who offered interesting facts and engaged storytelling. For example, one reviewer said, “Jaira’s explanations at each stop made the experience so much richer,” emphasizing how local guides enhance the tour’s value.

Other travelers appreciated the extra touches that weren’t in the itinerary, such as tasting coconut wine or seeing salt ball making in traditional ways. Spending time with local families or exploring lesser-known sites added a personal touch that made the experience stand out.

Practical Tips

• Bring towels if you plan to paddleboard or get wet.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and sightseeing.
• Pack sun protection—hat, sunglasses, sunscreen—as much of the day is outdoors.
• Confirm your meeting point and arrive a few minutes early to start smoothly.
• Consider bringing a camera with a good zoom for capturing the hills and wildlife.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Bohol Countryside Tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of arranging transport and tickets. Families and couples will appreciate the manageable pace and variety of activities. It’s also suitable for those interested in wildlife, history, and scenic views.

Travelers who enjoy a small-group setting will find this tour offers a more personalized experience. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that balances adventure with cultural insights, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an efficient, engaging way to see many of Bohol’s top sights in one day. The small group size, expert guides, and thoughtful itinerary make it a compelling choice for travelers wanting authentic experiences without the stress of planning every detail. From paddling along Loboc River to marveling at the Chocolate Hills and exploring historic Baclayon, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for what makes Bohol special.

The price point is fair considering the inclusion of transport, entry tickets, and guided commentary—making it good value for money. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone looking for a full yet manageable day of exploration.

If you’re after a mix of wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, this tour delivers it all with a friendly, professional touch. Just prepare for a day of walking, sightseeing, and stunning views—trust us, it’s worth it.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families. Just keep in mind the day is quite full, and some activity levels, like paddling, may require supervision.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, a camera, and towels if you plan to paddleboard. A light snack could also be helpful as some parts of the day are outdoors and involve walking.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included, but reviewers mention that the riverside restaurant offers a good meal option. You can choose to buy your own or bring snacks.

How long are the stops at each site?
Expect about 2 hours at Loboc River, 1 hour at Tarsier Conservation, 1 hour at Chocolate Hills, and 30 minutes at Baclayon Church.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight guides like David and Jaira who share interesting facts, making the experience richer and more engaging.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the experience requires good weather, it might be canceled if conditions are poor. You would then get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

This Bohol Countryside Tour combines natural wonders with cultural gems, all delivered with a friendly guide and a comfortable vehicle. It’s a day packed with photo-worthy sights and stories that will leave you with a true taste of Bohol.