Bohol Island Countryside Tour with Buffet Lunch River Cruise (Cebu or Bohol)

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines and want a taste of Bohol’s scenic beauty combined with cultural highlights, the Bohol Island Countryside Tour with buffet lunch and Loboc River cruise seems like a solid choice. This guided day-trip promises a mix of iconic sights, local wildlife, and relaxing moments—all within about eight hours. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it offers a balance of convenience, value, and authentic experiences that suit most travelers eager to explore.

What excites us most? The chance to marvel at the Chocolate Hills’ unique landscape, see the tiny but fascinating Philippine Tarsier, indulge in a floating buffet lunch on Loboc River, and navigate through a man-made Mahogany forest. Plus, the hotel pickup makes the whole day smooth and hassle-free. The only real consideration might be the fixed schedule—if you’re after a more flexible or unstructured day, this may feel a bit guided.

This tour is perfect for those who want a rundown of Bohol in one day—especially if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer having transportation and logistics handled for you. It’s also great for families, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy scenic rides and engaging sights with the comfort of a private guide.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: The tour covers Bohol’s most famous natural attractions, including the Chocolate Hills and the Mahogany Forest.
• Wildlife Encounter: Spot the Philippine Tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates, in their natural habitat.
• Cultural & Natural Balance: Combines sightseeing, wildlife, and local culture in one well-rounded experience.
• Convenience & Comfort: Includes hotel or port pickup, private transportation, and a relaxing river cruise with lunch.
• Authentic Experience: The floating Loboc River buffet offers a delightful mix of local cuisine and beautiful surroundings.
• Value for Money: At $135 per person, the tour provides a full day of sightseeing with all fees and taxes included, making it good value for those looking to maximize their trip.

A Detailed Look at the Bohol Countryside Tour

Starting the Day: Easy and Punctual Pickup

The day begins around 8:00 am with a convenient pickup from your hotel, airport, or port in Tagbilaran City. Having a dedicated driver and guide means your transport is private, comfortable, and hassle-free. This also allows you to relax and start soaking in the scenery immediately, without worrying about navigation or timing—something many reviewers appreciated, noting the professionalism and knowledge of their guides.

Exploring Bohol Island’s Top Sights

The Chocolate Hills

The tour’s first major stop is the Chocolate Hills, Bohol’s most iconic landscape. These 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills turn a chocolate brown during the dry season, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly vista. From the viewing decks, you’ll have ample opportunity to snap photos and appreciate the scale of this geological wonder. The experience is enhanced by detailed commentary from your guide, who can share insights into the hills’ formation and local legends, according to some reviews.

Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

Next, you’ll visit a sanctuary where you can see the Philippine Tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. These tiny creatures, only about the size of your fist, are known for their big eyes and elusive nature. Many travelers mention the thrill of spotting these nocturnal animals in their natural environment. Visitors also note the importance of respecting these delicate creatures, with guides explaining conservation efforts.

Mahogany Forest

A highlight for nature lovers is the Man-made Mahogany Forest near Bilar town. Walking through this dense, cultivated woodland offers a refreshing break from the more tourist-heavy spots. The lush greenery and tall trees make for excellent photos and a peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers mention that this stop provides a good chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some quiet time amid nature.

Lunch on the Loboc River

One of the most praised parts of this tour is the buffet lunch aboard a floating restaurant on Loboc River. The boat gently cruises along the river, offering scenic views of the surrounding greenery and small villages. The buffet features local Filipino dishes, giving a taste of regional flavors. Travelers often highlight the relaxed ambiance and the opportunity to enjoy a meal while gently drifting on the water—something that turns a simple lunch into a memorable experience.

Additional Attractions & Personalization

While the core itinerary is fixed, some travelers opt for extra activities like ATV rides or other local options available on site. It’s worth noting that these extras are not included in the package, so budget accordingly if interested.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a return to your hotel or port, usually in the late afternoon. Reviews suggest that the timing is well-managed, allowing you to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The entire experience is designed to maximize sightseeing while minimizing travel fatigue.

Transport, Duration, and Value

The eight-hour duration offers a fulfilling day without overextending. The private transport, including fuel and driver, ensures a smooth ride through winding roads with scenic vistas. For $135, this tour combines admission fees, a buffet lunch, and organized transport, which many travelers find to be good value. The inclusion of all taxes and fees simplifies planning, especially for international visitors unfamiliar with local costs.

What Travelers Say

A Tripadvisor review highlights how well the tour caters to different ages: “My elderly mother loved it,” noting the comfortable transportation and calm pacing. The private guide’s vast knowledge also seems to enrich the experience, making the stops not just photo ops but opportunities for learning.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

• Confirmation is received at booking, but weather-dependent cancellations are possible, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should check accessibility options, especially at the viewing points.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Bohol’s highlights, especially if you value convenience and structured sightseeing. It’s ideal for visitors short on time but eager to see the main attractions, including iconic landscapes and wildlife. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation will find this experience particularly satisfying.

The Sum Up

The Bohol Island Countryside Tour with buffet lunch and Loboc River cruise offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to experience some of the island’s most stunning sights. From the breathtaking Chocolate Hills to the tiny Tarsiers and serene river cruise, it packs a punch for the value. The careful organization, private transport, and knowledgeable guides make it an excellent choice for travelers who want an immersive yet comfortable day out.

While it’s a set schedule, the tour manages to balance sightseeing with laid-back moments, making it suitable for most types of travelers. If you’re after a reliable, scenic, and culturally interesting day trip in Bohol, this tour is a solid pick.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, airport, or port in Tagbilaran City, making the start smooth and easy.

What is the duration of this tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing ample time to visit all the key sights without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch on a floating Loboc River restaurant is part of the package, offering local dishes in a relaxing setting.

Can I join this tour if I am traveling alone?
Yes, but note that a minimum of 2 people per booking is required, so solo travelers need to coordinate accordingly or book with others.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The pace and stops are generally family-friendly.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.