Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour

The Rundown

This Bohol Chocolate Hills tour promises a full day of iconic sights and scenic experiences, offered at an accessible price of around $47 per person. While it’s not a private tour for everyone, it covers several highlights that showcase the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

What we like about this experience is its varied itinerary — from the famous Chocolate Hills to the peaceful Loboc River cruise, plus a chance to meet the tiny Tarsiers. The value for money seems fair, especially considering the scenic stops and guided elements included.

However, some travelers have noted a few hiccups, like additional expenses not clearly mentioned upfront, which can impact the overall experience. This tour is best suited for those who want to see Bohol’s top sights in one day without fuss and are comfortable with some potential extra costs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The Chocolate Hills are a must-see and live up to their reputation.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to Baclayon Church and the Blood Compact Monument add historical context.
• Wildlife Encounters: The Tarsier Sanctuary offers a close-up with adorable primates.
• Scenic River Experience: Loboc River cruise provides a relaxed, picturesque meal setting.
• Price & Value: At $47, it’s a reasonable budget option, but be aware of possible extra charges.
• Group Setting: The tour is private but can have additional costs not included in the base price.

A Closer Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Early Morning Pickup

The tour kicks off from Panglao, a popular jumping-off point for many Bohol adventures. Expect a prompt pickup, typically in the morning—exact times vary based on your booking. Having a dedicated guide and driver means you won’t need to worry about navigating; instead, you can focus on the views and historical insights.

Blood Compact Monument

Your first stop is the Blood Compact Monument, a historical site commemorating the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. It’s a quick 15-minute photo opportunity, but the monument’s significance adds depth to your understanding of Bohol’s history. The setting is simple but meaningful, offering an easy intro to the island’s cultural roots.

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Baclayon Church

Next, you’ll visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Its well-preserved structure offers some great photo opportunities, and a brief 15-minute visit allows you to appreciate its architecture and religious significance. Keep in mind, if you’re interested in going inside, you might need extra time or fees, as the tour only covers a quick visit.

Man-Made Forest

Passing through the Man-Made Forest is a highlight for many travelers. Stretching for kilometers, this dense foliage corridor feels like stepping into a fairy tale. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a chance to experience Bohol’s efforts in reforestation. The tour passes by quickly, but the lush greenery makes a lasting impression.

Chocolate Hills

The star of the show is, of course, the Chocolate Hills. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, which includes a guided tour and sightseeing. You can expect panoramic views of hundreds of conical hills that turn a chocolate brown in the dry season. Many reviews highlight the stunning vistas, confirming their reputation as a must-see.

A common critique, however, is that the visit can feel rushed, especially if your weather isn’t clear or if the crowds are large. Still, standing among these geological marvels offers a sense of having seen something uniquely beautiful.

Tarsier Sanctuary

Your next stop is the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you can observe the world’s smallest primates. The guided tour here helps you understand these tiny creatures’ behavior and conservation status. Watching them cling to branches with their enormous eyes is adorable, and many travelers find it a highlight.

That said, one reviewer mentioned they weren’t properly informed about additional costs—each visitor was hit with a 1000 PHP fee, which wasn’t in the original price or description. This was disappointing, especially for those hoping to include the river cruise, which they couldn’t do after extra expenses. So, budgeting for possible extra fees is wise.

Loboc River Floating Restaurant

The Loboc River cruise is a relaxing hour-long lunch experience. The floating restaurant glides gently along the riverbanks, offering views of lush greenery and passing villages. The meal is typically buffet-style, with local dishes, and provides a laid-back atmosphere.

Travelers love the scenic calmness here, but some note that the lunch isn’t included in the initial price, meaning extra costs. Also, if you’re hoping for a seamless, all-inclusive day, be prepared for potential additional charges, as seen in reviews where guests faced unexpected fees, leading to missed parts of the cruise.

Return to Panglao

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a return to Panglao. Expect to arrive back in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the group’s pace and traffic conditions.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Book early and clarify costs: The base price is attractive, but confirm what’s included and what might be extra, especially regarding meals and environmental fees.
• Bring cash for extras: Some reviews reveal unanticipated charges, so having cash on hand helps avoid surprises.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: You’ll be walking and standing quite a bit, especially at the hills and sanctuary.
• Prepare for the weather: Bohol can be hot and sunny, so hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a good idea.
• Timing matters: Check the starting times to plan your day accordingly—most tours are 8 hours long.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When it comes to value, this tour offers a lot for the price, especially if you’re keen to tick off Bohol’s most iconic sights in one day. The scenic views from the Chocolate Hills are genuinely impressive, and the Loboc River cruise provides a peaceful break amid lush surroundings.

However, it’s essential to be aware of additional costs like entrance fees and the lunch surcharge. The reviews remind us that transparency around extra charges can be lacking, so ask questions beforehand to avoid surprises.

The guided elements are helpful for understanding each stop, but the quick stops may feel rushed if you’re eager to explore more thoroughly. For a more relaxed experience, consider whether you’re comfortable with a packed schedule or if you prefer a private, tailored tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers on a budget who want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple sites independently. It suits those eager to see the famous Chocolate Hills, get a glimpse of local wildlife, and enjoy a scenic river cruise all in one day.

If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a structured day with a guide, this tour offers convenience. However, if you’re sensitive to extra costs or want more flexibility, consider clarifying all fees upfront or looking for customized tours.

FAQs

Is the tour private?
Yes, the tour is specified as a private group, but be aware that additional costs like lunch might not be included in the base price.

What are the main attractions?
The tour covers the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Blood Compact Monument, Baclayon Church, Man-Made Forest, and a Loboc River cruise.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, depending on your schedule.

Are meals included?
Lunch at the Loboc River is part of the experience but is not included in the initial price. Extra charges might apply, as some reviews have pointed out.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for extra fees, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Also, consider bringing a camera for the stunning views.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees and environmental fees are not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with the wildlife viewing at the sanctuary and scenic stops.

Final Thoughts

The Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes this island special. From the jaw-dropping views of the hills to the playful tarsiers and peaceful river cruise, it packs in enough to satisfy most travelers’ curiosity. The value is reasonable, but it’s important to stay alert about potential additional costs and to communicate clearly with your guide.

This tour suits travelers seeking an efficient, guided day with iconic sights and manageable logistics. It’s a good choice for those who want an overview rather than an in-depth exploration, making it perfect for first-timers or those with limited time on the island.

If you’re after authentic experiences with a bit of convenience and a dash of natural wonder, this tour can be a solid pick—just remember to clarify what’s included and budget for extras to avoid disappointment.

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