Chocolate Hills Tour Tarsier Loboc River in Bohol

This tour promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun social interactions. Based on feedback from travelers, it’s a carefully curated experience that goes beyond just ticking off famous sights. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy Bohol’s scenic landscapes while enjoying friendly guides and engaging stops.

What we love about this experience are the stunning views of the Chocolate Hills, the chance to meet adorable Tarsiers up close, and the delicious lunch buffet on the Loboc River cruise. The knowledgeable guides add depth with stories and insights, making each stop more meaningful.

However, one potential consideration is the length of the tour—about 6 to 7 hours—which might be a long day for travelers with tight schedules or little patience for group outings. That said, it’s ideal for those eager to make the most of their time in Bohol and enjoy a variety of sights in one go.

This tour best suits nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and social travelers keen on meeting others. If you’re after a comprehensive day exploring Bohol’s natural wonders and heritage, this experience offers great value.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary: Combines natural sights, wildlife, and cultural experiences.
• All-inclusive price: At $104, including lunch, entrance fees, and transportation, it’s good value.
• Social atmosphere: Small group setting with friendly guides enhances the experience.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicles with pick-up service makes logistics easier.
• Authentic insights: Guides share stories behind each stop, enriching your understanding.

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Experience

Convenience and comfort with pick-up service

The tour kicks off at 8am, with a prompt pick-up from your hotel or designated location in Panglao Island. For travelers arriving at Tagbilaran port, advance notice is appreciated to coordinate the schedule. The transportation is via a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day less taxing.

This setup suits those who prefer a hassle-free experience, skipping the need to navigate public transport or hire a separate driver. The door-to-door service makes the whole day seamless, especially if you’re juggling tight schedules or simple want to relax and enjoy.

Encountering the Philippines’ adorable Tarsiers

The first major stop is the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll learn about these tiny primates—famous for their large eyes and delicate nature. Visitors often get the chance to see Tarsiers up close, which is a memorable experience, especially for animal lovers.

Tour guides here shine, sharing details about the Tarsiers’ behavior and conservation status. One reviewer mentioned their guide was super kind and knowledgeable, enhancing the visit beyond just a quick photo op. Expect to spend about an hour here, enough to appreciate these creatures without feeling rushed.

The scenic Bilar Man-Made Forest

Next, you’ll pass through the Bilar Forest, a lush stretch of carefully planted trees that create a shady, cool corridor. Often compared to Baguio’s greenery, this stop provides excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful break from the busier spots.

While there’s no entrance fee, the forest’s tranquility and the verdant canopy are things to cherish. It’s a perfect moment to breathe in fresh air and appreciate the effort to preserve Bohol’s natural charm.

The breathtaking Chocolate Hills

No trip to Bohol is complete without marveling at the Chocolate Hills, a geological wonder with over a thousand cone-shaped mounds. The tour provides about an hour here, enough to enjoy panoramic views and snap countless pictures.

Reviewers have described the views as stunning, and the natural wonder is emphasized by guides who share the geological story behind this unique formation. It’s a highlight that is both visually impressive and educational.

The Loboc River cruise with lunch

After exploring the hills, the group proceeds to the Loboc River, where a buffet lunch cruise awaits. Known for its scenic beauty, the river cruise offers a relaxed setting for sampling Filipino dishes while floating past lush scenery.

One traveler described it as a delicious meal with great views, and the cruise’s gentle pace makes it a perfect midday rest. The inclusion of lunch in the tour price adds value, especially for those looking to combine sightseeing with a tasty meal.

The Practicalities of the Tour

Duration and pacing

Spanning roughly 6 to 7 hours, the tour is designed to give a full day of activity without feeling overly rushed. The schedule is tight but manageable, with about an hour allocated for each main stop. This allows enough time to explore, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

Price and value

At $104 per person, this tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and guide services. When you consider the cost of separate entries and meals, plus the convenience of door-to-door pickup, it offers solid value. Keep in mind, the price does not include optional activities like ATV rides or ziplining, which can be booked separately if you desire more adventure.

Group size and social vibe

The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, creating a more flexible and relaxed environment. Past travelers mention the guides, like Dave, as friendly and very knowledgeable, who provided interesting explanations about Bohol’s flora, fauna, and local culture.

The social atmosphere is lively, making it a good choice for solo travelers or groups keen on meeting others. The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling turn what could be a typical sightseeing day into a more memorable experience.

Accessibility and suitability

Most travelers can participate, but the tour’s long hours and walking involved mean it might be less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children. The stops are mainly outdoor, so good weather is important—if rain cancels the tour, a reschedule or refund is offered.

Insights from Reviews

One reviewer noted that the tour focused on visiting natural places rather than just following the crowd, which speaks to its authentic, less commercial vibe. They also praised the guides for their kindness.

Another guest highlighted their experience with Dave, mentioning he was friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, offering explanations about local life, culture, and the environment that enriched their understanding of Bohol.

Finally, travelers appreciate the delicious food served during the Loboc River cruise, making the experience not just visual but also flavorful.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers eager to see the iconic Chocolate Hills and meet playful Tarsiers. It’s also great for culture buffs interested in understanding local traditions and heritage.

If you’re someone who enjoys social atmospheres, engaging guides, and a well-rounded day of sightseeing, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable adventure. However, if you prefer more personalized or leisurely experiences, or have mobility concerns, it might be worth considering other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup from your hotel or specified location, making logistics smooth.

What is the length of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, from around 8am to early afternoon or late afternoon, depending on pace.

Are entrance fees included?
Most stops, including the Tarsier Sanctuary and Chocolate Hills, have entrance fees covered within the tour price. The Bilar Forest and other sites are free.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if plans change.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch on the Loboc River cruise is part of the package, providing both convenience and tasty local dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long duration and outdoor stops if you have very young children or mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

The Chocolate Hills Tour in Bohol offers a well-balanced glimpse into the island’s stunning landscapes, adorable wildlife, and vibrant culture. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a friendly social atmosphere, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a full, engaging day.

The value for money is clear, especially with all the included fees and meals. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and cultural stories, all wrapped into a lively group setting.

If you’re visiting Bohol and eager to tick off the main sights while soaking up local stories, this tour will leave you with lasting memories and a true sense of the island’s natural beauty.

Note: Always confirm your pick-up details and weather conditions before booking, and consider your own pace and interests when choosing a full-day tour like this.