Bohol Island Landmark Highlights 1-day Tour: Chocolate Hills + Tarsier + Loboc River and More
Highlights
Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills are a natural wonder near Carmen. Composed of 1,268 conical hills ranging from 40 to 120 meters in height, they stand majestically like haystacks scattered across the ground. During summer, these "haystacks" dry up and turn brown, resembling rows of chocolate spread over the landscape—hence the mouthwatering name. In different seasons, they transform like various chocolate flavors, from matcha to truffle. Climbing to the top of the Chocolate Hills involves just over 200 steps. Though the sun may be bright, the 5–6 minute hike is well worth it for the unique chocolate-like view at the summit!
Tarsier Sanctuary
The tarsier is a national treasure of the Philippines, primarily found in the southern regions and classified as an endangered protected species. A visit to Bohol Island wouldn't be complete without stopping by the Tarsier Conservation Area to observe these adorable creatures! Tarsiers are tiny in size with large, round eyes that resemble glasses, hence their name. They have long tails, move by leaping, and are nocturnal, making them incredibly endearing. Remarkably, tarsiers can rotate their heads 180 degrees and jump to heights over 20 times their own body length.
Bilar Man-made Forest
A "natural air-conditioned corridor" on the way to the Chocolate Hills! This 2-kilometer road is canopied by towering mahogany trees, dappled sunlight filtering through as temperatures drop by 5°C. Born from a 1947 post-war reforestation project, this transformed barren hills into an ecological sanctuary—a miracle of human-nature reconciliation. Pause briefly to capture the painterly scene where deep forest paths intertwine with crimson railings.
[Loboc River Cruise Lunch] (Loboc River Cruise)
A feast for the taste buds and eyes on the "Oriental Amazon"! Drift along emerald waterways on bamboo rafts, shaded by rainforest canopies on both sides, occasionally spotting children playing in the water. The onboard buffet serves Filipino flavors like roasted pork and mango smoothies, accompanied by live folk music or interactive bamboo dances by indigenous performers. The entire experience lasts about 1 hour.
Baclayon Church
Asia's ancient coral stone church, a living fossil of Spanish colonial history! Built in 1727 with coral stone and egg white mortar, its Baroque dome and stained glass windows tell tales of time's passage. Deliberately preserved earthquake damage highlights historical resilience.
