Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch

Imagine a day filled with awe-inspiring natural wonders, cultural touches, and mouthwatering local cuisine—all in just one 8-hour adventure. That’s exactly what you get with the Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch. This popular excursion offers a taste of the Philippines’ most famous sights in a single day, making it perfect for travelers wanting both iconic views and authentic experiences without endless planning.

What we really love about this tour? First, the breathtaking views of the Chocolate Hills—a true geological marvel. Second, the relaxing Loboc River cruise, which combines scenic beauty with a buffet of local dishes and lively Filipino entertainment. Lastly, the chance to see and learn about the adorable Philippine tarsier—one of the world’s smallest primates—up close and personal.

However, a small consideration is the driving time involved; this isn’t a leisurely stroll but a full day of travel with multiple stops. That said, it’s well-organized, and most reviews highlight the value and fun of the experience. This tour is ideal for those who love nature, culture, and good food but don’t want to spend days exploring. It suits travelers of all ages, especially those eager to tick off Bohol’s top highlights in one go.

Good To Know

• Iconic Sights: Visit the famous Chocolate Hills and get ample time for photos and exploration.
• River Relaxation: Enjoy a serene cruise along Loboc River, with scenic views and cultural entertainment.
• Wildlife Encounter: See the adorable Philippine tarsier in a dedicated conservation area.
• Value for Money: For $64, you get a full day of sightseeing, buffet lunch, and transportation.
• Guided Experience: The driver doubles as a guide, providing useful information along the way.
• Pace & Convenience: The tour is well-paced with multiple stops, catering to different interests.

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A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins at McDonald’s Panglao, conveniently located on Alona Beach Road, just beside Jollibee. The meet-up process is straightforward—drivers arrive on or before the scheduled time, and the van is comfortable, with good air conditioning and seating. If you prefer pickup at your hotel, an additional fee applies, but most travelers find the meeting point easy and accessible.

The tour is shared with groups of around 12 people, making it a manageable size to foster interaction without feeling crowded. Expect a 45-minute drive to the first stop, which allows you to kick back and enjoy the lush scenery.

Blood Compact Monument & Baclayon Church

The first stops are the Blood Compact Monument and Baclayon Church, both offering glimpses into Bohol’s history and culture. At the Blood Compact Monument, you’ll see a symbolic scene marking the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos, great for some quick photos. The Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, provides a charming, historic setting.

Philippine Tarsier Conservation Area

Next, a 30-minute visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area is a highlight, especially if you’re an animal lover. Reviewers mention that the tarsiers are tiny and adorable, often described as “small enough to fit in your hand.” Guides generally help facilitate respectful observation, and you’ll get a chance to learn about these fascinating creatures without disturbing their natural behaviors.

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Man-Made Forest & Scenic Drives

A 30-minute stop at the Man-Made Forest offers a cool break amid towering, neatly planted trees—an excellent opportunity for photos and a breath of fresh air. This stretch of the tour is appreciated for its lush greenery and a reminder of how human effort can create beauty.

Loboc River Cruise & Lunch

The lunch portion is a two-hour cruise on the Loboc River, where you’ll indulge in a buffet of local and international dishes. Reviewers highlight the delicious food and the lively Filipino entertainment, which often includes traditional music and dancers. The cruise offers a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery—verdant banks, tropical forests, and riverside villages—while satisfying your appetite.

Many reviews praise the memorable experience of dining on the water, with some noting the scenery and entertainment as the major highlights. One reviewer described it as “very worthwhile,” while another appreciated the remarkable scenery and the friendly crew.

Chocolate Hills & Free Time

After lunch, you’ll visit the Chocolate Hills, a natural wonder consisting of over 1,200 conical mounds that turn chocolate brown during the dry season—a truly surreal sight. You’ll have about an hour here for photos and exploration, with some reviews mentioning how spectacular the view is, despite sometimes crowded conditions.

Additional Stops & Drop-Offs

The tour wraps up with a one-hour drive back to Panglao and Tagbilaran City, with options for drop-off at key locations like McDonald’s Panglao or the city center. The balance of structured stops and free time makes it easy to customize your experience.

Insights from Travelers

Many guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and drivers—names like Julius and Andrew come up repeatedly as being helpful, friendly, and well-organized. Reviewers often mention how guides tailored the experience around their preferences, from timing to interests.

Some pointed out that the tour involves quite a bit of driving, but most feel it’s a fair trade-off considering the sights packed into the day. One reviewer mentioned that the tour is well-organized, with Julius ensuring they arrived back just in time to avoid rain, showing attention to detail.

While most reviews praise the value for money, some express mixed feelings about the Loboc River cruise, feeling it can feel somewhat “touristy” or commercialized at times. But overall, the delicious buffet and the lively entertainment are seen as highlights.

Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

• Price & Value: At $64 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing with transportation, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch included. Considering the variety of stops and the scenic experiences, it’s a solid deal.
• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability. Check with your provider to confirm the schedule.
• Group Size & Guides: Shared with groups of around 12, guided by an English-speaking driver who acts as a guide. For a more personalized experience, private group options are available.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, and light clothes are recommended. The tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure.
• Accessibility & Flexibility: Wheelchair-friendly, and you can request hotel pickup for an extra fee.
• Cancellation & Payment: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance; you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if plans change.

Summary & Who Will Love This Tour

This Bohol Chocolate Hills and Loboc River Tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded glimpse of Bohol’s top sights without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s perfect for those interested in natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills, wildlife encounters with the tarsier, and relaxing river cruises with hearty local food.

The experience delivers a good mix of history, nature, and culture, all woven into a manageable day. The guides’ helpfulness and the scenic stops elevate the visit, making it more than just a checklist of sights.

For families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an organized, value-packed day that captures the essence of Bohol, this tour checks most boxes. Be prepared for some driving and crowds at key sights, but overall, it offers a memorable and visually stunning adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially because it includes wildlife viewing and scenic stops. Just note that some walking is involved, and the river cruise can be busy.

Can I join the tour if I am staying outside Panglao? Yes, but there’s an extra fee for hotel pickup. The meeting point at McDonald’s Panglao is easy to access and well-signposted.

How long is the Loboc River cruise? The cruise lasts around two hours, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment.

Are the sites crowded? Popular spots like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier sanctuary can get busy, especially during peak hours, but the guides manage timing well.

What should I wear? Light, comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes are best. Bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor stops, and a camera to capture stunning views.

Is the food on the cruise good? Reviewers find the buffet delicious with a mix of local and international dishes, plus lively entertainment.

Can I customize the tour? The driver can tailor some aspects, such as timing for lunch or additional photo stops, especially if requested in advance.

Are there any hidden costs? Not typically—entrance and environmental fees are included. However, extras like souvenirs or tips are not covered.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for your plans.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced, engaging way to see Bohol’s most famous sights, enjoy delicious food, and learn about local culture—all in one manageable day. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or just seeking a hassle-free way to explore, it’s a solid choice to make your Bohol trip unforgettable.

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