Bohol, a Philippine island renowned for its diverse natural wonders, offers travellers an unforgettable experience. From snorkeling alongside majestic whale sharks to exploring the iconic Chocolate Hills, this guided tour immerses visitors in the island’s captivating biodiversity. Whether observing the elusive tarsiers or strolling through the picturesque Mahogany Forest, each stop on the itinerary promises to leave a lasting impression. The day culminates in a serene river cruise, where guests can savor a traditional Filipino feast while surrounded by Bohol‘s breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking to discover the wonders of this island paradise, the journey is just beginning.
Key Points
- Bohol Island offers a diverse range of natural attractions, from encountering the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, to exploring the iconic Chocolate Hills.
- The guided day trip provides an opportunity to observe the rare and endangered tarsier, a small primate known for its large eyes, in a conservation area.
- The tour includes a scenic cruise along the Loboc River, where visitors can enjoy a traditional Filipino buffet lunch while surrounded by lush riverbanks.
- The Mahogany Forest, a man-made ecological site, offers a tranquil respite and stunning photography opportunities amid towering mahogany trees.
- The tour’s flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, make it an attractive option for travelers.
Overview of the Tour
This guided day trip around Bohol Island offers participants an opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural wonders.
The tour lasts 10 hours and accommodates up to 8 people, with pickup from your hotel in Panglao included. Led by an English-speaking guide, the experience costs $295.72 per group and provides flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants can reserve now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, or culinary adventures, this comprehensive tour promises to showcase the best of Bohol in a single day.
Itinerary Highlights
The guided day tour around Bohol Island showcases an array of natural wonders and cultural attractions.
Visitors can observe the elusive tarsiers, small primates found in the Tarsier Conservation Area. They’ll then stop for a scenic photo op at the towering Mahogany Forest.
The highlight is snorkeling with the gentle whale sharks, the largest fish on the planet. After, the tour ventures to the iconic Chocolate Hills, a geological wonder featured on the provincial coat of arms.
Participants can enjoy a relaxing river cruise along the Loboc River and savor a local lunch on a floating restaurant.
Optional activities like ATV riding and ziplining provide additional thrills.
Wildlife and Natural Attractions
Bohol is home to an array of captivating wildlife and natural attractions. The island is famous for its Whale Sharks, the largest fish on Earth, which can grow up to 20 meters in length. Visitors can snorkel alongside these gentle giants, observing their mesmerizing movements up close.
Another iconic sight is the Chocolate Hills, a unique geological formation featuring over a thousand mounds scattered across the landscape.
The Tarsiers, tiny primates with large eyes, are also a highlight, found in the island’s Tarsier Conservation Area.
The Mahogany Forest, a 2-kilometer man-made wonder, offers a scenic backdrop for photo opportunities.
Tarsier Conservation Area
Although small in size, the Tarsier Conservation Area is home to one of Bohol’s most unique and elusive residents – the tarsier.
These small primates, known for their large eyes and long fingers, are a popular draw for visitors. The conservation area offers a chance to spot these nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.
During the tour, guests will have approximately 30 minutes to observe the tarsiers from a safe distance. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the knowledgeable guides provide the best opportunity to catch a glimpse of these shy, endangered animals.
Strict rules are in place to protect the tarsiers and ensure a sustainable wildlife-viewing experience.
Mahogany Forest and Photo Stop
After observing the elusive tarsiers, the tour moves on to the scenic Mahogany Forest, a 2-kilometer stretch of lush, towering mahogany trees.
This man-made forest is a popular photo stop, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the verdant landscape.
The highlights of the Mahogany Forest include:
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Towering Mahogany Trees: The impressive mahogany trees, some standing over 40 meters tall, create a serene and picturesque setting.
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Shaded Pathways: Winding trails through the forest provide a pleasant and cool respite from the tropical sun.
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Scenic Vistas: Panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside make for stunning photography opportunities.
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Educational Signage: Informative placards along the trail educate visitors about the forest’s history and ecology.
Whale Shark Watching and Snorkeling
Next, the tour takes participants to the waters off Panglao Island for an exhilarating encounter with the ocean’s gentle giants – the whale sharks. After suiting up in snorkeling gear, adventurers will have the chance to swim alongside these majestic creatures and observe their unique behaviors. The experience is both thrilling and educational, as the guide shares fascinating insights about the world’s largest fish.
| Whale Shark Facts | |
|---|---|
| Length | Up to 20m |
| Weight | Up to 34t |
| Diet | Plankton |
| Conservation | Vulnerable |
| Lifespan | 70+ years |
The opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks is a highlight of the Bohol tour, offering a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with these magnificent marine animals.
Chocolate Hills Tour and Exploration
The tour’s Chocolate Hills exploration provides a captivating encounter with one of the Philippines’ most iconic natural wonders.
Guests visit the famous hills, a unique geological formation of over 1,700 mounds scattered across the landscape. The guide leads a 40-minute tour, sharing insights into the hills’ formation and significance.
Visitors can:
- Admire the distinctive, symmetrical cone-shaped hills.
- Capture stunning panoramic photos from the viewpoint.
- Learn about the local folklore and theories behind the hills’ origins.
- Gain a deeper appreciation for Bohol’s remarkable natural beauty.
This highlight of the day trip showcases the diversity of Bohol’s extraordinary landscapes.
Loboc River Cruise and Lunch
One of the tour highlights is the Loboc River Cruise, where guests enjoy a leisurely lunch aboard a floating restaurant.
This 1-hour experience allows them to take in the lush, verdant scenery along the riverbanks. During the cruise, they’ll be served a traditional Filipino buffet lunch, featuring a variety of local dishes.
It’s a relaxing way to recharge after the morning’s activities. The cruise entrance fee is 1000 PHP per person.
Guests should bring cash to cover this and any other optional activities not included in the tour package.
The Loboc River Cruise provides a chance to take in Bohol’s natural beauty while savoring the local cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can also book now and pay later without upfront payment.
How Do I Book the Optional Activities?
To book optional activities like ATV rides, ziplines, and Loboc River cruises, you can pay the entrance fees directly at each site during the tour. Advance booking is not required for these add-on experiences.
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required?
The minimum group size required is up to 8 participants. The tour can accommodate groups of any size up to 8 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for all participants.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, private tours can be requested. The tour operator offers private day trips around Bohol Island, which allows for a more personalized experience with the guide. Prices may vary based on the group size and specific requirements.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Yes, there are package deals available that offer discounts. For example, the tour operator provides a 10% discount for groups of 4 or more participants. Travelers can also combine activities like the zipline and ATV ride for a reduced price.
Recap
This guided day tour in Bohol offers an unforgettable and immersive experience. Visitors can witness the island’s diverse wildlife, from the elusive tarsiers to the majestic whale sharks. The tour also includes exploring the iconic Chocolate Hills and a relaxing river cruise with a traditional Filipino buffet. Bohol’s natural wonders come alive, making this an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.