Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bohol’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and wildlife, all wrapped into an 8-hour package. While it’s not perfect—some reviewers point out ethical concerns about certain stops—it remains a popular choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste of the island’s top attractions.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see iconic landmarks like the Chocolate Hills and Baclayon Church, the opportunity to encounter the adorable tarsiers in a responsible sanctuary, and the relaxing cruise with a buffet lunch along the Loboc River. The group size, capped at around 12 people, keeps things intimate enough for comfort but lively enough for shared enjoyment.

A possible consideration is the tour’s inclusion of a zoo-like wildlife park, which some find ethically questionable. If animal welfare is a top priority, this might be a point to weigh or consider visiting alternative sanctuaries.

This tour will suit travelers eager to see Bohol’s highlights in a single day with minimal planning, especially those who appreciate scenic views, cultural stops, and a leisurely boat cruise. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those with limited time on the island.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary combining natural wonders, cultural sites, and wildlife.
• Affordable at $66 per person, offering good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation with a local driver, ensuring hassle-free travel.
• Group size of up to 12 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Ethical considerations around wildlife parks, worth researching beforehand.
• Includes a scenic Loboc River buffet cruise with picturesque views and local cuisine.

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An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour

Starting Point and Early Morning Comfort

The tour begins conveniently at McDonald’s Panglao, making it easy for travelers staying on Panglao Island to meet their group. Expect to be picked up within a 30-minute window around 8:00 AM—so arrive on time to avoid missing the fun. The transportation consists of a vehicle with a driver and fuel, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day.

Visiting the Blood Compact Shrine

Your first stop is the Blood Compact Shrine, a site of historical significance where early Filipino and Spanish explorers signed a peace pact. This is a quick 30-minute photo opportunity, but it provides a meaningful glimpse into the country’s past. Travelers generally find this stop offers a good introduction to Bohol’s history without taking up too much time.

Exploring Baclayon Church

Next, the group heads to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest and most revered churches in the Philippines. A 30-minute visit allows you to appreciate the colonial architecture and religious artifacts. Past visitors comment on the well-preserved structure and its importance in local culture, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history and architecture.

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Wildlife Encounters at Xzootic Animal Park

The tour includes a wildlife viewing experience at the Xzootic Animal Park. For about an hour, you can see various animals, which adds a fun and interactive element to the day. Some reviewers mention the park’s role in conservation efforts, but others express discomfort with the ethics of certain animal enclosures. One traveler said, “please remove the zoo from this tour, it’s unethical to see monkeys being in such small cages that they become crazy.” If animal welfare is a concern, consider this before booking.

Scenic Drive through the Man-Made Forest

A short stop at the Man-Made Forest offers a peaceful break amidst towering mahogany trees. Expect a 15-minute photo stop here. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and capture some memorable shots of this lush, green corridor.

Encounter with the Tarsiers

The Tarsier Sanctuary is a highlight for many visitors, especially since these tiny primates are so photogenic and adorable. The visit lasts about an hour, providing an opportunity to observe these creatures in a more ethical environment than traditional zoos. Reviewers note that the tarsiers are well-treated and ask visitors to keep noise levels down. One reviewer stated, “they are well treated and travelers are asked to be silent,” which adds reassurance about this stop’s integrity.

Marveling at the Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are arguably Bohol’s most iconic natural wonder. A generous hour is spent here for photos and sightseeing. The panoramic views are impressive—these rolling mounds turn brown in the dry season, resembling giant chocolates, hence the name. Visitors commonly express awe at the scale and uniqueness of the formation.

Lunch and Relaxation on Loboc River

The day culminates in a two-hour buffet lunch aboard a cruise along the Loboc River. The boat glides past lush scenery, with the buffet offering Filipino cuisine in a scenic setting. Many reviews praise the beautiful views during lunch and the quality of the buffet, although some mention that the experience can be crowded. One reviewer noted that the cruise included an “excellent singer” and a “beautiful view,” emphasizing the relaxing ambiance.

Return Journey

After the river cruise, the group is transported back to McDonald’s Panglao — a straightforward ending to a busy day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s cost of $66 per person covers transportation, all entrance fees, and the Loboc River buffet lunch. This makes it a very economical option for travelers wanting a comprehensive Bohol experience. However, any additional expenses—like souvenirs or extra drinks—are not included, so budget accordingly.

Value for Money

Considering the number of attractions visited and the inclusions, this tour offers solid value. The scenic stops, cultural insights, and wildlife encounters are all packaged into one accessible day trip. Yet, the ethical concerns surrounding the wildlife park, as highlighted by some reviewers, are worth considering.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and photo stops.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
• Dress in lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather.
• Arrive promptly at McDonald’s Panglao at 8:00 AM.
• Bring extra cash if you want to buy souvenirs or additional snacks.
• Respect wildlife and adhere to sanctuary rules, especially at the Tarsier Sanctuary.

Final Thoughts

This tour packs a lot into one day, balancing natural beauty, cultural sites, and wildlife encounters. The inclusion of the Loboc River cruise adds a relaxing, scenic element that complements the other stops well. The group size and vehicle comfort make it suitable for most travelers, though the ethical considerations about certain wildlife parks might influence your decision.

If you’re after a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see Bohol’s top sights with a knowledgeable driver and a scenic lunch, this tour delivers. However, if animal welfare concerns are a priority, you might want to look for sanctuaries with a clearer ethical reputation.

The Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet is a solid choice for first-time visitors seeking a balanced, memorable day in Bohol.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most age groups, especially since it involves mostly sightseeing, photo stops, and a relaxed river cruise. Just keep in mind the walking involved at some stops.

How long does the whole tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 8 hours, starting around 8:00 AM and returning by late afternoon.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The lunch is a buffet, typically featuring Filipino cuisine. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inform the tour provider ahead of time, though this isn’t explicitly mentioned.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and extra cash for souvenirs or snacks.

Is the wildlife park ethical?
Reviews suggest some viewers find the wildlife park questionable due to small cages and animal conditions. If this concerns you, research alternative sanctuaries or skip this stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at Bohol’s highlights, making it a good pick for those wanting an engaging day of sightseeing without the fuss of planning every detail.

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