From Cebu: Bohol Countryside Private Tour with Loboc Lunch

Exploring the Bohol Countryside from Cebu: A Detailed Review of the Private Tour with Loboc Lunch

Taking a day trip from Cebu to explore Bohol’s countryside offers an excellent way to see some of the Philippines’ most iconic sights without the hassle of overnight arrangements. This 10-hour private tour promises a blend of natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, all with the convenience of hotel pick-up and round-trip ferry transfers.

We love the personalized touch of a private guide, the stunning views at the Chocolate Hills, and the relaxing Loboc River cruise with buffet lunch. However, some travelers might find the early start and travel time a bit long, especially if they prefer shorter excursions.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive experience of Bohol’s highlights, appreciate natural beauty, and prefer a flexible, intimate group setting over large tours. If you’re after detailed insights into Bohol’s landscapes and wildlife, this could be just the right fit.

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Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation from Cebu with a smooth ferry crossing
• Visit to the Chocolate Hills Complex with panoramic views and optional ATV ride
• Up-close encounter with tarsiers in a dedicated sanctuary
• Scenic Loboc River cruise with cultural performances and buffet lunch
• Educational stops at Butterfly Farm and Man-Made Forest
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay-later options

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Seamless Pickup and Ferry Transfer

The tour begins early, with pick-up options from several locations in Cebu, including Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, and nearby towns. This flexibility is great if you’re staying in different parts of Cebu. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the approximately 2-hour ferry ride much more comfortable, especially as it helps you leave behind Cebu’s urban buzz and transition smoothly into Bohol’s countryside.

The ferry ride itself is often described as easy and comfortable, with some reviewers noting to bring a hoodie for the air conditioning. The journey is about two hours each way, so be prepared for a fair amount of travel; it’s a full-day commitment that rewards you with diverse sights.

Marveling at the Chocolate Hills

The highlight for many is the Chocolate Hills, a geological phenomenon comprising over 1,200 cone-shaped hills that turn a chocolate brown during the dry season. The visit to the Chocolate Hills Complex offers a chance to climb to a viewing deck, where the panoramic vistas are breathtaking. The landscape here is truly something you won’t forget—those perfectly rounded hills stretching to the horizon are quite photogenic.

An extra note from reviews is the option to do an off-road ATV ride at the hills, which adds an element of adventure for an additional 1,400 pesos. Even if you skip the ATV, the view from the deck and the opportunity to learn about the hills’ formation make this stop worthwhile.

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Encountering the Tarsiers

Next up is the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you’ll get a guided tour to see the world’s smallest primates in their natural environment. What makes this aspect special is the focus on conservation—guides are knowledgeable and ensure respectful wildlife encounters. Reviewers consistently mention that the sanctuary is well-managed and that their guides provided interesting insights into the tarsiers’ behavior and conservation efforts.

Some travelers appreciate the peaceful walk through the sanctuary, with lush greenery creating a serene backdrop. You’ll get close enough to see these tiny, wide-eyed creatures, but the experience is designed to be gentle and respectful, rather than touristy or invasive.

Exploring the Butterfly Farm and Man-Made Forest

These stops offer a bit of variety—colorful butterflies fluttering around at the Butterfly Farm and towering Mahogany trees in the Man-Made Forest. Both are brief visits, around 30 minutes each, but they add educational and aesthetic value to your day.

While these sites might not be the main focus, they provide a peaceful breather between the more substantial attractions and give you a glimpse into Bohol’s efforts in ecological preservation.

The Scenic Loboc River Cruise and Buffet Lunch

Arguably the most relaxing part of the tour is the Loboc River cruise. You’ll board a floating restaurant, surrounded by lush greenery and gentle river currents, creating a calming atmosphere. The buffet lunch served here is a highlight, with a variety of Filipino dishes that cater to different tastes.

Beyond the food, the cruise is an excellent chance to soak in Bohol’s natural beauty. Cultural performances by local artists add a lively touch, making it feel like a true celebration of Bohol’s culture and environment.

Reviewers have praised this part for its calm scenery, delicious buffet, and the chance to see Bohol from a different perspective. It’s an ideal way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.

Additional Stops and Local Highlights

The tour includes other less prominent stops, such as the Butterfly Farm and the Man-Made Forest, which add layers of ecological awareness and aesthetic pleasure. The Bohol tour also includes a brief guided drive through the island, giving you a taste of local life and landscape diversity.

Returning to Cebu

The journey back involves another ferry crossing, followed by the return to your Cebu hotel. While the day is long, the experience is quite comprehensive, giving you a full taste of Bohol’s natural and cultural treasures.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing and Pace: Expect an early start, with pick-up times starting around 7 am. The long travel hours mean you’ll spend much of the day on the road or ferry, so come prepared with snacks, water, and a powerbank.
• Weather Preparedness: Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a change of clothes, especially if you plan to do the ATV ride or get wet during the river cruise.
• Cost vs. Value: The tour’s price includes transportation, ferry, guide, and lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one package. The optional ATV is extra but offers good value for adventure-seekers.
• Group Size and Guides: The tour is private, which means a more personalized experience. Guides are knowledgeable—one reviewer mentions that Francis, in particular, made the trip exceptional with his insight and friendliness.
• Flexibility: You have the option to skip certain parts, like lunch, or add activities on-site, which offers a tailored experience.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This excursion works well for travelers wanting a comprehensive, comfortable way to see Bohol’s highlights in one day. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate natural scenery, wildlife, and cultural performances, plus it’s ideal if you prefer private, guided experiences over large group tours.

If you’re on a tight schedule but still want to cover a lot, this tour’s structure maximizes efficiency without sacrificing the quality of each stop. It’s great for families, couples, or small groups looking for a balanced day of adventure and relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, this tour pack offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bohol’s most photogenic and meaningful sights. You get enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed, and the inclusion of lunch and ferry transfers simplifies logistics.

The guides, notably Francis, receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging. The views at the Chocolate Hills and the peaceful Loboc River cruise are memorable highlights that justify the long day of travel.

However, travelers should be prepared for a fairly full schedule, and those with limited mobility might find some stops a bit challenging. Still, for anyone eager to explore Bohol without splitting over multiple days, this tour delivers excellent value and authentic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire tour last? The tour lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and lunch.

What are the pickup locations? Pickup options include Maribago, Cordova, Mandaue City, Banilad, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu City, and Punta Engaño.

Is there an option to do an ATV ride at the Chocolate Hills? Yes, on-site you can include a one-hour ATV adventure for 1,400 pesos per person.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a powerbank are recommended.

Can I skip the lunch? While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest it might be a good idea to have the option to skip or customize the experience, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

How comfortable is the ferry transfer? The ferry ride is generally considered easy and comfortable, but bringing a hoodie for the air conditioning can enhance the experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews highlight guides like Francis who are attentive, well-informed, and eager to share insights about Bohol.

Is this tour suitable for families or small groups? Absolutely. The private nature makes it flexible and suitable for families or small groups seeking an intimate experience.

What is the main value of this tour? It offers a convenient, full-day exploration of Bohol’s key attractions, combining natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences at a fair price.

To sum it up, this Bohol countryside tour from Cebu packs a punch for travelers eager to tick off the island’s must-see sights in a single day. It balances comfort with adventure, authenticity with convenience, making it a strong choice for those seeking a memorable and hassle-free escape into Bohol’s scenic heart.

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