From Cebu: Day Trip to Bohol Highlights

Planning a day trip from Cebu to explore Bohol? This popular tour offers a quick yet comprehensive glimpse into some of the island’s most iconic sights. We’ve looked into the details so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans — and trust us, there’s plenty to love, from scenic views to cultural landmarks.

What stands out about this tour? It’s well-organized, includes a variety of highlights, and features knowledgeable guides who add insight and humor along the way. The Loboc River Cruise and the Chocolate Hills Viewpoint are definite highlights, but the experience also includes visits to historical sites and the chance to see the adorable Tarsiers.

On the flip side, a key consideration is the amount of travel time involved. The ferry ride alone takes around 2 hours, and some stops are brief — around 20 minutes — meaning you’ll spend much of the day on a bus and boat. This makes it a great option for those with limited time, but perhaps less ideal if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, structured overview of Bohol’s top attractions without the hassle of organizing transport themselves. If you’re after authentic cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and a taste of local life, this day trip packs in plenty in just 8 hours.

Good To Know

• Convenient round-trip transportation from Cebu, including a fast ferry
• Diverse highlights ranging from historical sites to natural wonders
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants), ensuring a more personal experience
• Knowledgeable guides who keep the tour engaging and informative
• Significant travel time, so be prepared for a day spent mostly on transport
• Value for money at $210, considering the inclusive ferry, lunch, and guided visits

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Fast Ferry from Cebu to Bohol

Your adventure begins with an approximately 1.5 to 2-hour ferry ride from Cebu’s port to Tagbilaran, Bohol’s capital. Reviewers note that the ferry trip can take about 2 hours, which is a sizeable chunk of your day but offers an exciting start to the journey. The vessel provides a comfortable way to get across the strait, with a chance to enjoy views of the sea and coastline.

Exploring Bohol’s Countryside

Once you arrive, the tour kicks off with a drive through the scenic Bohol countryside. Notable stops include the Blood Compact Monument, a significant historical site commemorating a friendship pact between Spanish and Filipino explorers, and the Baclayon Church & Museum, a 15th-century structure that reflects Bohol’s colonial past.

The tour then moves into natural attractions like the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a lush reforestation project that’s perfect for photographs and a moment of tranquility. The forest stands out for its tall mahogany trees lining a narrow road, giving a feel of stepping into a fairy tale.

Encountering the Tarsiers

One of the tour’s most talked-about moments is visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary. These tiny primates, with huge eyes and delicate features, are considered the world’s smallest primates. Reviewers like Andrzej praise their guide, noting that their expert commentary made the encounter both fun and educational. You’ll have a short but memorable chance to see these adorable creatures up close, respecting their environment and observing their shy nature.

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Loboc River Cruise and Lunch

Next, you’ll experience the Loboc River Cruise, a relaxing boat ride along a serene waterway while enjoying a local buffet lunch. The floating restaurant is decorated with Filipino motifs, and live entertainment from a guitar duo adds a lively touch. Guests often mention the friendly musicians serenading with local and international songs, creating a charming backdrop to your meal.

The cruise lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to absorb the lush surroundings and enjoy the gentle sway of the boat. Several reviewers, like Christina, mention how well-organized and enjoyable this part of the trip is, though they note the overall day involves significant travel time, leading to brief visits at each site.

The Chocolate Hills and Viewpoints

After lunch, the tour heads to Carmen town to marvel at the famous Chocolate Hills — a landscape of over a thousand conical hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling giant chocolate mounds. The viewpoint atop one of the hills offers sweeping vistas, perfect for photos and admiring nature’s artistry.

Some guests say the short time at each site might feel rushed, with only about 20 minutes to explore the stalls and take in the scenery. Despite this, the view from the top is often described as stunning and worth the trip. Reviewers like Christina appreciate the opportunity to pick up souvenirs from small stalls nearby.

Final Stop and Return to Cebu

With some free time to browse local crafts, the tour concludes by returning to Tagbilaran to board the late afternoon ferry back to Cebu. The entire day wraps up around 8 hours after departure, giving you a taste of Bohol’s highlights without an overnight stay.

Transportation and Guide Experience

The transportation is smooth and reliable, with hotel pickups from Cebu City or Mactan resorts, including popular spots like Shangri-La Mactan and Waterfront Cebu. The small group size—limited to 8—ensures a more personalized experience, with the guide able to engage each traveler and provide insider insights.

The local guide’s knowledge is often praised in reviews, with Andrzej describing their guide as “factual with a sense of humor,” emphasizing the balance between educational commentary and friendly conversation. The guide also manages the schedule efficiently, though some reviewers, like Sharon Rose, comment on the driving style of the driver, noting it can be a bit windy and bumpy on narrow roads.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Round-trip ferry
• Transportation to all sights
• Tour guide
• Lunch on the river cruise

Not included:

• Drinks (besides lunch)
• Jetty port terminal fees

Value for Money

At $210 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Bohol’s major attractions, with all transportation, guide services, and lunch included. Considering the private ferry, guided visits, and the scenic cruise, it’s a worthwhile investment for travelers wanting a hassle-free, well-organized day.

While the travel time is significant, the convenience and variety of sights make it appealing, especially for those with limited time in Cebu. The inclusion of local guides and an authentic river cruise adds value that might be hard to replicate on your own.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to the Philippines who want a structured day of sightseeing. It suits travelers who appreciate cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and wildlife in a single trip. The small group format also makes it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than large bus tours.

If you’re okay with spending several hours on transport and enjoy guided commentary, this tour delivers a good blend of history, nature, and local culture. It’s especially suitable for those new to Filipino attractions or families looking for a manageable, all-in-one adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Cebu-to-Bohol day trip is an efficient way to see some of Bohol’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning your own transport and guides. The ferry ride, guided sightseeing, and lunch cruise combine to create a well-rounded experience, giving you a meaningful snapshot of the island’s beauty and culture.

While the long travel times mean your stops are relatively brief, the highlights—Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, Loboc River—are truly worth seeing. The small group size and professional guides elevate the experience, ensuring you’re both informed and comfortable throughout.

Overall, if you’re after value, convenience, and a taste of Bohol’s best, this tour offers a practical, engaging, and memorable day out. Just pack your patience for the busy schedule and enjoy the journey into one of the Philippines’ most charming islands.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol?
The ferry ride takes approximately 2 hours, providing a scenic start to your adventure and a chance to relax before the sightseeing begins.

What sights are included in this tour?
The tour covers the Blood Compact Monument, Baclayon Church & Museum, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River Cruise with lunch.

Are the visits brief?
Yes, each stop typically lasts around 20 minutes, so you’ll see many highlights but with limited time at each location.

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Absolutely. The tour is limited to 8 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickups, transportation, the round-trip ferry, a professional guide, and lunch during the river cruise.

Are drinks and additional fees included?
No, drinks aren’t included and you should be prepared for jetty port terminal fees, which are not covered.

What should I bring?
Don’t forget your passport or ID, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and a small amount of cash for souvenirs or optional extras.

This full-day tour from Cebu to Bohol offers a well-organized, memorable way to experience some of the Philippines’ most scenic and cultural treasures. Whether it’s your first trip or a quick escape, it packs plenty into just 8 hours — just remember to pace yourself and soak in the sights.

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