Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise

Discover Bohol’s highlights with this comprehensive countryside tour featuring Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, a river cruise, and more, all in one day.

If you’re heading to Bohol and want to see the highlights in one well-organized day, this Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and fun activities. Priced at $130 per person and rated a perfect 5.0, it’s clear many travelers find this experience both enjoyable and value-packed. The tour is approximately 5 to 6 hours long, making it a great way to maximize your day without feeling rushed, especially with the convenience of pickup services and group discounts.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines iconic sights like the Chocolate Hills with unique encounters like visiting the Tarsier Conservation Area. Plus, the Loboc River cruise offers a relaxing and scenic lunch experience that’s hard to beat. That said, a potential consideration is the pace — although the itinerary covers many stops, some travelers might prefer more time at each location or a more personalized guide experience, as guided tours typically do not include a DOT-accredited tour guide. This trip suits those looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Bohol in a single day, especially if they value well-organized transportation and authentic sightseeing.

Key Points

Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise - Key Points

  • All-in-One Experience: Covers major attractions including Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, Blood Compact Shrine, Mahogany Forest, and Loboc River.
  • Value for Money: At $130, it combines transportation, entry fees, lunch, and activity options.
  • Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to see endangered Tarsiers and learn about local history.
  • Scenic Lunch: The Loboc River cruise provides a delicious meal with beautiful views.
  • Flexible Options: Extras like ATV, zip line, and cable car are available for added adventure.
  • Limited Personalization: No dedicated guide included, so expect a more group-oriented experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Countryside Tour

Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise - An In-Depth Look at the Bohol Countryside Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

The day kicks off early at 8:00 am, with your driver picking you up from your designated meeting point. From there, the adventure begins with a visit to the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument. Over 1 hour, you’ll have a chance to marvel at these over 1,200 cone-shaped hills, which turn a rich brown during the dry season. The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas that make for perfect photos — an essential snapshot of Bohol’s unique landscape.

Next, you’re taken to the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area. Here, you’ll observe the world’s smallest primates, the Philippine tarsiers, in their natural environment. The admission ticket is included, and this stop is about 1 hour. Reviewers praise the guide for explaining the conservation efforts and sharing interesting tidbits about these tiny creatures, which are not only adorable but also endangered. One reviewer mentioned how the guide came equipped with umbrellas in heavy rain, showing genuine care for the group.

The Blood Compact Monument in Bool is the next stop — a 30-minute visit that provides cultural context about the historic first treaty of friendship between the Spanish and Filipinos. It’s a quick but meaningful detour, adding a layer of historical awareness to your day.

The Man-made Mahogany Forest offers a scenic 30-minute walk through a two-kilometer stretch of meticulously planted mahogany trees. One reviewer noted how the trees are part of a reforestation project from over 50 years ago, making it an impressive testament to conservation efforts. It’s a lush, photogenic spot that feels like stepping into a natural cathedral.

After a morning of sightseeing, the highlight for many is the Loboc River Cruise. Lasting roughly 2 hours, it’s not just about the floating lunch but also about soaking in the lush scenery along the riverbanks. The cruise includes a delicious Filipino buffet on a floating restaurant and opportunities to see local performances or simply relax with the views.

The final stop is the Simply Butterflies Conservation Center. About 1 hour, this is a colorful, peaceful conclusion where you can enjoy the beauty of countless butterflies. Reviewers mention how the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge made this stop especially engaging.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Since it’s a private tour, your group won’t be jostling with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The driver also takes care of all fees and taxes, so what you see is what you get price-wise, though a DOT-accredited guide isn’t included, which might be a downside for travelers who prefer a more educational experience.

Authenticity and Extra Details from Travelers

Based on reviews, guides like Marlo are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer noted how Marlo was “friendly, knowledgeable, and took some great photos,” adding a personal touch to the experience. The guide also showed attentiveness by coming equipped with umbrellas during heavy rain, demonstrating how small gestures can enhance the overall trip.

Travelers also appreciated the stunning views at the Chocolate Hills and the unique opportunity to see Tarsiers in a natural setting. The Loboc River cruise is described as a leisurely, scenic highlight, with many mentioning the delicious lunch and the chance to relax for a couple of hours.

The Value of This Tour

At $130 per person, the tour covers a significant amount — transportation, all entrance fees, and lunch on the river cruise. It’s a convenient way to see Bohol’s major sights without the hassle of planning multiple entries or transportation logistics. While it offers excellent value, those seeking a more personalized or guided experience might find it a bit structured, given the absence of a dedicated guide.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Bohol’s highlights without worrying about logistics. It suits those with a moderate activity level, as there’s some walking and sightseeing involved, but nothing overly strenuous. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a stress-free day of exploration will find this tour meets their needs.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Bohol countryside tour offers a fantastic way to see the island’s most famous attractions in a single, well-organized package. The stops are thoughtfully selected, providing a good mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and fun experiences like the river cruise.

The value is clear — you get transportation, entry fees, and a scenic lunch, all in one price. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views, which elevate the experience beyond just ticking boxes. While it may lack a dedicated guide or very personalized attention, the overall flow, comfort, and variety make it a great option for most travelers.

If you’re looking for an authentic, efficient introduction to Bohol’s highlights with a comfortable and enjoyable experience, this tour covers all bases.

FAQs

Bohol Countryside Tour with Lunch at Loboc River Cruise - FAQs

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 5 to 6 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all fees for the attractions listed are included, so there are no surprises along the way.

Is a guide provided during the tour?
No, a DOT-accredited guide is not included, but the driver is available, and guides at each site are usually on-site for explanations.

Can I customize or add activities?
Extras like ATV, zip line, and cable car rides are available separately, offering a bit of extra adventure.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is served during the Loboc River cruise, providing a relaxing meal with scenic views.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities is recommended. Bring sunscreen, hats, and possibly an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially those interested in wildlife, nature, and cultural history. Always consider your children’s activity level.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
While it’s a private tour, solo travelers can join, and the organized nature makes it a safe and enjoyable option.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, this Bohol Countryside Tour combines convenience, variety, and authentic experiences, making it a top choice for those wanting to explore Bohol in a single day while enjoying comfort and meaningful sights.