Bohol: A Tropical Paradise
Bohol, one of the stunning islands in the Philippines, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, lush rolling hills, and unique geological formations, Bohol offers a wide array of attractions for tourists and adventure seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Chocolate Hills
The iconic Chocolate Hills of Bohol are a geological wonder, comprising over 1,200 symmetrical limestone hills that turn brown in the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds. This unique landscape is a must-visit, ideal for photography and hiking enthusiasts.
Tarsier Sanctuary
Home to one of the world’s smallest primates, the Philippine Tarsier, the Tarsier Sanctuary provides a close encounter with these incredible creatures. Visitors can observe them in their natural habitat while learning about their conservation.
Alona Beach
Alona Beach in Panglao is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and diving. The beach is lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars, making it a vibrant place to enjoy the sun and nightlife.
Cultural Experiences
Bohol is rich in history and culture, with various heritage sites to explore. Visit the historical Blood Compact Shrine, the Baclayon Church – one of the oldest in the Philippines, and marvel at the traditional Spanish colonial architecture found throughout the island.
Adventure Activities
For those seeking adventure, Bohol offers numerous outdoor activities. Go snorkeling or diving in the vibrant coral reefs of Balicasag Island, or embark on a kayaking expedition along the Loboc River. Zip-lining over lush landscapes and trekking through the scenic hills are also popular options.
Culinary Delights
Boholano cuisine is a feast for the senses. Make sure to try local dishes such as Chicken Adobo, Boholano Lechon (roasted pig), and fresh seafood. Don’t forget to taste the famous Boholano delicacies like Calamay, a sweet rice cake made with coconut milk and brown sugar.
How to Get There
Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) is on Panglao Island, close to Alona Beach, with flights from Manila and other Philippine cities (how to get to Bohol). From Cebu there is no flight; take a fastcraft from Cebu City to Tagbilaran, a crossing of about two hours (Cebu to Bohol ferry guide), then a van or tricycle to Panglao in roughly 30 to 45 minutes.
- Getting around: most visitors hire a van or car with driver for a countryside day (Chocolate Hills, the tarsier sanctuary and the Loboc River), and use tricycles or scooters around Panglao.
- Sea trips: boats to Balicasag and Virgin Island leave from Panglao beaches; see our Panglao and Balicasag snorkeling guide.
Best Time and What to Expect
Best time to visit
February to May is the most popular window, with calm seas for snorkeling and the Chocolate Hills at their brownest. June to October brings more rain and rougher seas, and island hopping can be weather dependent (Bohol month-by-month weather; Department of Tourism Bohol page).
What to expect
In 2023 Bohol Island became the Philippines’ first UNESCO Global Geopark. Its Chocolate Hills number 1,268 cone-shaped limestone hills (UNESCO). The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, run by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation, lets you see tarsiers in forest habitat on a guided walk (visitor guidelines). Read more in our Tarsier in Bohol post. On the coast, Panglao’s beaches and the reefs of Balicasag are the main draw.
A typical countryside tour also stops at Baclayon Church and the Blood Compact Shrine near Tagbilaran, and many include a lunch cruise on the Loboc River. Divers and snorkelers spend their time on the Panglao side, where Balicasag Island’s reef is the best-known sea trip. Allow at least two full days: one for the countryside and one for the sea.
Responsible Travel Tips
- Tarsiers are nocturnal and easily stressed: keep your voice very low, never touch them and never use flash, as the Philippine Tarsier Foundation asks.
- Choose the foundation’s sanctuary, where the animals live in a natural forest setting.
- At Balicasag and other reefs, don’t touch or chase turtles and keep your fins off the coral.
- Stay on the paths and viewing decks at the Chocolate Hills.
- Take rubbish back from sandbars and islands, and bring a refillable bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers in one day?
Yes. Both are on the usual countryside day tour from Panglao or Tagbilaran, often combined with the Loboc River.
How do I get from Cebu to Bohol?
Take a fastcraft from Cebu City to Tagbilaran, about two hours, then transfer to Panglao.
Can I take photos of the tarsiers?
Yes, without flash, quietly and without lingering too long at one animal.
Where should I stay?
Stay on Panglao for beaches and sea trips, or in Tagbilaran if you mainly need ferry access.
How many days do I need in Bohol?
Two full days covers a countryside tour and a sea trip. Three or four days leaves time for a second dive or snorkel day and slower beach time on Panglao.
Read next: Tarsier in Bohol and Panglao and Balicasag Snorkeling.
