Bohol Country Side Tour – Private w/ Lunch

Bohol’s lush landscapes and charming villages are best appreciated with a well-organized, personalized tour — and that’s exactly what the Bohol Country Side Tour offers. This 8.5-hour private adventure whisks you through some of the island’s most iconic sights, with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and the insights of a knowledgeable guide. From the famous Chocolate Hills to a serene river cruise, it promises a full day of discovery for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist trail.

What we particularly like about this tour is its tailored approach — it’s private, so your group can move at your own pace and focus on what interests you most. Plus, the inclusion of lunch on a Loboc River cruise adds a special touch, offering a taste of local cuisine with beautiful views. However, travelers should keep in mind that this tour involves some walking and standing, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed way to see Bohol’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply after an authentic adventure, this tour provides a good balance of activities and cultural insights. If you’re looking for an organized, high-value day out that offers both sightseeing and culture, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

Private and personalized: The tour is exclusively for your group, offering flexibility and a more intimate experience.
Diverse itinerary: Covering natural wonders, historic sites, and wildlife, it appeals to a wide range of interests.
Knowledgeable guides: Reviews highlight the guides’ insights and ability to make the experience engaging.
Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup, and all fees included simplify the day.
Value for money: At around $113 per person, it offers a full day of activities and a delicious buffet lunch, making it quite cost-effective.
Active but doable: Some walking and a bit of adventure (like zip-lining) for those who want it, but plenty of scenic, relaxing moments.

A Deep Dive into the Bohol Countryside Tour

Starting Off with the Chocolate Hills

Your day begins early, with hotel pickup at 8:00 am in a private, air-conditioned van. The first stop is the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument, a must-see geological formation. You’ll find over 1,200—possibly nearly 1,800—conical hills spread across a vast landscape. These unique formations are a favorite for their unusual shape and color, which turns a chocolate brown during the dry season, giving them their name.

While the scenic view is the main draw, some visitors mention the site can get crowded, especially during peak season, so arriving early helps avoid the midday rush. The included admission ticket makes it simple, and you’ll have about 1.5 hours here to take photos and soak in the vista. One reviewer, Matthew, appreciated the guiding insights that made the stop more meaningful, noting their guide’s ability to converse on “any and all subjects” and share interesting tidbits.

Exploring the Man-Made Mahogany Forest

Next, you’ll visit the Man-Made Mahogany Forest, an impressive example of eco-reforestation efforts. This artificial forest was planted deliberately, transforming a cleared area into a lush corridor of mahogany trees. It’s a peaceful, shaded walk, perfect for stretching your legs after the hills. The trees are grown in neat rows, and the sight of this human-created green space often surprises visitors expecting only natural forests.

The preserved environment and the fact that it’s a commissioned project showcase Bohol’s dedication to environmental conservation. Expect about an hour here, with some time to snapshot the tall, vibrant trees. This site isn’t just eye candy; it’s a statement about what can be achieved through intentional planting and care.

Visiting the Endearing Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

A highlight for many is the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary. Tarsiers are among the world’s smallest primates, marvels of evolution, and quite adorable — with enormous eyes and tiny bodies. The sanctuary is a conservation effort, ensuring these fragile creatures are protected and their habitat preserved.

The tour includes about 1.5 hours at the sanctuary. Here, guides are often praised for their knowledge, sharing facts about the tarsiers’ behavior, diet, and conservation challenges. Reviewers note that the guides’ insights make the visit more meaningful: “They could converse on any and all subjects and give their insights,” says one guest.

It’s worth mentioning that the tour emphasizes ethical viewing— visitors are advised not to flash lights or make loud noises, respecting the animals’ natural behavior. Expect to walk through shaded paths and observe these tiny primates in their habitat. This stop balances fun with a chance to learn about local conservation efforts.

Cruising the Loboc River

The heart of the day is the Loboc River cruise, a 2-hour journey that combines scenic views with a delicious buffet lunch. The boat gently drifts along the calm waters, with lush greenery on either side. The buffet offers local dishes, allowing you to savor Filipino flavors while enjoying the serenity of the river.

Reviewers rave about the lunch experience, often mentioning the “authentic dishes” and the “beautiful views” as key highlights. One traveler highlighted that the food was “a delightful mix of local flavors,” making the meal more than just sustenance but a cultural experience. The cruise is relaxing, so it’s a perfect moment to unwind and take in the lush surroundings.

Discovering Baclayon Church

The final stop is the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Philippines. Constructed in 1727, it retains much of its original structure and materials, making it a cultural treasure. The church’s architecture and historical significance draw many visitors interested in the Philippines’ colonial past.

The visit lasts about an hour, giving you time to explore the interior and marvel at the preservation efforts. Reviewers note the church’s “authentic materials” and “beautifully maintained” condition, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Optional Activities and Extra Costs

While the tour includes most activities, you might find an optional ATV rental available for P1100 per person if you want to add some adrenaline. The tour is flexible enough to allow some personal exploration or relaxed strolling through local villages or rice paddies.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The private nature of this tour allows for a personalized experience. Unlike group tours, you can ask questions freely, and guides like Daniel, praised for his insight, make the day especially engaging. The all-inclusive price covers transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, simplifying the planning process.

Given the reviews, the guides’ knowledge seems to be a recurring highlight. Their ability to share stories, cultural details, and conservation info enriches the experience, making it more meaningful.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $113.20 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing and culture. The inclusion of lunch, transport, and all entrance fees makes it a good deal, especially considering the convenience of a private vehicle and a carefully curated itinerary. This is particularly valuable for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Bohol tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. It suits those who prefer having a guide to enhance their understanding, especially if they’re interested in wildlife and historical sites. Because it involves some walking and standing, it’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

It’s perfect for groups, couples, or families wanting a day tailored to their interests. The private setting offers flexibility and a more intimate experience, making it suitable for travelers who dislike large tour groups or rushed schedules.

The Sum Up

The Bohol Country Side Tour with Lagum Adventure presents a well-rounded way to experience the island’s highlights in comfort and style. The inclusion of a private vehicle, expert guides, and a delicious buffet lunch makes it not just convenient but also enriching. You’ll visit iconic sights like the Chocolate Hills and Baclayon Church, encounter adorable tarsiers, and relax with a scenic river cruise.

This tour balances cultural insights, natural beauty, and light adventure, all while keeping things straightforward and accessible. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, private exploration of Bohol that emphasizes authentic experiences and expert guidance, this package offers strong value.

Whether your interest lies in wildlife, history, or simply enjoying the lush scenery, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and get ready for a day filled with memorable sights and stories.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting with pickup at 8:00 am, with the day ending around late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description recommends moderate physical fitness, most activities are family-friendly, especially the river cruise and sightseeing stops. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Chocolate Hills, Mahogany Forest, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River cruise, and Baclayon Church are covered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so your guide can tailor the experience to some extent, focusing on your interests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, sun protection, and possibly light rain gear, depending on the weather forecast.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a buffet lunch on the Loboc River cruise, featuring local Filipino dishes.

What about transportation?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned private van, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or designated meeting point.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides’ ability to share insights on multiple topics, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.