Bohol Country Side Tour – Private w/ Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Bohol and want to see its most iconic sights while enjoying a personalized experience, the Bohol Country Side Tour with lunch offered by El Nido Adventure Tours seems to hit the sweet spot. This 8.5-hour adventure is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible look at the island’s highlights without the fuss of large group tours or rigid schedules.

What we love about this tour is the seamless blend of cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and scenic waterways. Plus, having a knowledgeable guide at your side makes all the difference—you’re not just ticking off sights, but truly understanding their stories.

A possible downside? Since it’s a private tour, it does come at a higher price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers. Still, for those seeking comfort, flexibility, and depth, this trip is well worth it.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate personalized service and want a well-rounded introduction to Bohol’s most beloved sites.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures flexibility and attention from your guide
• All-inclusive pricing covers entrance fees, transportation, and a scenic buffet lunch
• Knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding of each site’s significance
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vans makes sightseeing easy
• Ideal for moderate fitness levels — accessible but involves some walking
• Cancellations are flexible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Why Choose This Tour?

Bohol’s highlights are spread across varied landscapes, and this tour offers the chance to see many in one day without the hassle of organizing transportation or entry tickets. The private setup means you’re not competing with large crowds, and your guide can tailor explanations and pacing to your interests.

The tour is priced at around $113.20 per person, which might sound steep but reflects the convenience, inclusiveness, and personalized nature of the experience. When you factor in the all-inclusive fees and lunch, it’s a solid value for travelers eager to maximize their time on the island.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Chocolate Hills Natural Monument

A trip to Bohol wouldn’t be complete without marveling at the Chocolate Hills. This geological formation features over 1,260 to possibly 1,776 hills spread across more than 50 square kilometers. Their uniform, rounded shapes resemble giant mounds of chocolate, especially during the dry season when the grass turns brown.

We loved the way the guide explained how these hills were formed, adding context to what might otherwise seem like just a pretty viewpoint. The admission fee is included, so you can snap photos and take in the panoramic views without extra cost. Expect to spend about 90 minutes here, enough time for a leisurely walk and some great shots.

Stop 2: Man-made Mahogany Forest

Next, the Mahogany Man-made Forest offers a surprisingly lush stretch of artificially planted trees. What makes this stop special isn’t just the trees—though they are impressive—but the story behind it. This is a carefully cultivated patch of forest designed to mimic natural ecosystems, showcasing human effort to create green spaces.

Spending about an hour here, you’ll get a sense of how local initiatives aim to balance development with environmental beauty. The guide’s insights help make this stop more meaningful, especially as you wander beneath the towering mahogany trees, feeling like you’ve stepped into a carefully curated natural corridor.

Stop 3: Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary

No trip to Bohol is complete without meeting the world’s smallest primates—Tarsiers. The sanctuary in Corella offers a conservation-focused visit where you can observe these tiny, wide-eyed creatures up close. The admission fee is included, and the 90-minute stop allows enough time to learn about their unique biology and the importance of protecting their habitat.

We appreciated the guide’s knowledge about the tarsiers’ delicate ecology and the sanctuary’s efforts to prevent disturbance, making this a meaningful visit rather than just a tourist photo op. Expect to see these primates in a naturalistic environment, which enhances the experience.

Stop 4: Loboc River Cruise

The highlight for many is the Loboc River cruise, a two-hour journey that combines scenic beauty with local flavor. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch onboard, featuring familiar Filipino dishes served amid lush river views. The boat glides past mangroves, waterfalls, and villages, offering opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

We loved the relaxed pace and the chance to unwind while soaking in the scenery. The guide ensures the cruise runs smoothly, and the included admission fee covers the entire experience. This stop is perfect for those wanting a bit of laid-back sightseeing with a delicious meal.

Stop 5: Baclayon Church

Lastly, the Baclayon Church, built in 1727, is one of the oldest and most historically significant in the Philippines. Recognized as a National Cultural Treasure, the church’s original structure and materials offer a tangible connection to Bohol’s colonial past.

A guided tour here adds depth, with insights into its architecture and religious significance. The 1-hour visit allows enough time to appreciate the church’s simple beauty and historical importance. It’s a fitting conclusion, tying together Bohol’s spiritual and cultural history.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The strength of this tour lies in its comprehensive nature and the local guides who bring each site alive. Many reviews praise the guides’ ability to share insights and tailor the experience, making each stop more than just a photo opportunity.

Transportation is in air-conditioned vans, a big plus in the tropical Philippine climate. The pickup and drop-off at your accommodation means no worries about logistics, and all fees and taxes are included, simplifying the price.

For those interested in a bit of adventure, optional activities like the zip-line over Loboc River are available (at additional cost). If you’re more into relaxed sightseeing, wandering through villages and rice paddies offers a tranquil contrast.

Is It Worth the Price?

While $113.20 per person may seem high, it covers a lot: transportation, entrance fees, a scenic boat cruise with lunch, and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide. Compared to trying to piece together these sites independently—dealing with transportation, entrance lines, and meal planning—this package offers convenience and peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, all-inclusive introduction to Bohol’s highlights. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, flexibility, and meaningful insights from local guides. If you enjoy a mix of nature, history, and cultural sites, and prefer a smooth, stress-free day, this tour will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

The Bohol Country Side Tour with lunch offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see the island’s most famous sights without the chaos of large group tours. Its private setup means your time is tailored to your interests, and the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide adds educational value beyond just sightseeing.

The stops are thoughtfully selected—each revealing a different facet of Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the striking Chocolate Hills to the delicate Tarsiers and peaceful river cruise, you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments.

While it is a bit pricier than some group options, the comfort, flexibility, and depth of experience make it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free day on Bohol. If you value good guides, scenic beauty, and a taste of local culture in a relaxed setting, this tour could well be your highlight.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the itinerary is accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Some walking is involved at sites like the Chocolate Hills and the church, but nothing overly strenuous.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all entrance fees, environmental fees, transportation in an air-conditioned van, pickup and drop-off at your hotel, and a buffet lunch on the Loboc River cruise.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time won’t be refunded.

Is there an option for additional activities?
Yes, if you’re interested in added adventures, activities like ATV rental are available for an extra fee (P1100 per person).

What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll have a knowledgeable local guide who can share insights on each site, making the experience more meaningful.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops, travel, and the river cruise.

To sum it up, this private Bohol tour offers a balanced, insightful, and comfortable way to explore one of the Philippines’ most beautiful and diverse islands. Perfect for travelers who want a tailored experience with a touch of local flavor, it promises a memorable day that covers the essentials without feeling rushed or overcrowded.