Private Bohol and Chocolate Hills with Loboc River Cruise

Experience Bohol’s Natural and Cultural Wonders in One Day

If you’re planning a trip to Bohol, this private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s most iconic sights. From the tiny and adorable Philippine Tarsiers to the breathtaking Chocolate Hills, this day-long adventure packs in a variety of experiences that showcase Bohol’s natural beauty and history. With hotel pickup, a dedicated guide, and a flexible itinerary, it’s designed for travelers who value comfort and efficiency without sacrificing authenticity.

What we particularly like about this tour is its tailored approach — you’re not just part of a large group but have a personal guide who can answer your questions and adapt the pace to your interests. Plus, the inclusion of a Loboc River cruise during lunch makes the experience both scenic and delicious. A potential downside? The day is quite packed, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed at times.

This tour is ideal for those who want a rundown of Bohol in a single day — perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time. It offers excellent value given the mix of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, historical sites, and a river cruise, all bundled into a seamless experience.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience with a dedicated guide and transport
• Diverse highlights, including wildlife, geology, history, and scenic cruises
• Great value for the price, with multiple attractions included
• Balanced itinerary suitable for most fitness levels and interests
• Informative guides who answer questions and share local insights
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Introduction to the Bohol Experience

This full-day tour from Panglao Island offers a stress-free way to see some of Bohol’s most famous sights without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating on your own. For around $107.70 per person, you get a private guide, all entrance fees, lunch, and hotel transfers where available. It’s an appealing package for travelers wanting convenience, reliability, and a well-curated itinerary.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with the Philippine Tarsier & Wildlife Sanctuary
Your day kicks off with a visit to the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in Corella. Here, you’ll get up close with the world’s smallest primates — tarsiers. Reviewers have shared that the sanctuary is a true refuge for these nocturnal creatures, and guides like Geri and Karen make the experience both educational and respectful of the animals. Expect to see these tiny primates leap from branch to branch, swiveling their heads nearly 360 degrees, in a natural setting that fosters conservation.

Next, the Chocolate Hills & Mahogany Forest
A drive through the Bilar man-made forest introduces you to a stretch of towering mahogany trees, which form a scenic backdrop on your way to the iconic Chocolate Hills. Once there, you’ll hike up to a viewpoint for a panoramic view of these geological wonders. From reviews, we learn that the Hills appear as giant candy drops, changing color with the seasons. When the grasses turn brown in summer, they truly resemble chocolate drops — hence the name. The hike up to the viewpoint offers photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the scale of these natural formations.

Loboc River Cruise for Lunch
One of the tour’s highlights is lunch on a floating restaurant cruising down Loboc River. The scenery is lush and tranquil, and most travelers find the buffet lunch enjoyable, often accompanied by live performances. Reviewers like James S mention that the cruise was “exceptional” and that the scenery provided a lovely backdrop while enjoying local cuisine. The cruise lasts about two hours, giving you a taste of Bohol’s riverside life and a relaxing break from sightseeing.

Historical Stop at Baclayon Church
The last official stop is Baclayon Church, a centuries-old stone church that also houses a museum. Expect to see religious artifacts, vestments, and Latin inscribed librettos on animal skins. The structure itself provides a window into Bohol’s colonial past. Tourists like Ria S appreciate the guide’s descriptions of the art and history, making it more meaningful.

What Travelers Say About the Experience

The reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. Many highlight their guides — like Elmer, Karen, or Geri — as knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights. For instance, Devin N describes the tour as “highly recommended,” praising the combination of historical sites, wildlife encounters, and the ATV adventure along the Chocolate Hills.

Other reviewers mention the value for money, noting that the inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, and transport makes it a worthwhile spend. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is also a frequently praised aspect, especially for those staying in Panglao or nearby resorts.

Some minor drawbacks include waiting times, as noted by travelers who experienced delays or communication issues with the pickup service. One reviewer pointed out a two-hour wait at a hotel due to lack of communication, but overall, most found the tour to flow smoothly with professional guides.

The Practicalities

The tour starts early at 8:30 am, with pickup from most hotels in Panglao or Tagbilaran City. The transport is a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The group size is limited to your party, allowing for a more intimate experience. The day lasts roughly eight hours, so be prepared for a full schedule but expect ample opportunities for photos, questions, and breaks.

The tour is suitable for most people, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the hike at the Chocolate Hills. Children are welcome, but it’s best to consider their stamina for a day packed with sightseeing.

Pricing at $107.70 per person is competitive, especially considering the inclusions. When you factor in the guided experience, entrance fees, scenic cruise, and lunch, it offers good value for a comprehensive Bohol adventure.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This is an ideal choice for travelers who want a well-organized, private experience that covers Bohol’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop independently. The combination of wildlife, geological wonders, historical sites, and scenic cruises means you get a well-rounded view of the island’s offerings. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making every stop informative and engaging.

The inclusion of a river cruise and a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary are definite highlights, especially since these are unique to Bohol and offer memorable moments for wildlife lovers and history buffs alike. The opportunity to witness the iconic Chocolate Hills after a short hike provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and spectacular photo opportunities.

While busy, the itinerary’s pacing is generally well-managed, with reviewers appreciating the seamless flow from one attraction to the next. It’s perfect for visitors who prefer an efficient but authentic day exploring Bohol’s natural and cultural treasures.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors to Bohol who want a thorough but manageable overview of the island. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours that handle all the logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the sights. Families, couples, or small groups will find it especially convenient and personalized.

Travelers interested in wildlife and geology will enjoy the Tarsier Sanctuary and the Chocolate Hills, while history enthusiasts will find the Baclayon Church fascinating. Those short on time but eager to see as much as possible will appreciate how much is packed into this day.

Final Thoughts

The Private Bohol and Chocolate Hills with Loboc River Cruise tour offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, wildlife, history, and scenic relaxation. With attentive guides, seamless transport, and a balanced itinerary, it provides a great way to experience Bohol’s highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of fun extras like the river cruise and the opportunity to see the tiny Tarsiers in their habitat make it especially memorable.

While the schedule can be busy, the overall value for money is high, especially considering all the inclusions and the personalized service. This tour is perfect for travelers who crave a comprehensive, comfortable, and authentic taste of Bohol’s best features in one well-organized package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but consider their stamina for a full day of sightseeing and walking, especially the hike to the Chocolate Hills viewpoint.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but only from selected hotels in Panglao Island or nearby.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am with flexible timing for each stop.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is served during the Loboc River cruise as part of the package.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water for the day.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
While not explicitly stated, the private vehicle is typically comfortable and suitable for the climate.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills, and Baclayon Church are included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a great balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight — perfect for making the most out of a single day in Bohol.