Bohol: Choco Tour + Rio Verde Lunch Buffet

If you’re looking to explore Bohol’s stunning landscapes, encounter adorable wildlife, and enjoy a relaxing meal overlooking the river, the Bohol Choco Tour with Rio Verde Lunch Buffet offers a well-rounded package. Designed as a free and easy experience, this tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights at their own pace without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its combination of natural beauty and cultural charm—from the iconic Chocolate Hills to the playful tarsiers, all wrapped up with a delicious buffet lunch on a floating restaurant. The private group setup ensures a more personalized experience, and the straightforward logistics make it accessible and stress-free.

One possible consideration is the timing and communication, as some reviewers have noted minor issues with contact and schedule clarity. However, the overall feedback is extremely positive, especially regarding the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views. If you’re after a meaningful glimpse into Bohol’s scenery and culture, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is ideal for independent travelers, families, or couples who enjoy flexible itineraries and want to maximize their time with minimal hassle. It also suits those who appreciate a mix of nature, wildlife, and local cuisine in one well-organized day.

Key Points

• Flexible, private tour with pickup and drop-off at Panglao or Tagbilaran City
• Includes all admission fees to attractions like the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Conservation Area
• Delicious buffet lunch at Rio Verde Floating Resto with stunning river views
• Knowledgeable driver-guides who handle entrance fees and facilitate the experience
• Duration of about 8 hours, offering a full but relaxed day of sightseeing
• Good value considering the comprehensive itinerary and all-inclusive pricing

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

This Bohol tour balances scenic highlights with cultural encounters. It’s a no-fuss way to tick off the island’s must-see spots without the stress of self-organizing transport or tickets. It’s particularly appealing because of its private group format, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience.

From the moment your driver picks you up, you’ll notice the convenience. The driver acts as your guide, taking care of entrance fees, parking, and timing. This means you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the sights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pickup at Tagbilaran or Panglao

Your day begins with a pickup at either of two convenient locations—Panglao or Tagbilaran City. These are major hubs, so whether you’re staying near the beach or the town center, arrangements are straightforward. The driver arrives with a friendly attitude and a plan for the day.

Stop 2: Rio Verde Floating Resto

First up, you’ll stop at the Rio Verde Floating Restaurant for a photo opportunity and a chance to see this unique dining spot. The lunch buffet here is a highlight. You’ll sit amidst panoramic views of the Loboc River, with a menu offering a wide range of Filipino and international dishes.

Many reviews highlight how the staff are entertaining and accommodating. The onboard music adds a lively touch, making the meal feel like part of the adventure rather than just a stop for food. The buffet is praised for its variety and quality, giving you options to suit different tastes.

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Stop 3: Chocolate Hills

Next, the iconic Chocolate Hills take center stage. This geological wonder consists of over a thousand cone-shaped hills, which turn brown in the dry season, resembling giant chocolates—hence the name. The viewing platforms provide spectacular panoramic vistas, perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape.

This stop is more than just a quick snapshot; it’s a chance to really appreciate the scale and uniqueness of this natural feature. The guided aspect here helps explain the formation, adding educational value.

Stop 4: Tarsier Conservation Area

The tour continues with a visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area, where you can meet these tiny, wide-eyed primates. Many travelers find the tarsiers irresistibly cute, and seeing them in their natural habitat is an authentic experience. Guides explain the conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of protecting these delicate creatures.

One reviewer noted, “You can take as long as you like, and your driver is called upon when you’re ready to move again,” which underscores the tour’s flexibility.

Stop 5: Return and Drop-Off

After a full day of sights, your driver will take you back to your hotel or accommodation in Panglao or Tagbilaran. The total duration is around 8 hours, offering a full yet manageable day.

The Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

From the ease of transportation to the variety of sights, this tour offers a smooth experience. The private guide/driver handles the logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying each site. The scenic drives between stops also add to the pleasure, especially if you appreciate seeing lush landscapes and traditional villages.

The Chocolate Hills viewing is a highlight — a breathtaking sight that encapsulates Bohol’s volcanic past. The Tarsier Conservation Area offers a chance for close encounters with wildlife, perfect for families or animal lovers. The Rio Verde Lunch Buffet provides a restful break, with tasty Filipino dishes and river views that elevate the meal beyond just sustenance.

Value and Practicalities

At $117 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of all entrance fees, transportation, and guide service. It’s a cost-effective way to cover multiple highlights without paying separately for each attraction or worrying about transport logistics.

The all-inclusive nature means you don’t need to worry about extra expenses, and the flexible schedule allows you to linger at sites or skip certain parts if you prefer. The pickup/drop-off options in Panglao and Tagbilaran** make it accessible regardless of where you stay.

While some reviewers mention minor communication issues—like inconsistent start times—these are typically resolved smoothly, and the overall experience remains positive. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views more than compensate for small inconveniences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for independent travelers, couples, or families who prioritize convenience and want a comprehensive experience without the stress of planning every detail. It suits those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes, alongside a taste of local cuisine.

If you value personalized service and comfortable transportation, the private group setting will appeal. It’s also a great choice for travelers who prefer a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, especially during a full day exploring Bohol.

The Sum Up

The Bohol Choco Tour with Rio Verde Lunch Buffet offers a thoughtfully curated package that blends stunning scenery, cultural encounters, and delicious food. It provides a hassle-free way for travelers to see the island’s top attractions, supported by friendly guides and a flexible schedule.

You’ll appreciate the beautiful views of the Chocolate Hills, the chance to meet endearing tarsiers, and the relaxing river cruise with a tasty meal. The tour’s value lies in its all-inclusive price and the ease of having logistics handled for you, making it a sensible choice for those who want to make the most of a single day in Bohol.

This experience is best suited for those who want a genuine, hassle-free introduction to Bohol’s natural and cultural treasures while enjoying the comfort of private transportation. If you’re after a balanced, authentic day full of memorable sights and flavors, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ

Is my pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, the pickup and drop-off are included at either Panglao or Tagbilaran City, making it easy to start your day without extra arrangements.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 8 hours, giving you enough time to visit each site comfortably without feeling rushed.

Are all attraction fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all admission fees, including the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Conservation Area.

Is the tour private or shared?
It’s a private group tour, which means you’ll have a more personalized experience and flexibility during your day.

Can I customize the schedule?
While the itinerary is set, the driver can call upon the attractions as you wish, giving you some control over timing and duration.

Is there an option for wheelchair accessibility?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Just bring some cash for souvenirs, tips, or additional snacks, as all major expenses are covered.

This tour offers an excellent way to see Bohol’s highlights with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and tasty local cuisine—all wrapped into one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: