From Cebu: Bohol Countryside & Buffet Lunch Exclusive Tour

Traveling between Cebu and Bohol offers a wonderful glimpse into the stunning scenery and cultural richness of the Philippines’ Visayas region. While many tours promise a lot, this particular trip from Cebu with Suroy Cebu Tour PH has earned consistent praise for its seamless organization, knowledgeable guides, and diverse highlights.

If you’re looking for a full day of sightseeing that balances natural beauty, local wildlife, and cultural experiences, this tour might be just what you need. We especially like the personalized touch of private transportation, the scenic ferry ride, and the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on a floating restaurant.

However, keep in mind that the tour duration is approximately 12-14 hours, so it’s a long day—great for those eager to see a lot but possibly tiring for some. This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, value authentic moments, and want a comprehensive Bohol experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Private Guided Experience: Personalized transportation and a knowledgeable guide make for a smooth and informative day.
• Scenic Ferry Ride: The approximately 1 hour and 45-minute boat trip from Cebu offers lovely coastal views.
• Iconic Sights: See the Chocolate Hills, meet the tiny tarsiers, and drive through the lush Bilar Man-Made Forest.
• Unique Lunch Setting: Enjoy a buffet lunch aboard a floating restaurant with live cultural performances.
• Additional Attractions: Visit the Mirror of the World with replicas of global landmarks for memorable photos.
• Value for Money: At $165 per person, the tour includes almost everything, offering good value for a full day of sightseeing.

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A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, either from Cebu City, Mactan, or Mandaue. This is a major perk—no need to worry about navigating or arranging transport. Your private driver will escort you to the ferry terminal, making the start of your day stress-free. The ferry ride to Tubigon, about 1 hour and 45 minutes, is a highlight in itself—expect plenty of coastal views and the chance to relax before the day’s sightseeing begins.

Travelers have praised the punctuality and friendliness of the pick-up and ferry staff. One reviewer appreciated how the ferry schedule was managed to prevent delays, which is crucial in a tightly packed day like this.

The Iconic Chocolate Hills

The first major stop is the Chocolate Hills, undeniably Bohol’s most famous natural wonder. These 1,268 perfectly rounded hills stretch across the landscape, turning chocolate brown during the dry season, hence the name. The view from the designated overlook provides a sweeping panorama that’s both surreal and humbling. This is the perfect spot to pull out your camera and marvel at nature’s quirky creations.

Tarsier Sanctuary: Tiny but Mighty

Next, the tour takes you to Tarsier Conservation Area. These tiny primates, with their wide, soulful eyes, are a must-see. The environment is serene, and the guides are well-informed, ensuring respectful encounters. One reviewer noted that their guide, Jehu, was very knowledgeable about the area and provided engaging commentary about the tarsiers’ habitat and conservation efforts.

Travelers often find this part of the tour adorable and fascinating—seeing these creatures up close is a highlight that feels both charming and meaningful, especially knowing that the setting is designed to protect their natural behaviors.

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Bilar Man-Made Forest: Lush Drive

Driving through the Bilar Man-Made Forest offers a refreshing break from the open landscapes. Towering mahogany trees line the road, creating a tunnel of greenery that’s perfect for a quick photo stop. It’s a picture-perfect scene that adds a peaceful, almost enchanted feel to your day.

Loboc River Lunch: Floating Feast with Cultural Flair

The floating restaurant along the Loboc River is the culinary highlight of the tour. Here, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local dishes while being serenaded by live performances—think traditional Tinikling dances and folk music. The setting is picturesque, with lush greenery and the gentle flow of the river setting the scene.

Guests have praised the comfortable boat and the quality of food, which is considered good value given the scenic setting. One reviewer shared that the experience felt special, with the added bonus of cultural performances adding an authentic Filipino touch.

The Mirror of the World: Landmarks in Miniature

After lunch, the tour visits the Mirror of the World, a quirky attraction showcasing replicas of some of the world’s most famous landmarks—like the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty. While not as grand as the originals, they make for fun photo opps and a lighthearted end to the day.

Returning to Cebu

Once the day’s sightseeing wraps up, your guide will escort you back to the ferry port for the return trip to Cebu. Upon arrival, a Cebu-based driver will pick you up, completing a well-organized and smooth experience. Reviews emphasize the punctuality and helpfulness of both guides, with one guest noting that their driver was very friendly and accommodating, ensuring they felt comfortable throughout.

Analyzing the Value

At $165 per person, this tour covers nearly everything—hotel transfers, ferry tickets, entrance fees, a private vehicle, and lunch with entertainment. The inclusion of a private guide ensures you get tailored insights and flexible pacing, which can greatly enhance the experience. Some tours charge similar prices but exclude lunch or transportation, making this a competitive choice.

The comprehensive nature of this package means you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics. However, it’s a long day—about 12 to 14 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full days of sightseeing and are prepared for a busy schedule.

What We Loved

• The personalized service provided by guides like Jehu and Alison, who are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and punctual.
• The scenic ferry ride that adds a relaxing start and offers beautiful coastal views.
• The authentic experiences such as meeting the tarsiers in a conservation setting and watching cultural performances during lunch.
• The convenience of all logistics handled, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a hassle-free day.

Possible Drawbacks

• The tour is quite full-on, which might feel rushed for some. If you prefer slow-paced travel or want more time at each stop, this might not be ideal.
• As the tour involves a ferry, weather can impact the schedule, though the company seems prepared for this contingency.
• It’s not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day trip with excellent value. It’s especially suitable if you prefer to avoid the stress of planning logistics and want to see a variety of sights in a single day. Families, first-timers, and those interested in cultural and natural highlights will find this tour covers the most iconic attractions efficiently.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers from Cebu City, Mactan, or Mandaue, making the start and end of the day very convenient.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Cebu to Tubigon takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering scenic coastal views during the trip.

What attractions are covered in this tour?
You’ll visit the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Conservation Area, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Loboc River with floating lunch, and the Mirror of the World.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Area, and Mirror of the World are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and light clothes are recommended. The day is long, so being prepared is key.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome; infants can join free but must sit on a parent’s lap. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Can I customize or upgrade the experience?
The tour price covers the core itinerary with no mention of optional upgrades. You might find additional activities but they are not included in the standard package.

What if weather disrupts the tour?
The tour provider may offer alternative arrangements if weather affects ferry operations or outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

This Cebu to Bohol tour from Suroy Cebu Tour PH offers a well-rounded introduction to Bohol’s most loved sights, combining natural wonders, wildlife, and cultural experiences in one comprehensive package. The inclusion of private transportation, scenic ferry rides, and cultural performances elevates it above many standard day trips.

If you value convenience, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experiences in a full-day format, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to maximize their time and see Bohol’s highlights without the stress of organizing transport and tickets themselves.

While it’s a long day, the standout quality of the guides, the stunning views, and the seamless logistics make it a worthwhile option for those who want a hassle-free, memorable adventure. Just pack your comfortable shoes and your camera, and prepare for a day full of picture-perfect moments and lively Filipino culture.

Note: Always check current ferry schedules and weather conditions before booking, as these can affect the itinerary.

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