BOHOL Tour 2025 – Chocolate Hills, Tarsier and River Cruise Lunch

Exploring the Bohol Tour 2025: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier, and River Cruise Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines and want a well-rounded experience of Bohol’s most famous attractions, this Bohol Tour 2025 offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxing moments. With a duration of roughly 6 to 8 hours, it’s designed to give you a taste of Bohol’s signature sights — from the enigmatic Chocolate Hills to the adorable Tarsiers — all wrapped up in a comfortable, organized package.

One of the standout features of this tour is the Loboc River cruise, where you can enjoy a hearty Filipino buffet while cruising along the lush riverbanks, accompanied by live music and dance performances. The tour’s balanced itinerary also includes visits to the Chocolate Hills observation deck, a stretch through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, and the Tarsier Conservation Area, making it a fantastic choice for those eager to see Bohol’s highlights without feeling rushed.

However, a note of caution: the floating restaurant can have long queues, especially during peak seasons, and you should be prepared for some walking and stairs at the Chocolate Hills. Despite these minor considerations, this tour is particularly suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, scenic views, and cultural encounters, all at a reasonable price point.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining natural wonders and cultural sites
• Inclusive activities like river cruise, Tarsier visit, and sightseeing
• Affordable price with good value for the full day’s experience
• Includes hotel pickup and group discounts for convenience and savings
• Long queue times possible at the floating restaurant during peak season
• Good for most travelers with moderate mobility and an interest in local culture

Why the Bohol Tour 2025 Stands Out

This tour offers a great introduction to Bohol’s well-loved attractions, blending scenic beauty, wildlife, and local culture. We loved the way it manages to combine multiple highlights into one seamless day — especially the Loboc River cruise, which is not just about the meal but the ambiance, live music, and chance to relax while soaking in the views. The Chocolate Hills from the viewing deck allow you to appreciate their unique, rolling landscape without the strenuous climb some other tours might involve.

The Tarsier Conservation Area is a definite highlight, especially for animal lovers. It’s a rare chance to see and learn about the tiny, endearing primates endemic to the Philippines. One reviewer mentioned how the Tarsiers are kept in eco-friendly habitats, ensuring their safety while letting travelers get close enough for memorable photos.

On the downside, some travelers noted that the queueing time at the floating restaurant could extend up to 2 hours, which might cut into sightseeing or relaxing time. While this is somewhat outside the tour’s control, it’s worth considering if you’re traveling during a busy period. Also, the short hike (around 200 steps) at the Chocolate Hills observation deck can be a consideration for those with mobility challenges, but the view from the top is more than worth it.

What You’ll Love About the Experience

The organized nature of this tour means you won’t have to worry about transportation or planning — your driver/guide, like Jesse or Chris, makes the journey smooth and friendly, making it easier for first-time visitors to enjoy the day. The group discounts add value, and the mobile ticket option means you can keep things flexible.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Bohol’s top sights, families seeking a mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural activities, and solo travelers looking for an easy, all-in-one day trip. Travelers interested in local cuisine, scenic vistas, and wildlife will find this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Itinerary in Detail

Loboc River Cruise

Your day begins with a cruise along Loboc River, an iconic Bohol experience. The boat itself is well-equipped with live music that sets a lively, relaxed atmosphere, and the Filipino buffet lunch onboard is hearty, offering local dishes that showcase Bohol’s flavors. The cruise includes two quick stops where you can enjoy local dance performances and traditional songs, making it more than just a meal — it’s an immersive cultural treat.

Guests have commented positively about this part of the tour. Michele G, who gave it a perfect 5-star review, appreciated the excellent driver and host, saying it was a day to remember. The cruise typically lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and food without feeling rushed.

Chocolate Hills Natural Monument

Next, you’ll visit the famous Chocolate Hills, which require a short 200+ step climb to reach the observation deck. From there, you’ll get sweeping views of these 1,268 to 1,776 conical hills that turn chocolate brown during the dry season — hence the name. The view is truly picturesque and provides an iconic photo opportunity.

One reviewer, Margaret H, noted that the driver was friendly, but there was some initial confusion about the pickup. Despite this, she found the visit to be “very good,” emphasizing that the view is worth the climb. Be prepared for a bit of a trek, but rest assured, the reward is a panoramic vista of one of Bohol’s most recognized landmarks.

Bilar Man-Made Forest

A short drive will take you through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a stretch of dense, towering Mahogany trees that creates a cool, shaded corridor. It’s a popular spot for photographs and offers a break from the open landscapes. Travelers often mention how this part of the tour offers a cool, peaceful break, with some even noting it’s perfect for a quick nature walk or photo session.

Tarsier Conservation Area

The final stop is the Tarsier Conservation Area, where you can observe the tiny, endearing Tarsiers in their natural habitat. These creatures are among the world’s smallest primates and are known for their large eyes and sensitive nature. The visit lasts about 20 minutes, and tickets are included.

Reviewers like MicheleG loved the experience, noting that the Tarsiers are kept in environmentally friendly enclosures, which helps reassure visitors about animal welfare. It’s a rare chance to see these creatures up close and learn about their unique lifestyle.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

• Timing and Queues: Expect long queueing times at the floating restaurant, especially during peak seasons, which can last from 30 minutes up to 2 hours. Planning accordingly or bringing snacks can help.
• Mobility: The Chocolate Hills observation deck involves around 200 steps, so consider this if mobility is an issue.
• Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, make sure to inform your driver — the boat ride, though scenic, can be bumpy for some.
• Weather considerations: Since the tour is outdoors and involves boat rides, a good weather forecast is advisable. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Group size: This is a private tour, so your group will be the only participants, adding a level of comfort and personalized attention.

Pricing and Value

At $64.95 per person, this tour offers decent value considering the inclusions — transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and the guide. The combination of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences makes it a worthwhile investment for most travelers wanting an authentic Bohol experience without the hassle of planning each activity independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free day that combines nature, wildlife, and culture. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a well-organized day out with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments. If you’re eager to see the Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, and enjoy a traditional Filipino lunch aboard a river cruise, this package covers all the highlights efficiently.

Final Thoughts

The Bohol Tour 2025 offers a thoughtfully curated experience that captures the essence of the island’s beauty and culture. While the queues at the floating restaurant can be lengthy, the overall value of seeing Bohol’s most famous sights — especially with a friendly driver and included entrance fees — makes it a popular choice. It’s a great option if you want an easy, enjoyable way to explore Bohol without sacrificing authenticity or scenic beauty.

If you’re looking for a well-paced, diverse day trip that balances natural wonder with cultural charm, this tour will serve you well. Just remember to bring patience for the queues and some comfortable shoes for the walk at the Chocolate Hills. Overall, it promises a memorable taste of Bohol’s best.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by most age groups, especially since it involves scenic stops and cultural activities. Keep in mind the stairs at the Chocolate Hills if you have very young children or mobility concerns.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient whether you’re staying in Tagbilaran or Panglao.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the admission tickets for the Loboc River cruise, Chocolate Hills, and Tarsier Conservation Area are all included in the price.

Is the river cruise crowded?
The cruise is typically lively, with onboard entertainment and a buffet, but crowds can build during peak season. Queues at the floating restaurant can also be lengthy.

How long is the whole tour?
Expect around 6 to 8 hours, depending on pickup location and waiting times, giving ample time for each stop.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s listed as a private tour, you might be able to discuss modifications with the provider, but the standard itinerary is fixed.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a hat. If prone to seasickness, consider medication beforehand.

This detailed review should help you decide whether the Bohol Tour 2025 fits your travel style. It’s a solid, value-packed way to experience some of Bohol’s most iconic sights while enjoying the comforts of organized travel.