Private Day Trip Cebu to Bohol w/ Chocolate Hills & Loboc Cruise

Exploring Bohol in a Day: A Detailed Look at the Private Cebu to Bohol Tour

If you’re craving a whirlwind adventure that packs in Bohol’s most iconic sights, this private Cebu to Bohol day trip might just be what you need. Covering everything from the famous Chocolate Hills to the adorable Tarsiers, along with a scenic river cruise, it promises a comprehensive experience with the convenience of door-to-door service.

One thing we particularly love is how this tour manages to combine the must-see attractions with some lesser-known gems, all while offering the flexibility of private transportation and guided commentary. However, a word of caution — the full itinerary can stretch out to over 12 hours, so prepare for a long but rewarding day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an all-in-one Bohol experience without the hassle of planning logistics or navigating public transport. It offers great value, especially if you’re pressed for time but want to maximize your sightseeing.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Visit Bohol’s top sights like Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River in one day.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private transfer, ferry tickets, and door-to-door service make the day smooth and stress-free.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up visits with tiny Tarsiers and scenic river cruise with live music.
• Flexible Schedule: Can last between 6 to 13 hours, depending on your pace and interests.
• Value for Money: At $285 per person, it offers a comprehensive package that covers entrance fees, guided tours, and transportation.
• Potential Long Hours: Some reviews note the trip can extend beyond the expected 8 hours — plan accordingly.

First Impressions and What to Expect

This tour promises a packed day filled with some of Bohol’s most famous attractions, all arranged in a private, guided setting. From the moment you’re picked up from your Cebu hotel, everything is organized for a fuss-free experience. The transportation includes air-conditioned vehicle transfers, ferry tickets, and comprehensive door-to-door service, which is a huge plus for those wanting to avoid logistical headaches.

The itinerary is structured to maximize sightseeing while allowing some flexibility. We loved the way it balances the natural, historical, and cultural highlights in one trip — perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything in a single day.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Cover

Early Morning Ferry from Cebu to Bohol

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup from your Cebu hotel. Expect to depart around 6:00 am (or a time you agree upon) to catch the ferry to Bohol. The ferry ride takes approximately 2 hours, and while it might be a little early, the scenic views of the sea make it worthwhile. Don’t forget your ID and essentials for the day ahead — you’ll need them for the ferry and entrance tickets (not included in the tour cost).

Tagbilaran City and the Blood Compact Monument

Once on Bohol, your guide will meet you at the port, where you’ll start with a quick visit to the Blood Compact Monument — a symbol of the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. It’s a significant historic site, and the sculpture by Napoleon Abueva offers a glimpse into the history of Filipino-Spanish relations. Reviewers mention this spot as a meaningful introduction to Bohol’s rich past.

Baclayon Church Museum

Next, you’ll explore Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines, built in 1717. The structure’s coral stone walls and centuries-old architecture evoke a sense of history. The church has undergone several modifications, including a 19th-century facelift, but remains a compelling stop. Entrance fees are included, and many visitors appreciate the chance to walk through such a time-honored site.

Tarsier Sanctuary Encounter

One of the tour’s highlights is meeting the tiny, wide-eyed Tarsiers at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. These primates are so tiny they fit comfortably in your palm, and their large, imploring eyes are unforgettable. Guides will take you on a short jungle trail to view them, ensuring no flash photography — a critical point for animal protection. Reviewers describe this as a “crazy and cuddly” experience, emphasizing how close you can get to these delicate creatures.

The Mahogany Man-Made Forest

A quick stop at the Man-Made Mahogany Forest provides a scenic drive through lined rows of tall trees, a project that started as an environmental effort to combat deforestation. It’s not just a pretty picture; it’s a reminder of Bohol’s ongoing conservation efforts. The uniformity in height and spread of the trees make it a photographer’s delight and a peaceful moment in the tour.

Chocolate Hills and Optional ATV Ride

The Chocolate Hills are the tour’s star attraction. These 1,268 cone-shaped hills turn chocolate brown in the dry season, giving the landscape its iconic name. From the viewpoint, you’ll get panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. Reviewers emphasize how surreal it is to see this natural wonder in person, especially after hearing how they resemble giant molehills.

For thrill-seekers, there’s an optional ATV Eco-Adventure (additional cost), which takes you closer to the hills and offers a muddy, exhilarating ride. Many have found this to be one of the most memorable parts of the day, providing a different perspective on the landscape.

Loboc River Cruise

Next up is the Loboc River cruise, a relaxing hour-long boat ride with a buffet lunch featuring local dishes. Live native music and cheerful performances add to the experience, and the setting — lush greenery and gentle water sounds — makes it a peaceful break from sightseeing. Reviewers describe the cruise as “great entertainment” with “beautiful views,” and note that it’s a highlight, especially with the lively local musicians.

Bohol’s Natural and Wildlife Attractions

After lunch, you visit the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area again, but this time to see more wildlife and explore the lush forests. The sanctuary emphasizes conservation and offers insights into the primates’ unique features, like their incredible head rotation and large eyes.

You also have an optional stop at the Bohol Habitat Conservation Center, which focuses on butterfly breeding and conservation. While some reviews highlight it as a lovely, educational experience, it’s best viewed as a gentle addition if time permits.

Optional Python and Wildlife Park

For those interested in reptiles, there’s an optional visit to the Bohol Python and Wildlife Park, home to the famous 27-foot reticulated python, Prony. It’s an unusual but fascinating stop, especially for reptile enthusiasts. Keep in mind, this is an optional add-on, and costs are separate.

The Long Day and Pacing

Some reviews mention that the tour can stretch beyond the planned 8 hours, with one reviewer noting it took minimum 12 hours due to travel and sightseeing. While the itinerary is comprehensive, be prepared for a full day that may leave you feeling quite tired — especially if you choose to add optional activities like ATV rides or the wildlife park.

That said, travelers who love a packed schedule and want to see everything in one go tend to find the experience worthwhile. The private tour setting allows for some flexibility, but keep your expectations realistic about the time commitment.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer praised guide Rio for his knowledge and friendliness, saying “Rio was a great guide with a wealth of information,” and highlighted the Tarsier Sanctuary and ATV as tour highlights. Another shared that the river cruise featured “great entertainment and scenic views,” making it a memorable meal.

Others appreciated the value for the price — at $285 per person, including entrance fees and ferry tickets, many felt it was a worthwhile investment for a full day of adventure and culture. The inclusion of private transportation and door-to-door pickup further enhances the convenience, especially after a long day.

Conversely, a few reviews mention the misleading expectation around the duration and the additional costs for activities like ATV rides. It’s worth clarifying that some activities, like ATV or Python Park, are optional and not included in the base price.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience that covers most of Bohol’s signature sights in a single day, this trip is hard to beat — especially considering the comfort of private transport and door-to-door service. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning, and those open to a long but fulfilling day.

The tour’s flexibility and the chance to interact closely with wildlife, history, and natural beauty make it appealing. Plus, the reviews confirm that knowledgeable guides like Rio can turn a sightseeing day into a memorable adventure.

However, if your pace is more relaxed or you prefer to focus on fewer sights, you might find this itinerary a bit rushed. Also, be prepared for additional costs if you opt into the ATV ride or wildlife park.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private, guided tour exclusively for your group, which means you control the pace and stops.

What’s included in the price?
The $285 fee covers private transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees to Baclayon Church, Tarsier Sanctuary, and the Chocolate Hills, plus the Loboc River cruise lunch.

How long does the tour last?
Usually between 6 to 13 hours, depending on your pace and whether you opt for activities like ATV rides or wildlife park visits.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included as part of the Loboc River cruise, with a buffet featuring local dishes.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, activities like ATV rides and visits to the Python and Wildlife Park are optional and have separate costs.

How early do I need to book?
On average, this tour is booked around 67 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult, and some stops involve walking or animal encounters, so consider your kids’ stamina and interests.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, some cash for extras, sun protection, water, and comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to do the ATV or hike around.

To sum it up, this private Cebu to Bohol tour offers a well-rounded introduction to one of the Philippines’ most scenic islands. It balances natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and cultural sights, all wrapped in the comfort of private transport. While it is a long day, the experience has the potential to create lasting memories, especially if you’re eager to tick off Bohol’s biggest highlights in just one visit. Perfect for adventurous travelers and those who appreciate guided convenience, it’s a solid choice for an unforgettable day trip.