Bohol, Philippines: Unexpectedly Beautiful
When I started planning for our trip to the Philippines, I couldn’t figure out which places to include in our itinerary. We only had two weeks to spare so I wanted to make sure the one’s we visit were worth it. Most of the people we asked told us to visit Palawan (of course) and Boracay. For some reason, no one mentioned Bohol. Since Boracay has now become everyone’s go-to destination, we decided to skip it and avoid the crowd. Instead, we set our sights on Bohol.
Bohol is a province located in the Visayas region of the Philippines and is the country’s 10th largest island. Unbeknownst to me, aside from the Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers, Bohol is also famous for beautiful beaches and renowned dive spots. In 2013, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Bohol and Cebu, claiming over 100 lives. One can only imagine how devastating it must’ve been. Today, Bohol continues to rebuild and in my opinion, is recovering rather well in terms of tourism.
How to get here
As we approached our final days in the Philippines, we were excited to see what Bohol has in store for us. We took an early ferry to Tagbilaran (Bohol’s capital) to get a head start on our day.
There are several ferries that depart daily from Cebu City’s Pier 1. There are two types of ferries: regular ferry (approx 4 hour ride) and fast ferry (approx 2 hour ride). To save time, we booked with one of the fast ferry companies, Ocean Jet. I didn’t really expect much but surprisingly, the ferry was nice & clean inside. The ride was manageable for the most part but a dose of dramamine is highly recommended to prevent motion sickness. If open water and ferries are not your thing, you can always book a flight to Tagbilaran airport from either Manila or Cebu.
- Fare from Cebu to Tagbilaran: We got ours for P560 (promotion) but regular fare is P800 one-way.
- Terminal fee: P25 per person.
Panglao Island
From Tagbilaran, it’s roughly 30 minutes to get to Panglao Island. We steered clear of the popular tourist spot, Alona Beach and instead, we stayed in the northern side of the island at Bohol Beach Club. I’m not kidding you when I say it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. The beach was to die for – abundantly tall palm trees, crystal blue waters and a white sand beach; it’s definitely the best place in Bohol to relax and unwind.
Two days is not nearly enough! There’s so much to do at the resort alone that aside from our countryside tour that we didn’t feel the need leave the property. [Check out my blog post for more stunning views of Panglao Island and Bohol Beach Club. Click THIS.]
tip:
- Countryside Tour: P2,500 (driver and car only). The resort we stayed at has tour packages that includes a tour guide, lunch and entrance fees. We opted to go at our own pace and just rent a car w/ a driver who was very nice and ended up as our tour guide anyway.
Tarsiers
The first stop on our tour? Tarsiers! Ever since I read about tarsiers back when I was in elementary, I’ve been looking forward to seeing them in person. What are tarsiers? Tarsiers are nocturnal creatures that are known to be the smallest primates in the world and can be commonly seen in Southeast Asia. Enormous eyes, relatively long tail & long ankle bones are just a few of the unmistakable features that differentiate them from other primates. The two most important things to know about them are: they are critically endangered and are prone to hurt themselves when they get stressed. Noise and human contact are the most common stressors that these creatures encounter during captivity.
Unfortunately, because of its close proximity to Chocolate Hills, we were brought to the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc. After reading an article from a fellow blogger, Aileen, I discovered that this place is an unethical for-profit tarsier viewing area that is not supported by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation. I knew in my gut that there was something so odd about this place. I even asked one of the volunteers how are the tarsiers so close to the pathway, within arm’s reach and more likely to be prodded by tourists. She just told me that the tarsiers considered that their home and come morning time, they jump from tree to tree, back to their branch near the pathway. Uhh okay. I don’t know why I believed it at that time. Thankfully, I came across that article and now I can inform you guys that there is a better alternative.
tip:
If you want to see tarsiers in their normal habitat, visit The Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary in Corella, a non-profit organization that supports the conservation of the Philippine Tarsiers. If you do end up visiting them, please respect their habitat and do not bombard the adorable creatures with flash photography or any noise. Since they are nocturnal animals, they tend to keep to themselves and snooze. It really pissed me off when some people were trying to wake them up by making a lot of noise. Please, don’t be that person!
Butterfly Sanctuary
Before heading to Chocolate Hills, we made a side trip to Bilar, Bohol where we visited the Simply Butterflies Conservation Center – the first butterfly livelihood breeding and conservation program in Bohol. Founded on butterfly conservation principles, the sanctuary protects and strengthens the natural environment of the butterflies through plant research, breeding and releasing. Thus, helping raise the butterfly population.
The sanctuary has a nature trail, butterfly garden and a butterfly enclosure where you can walk through and see butterflies fluttering around. Our tour only lasted 30 minutes so James and I asked our guide if we can go back inside to take more photos of the butterflies. We only spotted a few that day but we were told that there are more than 20 species of butterflies inside the enclosure.
- Entrance Fee: P45 per person
Man-made Forest
A 1.2 mile stretch of mahogany trees, Bohol’s man-made forest is a popular stop among tourists headed to Chocolate Hills. Who knew that this lush greenery was made by man? As we drove by, we felt a change in temperature. It felt a lot cooler thanks to the towering trees that created a canopy, shading us from the harsh sunlight. It reminded me of the tree tunnel in Kauai that I really loved, which is also man-made.
- No fees
Chocolate Hills
When I think of Bohol, this is what immediately comes to mind. After all, these uniformed conical hills have become synonymous with Bohol. It is on every souvenir item in every souvenir shop. In paper, it sounds so plain. But when you actually see it in person, you’ll definitely be in awe. There are approximately 1,268 hills with sizes that vary from 90-160 ft. Seeing how they all look symmetrical, you would think it’s man-made but it’s definitely not! So why is it exactly called Chocolate Hills when they look green? It’s because the grass covered hills turn brown during dry season. Don’t they look like Hershey’s Kisses?
We arrived at Chocolate Hills around noon and the place was already packed. So packed that we couldn’t even find parking! The hills are already visible in the parking lot but to get a better view, we climbed 200 something steps to the viewing deck. It was very difficult to get a shot without someone in the background especially with everyone scrambling to get a better position than the other. Some were even hogging the best parts of the viewing deck. Not cool! After the crowd thinned out, we finally were able to enjoy the view and take some photos.
- Entrance Fee: P50 per person
Loboc River Cruise
You can’t leave Bohol without having a buffet lunch at the Loboc River. As the boat traversed down the river, we filled our tummies with Filipino food, all the while being serenaded by a local entertainer. This was my favorite part of the tour. Despite the food being average, the stunning scenery made up for it and served as a feast for the eyes. Beautiful palm trees gently swaying along with the wind, towering above us on both sides of the river. The long and winding stretch of the verdant river, so calm and alluring – it was definitely a peaceful ride. It reminded me of the time we kayaked down the Wailua River in Kauai.
Before we headed for the dock, we made a stop to a floating stage with more than a dozen of local entertainers waiting to perform. Although it was short, I really enjoyed it. They played a couple of songs and also danced the tinikling (I even ended up joining them). Seeing the locals perform warms my heart and it reminded me of how much I miss the Filipino culture.
- Entrance Fee: P100 per person
- Lunch and cruise: P350 per person
Baclayon Church
Baclayon Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines; completed in the early 18th century. It was heavily damaged during the 2013 earthquake and efforts to restore the bell tower & other parts of the church are still underway. Because of this, most of the areas are inaccessible to the public. Even though we didn’t have enough time to check out the museum, I still think it’s an interesting stop on our Bohol tour.
- Entrance Fee: Baclayon church and museum P50 per person
Blood Compact Shrine
This famous tourist spot stands as a memorial for the first treaty between the Spaniards and the Filipinos. This event is more commonly known as “Sandugo”. The blood compact between chieftain of Bohol Datu Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lòpez De Legaspi on March 16, 1565, ultimately established a friendship between the two leaders. We didn’t really stay here that long because it got too busy (and there’s really not that much to do anyway) but we did check out the view behind the monument and it was glorious!
- No fees
Bohol will always be one of my favorite places to visit. Aside from the beautiful beaches and picturesque landscape, the people of Bohol is what makes them distinctive from other islands in the Philippines. Everyone that I met during our trip was very kind and polite. I can’t wait to go back and explore the other parts of the island.
How about you? Have you been to Bohol?
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Oh my goodness, your photos are so heavenly! The Chocolate Hills look breathtaking and I just can’t imagine what they’d actually be like in person! I need to take a trip here, immediately – I am so much more relaxed just by looking at your pictures! What kind of camera do you use? LOVE!
Aw thanks Kendall! I appreciate it! 🙂 I use the Nikon D5300 for my photos. Still getting the hang of it but it’s a nice camera for sure.
Looks amazing, Id love to visit one day ive heard so many wonderful things about the Phillippines. Thank you for sharing.
You definitely should look into visiting the Philippines Kristin. There’s so many islands for you to explore. 🙂
Oh those tarsiers are too cute. I want one, which is bad because the whole point is you don’t get one. Your travels always amaze me. I had never even heard of Bohol until just now. I would enjoy a buffet lunch on the Loboc. It’s something I would certainly book.
Lee
They are so cute right? It’s unfortunate that they’re critically endangered and some of them are still in captivity. 🙁 Glad to know that I’ve somehow piqued your interest regarding Bohol. The lunch buffet was wasn’t the best but the views certainly made up for it.
Oh my gosh what a gorgeous place! I’ve not traveled internationally much, but I think I could easily put this on my “places I need to go list’! Just looking at your beautiful pics makes me a little bit happier inside!
Aw thank you for the kind words. Glad you love the photos! I haven’t traveled much internationally as well but I’m hoping to change that by the end of this year.
Love, love, love Bohol! Last time I was there, before the earthquake, we rented a bungalow just 5 mins away from Alona beach and I remember laying on the beach at night with my best friend just looking at the starry night. So gorgeous! Glad you had fun girlie, your photo’s are so beautiful! <3
Thanks my friend! 🙂 I love Bohol! I just think its so charming and laid back. Did you get to go on the countryside tour too?
We have never embarked on this type of travel before. What an amazing experience and your pictures are breathtaking.
Thank you for visiting my blog Crystal! I’m delighted to know you love the photos!
Oh wow, these pictures are absolutely gorgeous! I would love to visit the Phillippines someday. After reading this, it’s definitely moved up on my to-visit list. Thanks so much for sharing your experience.
Aw thank you Carin! Yes! You definitely should visit the Philippines. I have yet to explore the other islands but I think Im off to a good start. If you ever visit, make sure you check out Palawan too!
It’s great to see that are making efforts to restore the Bohol church. Some parts of Asia they would just demolish it. We must get to the Philippines one day being so close to Australia. I always marvel at the blue clear waters and the white sands of these islands. The wildlife always seems to be so abundant.
Aw I didn’t know some parts of Asia don’t preserve historical buildings. That’s very unfortunate. I wish they would put more effort so that the next generation could enjoy and learn about the history of the place. And yes, you guys should definitely do it! I’m sure you and your family will enjoy the Philippines.
Interesting post, completely enjoyed this post. Philippines is a wonderful place and difficult to visit in a single trip.
Thank you for visiting the blog! Appreciate you enjoying the article. 🙂
What a great post, you’re making me want to book the next flight there! You’re photos are so stunning.
Thank you so much Aimee. Still trying to improve my photography skills. Glad it’s paying off a bit. 😀
Awe, there is so much to see! I’d love to this area, just hubby and me. Then, bring our kiddos back for their own adventure. I just don’t think we’d get to enjoy it to its fullest, otherwise.
I agree! There’s so much stuff to do that I wish we had more time. Oh definitely. Either way, you and your husband and/or the kids will love exploring Bohol.
Wow! It looks seriously beautiful there! I love your pineapple bathing suit too. That’s too cute.
Thank you Mags! I love that bathing suit too. One of my go-to pieces. <3
Stunning photographs! Especially the first one and some of the others are like straight out of a magazine. You might be interested to read Cereal magazine or Cereal guides. I have a feeling you will like the visuals there 🙂
Aw wow thanks for that compliment! You just made my day! 🙂 I will definitely check it out, thanks for the tip!
Bohol truly looks stunning – those beaches… We were in Palawan last year for 2 weeks but didn’t make it up to Bohol and definitely want to return to this incredible country to visit Bohol.
It’s definitely one of my favorite beaches I’ve visited. Oh nice! I love Palawan too. We only stayed for 2 days though. Boo!
It’s been years since I went to Bohol. I was able to see the historical church before the earthquake hit. Although Bohol isn’t a favorite of mine, it’s definitely a beautiful place. Did you get a chance to see Virgin Island? It happens to be my favorite island because we managed to have it all to ourselves when we went! So imagine just being literally in the middle of the ocean and the sand bar with no one else in sight! It was grand.
I wasn’t able to visit other parts of Bohol just Panglao Island, unfortunately. We just didn’t have enough time. But I did hear about Virgin Island and Balicasag. And aw that sounds amazing! Wish we had time to go there! Maybe next time!
Bohol looks amazing – I’ve always wanted to see the chocolate mountains and the tasiers look so cute! And those beaches look idyllic – I can’t believe I haven’t made it there yet!!
It really is Vicki. It’s even more beautiful in person. You have to see it for yourself!
Bohol is a very beautiful place. Would love to travel there.
You have to check it out Bernard!
I’ve never heard of Bohol! The Philippines has so many different islands to visit!
It’s definitely underrated compared to the other popular spots like Palawan and Boracay. I’m sure there’s a few more islands I’ve never heard of that’s even more beautiful than Bohol.
I’ve always been curious how Bohol looked like. It’s a shame I haven’t traveled extensively in the Philippines but I’ll definitely do it one day! Thanks for sharing!
Oh you have to Trisha! I’m actually in the same boat as you. I was born and raised there but never really got to explore the other parts of the country. I was mainly in Manila and Batangas. There’s still so much to see!
Oh it’s great that you recommend some lesser known spots in the Philippines. Sometimes it’s great to be a bit away from the tourist crowd and explore other places. Bohol looks definitely amazing! I think I would enjoy doing the Loboc River cruise. I mean, they have a buffet lunch on a boat! How cool is that?!
Those are the best one’s right? I like going off the beaten path sometimes. And I’m glad you’re interested in the river cruise. It’s not the best buffet but the view was definitely a feast for the eyes. You will love it Kathrin! 🙂
Posts on the Philippines are coming in fast! I’m amazed at its beauty and a little annoyed with myself that I haven’t seen most of these in person. The ocean is the best infinity pool!
I’m really happy that the Philippines is finally getting the exposure it deserves. Its definitely great for tourism! You have to book a flight there soon Mar! You won’t regret it.
Thank you for the beautiful photos and essential information and most of all, thank you for investigating and understanding the ethics of the Tarsiers! I’ve only been to Palawan in the Philippines so far, so I’m looking forward to seeing much more!
And thank you for liking the post and the photos Alice. And I’m really happy that you were able to experience Palawan too! It’s one of my favorite destinations to date. Hope you’ll be back soon!
First, thank you for putting the prices too. I usually check blogs when I`m planning a trip and it gets frustrating when I cannot budget!
Secondly, never heard of Tarsier before, but I`m glad that more and more people are making conscious decisions of avoiding unethical companies that are putting animals and the environment in danger. Thanks for informing about Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc.
Hi there Daniela. No problem! I find it easy for me to plan too when I know how much the whole trip is going to cost so I get it. Tarsiers are adorable lil creatures, aren’t they? There are a bunch of companies pretending to help these animals but really, they’re just putting up a front to fund their unethical practices. I’m glad I was able to shed some light regarding this.
We are going to the Philippines in a few months and Bohol is definitely on my list of places to go! Your photos are absolutely beautiful and this post is super helpful! I will save it for future reference! Thanks for sharing!
Oh yay! You will love it Megan! Thank you for liking the photos. Hope you enjoy your time in the Philippines and if ever you have any questions feel free to message me. 🙂
So much beautiful nature and culture here – thanks for the tip on the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary in Corella – I’m trying to be very conscious of ethical experiences when we’re traveling now 🙂
No problem Meg! It’s definitely frustrating to know that there are companies with unethical practices and are trying to front that they aren’t doing anything to harm animals. I’m trying to do the same and be more conscious about things like this whenever I travel. Glad I’m not the only one! 🙂
The more i read about Philippine the more i like this destination, but so far Bohol looks the most impressive. Love the beaches, the nature, all looks perfect! Great Photos Janna!
Hey there Nina! You will love the Philippines. So many beautiful islands to explore! Bohol is definitely on my top and I’m hoping you get to experience it for yourself. Thanks for liking the photos!
Your pictures are incredible. I love them all. It makes me feel like I’m a really there. I like all of your suggestions. The only thing I would suggest is making the font a little bit bigger. I have to squint a bit. Other than that, fantastic post. Cheers from South Korea!
Thank you Gina! Appreciate it! Thanks for the tip. I just changed it and hopefully it’s better now. Hope you are having a fab day there in South Korea! 🙂
I am intoxicated by the beauty of Bohol, It really is a wonderland, right from its pure beaches to the lush greenery all around and your stunning pictures are a treat to the eyes.
You and me both! The beaches and verdant scenery are really a feast for the eyes! Thank you for liking the photos and for stopping by! 🙂
I love Bohol, looks like we did all the same activities. Did you make it to the Bohol Bee Farm? Interesting place and the food is pretty good.
Oh that’s awesome Bob! I’m glad you enjoyed Bohol as well. We didn’t! Ugh I was kicking myself for not setting aside a few hours to grab some lunch there. I heard they have delicious food there. 🙁
Hi Janna, thanks for this! So beautiful. booked my flight and will be staying in the east coast white sand resort in 27 days! This is very insightful and am so looking forward to loving Bohol. 5 days ok to take it all in?
Hey there Zoe, no problem at all! 27 days?? Ahhh so jealous! I’m quite sure you’ll fall in love with Bohol too. 5 days is more than enough to take it all in. My husband and I only had 3 days there and although we were able to do a bunch of activities, I wish we had an extra day or two because Panglao Island and Bohol in general is just sublime!
Hi Janna, Great post! It is really Beautiful in Bohol indeed, as your photo’s says…
I was there 2 years ago for a week with my Boyfriend , We stayed in Alona Beach, so much seafood!!!Great place for snorkeling. Actually there is so much to see and to do . Though we didn’t go to Loboc River, so we missed the buffet 🙁 For those who plan to go, i advice you to rent a motorbike to go around the area, so much fun!!!
Surprisingly bohol tour was amazing and our squad enjoyed so much. We had a quality time venturing every activities we shared. Famous spots and beautiful.
Hey there Maygi! Glad you loved Bohol too! I really enjoyed the island as a whole. Hope to be back again someday.