Looking for top things to do in Bohol and best tourist spots to visit this 2024? Let this Bohol Travel Guide Blog with sample itinerary, places to visit, recommended hotels and resorts, tours, and travel tips help you plan an unforgettable Bohol adventure!
Bohol is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines and is popular for its pristine white sand beaches, uncrowded islands, amazing resorts, and of course the world-famous Chocolate Hills. Less than an hour plane ride from the Philippine capital of Manila or a 2-hour ferry ride from Cebu City will bring you to the beautiful tropical island province of Bohol. Because of its countryside charm and beautiful landscape, it is considered as one of the most-visited province in the Philippines among local and foreign tourists.
There are some many things to do in Bohol, both on land and underwater. It boasts of breathtaking sights, old and historic churches, white sandy beaches, world-class beach resorts, diverse underwater treasures and marine life, and other man-made and natural wonders. You can find many places and do many things in Bohol. Explore the city’s top tourist spots from a selection of Bohol tours on Guide to the Philippines that you, your family, and friends will certainly enjoy.
In this Bohol Travel Guide Blog, I will share to you some of Bohol's top tourist spots, attractions and things to do and to experience, insider tips on what to do and must-try activities, how to getting around, sample Bohol itineraries, and many more that I hope will also serve as your guide in exploring this beautiful Central Visayan island province.
2024 BOHOL TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG FOR FIRST-TIMERS (UPDATED) - Things to Do in Bohol, Tourist Spots & Places to Visit
QUICK FACTS ABOUT BOHOL
- Bohol is the tenth largest island of the Philippines in terms of land area. It is consisted of Bohol island itself and 75 surrounding smaller islands including Panglao Island.
- Tagbilaran City is capital city of Bohol Province. Panglao Island near Tagbilaran City, where most resorts are located is a popular destination among tourists.
- Access: Bohol has a new international airport, the Bohol-Panglao International Airport also known as New Bohol International Airport. It services all flights coming to the province. You can also reach Bohol via ferry from Cebu, Dumaguete or Siquijor.
- Language: Boholano or Cebuano, but English and Tagalog are also widely spoken.
- Currency: Philippine peso (PHP).
- Mode of Payment: Most hotels and resorts, especially the big ones accept credit and debit cards. But cash is preferred in most establishments. Some big resorts have ATMs if you need to withdraw cash. Or you may go to Tagbilaran City where many banks and ATMs can be found. Money remittance centers such as Western Union can also be found in the city.
- Public Transportation: Main mode of transportation within the city is the jeepney. Buses, shuttle vans and tricycles (3-wheeled vehicles) are also available.
- Both Globe and Smart mobile signals work very well in Bohol, especially in the city. Mobile data internet are also available in many areas in the city and in Panglao Island.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BOHOL?
The most popular festival in Bohol is the Sandugo Festival held every July in Tagbilaran City. If you wish to join the festivities and events, schedule your trip in July.
Weather-wise, Bohol is hot all year-round. For me, the best time to visit is during the dry or summer season which is from December to May. This is the season when the weather is a bit colder (December to February) and there are less chances of rains. March to May is the peak of summer in Bohol where temperatures could go around 38 to 42 degrees celsius. If you want to see the Chocolate Hills in its famous chocolate brown color, summer is the best time to visit Bohol.
The wet or rainy season starts from June to November, with July to October getting the most rain. This is also the "low season" for tourists in Bohol. This means lesses people on the beaches, cheap airfares and hotel accommodations. Compared with other provinces in the Visayas, Bohol is not frequented by typhoons. So, it's still good to visit it even during the monsoon months.
HOW TO GET TO BOHOL?
You can get to Bohol via a direct flight from Manila and from other key cities in the Philippines. Upon arrival at Bohol-Panglao International Airport, you may take an airport transfer to your booked resort. √ See rates and availability here.
You can also get to Bohol from Cebu City, Dumaguete, Siquijor or even El Nido. Check out the wide array of transportation options here.
Cebu to Bohol
If you're coming from Cebu, you may travel from Cebu to Bohol via OceanJet Ferry which is one of the most popular ferry operators in Central Visayas. Offering a wide variety of departures daily, you can choose a departure time that perfectly fits your desired itinerary.
Siquijor to Bohol
You can also get to Bohol from Siquijor. OceanJet Ferry also offers this route with hassle free booking and fast ferry ride between Bohol and Siquijor.
Dumaguete to Bohol
Ferries are also available if you're going to Bohol from Dumaguete City You can also book it in advance online.
BOHOL PRIVATE CAR / VAN RENTAL
For your safety and convenience in touring around Bohol, I highly recommend renting a private car or van. With a private car/van, you could create your own itinerary and see the best Bohol tourist spots and attractions at your own pace and time. Since it is private, you need to hurry and enjoy a relaxed and comfortable exploration of the province.
You could choose between a 4 or 8-hour charter service with pick-up and drop-off from/to your hotel or resort. They offer cars for 1-3 persons and vans for 4-8 persons. The package includes an English-speaking driver, fuel fees, and insurance provided by the operator.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN BOHOL (TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS)
Here are the top things to do, activities, tourist spots and attractions you should not miss to include in your Bohol itinerary. Let's explore the best things to do in Bohol!
TRAVEL TIPS: For ease and convenience, you may avail a packaged Bohol Tour when exploring the island. You may choose between Bohol Countryside Tour or go on a Bohol Island Hopping Tour with Dolphin Watching. For solo travelers, you may opt to join a group tour to save on travel expenses. If you're traveling with a group, I highly recommend getting a private Bohol group tour.
1. Visit the Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City
Located in Tagbilaran City, this is the site where the historic Blood Compact happened between Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legaspi. This act symbolized peace and friendship which took place on March 16, 1565.
Address: J.P Inting Street, Tagbilaran City, 6300 Bohol
2. River Cruise at Loboc River
Enjoy the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the clean flowing Loboc river. You could have your lunch here at the floating restaurants where one can relish lush greens all around that are captivating against a perfectly blue sky. It adds tranquility to the ride and also not to forget the great music by the singers from the band aboard the floating restaurant while enjoying a hearty buffet lunch onboard. The Loboc river cruise is definitely a must-do activity when in Bohol!
Address: Poblacion Sawang, Loboc Bohol
Other must-try activity in Loboc River
- Loboc River Stand Up Paddle Adventure - Cruise through the famed Loboc River with your own paddle board!
3. Visit Baclayon Church
Considered as one of the oldest Catholic stone churches buildings in the Philippines, the Baclayon Church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. Baclayon was founded by the Jesuit priest Juan de Torres and Gabriel Sánchez in 1596. This Roman Catholic Church is also known as La Purisima Concepcion de la Virgen Maria Parish Church. Baclayon church was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines and a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Address: Main Road, Baclayon, Bohol
Entrance Fee: Free
4. Take a closer look at the Chocolate Hills in Carmen
One of the top things to do in Bohol and definitely not to be missed are the amazing Chocolate Hills!
Who would miss out going to the world's famous landmark of Bohol? Formed centuries ago by tidal movements, the hills are considered as a National Geologic Movement. During summers, the dome-shaped hills covered with grass dries up and turns brown, which makes the area into seemingly endless rows of chocolate kisses.
Address: Carmen, Bohol
Entrance Fee to the view deck: 100.00 PHP
5. Cross the Bamboo Hanging Bridge in Tigbao
It is made of steel cables and bamboo flooring. When you walk through the bridge it is pretty shaky and swings a lot, but it's a lot of fun! On the other side, you'll find some souvenir shops and the "buko king" of Bohol. This is definitely a must-try for the adventurous tourists!
Address: Tigbao, Loboc Bohol
Entrance Fee: Free
6. Explore the Man-made Forest in Bilar
It is a stretch of two-kilometer, densely planted area of Mahogany trees. When you're there, you'll feel like you are entering a different world - it's refreshing and you can feel the fresh air around you. According to our guide, the mahogany trees found in the area were planted by the students of Holy Name University several years ago.
Address: Loay Interior Road, Bilar, Bohol
Entrance Fee: Free
7. Meet and greet the cute little Bohol Tarsier
Another popular icon of Bohol is the tarsier. The Philippine Tarsier, known locally as Mamag is one of the smallest primates in the world and is considered to be the mammal with the biggest eyes. Please take note that you are not allowed to touch them and you should turn off your camera's flash when you take pictures of these lovely tarsiers.
Address: Philippine Tarsier Foundation Inc., Corella Bohol
Entrance Fee: 60.00 PHP
8. Beach Bumming in Alona Beach, Panglao Island
Located in the southwest portion of Panglao island, it boasts of more than a kilometer of glittering white sand beach. As one of the most popular beaches in Bohol, different resorts lined up its shoreline. If you're staying in Panglao, you may also consider getting a Panglao island land tour to see the best tourist spots and attractions on the island. It is available for groups, for as low as 600 pesos!
Photo from Klook.com
9. Experience Extreme Adventure at Danao Adventure Park
Located 2 hours away from Tagbilaran City, the town of Danao offers one of the newest attractions in Bohol - The Danao Adventure Park. It offer adventure seekers with a wide range of activities that will surely test your limits. Some of the adventurous activities that can be done here include: sky ride, the plunge, river trekking, river tubing, river kayaking, wall climbing and spelunking, to name a few.
For convenient and hassle-free travel to Danao Adventure Park, you may avail a Private Car Charter from Tagbilaran City or Panglao Island.
10. Dauis Church
Located on the island of Panglao, the 18th-century Dauis Church is dedicated to the Our Lady of the Assumption. Many locals and tourists go here because of the image of the La Señora de la Asuncio which is famed to be miraculous.
Address: Dauis, Panglao Islnd, Bohol
11. Doljo Beach
This serene and peaceful beach is distinctly low-key and quiet compared to the Alona Beach. Doljo Beach takes pride in its crystal clear water, fine white sand, and a wide array of resorts where guests can have a memorable and relaxing stay. If you're looking for a beach in Pangalo that is away from the huge crowd, visit Doljo Beach!
12. Bohol Dolphin Watching
Another top things to do in Bohol is to see the dolphins!
The water around Panglao Island, Bohol, has some of the best snorkeling in the world. It is also known for dolphin watching. A must-experience in Bohol, dolphin watching is a popular activity in the morning where you ride a motorized pump boat and watch the playful and friendly dolphins near Panglao Island. Don't miss to experience an extraordinary adventure with these fabulous and amazing dolphins on your next visit to Bohol!
13. Balicasag Island
What's a trip to Bohol without exploring the underwater? When visiting Bohol, don't miss the white sand beaches and rich biodiversity of Balicasag Island. Just an hour away by boat from Panglao Island, you can enjoy sun bathing at the Balicasag Island's beach with medium to fine sand, or go snorkeling or scuba diving to discover its rich underwater wonders. To get here, just ask your resort or hotel for recommendations on boat rental service to Balicasag Island. For ease and convenience, you can book an island hopping adventure in advance.
14. Bohol Bee Farm
Known for its organic restaurant and farm produce, the best thing about visiting Bohol Bee Farm are not the bees but the food. Enjoy their huge al fresco restaurant offering terrific views of the ocean while savoring on their wide array of food offerings. When visiting Bohol Bee Farm, don't miss dining at The Buzzz Cafe and try their amazing selection of ice cream flavors. Definitely a must-try is their Malunggay Ice Cream served in a cone made from dried cassava. It's creamy, not too sweet, but tastes really good!
Address: Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol Philippines
Entrance Fee: 30.00 PHP
15. Hinagdanan Cave
Located in Barangay Bingag in the municipality of Dauis on Panglao Island, Hinagdanan Cave is one of the many wondrous caves in the island province of Bohol. A wonder of nature all by itself, it has a natural underground swimming pool with very cool spring water. If you're looking for some unique and adventurous things to do in Panglao Island, Bohol, visit Hinagdanan Cave!
Address: Bingag, Dauis, Bohol
Entrance Fee: 50.00 PHP
Photo from Klook.com
16. Anda Beach, Cabagnow Cave and Candijay
- See the most beautiful sights of the eastern tip of Bohol on a hassle-free tour
- Relax by Anda Beach, known as one of the best beaches in Bohol
- Be mesmerized with the hole in the ground cavepool known as the Cabagnow Cave and jump in, if you dare!
- See the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and get a glimpse of how local farmers live
- Take a dip in Can-umantad Falls, the tallest waterfalls in the entire province of Bohol
17. Panglao Church
Located on the southwestern side of Panglao Island, this church is dedicated to St. Augustine. Considered as the the 2nd oldest church in the island of Panglao it is known for its ceiling murals depicting the sacraments.
18. Discover Scuba Diving in Bohol
If you want to see the underwater treasures of Bohol, scuba diving should be on top of your things to do in Bohol list!
- Discover the sport of scuba diving with the constant guidance of PADI certified instructors.
- Learn about the equipment and the proper method of breathing underwater with your gear.
- Explore the depths of the sea and witness Bohol’s vibrant corals and thriving marine life.
- This activity doesn’t require any previous experience - you don't even need to be able to swim!
19. Napaling Sardine Run Experience in Bohol
- Make your way to Bohol and join this exhilarating sardine run experience with your family and friends!
- Swim amid the thousands to millions of sardines at Napaling and be astonished by this natural phenomenon.
- See schools of sardines encircle around you as you snorkel close to the shores of Napaling.
- Enjoy a convenient experience that is complete with air-conditioned transfers, entrance fees, and snorkeling masks!
20. Buy some Souvenirs
Never leave Bohol without buying some souvenirs. Bring home some peanut kisses, handicrafts and other local delicacies found only in Bohol.
RECOMMENDED HOTELS AND RESORTS IN BOHOL
Below are my recommended hotels and resorts in Bohol that I have personally stayed at during my previous visits in Bohol. ALSO READ: Best Hotels and Resorts in Panglao Island, Bohol
- Amorita Resort Bohol - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review on Amorita Resort
- Henann Resort Alona Beach - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review Henann Resort Alona Beach
- Momo Beach House - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review on Momo Beach House
- The Bellevue Resort - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review on The Bellevue Resort
- Bohol Beach Club - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Cherry's Home (Cherry's Inland Resort) - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
RECOMMENDED BOHOL TOUR PACKAGES
With so many amazing things to do in Bohol, it could be very overwhelming and it would be hard to decide where to go first. Another problem is that these tourist spots and attractions are located far from each other so getting there by public transportation is not really recommended. The best thing to do is to get a packaged tour when exploring Bohol. There are many packaged tours available in Bohol, and they differ from each other. Here are recommendations.
For ease and convenience, I highly recommend that you get affordable Bohol day tour packages that will surely make your trip more comfortable and hassle-free. Enjoy and explore the natural and cultural wonders of Bohol!
If you're coming from Cebu City and just want to visit Bohol on a day tour, you may avail a Bohol Sightseeing Day Tour. For hassle-free, affordable, and organized Bohol Tour, I recommend that you book a Sight-see Bohol Day Tour from trusted and reputable travel agency based in Bohol.
Sight-see Bohol Day Tour from Cebu
- Catch a glimpse of the world's smallest primate - the tarsier!
- Take a cruise along the Loboc River while eating delicious local food
- Stand in awe as you visit Bohol's famous Chocolate Hills
- Visit a colorful butterfly sanctuary and stroll through a lush forest
- Hotel transfers, guide services, ferry tickets and lunch are all included in the tour
If you're flying-in via Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), or you're arriving by ferry from Dumaguete, Cebu, or Siquijor, you may consider these Bohol Tour Packages. Private group tours and Join-in tours are available.
Bohol Countryside Tour
SAMPLE ITINERARY
- Time: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Pick-ups at hotel/resort at 9:00 AM
- Baclayon Church
- Corella Tarsier Sanctuary
- Loboc River Cruise (Lunch)
- Bilar Man-Made Forest
- Chocolate Hills
- Aproniana Souvenir Shops
- Travel Back to Hotel at 4:00 PM
Bohol Island Hopping and Dophin Watching Tour
- Discover Bohol's most beautiful islands - Balicasag and Virgin Island - as you embark on this memorable island hopping tour.
- Snorkel in the pristine waters of Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary, and swim with numerous fishes and corals.
- Get up close with the marine species of Bohol while fish feeding at Balicasag Reef.
- Cruise to the tropical paradise, Virgin Island, a beautiful sand bar exposed during low tide.
Anda Bohol Tour Package: Explore Bohol's Best
Experience the wonders of Bohol with this Anda Bohol Tour Package, featuring a mix of adventure, nature, and culture.
Itinerary Highlights:
- The iconic Chocolate Hills
- The lush Bilar Man-Made Forest
- Encounter the world's smallest primates at the Tarsier Sanctuary
- Relax with activities on the Loboc River and visit the historic Baclayon Church
- The Cabagnow Cave Pool
- Lamanok Island
- The breathtaking Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
- The Can-Umantad Falls
SAMPLE BOHOL ITINERARY
If you're flying directly to Bohol via Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), you may choose any of these affordable Bohol Tour Packages:
Bohol Countryside Tour Itinerary
Full details and package inclusions of the tour can be found here.
- 09:00 am - hotel pick up
- Blood Compact Site
- Baclayon Church
- Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
- 12:00 pm - Loboc River Cruise Buffet Lunch
- Bilar Manmade Forest
- Chocolate Hills
- Souvenir Shopping
- 04:00 pm - hotel drop off
Bohol Countryside with Panglao Highlights Tour Itinerary
Full details and package inclusions can be found here.
- 08:00 am - hotel pick up
- Blood Compact Site
- Baclayon Church and Museum
- Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
- 12:00 pm - Loboc River Cruise Buffet Lunch
- Bilar Manmade Forest
- Chocolate Hills
- Butterfly Sanctuary
- Souvenir Shopping
- Hinagdanan Cave
- Dauis Church
- Panglao Watchtower
- Shell Museum
- Bohol Bee Farm tour
- 06:00 pm - hotel drop off
Coming from Cebu, here's a sample Bohol Day Tour itinerary:
Sightsee Bohol Day Tour Itinerary from Cebu
Full details and package inclusions can be found here.
- 07:00 am - approximately, hotel pick up time
- 09:20 am - ferry transfer to Tagbilaran
- 11:20 am - arrive at Tagbilaran Port
- 11:45 am - view famous Tarsiers
- 12:30 pm - lunch at the Loboc river cruise
- 01:30 pm - see the famous Chocolate Hills
- 02:30 pm - sightsee at Bilar man-made forest, Butterfly Sanctuary
- 03:30 pm - visit Baclayon Church & Museum and Blood Compact Monument
- 05:00 pm - end of tour
- 05:30 pm - return ferry back to Cebu
- 07:30 pm - arrive back in Cebu, hotel drop off
TRAVEL TIP: If you have more time to explore Bohol, please check out my post: Sample Bohol Itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour or More!
BOHOL TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
- Private Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) or Tagbilaran Seaport Transfer for Panglao - Travel comfortably between Tagbilaran Airport or Seaport and your hotel in Panglao and vice versa.
- Private Car Rental - For ease and convenience in exploring Bohol, private car rental is available for a hassle-free trip. You can book it online and reserve in advance.
- Local SIM Card or WiFi Device - To stay connected to the internet while in the Philippines, you may purchase a SIM Card or rent a travel WIFI device. This will also save you a lot on data roaming charges if you're coming from abroad.
Bohol Travel Requirements? What do you need to travel to Bohol?
As of October 25, 2021, Bohol is open to tourists! Fully-vaccinated, partially-vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers are allowed to visit Bohol for leisure travels. The list of travel requirements depends on the type of traveler you are. Please read my post Bohol Travel Requirements for Tourists & Visitors for more details.
There you have it! My top things to do in Bohol, tourist spots and places to visit for your Bohol itinerary! I hope this Bohol Travel Guide Blog helps! Indeed, there are just so many things that you can do and enjoy in Bohol that will surely make your trip memorable. Go pack your bag and experience beautiful Bohol!
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i think the chocolate hills in carmen are 1,260 all in all since the 8 hills vanished because of the earthquake.
ReplyDeleteHi! Thank you for this wonderful information. We've got some ideas about the Bohol's tourists spots and attraction such as the Chocolate Hills and their white sand beaches. It's a big help for us because me and my family are planning to have a vacation leave this July 2022 in Bohol and I hope that we're able to see you and guide us in our travelling. I'm expecting that the following requirements is finalized and there are no other adjustments because as of now, we're preparing some of the needed requirements as travellers. And again, thank you very much and I'm looking forward to you Sir!
ReplyDeleteSince your trip is in July which is 3 months from now, there might be changes in the requirements. Please check back again soon!
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