Bohol: Countryside Tour with Tarsiers and Chocolate Hills

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, a tour of Bohol’s countryside promises a mix of natural beauty, history, and adorable wildlife—all within a comfortably paced 8 hours. This particular guided tour, offered by TravelExplr Travel and Tours, is geared toward travelers seeking an affordable, stress-free way to see some of Bohol’s most iconic sights. While the experience is generally well-received, it’s important to note that the overall rating hovers around 3.2 out of 5, based on six reviews, which suggests some variability in individual experiences.

What we love about this tour is its value for money, its variety of stops covering historical, natural, and wildlife attractions, and the friendly guidance provided by the driver, who often doubles as a guide. The stunning views of the Chocolate Hills and the chance to see the tiny yet fascinating Tarsiers up-close are highlights that make this trip stand out. However, one possible drawback is the lack of included entrance fees and meals, which means you might need to budget extra for these.

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Bohol, or those who prefer a flexible, “free and easy” style without the hassle of organizing individual tickets. If you’re comfortable with a group setting and enjoy seeing a mix of historical and natural attractions, you’ll likely find this experience worthwhile.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point at just $28 per person for a full 8-hour tour.
• Varied stops including history, wildlife, and scenic landscapes.
• Professional driver/guide with positive remarks on their friendliness and humor.
• Flexibility for those who prefer a “pick-up and explore” style without strict schedules.
• Extra costs for entrance fees and lunch, which are not included.
• Authentic insights into Bohol’s heritage and conservation efforts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What the Tour Offers

This “Free and Easy” tour is designed to cover some of Bohol’s most cherished sites in a single day, making it perfect for travelers who want a broad taste of the island’s culture and natural wonders without the stress of planning multiple activities. The tour spans around 8 hours, typically starting with a pickup from Panglao Island, and includes a sequence of stops that are not only photogenic but also meaningful.

Transportation and Group Size

Travelers are transported in a shared van with a maximum of 12 people, which balances the intimacy of small-group travel with the sociability of a shared experience. The driver acts as both transportation and guide, and reviews specifically praise Jaso for his considerate driving and great sense of humor. According to one review, the van was very comfortable, and the driver was also the guide, making for a smooth and personable experience.

The cost of $28 per person covers roundtrip transport, including fuel and parking, which is a notable feature when considering the overall value. This means no worries about navigating or additional transport costs, especially if you’re arriving from Panglao Island.

Highlights Breakdown

Blood Compact Site

The tour begins here, a site rich in symbolism—marking the first treaty of friendship between the Philippines and Spain. It’s a small but significant stop, offering a quick photo opportunity and a chance to learn about this important moment in Philippine history. Guides often provide context, helping you understand why this site remains a key cultural symbol today.

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Baclayon Church

Next, the group visits one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Visitors often find the architecture impressive, with intricate interiors and relics that tell stories of Bohol’s colonial past. It’s a chance to step back in time and appreciate the religious and architectural history of the area.

Loboc and Lunch Break

The stop at Loboc provides some downtime, a chance to stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy a local lunch (though it’s at your own expense). The reviews note that the driver can recommend restaurants in the area, which is helpful for those unfamiliar with local options.

Tarsier Sanctuary

This is undoubtedly a crowd favorite. The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for the tiny Philippine Tarsiers, and visitors are often captivated by their wide eyes and delicate nature. The guides here help you understand the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these fragile creatures. One reviewer mentioned that the staff is knowledgeable, making this a truly educational experience as well as adorable.

Man-Made Forest

A cool, shaded stretch of towering mahogany trees offers a peaceful escape into nature. It’s perfect for a quick walk or some scenic photos. The lush greenery provides a stark contrast to the limestone hills and city landscapes, making it a refreshing stop.

Chocolate Hills

The highlight of the tour, the Chocolate Hills, are a must-see. Over 1,200 limestone formations turn a rich brown in the dry season, creating a surreal landscape that’s recognized worldwide. Visitors often say the view from the viewing deck is breathtaking, and the shape and extent of the hills are hard to fully grasp until you see them in person. One reviewer called it “a perfect way to spend a day sightseeing.”

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guides’ knowledge is often praised, with many mentioning that the driver/guide, Jaso, has a great sense of humor and is very considerate. This personal touch can make a significant difference, especially in a busy day of sightseeing. The tour’s balance of cultural, natural, and wildlife experiences ensures you get a well-rounded view of Bohol.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers great value for the price, some aspects require extra planning on your part. Entrance fees for attractions like the Baclayon Church and Tarsier Sanctuary are not included, so you’ll need to carry some cash. Lunch isn’t provided either, though restaurant recommendations are available, adding flexibility but also extra expense.

Plus, the overall rating suggests that experiences might vary. Some travelers could find the pace too quick or might wish for more time at certain stops. The shared nature of the tour can sometimes mean limited time at photo spots or attractions.

Timing and Practicalities

The tour starts at a time you’ll need to check in advance, with pickups from Panglao Island at designated locations, like McDonald’s Alona. The 8-hour duration makes it suitable for a full day but not overly exhausting, especially since the stops are well spaced out. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with comfortable transportation and a friendly driver guiding you through Bohol’s highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for budget travelers and those seeking a rundown of Bohol without the hassle of organizing individual tickets. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors wanting to see a mix of history, wildlife, and scenic landscapes quickly. If you value authentic insights from experienced guides and enjoy social group travel, you’ll enjoy this experience.

This Bohol countryside tour offers a solid mix of nature, history, and wildlife, all at an attractive price point. While it doesn’t include entrance fees or meals, the convenience of door-to-door transport and the knowledgeable driver make it a practical choice for many travelers. The stops like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary are unforgettable, and the personal touches from guides add authenticity.

If you’re after a well-priced, relaxed day that hits the main sights and offers genuine local insights, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a friendly guide, a balanced itinerary, and don’t mind paying a little extra for some entrance fees and lunch separately.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees. You will need to pay for attractions like Baclayon Church and the Tarsier Sanctuary separately.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The tour provides recommendations, and you can choose to eat at local restaurants during the Loboc stop.

What is the group size?
This is a shared tour with up to 12 persons in a van, offering a good balance of social interaction and space.

What language is the guide speaking?
The driver/guide speaks English, making explanations and safety instructions clear.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup and drop-off are available at any hotel within Panglao Island, with a designated meetup point at McDonald’s Alona Panglao.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the late afternoon.

Is it suitable for families or children?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially since it includes wildlife viewing and scenic landscapes.

Can I customize the tour?
The experience is primarily a guided group tour with set stops, but private groups are available if requested.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees and lunch, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera.

What makes this tour different from other Bohol excursions?
Its affordability, friendly guides, and well-rounded itinerary that combines history, wildlife, and scenic views make this a versatile choice.

This comprehensive review aims to help you decide whether this Bohol Countryside Tour aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly way to see the highlights or simply want to enjoy a day with friendly guides and stunning views, it’s worth considering.

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