Cebu: Bohol Countryside and Loboc River Cruise Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines and want to experience the natural beauty and cultural highlights of Bohol without staying overnight, a well-organized day trip from Cebu is a fantastic choice. This Cebu: Bohol Countryside and Loboc River Cruise Day Tour promises a comprehensive look at some of Bohol’s most iconic sights, all wrapped into one seamless day. From panoramic views of the Chocolate Hills to close encounters with adorable tarsiers, it’s designed for travelers eager to soak in the highlights with minimal fuss.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers round-trip ferry tickets, making logistics straightforward. Second, it combines scenic river cruising with cultural landmarks, giving you a taste of both nature and history. Third, the lunch on a floating restaurant isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience — you’ll dine while drifting along the Loboc River, surrounded by lush greenery and relaxing views. That said, it’s worth noting that the itinerary can shift depending on traffic and crowd levels, which might affect your schedule.

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and comfort. If you’re short on time but want to maximize your day, this trip offers excellent value for the price. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or detailed guided experiences, some may find it slightly rushed. Still, for those looking to tick off Bohol’s top sights in a single day, this tour is a highly practical and enjoyable choice.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Combines cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and river cruise in one day.
• Convenient Transfers: Includes hotel pickup, ferry tickets, and drop-offs, reducing travel stress.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Lunch on a floating restaurant and visits to Tarsier Sanctuary and Chocolate Hills.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: Tour order may vary due to traffic, but all major sites are covered.
• Value for Money: For $142, you get transportation, entrance fees, a scenic cruise, and lunch — a solid deal for a full-day tour.
• Suitable for Most: Not ideal for those with back problems or seasickness, but perfect for cultural and nature lovers.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Ferry Ride from Cebu

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Cebu City or Mactan Island, making it convenient whether you’re staying in a resort or downtown hotel. Once collected, you’ll head to the ferry terminal, where you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vessel. The ferry ride offers a chance to enjoy views of the sea and coastlines, setting the tone for the day ahead. Reviewers highlight how smooth and punctual the ferry is, with some noting it’s an “easy, no-hassle way” to start your adventure.

Arriving in Bohol: First Stops

Upon arrival at Tagbilaran port, you’ll meet your guide, who will lead you through the day. The first stop is the Blood Compact Shrine, a key historical site commemorating the first treaty of friendship between Spain and the Philippines. It’s a peaceful spot with a small museum, giving a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past.

Next is the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Entrance costs P150 per person, but it’s often included in the package. The church’s architecture and age make it a fascinating visit, especially for history buffs or those interested in religious sites. Reviewers mention it as a “beautiful, well-preserved example of old Spanish architecture.”

Encounter with the Bohol Biggest Python

A highlight for many is the opportunity to see the Bohol Biggest Python. This large serpent, often featured in local attractions, offers a chance for some fun photos. While some travelers might be wary of handling such a creature, reviews suggest the experience is well-managed and safe, with staff providing clear instructions.

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Lunch on the Loboc River

The Loboc River Cruise serves as the centerpiece of the tour. You’ll board a floating restaurant, where a buffet lunch awaits. As you glide along the river, surrounded by lush greenery and gentle sounds of nature, you’ll enjoy a variety of Filipino dishes. Several reviewers note the delicious food and relaxing atmosphere, calling it a “highlight” of the day. The cruise lasts around an hour, providing a restful break amidst sightseeing.

Visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary and Other Landmarks

Post-lunch, you’ll head to the Tarsier Sanctuary, home to adorable, tiny primates. These little creatures are known for their enormous eyes and are considered a must-see. Reviewers often mention how cute and intriguing these animals are, and many appreciate the opportunity to observe them in a protected environment.

Then, your guide takes you to St. Peters Ruins, a picturesque, partially ruined church that offers a quiet moment to reflect and take photos. Nearby, the Batuan Shiphaus provides insight into local boat-building traditions, and the Mahogany Man-Made Forest is a lush stretch of tall, evenly spaced trees, perfect for a quick stroll.

The Chocolate Hills and Butterfly Garden

No trip to Bohol is complete without seeing the Chocolate Hills — over 1,200 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling giant chocolates. The viewpoint provides panoramic views, ideal for photos. The Butterfly Garden offers a colorful break, with butterflies fluttering freely among plants, and is often praised for its peaceful ambiance.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a full day of exploring, you’ll reboard the ferry back to Cebu, usually in the late afternoon. Many travelers mention that the journey home is calm, allowing for reflection on a day full of diverse experiences.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Cost, and Timing

This tour covers round-trip ferry tickets and air-conditioned transportation, ensuring comfort throughout. The organized pickup and drop-off service mean you avoid the hassle of arranging separate transportation, especially in a busy setting like Cebu or Mactan. The entire day typically lasts around 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and crowd levels, which can influence the order of site visits.

At $142 per person, the tour includes entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and all transportation, making it a good value for travelers seeking a rundown of Bohol. Reviewers have found the cost justified, especially since it minimizes planning and logistics — everything is handled smoothly by Cebu Tours.

Important Considerations

• Be prepared for the possibility of schedule changes due to traffic or crowd levels.
• Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, water, and light clothing to stay comfortable during the day.
• Not recommended for individuals with back problems or those prone to seasickness.
• Remember to send all passenger information after booking for ferry and entrance tickets.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer shared that “the tour was well-organized, with a friendly guide who made everything easy,” emphasizing the flow and punctuality. Another mentioned that “the floating restaurant was surprisingly good, with a variety of Filipino dishes, and the cruise offered a peaceful break from sightseeing.” Several noted that the view of the Chocolate Hills from the designated viewpoint was breathtaking, and the tarsier encounter was both cute and memorable.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for busy travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of arranging individual tickets or transport. If you’re interested in combining history, nature, and local culture in one day, it offers a good balance of all three. It’s also suitable for families or groups who appreciate organized, all-inclusive experiences that eliminate logistical worries.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, in-depth exploration of each site, or want a more personalized guide, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those who value efficiency and convenience while still enjoying authentic sights and flavors.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your Cebu or Mactan hotel, as well as round-trip ferry tickets, all in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What should I bring for the tour? Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, water, and lightweight clothes. Also, consider bringing a small camera or smartphone for photos, especially at the Chocolate Hills and the river cruise.

Are the sites accessible for everyone? The tour is not suitable for people with back problems or those who are prone to seasickness. It involves some walking and boat rides, so comfort and mobility are factors to consider.

How long does the ferry ride last? The ferry ride offers scenic views and lasts enough to set a relaxed tone for your day — typically, it’s part of the overall itinerary from Cebu to Bohol and back.

What is included in the tour price? The cost covers transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees, a buffet lunch on the floating restaurant, and sightseeing to key landmarks.

Can I customize the itinerary? The order of stops may vary depending on traffic and crowd levels, but all major sites are included. Special requests might be possible if arranged in advance, subject to guide availability.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children who enjoy sightseeing, animals, and scenic views will find this trip engaging, though young kids should be supervised around animals and at historical sites.

In summary, this Cebu to Bohol day tour offers a practical, value-packed way to experience some of the Philippines’ most photogenic and culturally significant sights. It balances natural beauty with cultural insights, all wrapped into a single, organized day — ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free adventure with plenty of highlight moments.

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