Bohol: Private Countryside Tour with Buffet Lunch

Traveling in the Philippines often means weaving through lively cities and pristine beaches, but exploring the countryside offers a different, more intimate view of this beautiful island. This private Bohol countryside tour is designed for those who want to see the island’s iconic sights comfortably and at their own pace.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide and driver makes all the difference—you’re not just another face in a group. Second, the combination of cultural sites and natural wonders offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bohol’s charm.

One potential consideration? The full day’s itinerary means a fair bit of travel and walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, flexible experience with authentic moments and stunning views, this tour will fit the bill perfectly.

This tour especially suits travelers who appreciate history, wildlife, and scenic landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple separate visits. It’s ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive, private experience of Bohol’s top sights.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle ensure a tailored and comfortable day.
• Rich Cultural and Natural Highlights: From historic sites to geological marvels.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees and buffet lunch included, offering good value.
• Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Panglao or Tagbilaran make logistics simple.
• Active Day Out: Expect some walking and sightseeing stops, balanced with relaxing moments like the river cruise.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up with the tiny Philippine Tarsier and scenic views that leave lasting impressions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Bohol Experience

Ease and Comfort from the Start

We found that the main advantage of this tour is the door-to-door convenience. Your guide and driver pick you up at your hotel, whether in Panglao or Tagbilaran, in a private van that’s just for your group. This setup eliminates the stress of navigating public transport or figuring out schedules, especially if you’re on a tight trip. The vehicle is comfortable and the journey is broken into manageable segments, which helps keep the day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

The Historic Site: Blood Compact Shrine

Your first stop takes you to the Blood Compact Shrine, a site that commemorates the 1565 agreement between Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, symbolizing the formal Spanish-Philippine alliance. Standing at this monument, you get a tangible sense of how early the Philippines interconnected with the outside world. The site is small but meaningful, and the guide’s explanations help bring the story to life.

Exploring Baclayon Church

Next, we visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Its centuries-old façade, combined with the adjacent museum, offers a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past and religious history. The church’s well-preserved architecture and the artifacts in the museum make it a worthwhile stop. Be prepared for a quick visit—around 15 minutes—as the focus is on the highlights, but it’s enough to appreciate its significance.

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Meeting the Tiny Tarsier

One of the tour’s most memorable moments is the visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area, home to the world’s smallest primates. These tiny creatures are fascinating, and the sanctuary is designed for close but responsible encounters. You’ll get to see the tarsiers up close, and the guide often shares interesting facts about their behavior and conservation efforts. It’s a gentle, peaceful experience that highlights Bohol’s unique wildlife.

The Chocolate Hills Panorama

No trip to Bohol is complete without seeing the Chocolate Hills, a geological wonder of over a thousand cone-shaped hills. From a designated viewing deck, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that are postcard-perfect. The hills turn brown in the dry season, resembling giant chocolates—hence the name—but even in the green season, they’re a stunning sight. The guide often points out the best angles for photos, ensuring you come away with memorable images.

Scenic Loboc River Cruise and Buffet Lunch

Perhaps the highlight for many is the Loboc River cruise, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on a floating restaurant. As the boat gently glides downstream, lush greenery surrounds you, and local performances add a lively, cultural touch. The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and take in the scenery. The buffet is typically generous, offering Filipino dishes alongside international options, all included in the tour price.

The Bilar Man-Made Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

After lunch, the journey continues through the Bilar Forest, a two-kilometer stretch of carefully planted mahogany trees. It’s a popular photo stop because of its impressive canopy, and it offers a cool respite from the sun. Afterwards, a visit to a butterfly sanctuary introduces you to a variety of local butterfly species; the guided tour explains their roles in Bohol’s ecosystem and their colorful beauty.

Wildlife and Local Crafts

The tour also includes stops at a python sanctuary—home to the world’s largest captive python—and a quick visit to a souvenir shop where you can browse local handicrafts, delicacies, and Bohol shirts. These moments are optional but give a taste of local craftsmanship and a chance to pick up meaningful mementos.

Additional Options and Considerations

While the main itinerary is packed, there’s an optional ATV ride at Chocolate Hills or a zipline adventure—both for an extra fee. These activities appeal to adrenaline junkies, but keep in mind they are not included in the tour price.

How the Tour Comes Together

The itinerary is well-paced, considering the drive times and sightseeing stops. The total duration is about 8 hours, including pickup and drop-off, which makes it perfect for a full, immersive day without feeling rushed. The guide’s local knowledge helps you understand the significance of each site, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

The cost at $132 per person covers entrance fees, the buffet lunch, and private transportation, offering a value-packed way to see Bohol’s highlights without any surprise expenses. The personal guide’s enthusiasm and expertise are often praised—one reviewer called their guide “top notch,” noting they were “knowledgeable and friendly,” which adds a lot of value to the experience.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk around the churches or the forest.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection during outdoor stops.
• A camera or smartphone is essential for capturing the views and wildlife.
• Carry some cash for souvenirs or optional activities not included in the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private countryside tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed yet engaging experience of Bohol’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re someone who appreciates history, wildlife, and natural landscapes all in one day, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer ultra-flexible, independent exploration or have mobility issues, you might find the busy schedule a bit tiring. Also, those looking for adrenaline activities should consider the optional ATV or zipline rides separately.

The Sum Up

This Bohol private tour offers a well-rounded and authentic way to explore the island’s highlights in comfort and style. It balances cultural landmarks with stunning landscapes, all delivered by a guide whose local knowledge and friendly demeanor earn praise. The inclusion of a scenic river cruise with buffet lunch makes it a memorable, value-packed experience.

For travelers who want a personalized, informative, and scenic day out—without the stress of planning—this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those eager to see Bohol’s most famous sights, enjoy some wildlife encounters, and relax with a lovely meal on the water.

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized journey that combines history, nature, and local culture in one day, this could be the highlight of your trip to Bohol.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $132 fee covers private van transportation, a local guide and driver, all entrance fees to the sites, and a buffet lunch during the Loboc River cruise. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also included.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, you can add an ATV ride at Chocolate Hills for 1100 pesos or a zipline ride for 700 pesos. These are not part of the standard package.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, depending on pickup times and the pace of your stops. You’ll have plenty of time at each site, with some buffer for travel.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor some aspects if you communicate your preferences beforehand, such as focusing more on wildlife or history.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, and cash are recommended for photos, souvenirs, and optional purchases.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially given the wildlife encounters and scenic stops. Just consider the walking involved and the full-day schedule.

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of beauty, history, and wildlife—an authentic taste of Bohol that leaves many travelers smiling long after they’ve returned home.

You can check availability for your dates here: