Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet

Travelers considering a day trip from Panglao Island often look for experiences that balance iconic sights with cultural authenticity. The Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet offers just that—a flexible, full-day adventure that hits the main highlights of the island in a relaxed way. While it doesn’t promise luxury or private exclusivity, it does deliver a solid overview of Bohol’s most famous attractions, ideal for those who want a straightforward, budget-friendly introduction.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its authentic feel. From the chance to stand at the site of the historic Blood Compact to tasting local dishes on a river cruise, it’s a good mix of history, scenery, and culture. The lunch buffet on Loboc River seems to be a highlight for many, offering a taste of local hospitality paired with scenic views. Plus, the free entry to the main attractions saves travelers money, making it a good value for the price.

However, a key consideration is the variable quality of the transport and guide service—as some reviews point out, not all experiences are perfect. The lack of a dedicated guide might leave some visitors feeling a bit stranded or uninformed, especially if the driver isn’t particularly chatty or helpful. It’s also worth noting that the overall group size can go up to 50 people, which might reduce intimacy and personalized attention.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Bohol’s highlights without fussing over the details. It’s a good choice if you’re on a budget, don’t mind a group setting, and enjoy spontaneous moments more than curated experiences. Now, let’s walk through each part of the itinerary to see what’s on offer—and what could be better.

• Affordable Value: At $75, the tour covers major sights and includes lunch, making it a cost-effective way to see Bohol.
• Flexible & Self-Paced: Ideal for travelers who prefer to explore at their own speed without tight schedules.
• Historical & Cultural Insights: Stops like the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church provide meaningful context about Bohol’s past.
• Scenic Beauty & Unique Attractions: The Chocolate Hills and Mahogany Forest offer unforgettable views and photo ops.
• River Experience: The Loboc River cruise combines natural scenery with live performances, adding a fun cultural element.
• Mixed Reviews: While some travelers love the views and sites, others point out issues with transport quality and guide engagement.

Blood Compact Monument

The tour begins with a visit to the Blood Compact Shrine, a site that symbolizes early Filipino-Spanish relations. Here, you’ll see a bronze sculpture by Napoleon Abueva, depicting Datu Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi raising goblets of ‘blood’—a sign of friendship made in 1565. The site is situated along the coast, offering nice views of the water and a chance to reflect on Bohol’s history.

What sets this stop apart is its historical significance—being considered the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. This makes it more than just a photo opportunity; it’s an insight into the roots of Filipino-Spanish relations. Expect about 30 minutes here, but note that the site itself is free to visit, so no extra costs are involved.

Baclayon Church

Next, the tour takes you to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Built in 1596, the church showcases Spanish colonial architecture with coral stone walls and detailed woodwork. Inside, there’s a small museum filled with religious artifacts, old hymnals, and statues. It’s a tangible link to the Philippines’ early Christian past.

This stop is particularly appreciated for its authentic charm and historical value. The church’s age and architecture are impressive, and the accompanying museum offers a glimpse into life in Bohol hundreds of years ago. Visitors typically stay about 30 minutes, and admission is free, though donations are often encouraged.

Man-made Mahogany Forest

A highlight for many is the Man-made Mahogany Forest—a 2-kilometer stretch of densely planted mahogany trees along the highway. Originally a reforestation project in the 1960s, it’s now a tranquil spot perfect for photos and a moment of calm amid the drive.

The symmetry and height of the trees create a fairy-tale atmosphere, and the canopy provides shade and a cool break from the sun. We loved how this stop felt like a quiet oasis, giving travelers a chance to stretch and take pictures. It’s free to explore, making it a simple but memorable part of the tour.

Loboc River & Lunch Buffet

The Loboc River cruise is arguably the star of the tour, combining scenic beauty with cultural entertainment. Guests board a floating restaurant that offers a buffet of local dishes while enjoying live music and cultural performances. The cruise lasts around two hours, passing lush greenery and small villages.

The floating platform also features local performers, including children singing and dancing, giving an authentic touch to the experience. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the natural landscape and sample Bohol’s culinary flavors, with many praising the delicious buffet and lively performances.

Some reviewers, however, mention that the boat can be crowded, and the sound quality of the performances varies. Still, most agree that the cruise adds a fun, memorable element to the day.

Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area

Next, you’ll visit the Tarsier Conservation Area in Corella, where these tiny, wide-eyed primates are kept in a protected environment. The guides here are knowledgeable and careful to ensure visitors don’t disturb the primates. You’ll see these incredible creatures up close, observing their behaviors and learning about conservation efforts.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise and the importance of seeing the tarsiers in a safe, controlled setting. The hour-long stop also emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism. It’s a quiet, eye-opening experience that underscores Bohol’s efforts to preserve its unique wildlife.

Chocolate Hills

Finally, the Chocolate Hills offer a breathtaking view of more than 1,200 nearly identical hills that turn brown in the dry season. Spread across Carmen, Sagbayan, and Batuan, the hills are a geological curiosity and one of Bohol’s most recognizable landmarks.

Most visitors spend around two hours here, including time to ascend to a viewpoint or visit a nearby viewing deck. The scene is surreal—rolling hills that resemble giant chocolate mounds, especially in the dry season. It’s a must-see for any Bohol trip and provides fantastic photo opportunities.

Transportation & Group Size: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, with a maximum of 50 travelers. While this makes for an affordable group experience, it also means you might be sharing the day with strangers. One review suggested that the vehicle was somewhat worn, which might impact comfort on longer drives.

Timing & Duration: Starting at 8:00 am, the tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, site visits, and the cruise. This makes it a full day but not overly rushed, allowing for spontaneous moments or extra photo stops if you’re quick.

Cost & Value: At $75 per person, the tour covers most entrance fees, lunch, and transport, making it a fair deal. The lunch buffet is included, and the scenic cruise adds a special touch, so you won’t feel like you’re missing out on key experiences.

Guides & Information: It’s worth noting that the tour does not include a dedicated guide, which can impact the depth of information gained at each site. Some reviews mention the driver’s not very friendly attitude and a lack of engaging commentary, which can be a downside if you’re eager to learn more.

Extras & Tips: Since the tour is “free & easy” with a flexible itinerary, you’re encouraged to explore at your own pace. However, be ready for some stops where the guides might not be very communicative. Bringing water, sun protection, and your camera is advisable.

If you’re after a cost-effective, broad overview of Bohol’s most famous sights, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or those with limited time who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transport.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, historical landmarks, and a touch of local culture will find plenty to enjoy. The inclusion of the Loboc River cruise makes it particularly appealing for those seeking a relaxing, scenic experience with a cultural flavor.

However, if you’re a traveler craving in-depth guided insights or personalized experiences, this might fall short. The larger group size and variable guide engagement could leave you wishing for more interaction or detailed storytelling.

The Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet offers a practical, accessible way to see many of Bohol’s must-visit attractions in one day. It’s especially suited for travelers who value value for money, scenic views, and a relaxed pace over personalized guides or exclusive access. While some reviews highlight issues with transport comfort and guide enthusiasm, most appreciate the chance to explore iconic sites like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary without fuss.

The inclusion of a buffet lunch and a scenic river cruise makes it an enjoyable, well-rounded experience. It’s a straightforward choice for first-time visitors or families wanting a convenient overview of the island’s best spots. Just keep in mind that it’s a group tour—so if you’re after a more intimate, guided experience, you might want to explore other options.

This tour delivers on its promise of showcasing Bohol’s highlights, with the right balance of cultural, natural, and fun elements—all at a reasonable price.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation for the entire day, making it easy to move between sites comfortably.

What is the tour start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to explore Bohol’s sights without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees for attractions like the Tarsier Conservation Area and Chocolate Hills are included, but the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church are free to visit.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This tour is designed as a fixed route with a flexible schedule. It’s called a “Free & Easy Tour,” meaning you can spend more or less time at each stop within the allotted hours.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most parts of the tour are suitable for all ages, especially since transportation is provided. However, the walk at the Chocolate Hills and some sites may require a bit of stamina.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and your camera. Since the tour is in an open, natural environment, packing lightly and prepared for the weather is wise.

This detailed review should help you decide if the Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet fits your travel style and expectations. It offers a practical, scenic, and culturally rich taste of Bohol, perfect for those seeking value and authentic experiences.