Bohol Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers with roundtrip ferry from Cebu

If you’re planning a day trip from Cebu to Bohol, this tour promises a combination of natural wonders, cultural spots, and adorable wildlife, all wrapped into one memorable experience. Taking a small group—max 8 travelers—this tour balances intimacy and sightseeing efficiency, making sure you get the most out of your day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The inclusion of round-trip ferry tickets, a river cruise with buffet lunch, and guided stops at key sites makes this an appealing option for those wanting a well-rounded Bohol adventure.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences coupled with practical logistics—no need to worry about transportation or planning. Plus, the guides seem to be a highlight, with reviews praising their knowledge and friendly attitudes. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour involves a lot of moving parts and some walking, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. If you’re after a comprehensive day trip that hits all the highlights without breaking the bank, this could be a solid choice.

However, a potential consideration is that some guests felt a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more time with the tarsiers or explore certain sites more leisurely. The itinerary covers a lot in one day, so it’s best suited for travelers who value seeing multiple attractions efficiently rather than lingering at each spot. Overall, if you’re looking for a structured yet intimate Bohol experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers excellent value.

Key Points

• Inclusive round-trip ferry transfers from Cebu simplify logistics
• Small group size (max 8) enhances personalized experience
• Highlights include Chocolate Hills, tarsier sanctuary, and cultural sites
• River cruise and buffet lunch add relaxing and tasty elements
• Guides like JoJo bring a friendly, knowledgeable touch
• Some guests find the schedule a bit rushed but appreciate the efficient sightseeing

An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

Seamless Transfers from Cebu

Starting bright and early at 7:00 am, the tour begins with hotel pickup, easing the hassle of organizing transport. The round-trip ferry from Cebu to Bohol is included, with departure at 8:20 am aboard the Oceanjet. The ferry ride itself, roughly two hours, is comfortable and offers scenic views—an easy way to transition from city chaos to island serenity. Reviewers mention being appreciative of the smooth logistics, with one noting, “The ferry was quick and felt like a smooth start to an exciting day.”

Arrival and Initial Exploration

Once you disembark in Bohol, your guide—someone like JoJo, who is praised for their deep knowledge and friendly demeanor—will lead the way. The first stop is often the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you get to see one of the world’s smallest primates up close. Reviewers frequently mention how adorable the tarsiers are, and how the guide’s insights make the visit more meaningful. Expect a short walk through the sanctuary, where conservation efforts are clearly emphasized, and you might get a chance to see these tiny creatures in their natural environment.

The River Cruise and Buffet Lunch

One of the tour’s highlights is an hour-long river cruise, which offers a gentle, scenic break. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch, providing a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to refuel. Reviewers like Josealejandro_g appreciated the “great cruise lunch” and found the experience “nice and entertaining.” The cruise also offers a different perspective of Bohol’s landscape, with lush greenery lining the riverbanks—an ideal moment to unwind and take photos.

Exploring Iconic Sites

After lunch, the tour continues with visits to several noteworthy sites:

• Man-made Forest: A lush stretch of tall, densely packed trees. Visitors often comment on the calming effect and the photographic opportunities here.
• Chocolate Hills: The star attraction—over 1,200 identical-shaped hills that turn brown and resemble chocolates during the dry season. This landscape is truly surreal, and the viewing platforms provide panoramic views. One reviewer describes it as “a must-see because it’s unlike anything else in the world.”
• Baclayon Church: A historic, well-preserved Spanish colonial church, offering a glimpse into Bohol’s rich cultural past.
• Blood Compact Site: A historical landmark commemorating a significant treaty between Spanish explorers and local leaders.
• Cultural Village: An area showcasing traditional Boholano life, crafts, and performances—adding depth and context to your visit.

Final Stretch and Return

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Blood Compact Site and the Cultural Village, giving you a rounded experience of Bohol’s natural beauty and heritage. The departure back to Cebu is scheduled for 5:40 pm, arriving at approximately 7:40 pm. Guests are then transferred back to their Cebu hotels, often praising the smooth, hassle-free experience.

What’s Not Included

While the tour offers fantastic value, it skips some activities like ATV rides or ziplining, which you might consider adding on your own if you’re craving more adventure. Dinner is also not included, so plan for a meal afterward to round out your day.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Reviewers’ comments reveal what makes this tour stand out. One guest, BEN_L, called it “a must-do trip,” emphasizing how their guide JoJo’s enthusiasm made the experience both informative and fun. They appreciated the guide’s attention to detail, which enriched their understanding of Bohol’s sites.

Another guest, Anna_B, found the tour “great” overall but felt they wished for more time with the tarsiers and a less rushed schedule. This points to a common trade-off—covering many highlights in one day versus deep exploration at each stop.

Josealejandro_g shared that, despite a delayed flight, the tour company was flexible enough to reschedule a city tour in Cebu, highlighting their responsiveness. Such flexibility can be invaluable when travel plans shift unexpectedly.

Analyzing the Value

At $197 per person, including ferry tickets, transport, all fees, and taxes, this tour offers a solid value for a full-day, guided experience. It’s particularly attractive for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning individual transfers or figuring out ferry schedules. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of food and entrance fees removes a lot of hidden costs.

However, the schedule is tight, and some guests felt the itinerary was a bit rushed. If you prefer to linger longer at each site or explore independently, this might not be the best fit. But if your goal is to see the main sights efficiently with expert guidance, this tour provides a good balance of structure and intimacy.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a well-organized day of sightseeing without sacrificing personal interaction or comfort. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights in one go, especially if they prefer guided tours to navigate logistics easily.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors to Bohol or Cebu, who want to hit the main attractions without the stress of managing transport or entry fees. Keep in mind, if you’re after a more leisurely exploration or specific activities like ziplining or ATV riding, you might want to look elsewhere or DIY some parts.

The Sum Up

This Bohol day tour from Cebu offers an efficient, enjoyable way to see some of the island’s most famous sites. With a focus on natural beauty, cultural insights, and wildlife encounters—all facilitated by knowledgeable guides—it’s a practical choice for travelers seeking value and authenticity. The included ferry ride, river cruise, and buffet lunch make it a comfortable, all-in-one experience that minimizes planning fuss.

While some may find the schedule slightly rushed, most guests appreciate the comprehensive coverage and the friendly, expert guidance. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to make the most of their limited time and enjoy a personal touch on their sightseeing journey.

If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free day trip that combines natural wonders with cultural history, this tour delivers on both fronts. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for a full day of exploring Bohol’s best.

FAQ

Is transportation from Cebu included? Yes, the round-trip ferry tickets are included, making the trip seamless from Cebu to Bohol.

What time does the tour start? The pickup is scheduled for 7:00 am from your hotel, with the ferry departing at 8:20 am.

How long does the entire tour last? The tour runs approximately 14 hours, ending around 7:40 pm with hotel drop-off.

How big are the tour groups? The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What sites will I visit? You’ll see the Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills, man-made forest, Baclayon Church, Blood Compact site, and a cultural village.

Is food included? Yes, a buffet lunch on the river cruise is provided. Dinner is not included.

Are there any activities not covered? Activities like ATV rides or ziplining are not included in this tour, but can be arranged separately.

What is the physical activity level? Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as there will be some walking and site exploration.

Can I customize this tour? This particular package doesn’t mention customization options; it follows a fixed itinerary.

What is the refund policy? This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

This tour from Cebu to Bohol offers a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights with expert guides, hassle-free logistics, and a comfortable pace—perfect for those wanting a memorable day without the stress of planning every detail themselves.