One of the Philippines’ most beautiful islands, Bohol, has many beautiful and intriguing sites to explore. However, the island has much more to offer than just Chocolate Hills and adorable Tarsiers.
Bohol is a Philippine province in the Visayas region. Approximately one million people live in Tagbilaran City, the country’s capital. If you’re planning a trip to Bohol, these are some of the finest tourist attractions you should check out.
Chocolate Hills
It’s a must to see the Chocolate Hills, one of Bohol’s top tourist attractions. They have more than 1,200 hills, which become brown during the dry season – hence the name. You may also visit during the rainy season to see beautiful greenery. Unfortunately, only one observation deck is accessible by long stairs, and you can’t ascend the slopes separately.
Tarsier Sanctuary
Bohol’s tarsiers are well-known, and seeing them is one of the best things to do in Bohol. In the United States, Tarsiers are listed as a threatened species. Unfortunately, they have high levels of emotional sensitivity and are prone to stress, and it is not uncommon for them to take their own lives by pounding their heads on a tree if they are under too much stress.
Man-Made Forest
Man-made Bilar Forest is a 2 km long forest located on the boundary between Bilar and Loboc. In this forest, you’ll discover massive Mahogany trees that form a natural tunnel over the roadways. Although there isn’t much to see or do here, it is an excellent place to stop for a quick snapshot because you’ll be driving past it anyway on your route to the Chocolate Hills from the Tarsier Sanctuary.
Panglao Island
Panglao Island is one of Bohol’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s also close to Cebu City. In addition to its white-sand beaches, Panglao Island is known for its coral reefs and diving opportunities. Aloha Beach is the island’s most famous destination. In general, Panglao Island is known for its Aloha Beach, home to resorts and diving spots.
Danao Adventure Park
Danao Adventure Park is a great place to go if you’re searching for a fun outdoor activity in Bohol. In the mountains of Bohol, Danao Adventure Park is a popular destination for visitors interested in sports such as hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
River Cruise
An unforgettable floating restaurant on the Loboc-Laoay River is also available in Bohol. Tourist may enjoy the landscape around the river as you dine. In addition, you can sing along with the musicians because live bands will play while you eat your meal.
Hinagdanan Cave
Aside from Aloha Beach, Hinagdanan Cave is a popular attraction on Panglao Island. Hinagdanan Cave is an excellent place for spelunkers to explore in Bohol. A steep and tight stairway leads to the cave’s entrance. There are tiny holes in the ceiling to illuminate the inside.
Dimiao Twin Falls
In Bohol, the twin falls at Dimiao are unquestionably one of the most popular tourist destinations to see. A motorbike or a scooter is required to get there, as a car is not permitted. However, if you don’t feel comfortable riding a motorbike, you can hire a guide to take you there.
Butterflies Conservation Center
Near the Bilar Man-Made Forest, the Habitat Butterflies Conservation Center may be found in the township of Bilar, about five minutes away by car. On the way back from the Chocolate Hills, this is a lovely and fast stop if you appreciate butterflies. You may easily spend 20-30 minutes taking pictures on this short stroll.
Pamilacan Island
As a tourist destination in Bohol, Pamilacan Island is a must-see. If so, do you like dolphin watching? Indeed, this is a favorite among children. If you’re looking to dive or observe dolphins, this is the island for you. Whale-watching and dolphin-watching trips are the mainstays of this private island, which is home to 240 families.
Other Reasons to go to Bohol
Bohol is known for three things: the world-famous Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, the smallest primates in the world, and Panglao Island. However, Bohol has more to offer than simply these tourist attractions, which most people are unaware of.
👍Extreme Activities
You may participate in a variety of activities that any adventure seeker or adrenaline addict would like. There’s much to do while you’re in town, from aquatic activities to extreme ones. Snorkeling, paddleboarding, diving, windsurfing, zip-lining, ATV, and rock climbing are just a few examples.
👍Local Cuisines
Bohol is home to a variety of delectable foods and delicacies that you should not miss out on. This contains Gatang Tikla (Crayfish in Coconut Cream), Torta, Calamay, Chorizo de Bohol, and Peanut Kisses, all of which make excellent gifts for loved ones.
👍Friendly Locals
Filipinos are renowned for being kind and warm-hearted individuals. Locals in Bohol are no exception. They are kind and would gladly assist you if you needed it.
👍Wildlife
Aside from the world-famous Philippine Tarsiers, Bohol is home to many other species that would pique anyone’s interest. For example, swim with turtles on Blicasag Island or view whales and sharks on Pamilacan Island.
👍Great Escape
One of the most exemplary aspects of Bohol is that it quickly relaxes tourists. But, of course, the tourists can’t help it since it instantly and readily links people with nature, and what better way to get away from the worries of life than to go outside? Bohol’s natural splendor makes it a paradise worth revisiting.
Tips on What to Bring and Wear in Bohol
Most visitors are concerned about what to bring and what to wear in Bohol. To assist, we have compiled a list of items to carry and wear when visiting Bohol.
✔️Light Clothes
Humidity may be a nuisance, especially when traveling and exploring the city. Wear lightweight clothes made of natural fibers. Wear shirts, trousers, or shorts and avoid wearing bulky jackets or long-sleeved clothing.
✔️Sun Block
Apply sunscreen before leaving your hotel or lodging. Reapply when bathing on beaches or swimming pools, mainly if you are not used to the tropical heat.
✔️Comfortable Shoes
Bring comfy shoes for exploring the city and rubber slippers for relaxing on the beach. There will be a lot of walking and exploring, so bring your trusty shoes with you on the trip.
✔️Insect Repellant
In addition to applying sunscreen to your skin, use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes. This is especially important when visiting densely forested areas or woods since you may be seeing an insect haven.
✔️Backpack
A bag should be adequate for storing your stuff. Bottled water, a camera, your wallet, a smartphone, and maybe a spare t-shirt are all necessities. However, keep an eye on your luggage at all times. As a result, we prefer smaller bags since you can keep them closer to your person rather than having to remove them at every odd chance or challenging trek.
✔️Camera
Always have your camera with you at all times. Bohol has a knack for surprising its visitors from every aspect, and you never know when something photogenic may appear. So make every minute of your Bohol trip matter, whether it’s the warm hospitality of the people, the sumptuous cuisine, or the beautiful landscape, and press that button.
The Best Time to Visit Bohol
Weather-wise, the ideal time to visit Bohol is between April and July, when temperatures are high, and there is little rain. However, this is also peak season in Bohol, so expect to see many tourists throughout these months.
Visiting Bohol during the shoulder months of the peak season is also a great alternative; between November and March, when there is some rain, it generally only lasts a few hours, and the rest of the day is sunny. Avoid the rainy season in Bohol, which lasts from August through October.
Best Way to Get to Bohol
✈️By Plane
There are regular flights to and from Bohol, which welcome both domestic and foreign visitors. Panglao International Airport, located on Panglao Island, is the primary airport in Bohol.
🛥️By Ferry
Cebu ↔️ Bohol
The most popular way is the boat from Cebu to Bohol, which takes around 2.5 hours and costs about 600 pesos. The ferry departs from Cebu Pier 1 Ferry Terminal daily and arrives in Tagbilaran Port in Bohol.
Siquijor ↔️ Bohol
Suppose you’re in Siquijor and want to get to Bohol, daily ferry departures from Larena Port in Siquijor to Tagbilaran Port in Bohol. The ferry ride from Siquijor to Bohol takes around 1.5 hours and costs about 850 pesos plus a 20 peso terminal charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most well-known food in Bohol?
A: Peanut Kisses, Bohol’s most famous delicacy, are hill-shaped biscuits that promise nutty deliciousness in every mouthful.
Q: Why is Bohol so well-known?
A: Bohol is a tropical natural beauty paradise, attracting tourists worldwide and even the locals. The island’s shoreline is dotted with gentle coves and white sand beaches.
Q: What is the Bohol Festival?
A: The Sandugo Festival is an annual historical event held in Tagbilaran City, Philippines, on the island of Bohol.
Q: How far is it from Manila to Bohol?
A: It’s roughly 400 miles (644 kilometers) from Manila but divided by a slew of islands, straits, and sections of water.
Q: When should I plan a trip to Chocolate Hills?
A: During the dry season, the Chocolate Hills take on their characteristic chocolate brown appearance from January to May.
Q: How long do you need to stay in Bohol?
A: Three to four days should be plenty to cover the highlights of your Bohol itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Staying in Bohol is an excellent way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Exploring the island’s crystal-clear beaches, lush green hills, secret waterfalls, and intriguing animals is a fantastic experience. With the Bohol advice and information offered, you may be on your way to a stress-free Bohol trip. So get going, pack your belongings, and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
