Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch (Shared Tour)

Planning a trip to Bohol? If you’re considering the Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch, you’re probably looking for an efficient way to see some of the island’s top sights. This 8-hour shared excursion promises visits to iconic landmarks like the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and a scenic river cruise with a buffet lunch.

We love how this tour packs multiple must-see attractions into a single day — perfect for travelers with limited time. The inclusion of entrance fees, environmental fees, and a buffet lunch makes it straightforward and convenient. The Loboc River cruise with its delicious food stands out as a personal highlight for many. And, of course, you get to explore Bohol’s wildlife and lush scenery, all in one trip.

However, some travelers report that the experience can feel rushed or overly touristy, especially at the animal park and during the bus rides. The group size (up to 12 people) can also make some stops feel crowded or impersonal. This tour will suit those who want a quick, guided overview of Bohol’s key attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

Convenient full-day itinerary covers major Bohol sights in one go.
Inclusive pricing simplifies budgeting, with lunch and fees included.
Varied experiences from wildlife encounters to scenic views.
Some stops may feel overly tourist-oriented or rushed.
Wildlife sanctuary can be controversial — some reviews advise caution.
Best suited for travelers who prefer guided tours with minimal planning.

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What to Expect from the Bohol Choco Tour

This tour aims to give you a broad overview of Bohol’s most-loved spots, making it ideal if you’re short on time but eager to tick off the Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, and more. It’s a shared tour with a small group (up to 12), so while it provides a bit of camaraderie, it also means you’ll be traveling with other travelers — sometimes making the experience feel a little rushed or crowded.

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll meet bright and early at McDonald’s Panglao around 8:00 AM, with pickup scheduled about half an hour later. From there, a comfortable vehicle with an English-speaking driver whisks you across the island. The journey involves a few stops, so while you’ll get to see Bohol’s rural beauty en route, expect some long hours on the bus—roughly 8 hours in total, including sightseeing and meals.

The First Stops: History and Wildlife

Your first destination is the Blood Compact Shrine, a symbolic site marking the historic friendship between Spain and the Philippines. Don’t expect a lengthy visit—around 30 minutes for photos and a quick look. Next, you visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the country, where you’ll likely spend around 30 minutes exploring.

One of the more controversial stops is the Xzootic Animal Park, where visitors can view wildlife up close. While some travelers enjoy seeing animals like snakes and parrots, reviewers have expressed concern about the conditions — animals kept in small, concrete cages with little greenery. One reviewer specifically said, “Seeing how animals are treated there made me sick. It is disgusting.” This stop is optional, but many advise to approach it with caution or skip it if animal welfare concerns bother you.

Scenic Drives and Nature

After wildlife viewing, you’ll head into the Man-Made Forest, a peaceful stretch of tall trees planting a canopy over the road. It’s a great photo opportunity, and a brief 30-minute stop allows you to soak in the lush greenery.

The highlight of this part of the tour is the Chocolate Hills, where you’ll spend about an hour marveling at these unique geological formations. The hills are as iconic as they come, and the panoramic views are truly something to behold. You’ll get some free time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

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Wildlife and Conservation: The Tarsier Sanctuary

Next, you visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the tiny, wide-eyed primates that are a must-see when in Bohol. You’ll likely spend around an hour here, observing these delicate creatures in a more humane environment than the animal park. Reviewers have noted that this stop offers a genuine chance to see the tarsiers up close, though it’s important to remember that these are still wild animals, and ethical considerations should be kept in mind.

Lunch on the Loboc River

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the Loboc River cruise. You’ll enjoy a 2-hour leisurely buffet lunch aboard a floating restaurant, gently gliding past lush scenery and traditional Filipino performances. Many guests rave about the delicious food and the relaxing vibe of the river cruise. One reviewer described it as “breathtaking,” and it’s easy to see why — the combination of tasty local dishes and stunning river views makes for a memorable experience.

Final Stops: The World-Famous Chocolate Hills and Return

After lunch, the bus takes you to the Chocolate Hills viewpoint for about an hour of sightseeing. You’ll have time to take photos, soak in the landscape, and understand why these hills are such a symbol of Bohol.

The tour wraps up with a relaxed drive back to McDonald’s Panglao, where most travelers conclude their day, sometimes feeling that the long hours and busy schedule made the experience somewhat overwhelming, especially in the heat.

The Value of this Tour

At $66 per person, this tour offers a fair package for seeing many of Bohol’s top sights in one day. The price includes entrance fees, environmental fees, and the buffet lunch, which simplifies budgeting and reduces surprises. The easy transportation and small group size make it a practical option for travelers wanting a guided experience without the stress of planning each detail themselves.

However, some reviews have pointed out that the tour can feel rushed or overly touristy, with stops like the animal park and some attractions feeling more commercial than authentic. For travelers seeking a deep or ethical wildlife encounter, this might be a drawback.

How to Make the Most of It

• Arrive early at the meet-up point to maximize your time at each stop.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking and camera to capture the views.
• Be aware of the long bus rides — stay hydrated and pack some snacks.
• If animal welfare is a concern, consider skipping or questioning the wildlife stops.
• Keep in mind that the group size can make some stops feel crowded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour works well for first-time visitors who want a whirlwind overview of Bohol. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see highlights like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers without organizing separate excursions.

Those interested in a combination of nature, history, and local culture will find it a good fit. However, travelers who prefer more authentic, slow-paced, or eco-conscious experiences might want to look for alternative or private tours that focus more on ethical wildlife encounters and less on the purely touristy stops.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children will enjoy the wildlife sanctuary, river cruise, and scenic views. Just ensure they’re comfortable with bus rides and walking.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to an hour, giving enough time for photos and brief explorations, but not deep dives.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and light clothing are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for outdoor stops.

Is the lunch buffet on the boat included?
Yes, the buffet lunch on the Loboc River cruise is included in the tour price.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance and environmental fees are covered.

Can I skip certain stops?
Since it’s a shared group tour, flexibility varies. You might be able to opt out or spend less time, but it’s best to check with your guide.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The driver and guide speak English, making communication straightforward.

How big is the group?
Up to 12 people, which offers a semi-intimate experience but can still feel busy at some stops.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Environmental fees are included, but some stops, like the animal park, raise questions about wildlife treatment.

Final Thoughts

The Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch provides a solid overview of Bohol’s main attractions for travelers eager to maximize their time. The inclusion of a scenic river cruise with buffet dining adds a relaxing touch to an otherwise busy day filled with sightseeing.

While some stops may feel a bit touristy or ethically questionable, the tour’s highlights — especially the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary — are genuine glimpses of Bohol’s unique charm. The guide’s friendliness, combined with the convenience of all-in pricing, makes it suitable for first-timers or those seeking an easy, guided experience.

If you’re looking for a quick, scenic, and fun introduction to the island’s highlights, this tour offers good value. Just be prepared for long hours, a busy schedule, and the occasional tourist trap. For a more relaxed or ethical adventure, consider private options or tours focusing more on sustainability.

In summary, this tour is a practical choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of Bohol’s key sights, especially if you prefer guided comfort and all-in pricing. For those with more time or specific interests in wildlife ethics, it may be worth exploring alternative options.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby