Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch (Shared Tour)

Planning a day out on Bohol? This shared tour promises a look at the island’s most famous attractions—from the iconic Chocolate Hills to playful tarsiers—plus a relaxing lunch cruise along the Loboc River. It’s a popular option for travelers wanting to hit all the big sights without the hassle of planning each stop.

What we like about this tour is how it combines cultural landmarks with wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery—especially the Chocolate Hills and the Loboc River cruise, which many visitors find memorable. The inclusion of entrance fees and environmental charges in the price makes it straightforward, and the buffet lunch on the river is often praised for its flavor and ambiance.

A potential drawback is the length of the day. With a full schedule packed into about 8 hours—covering roughly nine stops—some travelers, especially those sensitive to heat or tight schedules, might find it a bit exhausting. Plus, reviews point out some issues with the quality of certain attractions, notably the Xzootic Animal Park.

This tour suits those who prioritize seeing Bohol’s highlights efficiently—families, first-timers, or travelers with limited time. If you’re after a relaxing, well-rounded day that hits the main sights, it’s worth considering. However, those seeking more personalized or off-the-beaten-path experiences may want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Overview: Covers all the major tourist spots on Bohol in a single day.
• Inclusion of Lunch: The Loboc River cruise with buffet lunch offers a relaxing break and tasty local food.
• Wildlife Encounters: Get close to the adorable Tarsiers and see fascinating creatures at the Python & Butterfly Sanctuary.
• Cultural Significance: Visit the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church for a taste of Bohol’s history.
• Scenic Highlights: The Chocolate Hills and Man-Made Forest provide memorable views and photo opportunities.
• Group Size & Cost: Shared with up to 12 people for $66 per person, balancing affordability with small-group comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: McDonald’s Panglao

Most tours kick off here around 8:00 AM. It’s a convenient meeting place, especially if you’re staying nearby. The pick-up process can take an extra 30 minutes, so plan to arrive a bit early to avoid missing the start.

Blood Compact Shrine

The first stop is a significant historical site—the Blood Compact Shrine—where you can snap a few photos of the monument commemorating an important event in Filipino history. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, enough to appreciate the symbolism and take some pictures.

Baclayon Church

Next, the tour includes a visit to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Its preserved architecture offers glimpses into colonial times. Around 30 minutes gives enough time for photos and a quick look inside if open.

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Xzootic Animal Park

Here’s where reviews get divided. This wildlife park offers a chance to see animals up close but has drawn criticism for the poor conditions—small cages, minimal vegetation, and questionable animal treatment. One traveler noted that this stop “ruined the overall quality” of the tour. If you’re sensitive to animal welfare issues, this might be a stop to skip or approach with caution.

Man-Made Forest

A peaceful drive through this grove of tall trees is a favorite for many. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, perfect for photos—your chance to capture a sense of Bohol’s natural beauty.

Loboc River & Lunch Cruise

The highlight for many is the 2-hour Loboc River cruise. The buffet lunch served aboard offers a variety of Filipino dishes, with many travelers saying it’s delicious. The cruise itself provides a relaxing way to see the lush river scenery and enjoy the cool breeze. The floating restaurant gets positive remarks for its atmosphere and food, though it can get crowded.

Tarsier Sanctuary

After lunch, a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary lets you see these tiny, wide-eyed primates up close. The hour-long stop is generally a highlight, especially for families. Photos can be adorable, but remember to keep a respectful distance to avoid stressing these delicate creatures.

Chocolate Hills

No Bohol tour is complete without the Chocolate Hills. About an hour here offers enough time for panoramic views and some memorable photos. The landscape’s uniformity and natural beauty make it a real highlight.

Return to McDonald’s Panglao

The tour wraps up back at your starting point, typically around 4:00 PM, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating is 2.3 out of 5, based on three reviews, indicating mixed experiences. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly guides and beautiful scenery, especially the Loboc River and Chocolate Hills that truly live up to their reputation.

One traveler expressed delight about the food and views but strongly advised avoiding the Xzootic Animal Park, describing it as “disgusting” and “awful.” This points to a common concern: some attractions are more touristy than authentic, and animal welfare is sometimes compromised.

Others found the day’s length and bus fullness taxing. One reviewer mentioned that with the tight schedule and heat, the long day felt more exhausting than enjoyable. Another criticized the lack of commentary or guide interaction during the stops, describing it as a “tourist trap” with many stops aimed at encouraging spending rather than enriching experiences.

These reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations—if you’re looking for a well-structured, engaging tour with a knowledgeable guide, this might not be it. But if you want a convenient way to see Bohol’s highlights, it can still be a good option.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour is priced at $66 per person, which includes vehicle, driver, fuel, entrance fees, and the river cruise with lunch. Considering the number of attractions, this is quite reasonable, especially since entrance fees are included.
• The group size maxes out at 12, making it a comfortable small-group experience.
• It lasts about 8 hours, starting early in the morning. Be prepared for a long but packed day.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the heat; bring a camera to capture the views, and don’t forget cash for souvenirs.
• The tour is shared with no guide commentary during stops, so a bit of self-guided exploration is expected.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch offers a convenient way to see many of the island’s top sights in one day. It’s best suited for travelers who want value for money and are okay with a full, busy schedule. The scenic views, wildlife sightings, and cultural landmarks make it a good introduction to Bohol.

However, if you’re sensitive to touristy attractions or animal welfare concerns, you might want to research other options or consider customizing your day. The quality of some stops is mixed, and the lack of detailed guide commentary could leave some wishing for more educational depth.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Bohol’s highlights, with the promise of beautiful scenery and delicious food. Just approach it with realistic expectations about the pace and stops, and you’ll likely come away with some lovely memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since it includes a wildlife sanctuary and a scenic river cruise. Keep in mind the long day and heat, and make sure children are comfortable with bus travel.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the vehicle with driver and fuel, entrance fees, environmental fees, and the Loboc River cruise with buffet lunch.

How long is the tour?
It runs about 8 hours, starting around 8:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon.

Are there any stops worth skipping?
Many travelers recommend avoiding the Xzootic Animal Park due to animal welfare concerns, which can impact the overall experience.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there are stops where you might find souvenirs or snacks. It’s wise to bring extra cash just in case.

Is the tour guided?
The tour includes a driver with basic English, but there’s little to no commentary during the stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, light clothing, and sun protection are advised. Bring a camera for the scenic views.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a shared experience with up to 12 people.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability early, especially during peak seasons, and be prepared for a full, busy day.

The Bohol Choco Tour with Loboc River Lunch offers a straightforward way to see many of the island’s top sights, packed into one enjoyable day. Just keep your expectations in check, and you’ll find it a good value experience with some true highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: