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Bohol, Philippines - Things to Do in Bohol

Things to Do in Bohol

Bohol, Philippines - Complete Travel Guide

Bohol is a captivating island province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, renowned for its unique geological formations, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. The island is most famous for the iconic Chocolate Hills, over 1,200 cone-shaped limestone formations that turn brown during dry season, and the adorable Philippine tarsiers, one of the world's smallest primates found only in this region. Beyond these natural wonders, Bohol offers stunning white sand beaches, historic Spanish colonial churches, and the emerald waters of the Loboc River winding through lush tropical landscapes. The island seamlessly blends adventure and relaxation, offering everything from thrilling ziplines and river cruises to serene beach resorts and cultural immersion experiences. Tagbilaran City serves as the main gateway and commercial center, while Panglao Island connected by bridge offers some of the Philippines' most beautiful beaches and world-class diving spots. With its warm Filipino hospitality, diverse attractions, and relatively easy accessibility, Bohol has become one of the Philippines' premier tourist destinations while maintaining its authentic charm and natural beauty.

Top Things to Do in Bohol

Chocolate Hills Adventure

Marvel at the otherworldly landscape of over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills that transform from green to chocolate brown during dry season. The main viewing deck in Carmen offers panoramic views, while adventure seekers can experience the ATV rides and ziplines for a more thrilling perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage Site nominee.

Booking Tip: Book tours for ₱1,500-2,500 per person including transportation and guide. Visit during early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for best lighting and fewer crowds. Choose operators that include multiple viewpoints and ATV options for better value.

Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary Visit

Encounter the world's second-smallest primate at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, where these big-eyed nocturnal creatures are protected in their natural habitat. These ancient primates, no bigger than a human fist, are endemic to the Philippines and represent one of the most unique wildlife experiences in Southeast Asia.

Booking Tip: Entry costs ₱60 per person, best visited early morning (8-10 AM) when tarsiers are most active. Choose the official sanctuary over roadside exhibits to support conservation efforts. Combine with Chocolate Hills tours for efficiency, typically ₱2,000-3,000 for combined packages.

Loboc River Cruise Experience

Glide along the emerald waters of Loboc River aboard traditional floating restaurants while enjoying a buffet lunch and local cultural performances. The scenic cruise passes through lush tropical landscapes, mangrove forests, and local villages, offering glimpses into rural Filipino life along the riverbanks.

Booking Tip: River cruises cost ₱450-650 per person including buffet lunch and cultural show. Book the 11 AM or 1 PM slots for optimal experience. Look for operators offering stops at Busay Falls or cultural villages for added value.

Panglao Island Beach Hopping

Explore the pristine white sand beaches of Panglao Island, including the famous Alona Beach with its powdery sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The island offers some of the Philippines' best diving sites with vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and excellent visibility year-round.

Booking Tip: Island hopping tours range from ₱1,200-2,000 per person including boat, snorkeling gear, and lunch. Book during March-May for calmest seas. Choose operators with smaller boats (bangkas) for access to secluded beaches and better snorkeling spots.

Historic Baclayon Church and Heritage Tour

Step back in time at Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines built in 1727, featuring ancient religious artifacts, centuries-old manuscripts, and Spanish colonial architecture. The adjacent museum houses an impressive collection of religious relics and provides insight into Bohol's rich Catholic heritage and colonial history.

Booking Tip: Church entry is ₱30, museum ₱20 per person. Visit between 8 AM-5 PM, best combined with Blood Compact Monument nearby. Many Bohol countryside tours include this for ₱1,800-2,500 per person with multiple historical sites.

Getting There

Bohol is accessible via Tagbilaran-Panglao International Airport (TAG) with direct flights from Manila (1.5 hours, ₱3,000-8,000), Cebu (45 minutes, ₱2,500-5,000), and Davao. Alternatively, take a ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran (2 hours, ₱500-800) or from Dumaguete (3 hours, ₱300-500). The most economical route is flying to Cebu then taking the ferry, while direct flights to Bohol offer convenience but at higher costs. Ferry schedules run multiple times daily, with 2GO and Ocean Jet being the main operators.

Getting Around

Tricycles are the most common local transport in Tagbilaran and Panglao (₱10-50 for short distances), while habal-habal motorcycles serve rural areas. Renting a motorcycle (₱300-500/day) or car (₱2,000-3,000/day) provides flexibility for exploring the island independently. For countryside tours, hiring a van with driver costs ₱3,000-4,000 per day for groups. Jeepneys connect major towns but can be crowded and slow. Many resorts offer shuttle services to popular attractions, and ride-hailing apps have limited availability outside main tourist areas.

Where to Stay

Alona Beach, Panglao
Tagbilaran City Center
Dumaluan Beach, Panglao
Loboc Riverside
Carmen Town
Anda Beach

Food & Dining

Bohol's cuisine features fresh seafood, with specialties like prawns, crabs, and fish prepared in traditional Filipino styles. Try the famous kalamay (sticky rice delicacy), peanut kisses, and ube-based desserts unique to the region. Alona Beach offers international restaurants and beachfront dining, while Tagbilaran has local eateries serving authentic Filipino dishes at budget-friendly prices (₱150-400 per meal). The floating restaurants on Loboc River provide scenic dining experiences, and local markets offer fresh tropical fruits and street food. Don't miss trying the local tuba (coconut wine) and visiting the Bohol Bee Farm for organic cuisine with stunning ocean views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Philippines

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Bohol is during the dry season from December to May, with March to May being ideal for beach activities and water sports due to calm seas and minimal rainfall. December to February offers cooler temperatures (24-28°C) and is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities, though it's also peak season with higher prices and crowds. The rainy season (June-November) brings occasional typhoons and rough seas but offers lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists. The Chocolate Hills are most photogenic during dry season when they turn their signature brown color, while diving conditions remain good year-round with water temperatures of 26-29°C.

Insider Tips

Book accommodations on Panglao Island rather than Tagbilaran for better beach access and resort amenities, with easy day trip access to mainland attractions
Visit the Chocolate Hills Complex early morning or late afternoon for dramatic lighting and bring layers as it gets surprisingly cool at the viewing deck
Support conservation by visiting the official Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella rather than roadside exhibits, and never use flash photography as it can harm these sensitive creatures

Explore Activities in Bohol