From Cebu:Bohol Bucket List Countryside Adventure with Lunch

Discover Bohol in a Day: The Ultimate Countryside Tour from Cebu

If you’re looking to see the best of Bohol without the hassle of planning every detail, this comprehensive full-day tour from Cebu offers a fantastic way to do just that. It’s perfectly suited for first-timers eager to tick off the island’s most iconic spots, from the famous Chocolate Hills to adorable tarsiers, all wrapped into one seamless, well-organized experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety of highlights—you get a taste of wildlife, natural wonders, and cultural sights all in one day. Second, the comfort and convenience—it’s a worry-free package with transfers, entrance fees, and lunch included. Third, the local guide expertise—you’ll benefit from knowledgeable guides who bring the sights alive with interesting facts.

One possible consideration? The tour’s tight schedule means you’ll be on the move quite a bit, with early starts and back-to-back stops. It’s a full day, so if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those who want to maximize their time and see the highlights, it’s a superb choice.

This experience is especially ideal for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground in a single day, families looking for a fun and educational outing, or anyone wanting a hassle-free introduction to Bohol’s top sights.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Visit the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Bilar Forest, and more.
• Convenient Transfers: Hotel pickup, ferry tickets, and local transportation included.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Combines wildlife, landscape, and cultural attractions for a well-rounded day.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Buffet lunch on the Loboc River with live music offers a taste of Filipino culture.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and friendly service.
• Good Value: Price includes most entrance fees, transportation, and a hearty lunch, making it a straightforward and cost-effective option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Day Tour from Cebu

Starting the Day: Ferry Ride and Arrival in Bohol

The adventure kicks off early with a fast ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol, with the tour provider managing ferry tickets and timing. The ferry journey itself is smooth, lasting about an hour, and offers a chance to enjoy views of the surrounding waters. Many reviewers highlight the efficiency of the transfer process, with guest reviews praising the well-coordinated pickup and ferry schedules, which helps keep the day on track.

Once in Bohol, a private air-conditioned vehicle awaits, driven by a knowledgeable guide who makes the drive between sites informative and relaxed. This seamless transfer is key to fitting everything into the limited day, especially given the busy itinerary.

Visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary

The first stop is the Tarsier Conservation Area, home to the world’s smallest primates. These tiny creatures, with their wide eyes and delicate features, are often the highlight for visitors. We loved the way guides explained the conservation efforts and the importance of responsible tourism—that you get close to them without disturbing their natural habitat.

Multiple reviews mention the adorable faces of the tarsiers, with one noting, “They’re tiny but surprisingly lively—watch your camera settings to get the best shot.” It’s a gentle, peaceful start that offers a close-up look at Bohol’s unique wildlife.

Butterfly Garden and Python Exhibit

Next, the tour takes you to a Butterfly Garden, where the vibrant wings of dozens of butterfly species create a lively, colorful scene. Visitors say this part is both beautiful and educational, especially if you’re interested in local flora and fauna.

The Python exhibit is a bit more unusual but popular. You’ll see one of the largest snakes in the country, and guides often share interesting facts about their conservation status. If you’re squeamish about snakes, it’s good to know this part is quick, and the guides are professional.

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Bilar Man-Made Forest: A Cool, Green Escape

Driving through the Bilar Forest, you’ll experience a lush canopy of mahogany trees—a welcome respite from the sun. Reviewers mention how peaceful and photogenic this spot is, with some describing it as a “must-see for nature lovers.” The shade and fresh air make it a perfect quick stop to stretch your legs and enjoy nature.

The Iconic Chocolate Hills

The highlight for many is the Chocolate Hills, an awe-inspiring geological formation of over 1,200 cone-shaped mounds. The viewpoint offers panoramic views—perfect for photos and simply soaking in the landscape. Some guests note that the climb to the viewing deck is manageable, but wear comfortable shoes.

A few reviews mention that the hills look best during the dry season when the grass turns brown, mimicking chocolate, but they are impressive year-round. The guide provides insights into how these formations might have been created, adding context to the stunning sight.

Lunch on the Loboc River Floating Restaurant

For lunch, you’ll board a floating restaurant on the Loboc River, a highlight for many visitors. The buffet meal features local dishes and is accompanied by live traditional music, creating a lively and cultural atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed vibe and the scenic setting, describing the experience as both restful and fun.

Some mention that the buffet offers a good variety of Filipino dishes, and the river cruise provides great opportunities for photos, especially with the lush greenery along the banks.

Mirror of the World: A Fun, Quirky Stop

The final stop is Mirror of the World, a colorful park with mini replicas of famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. It’s an Instagram paradise and appeals to families and photo enthusiasts alike.

Guests find this park charming and lighthearted, perfect for breaking up the day and capturing memorable photos. It’s a fun and colorful way to end your Bohol adventure.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Timing

The tour offers round-trip hotel transfers in Cebu, ferry tickets, and private transportation within Bohol, making logistics easy and stress-free. Expect a full day, typically lasting about 12-14 hours, with specific timeframes scheduled to avoid delays—especially at ferry terminals.

Some reviews praise the punctuality of pickups and the professionalism of the guides, which helps keep the day smoothly flowing. Remember that ferry schedules are subject to change based on weather, so flexibility is wise.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $165 per person covers most essentials: entrance fees to the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Mirror of the World, ferry tickets, transfers, and a buffet lunch. This makes it a very good value considering the number of attractions visited.

Not included are personal expenses like souvenirs or snacks outside the meal, ferry terminal fees paid on-site, and optional activities or upgrades. It’s advised to carry some cash, as ATMs might be limited.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around the hills and temples. Sun protection—hat, sunglasses, sunscreen—is essential for outdoor stops, especially in the dry season. A camera is highly recommended for capturing the stunning views, along with snacks and water for longer stretches between stops.

Accessibility and Child Policies

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues might need to consider other options. Infants under two can join for free but must sit on a parent’s lap, making it family-friendly for small children.

Weather Considerations

Weather can affect some outdoor attractions, especially the views at the Chocolate Hills. In case of bad weather or ferry cancellations, the tour provider will offer alternative arrangements, so booking with flexibility in mind is wise.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Bohol countryside adventure from Cebu offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see Bohol’s highlights in one day. It balances adventure, wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty, making it especially attractive for first-time visitors or those short on time. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and all entrance fees makes it a straightforward, value-packed option, with knowledgeable guides ensuring you get the most from each location.

If you’re seeking a safe, hassle-free, immersive experience that showcases Bohol’s natural and cultural treasures without the stress of planning each detail, this tour is a solid choice. It is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a memorable, balanced day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have specific accessibility needs, you might find the schedule a bit packed. Still, for most travelers wanting a complete overview of Bohol’s best, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 12-14 hours, including travel time, making it a full-day activity.

Are transfers and ferry tickets included?
Yes, the package includes round-trip hotel transfers in Cebu, ferry tickets from Cebu to Bohol, and private transportation within Bohol.

What attractions are visited on this tour?
You’ll visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, Butterfly Garden, Python exhibit, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Chocolate Hills, Loboc River Floating Restaurant, and Mirror of the World park.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food is served?
Lunch is a buffet served onboard the floating restaurant, featuring traditional Filipino dishes and live local entertainment.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, infants under 2 can join free of charge but must sit on a parent’s lap. The tour is suitable for families, but note that it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, water, snacks, and cash for personal expenses.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, outdoor activities may be affected by weather, especially the ferry schedule. The tour provider will offer alternative plans if needed.

Is the tour refundable?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; once confirmed, it is generally non-refundable unless canceled due to weather or ferry issues.

To sum it up, this Bohol day tour from Cebu offers excellent value, covering the island’s most iconic sights with ease and comfort. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore a variety of natural and cultural gems in one memorable day. With friendly guides, scenic stops, and included meals, it’s a convenient way to make the most of your time in the Philippines.

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