Exclusive Bohol,Philippines Chocolate Hills-Tarsier Tour

Planning a trip to Bohol? If you’re searching for a way to experience the island’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this private Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Tour might be just what you need.

Offered at an attractive price of $70 per person, it promises a full day of sightseeing, cultural insights, and plenty of photo opportunities. While it’s a well-rounded option, knowing what you’ll encounter along the way helps set realistic expectations.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach—it’s a private experience tailored just for your group, meaning more flexibility and less waiting around. The carefully curated itinerary covers some of Bohol’s most iconic sights, from the world-famous Chocolate Hills to the tiny but fascinating Tarsiers. Plus, the inclusion of a scenic river cruise and a visit to historical sites adds depth to the experience.

One possible consideration? The guide might not offer detailed explanations at every stop, which some travelers could find a bit limiting—especially if you’re eager to learn the backstory of each attraction. Still, for those who want a smooth, hassle-free day with a trusted driver and guide, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience best suits travelers who want an all-in-one, relaxed day trip with authentic highlights and the comfort of private transport. It’s ideal for first-timers to Bohol, families, or small groups looking for a personalized adventure without the unpredictability of larger group tours.

Key Points

• Private Tour offers a more personalized experience, ideal for those who prefer exclusivity.
• Affordable price point makes it a good value given the inclusion of several major sights.
• Comprehensive itinerary covering natural wonders, wildlife, historical sites, and local cuisine.
• Limited guide commentary might be a downside for travelers craving detailed historical or cultural insights.
• All-inclusive pricing with lunch and entrance fees means no hidden costs.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Chocolate Hills Natural Monument

The tour begins with the famous Chocolate Hills, a symbol of Bohol and one of the seven wonders of the world. The view here is truly spectacular—over 1,200 symmetrical mounds stretch across the landscape, transforming from green to brown during the dry season, earning their name. We loved the opportunity for a 360-degree outlook, providing a perfect photo moment. The site is well maintained, with an admission ticket included in the package, so no surprises there.

From a practical perspective, expect to spend about 30 minutes here, giving you enough time for photos, soaking in the view, and perhaps a quick chat with fellow travelers. Be sure to bring your camera—these hills make for a postcard shot. The stories behind their formation are varied, adding a bit of local lore to your visit.

Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area

Next up is the chance to meet the adorable, tiny Tarsiers—one of the world’s smallest primates, roughly the size of a mouse. These creatures are nocturnal, and the conservation area is dedicated to protecting them, making it a valuable stop for wildlife lovers.

We liked how the tour emphasizes responsible tourism—turn off your camera flash and keep quiet to avoid stressing these sensitive animals. According to reviews, “they are very sensitive that they easily get stress,” so gentle observation is appreciated. The admission ticket is included, and the visit lasts around 30 minutes. It’s a unique chance to see a creature that can only be found in Southeast Asia, including Bohol.

Baclayon Church

This centuries-old stone church offers a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past. Despite some damage from the 2013 earthquake, the church has been restored, and stepping inside feels like walking back in time. The interior is simple but evocative, with the chance to see historical artifacts in the museum on the convent.

While photo restrictions are in place inside the museum, you can freely photograph the church exterior. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a moment to appreciate its architecture and history. It’s a peaceful stop that adds a touch of cultural depth to the tour.

Loboc River Cruise

One of the highlights is the Loboc River cruise—a nearly two-hour float along lush scenery, with a buffet lunch on board. Imagine gliding past palm-lined banks, local homes, and greenery as you enjoy a delicious meal.

The float not only satisfies your appetite but also offers a calming, scenic experience. This stop lasts around two hours, so it’s a good chance to relax and take photos of the river’s peaceful flow. The included lunch is generally well-reviewed, with many travelers appreciating the relaxed pace and tasty local dishes.

Xzootic Animal Park

Next, we visit the Xzootic Animal Park, where you can see and even hold an Albino Python—a unique experience not available in many places, including India. The big, gentle reptiles are surprisingly adorable, and the park showcases their life cycle, making it a fun stop for animal lovers.

The admission ticket is included, and the visit lasts about 45 minutes. Expect to see butterflies fluttering around, adding a splash of color to the experience. This stop balances entertainment with education—just what you need for a family-friendly excursion.

Blood Compact Monument

This monument commemorates the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos, sealed in 1565. Known as “Sandugo”, it marks the blood compact between Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna. It’s a symbolic site that offers a glimpse into Bohol’s early history and colonial past.

The stop is brief—around 15 minutes—and free of charge. It’s a meaningful photo stop that helps contextualize the island’s history, especially for those interested in the Philippines’ colonial era.

Aproniana Souvenirs

Finally, you’ll have about 30 minutes at Aproniana, a shop where you can purchase souvenirs like T-shirts, local delicacies, and handicrafts. It’s a good opportunity to pick up mementos, but keep in mind that this is more of a commercial stop than a cultural one.

What the Tour Includes and Omits

The included features ensure you won’t have to worry about extra costs—fuel surcharge, air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, driver fee, and the buffet lunch on Loboc River are all covered. The admission tickets for the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Conservation, Baclayon Church, and Xzootic Animal Park are also included, making this a convenient package.

However, some optional activities like the Chocolate Hills ATV or Loboc Adventure Park are not covered and would incur additional costs if you wish to explore further.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One traveler described the experience as having “high quality, professional and courteous service,” particularly praising the guide’s kindness and professionalism. Another, however, noted that the guide was more of a driver than a guide, unable to answer detailed questions about the attractions’ history. This highlights the importance of managing expectations—while the tour is well-organized, it may not satisfy those craving in-depth historical commentary.

The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind when planning your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour suits travelers seeking a convenient, all-in-one experience that balances natural beauty, wildlife, history, and local culture. Families, first-time visitors, and small groups will find it particularly appealing. The pace is moderate, and the inclusion of transport and meals makes it an excellent value for the price.

If you’re happy with a guided experience that hits all the highlights without requiring much planning, this tour offers a comfortable and enjoyable way to absorb Bohol’s essence.

The Sum Up

This Exclusive Bohol Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Tour provides a well-rounded, manageable way to see some of the island’s most recognizable sights. Its private nature guarantees a personalized experience, and the inclusion of key attractions adds great value. The scenic cruise, wildlife encounters, and historical stops make it diverse and engaging for a broad audience.

While it may lack in-depth commentary from the guide, the practicality, comfort, and coverage of major highlights make it an attractive choice for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable day on Bohol. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a balance of natural wonders and cultural sights without the stress of organizing each part independently.

If you’re after a cost-effective, flexible, and comprehensive way to explore Bohol, this tour stands out as a reliable, enjoyable option.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is exclusively for your group, providing a more personalized experience with fewer strangers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire day lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers fuel surcharge, air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, driver fee, buffet lunch on Loboc River, and the admission tickets for major stops.

Are there any optional activities not included?
Yes, activities like ATV rides at the Chocolate Hills or visits to Loboc Adventure Park are not included and would cost extra.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
This depends on the traveler. One review praised the guide’s professionalism, but another noted limited historical commentary. Expect a driver who is courteous and respectful rather than a detailed guide.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, and comfortable clothing. Remember to turn off your camera flash at the Tarsier Conservation Area to avoid stressing the animals.

Is food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included during the river cruise, featuring local dishes.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and boat rides.

This detailed, balanced look aims to help you determine if this tour fits your travel style. It’s a well-organized, engaging way to see Bohol’s highlights while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a private guide.