Bohol's claim to fame is unique geological formations of over 1000 cone-shaped hills that change in color depending on the season – the Chocolate Hills. You can view the hills from the Chocolate Hills Complex where there’s a viewing deck with a stunning 360° view of the cone-shaped hills. These giant mounds of chocolate-colored earth on the dry season that turn green during the wet season are known across the world for their enchanting beauty.
Like the Chocolate Hills, the tarsiers and their big eyes are synonymous to Bohol as well. These nocturnal creatures are considered to be the smallest primate in the world. They grow to be just 15 centimeters long at most, and they're just so cute! Tarsiers can also be found in other Philippine destinations like Samar, Leyte, and parts of Mindanao. But Bohol is known for its tarsier sanctuary tours that help preserve and raise awareness about these species.
One of Bohol’s most beautiful natural attractions is the Loboc River. This beautiful river is a wonder of nature that has been preserved through the combined efforts of the local authorities and the residents. The scenic river that runs through multiple towns in Bohol is framed with lush tropical trees, perfect for winding down in the afternoon after your countryside tour. The most popular activity in the river is the Loboc River Cruise activity, where tourists board a floating restaurant. The boat cruise will drift along the serene 1.5km long river while you feast on a Filipino lunch buffet.
You’ve crossed hanging bridges, but have you crossed one made entirely out of bamboo? This well-known hanging bridge often included in a sightseeing trip in Bohol is made of woven bamboo straps and stretches over a gently flowing river. The locals know it as Tigbao Hanging Bridge. There's an entrance fee, but you get free access to the tourist spot if you join a sightseeing tour in Bohol as it's mostly included in the itinerary. The Tigbao Hanging Bridge is located in Sevilla, Bohol. It's suspended 83 feet above the Loboc River and is the primary connection between two barangays in the town.
One of the best ways to spend your day in Panglao Island is going island hopping. You can easily book a day tour with one of the numerous tour agencies at Alona beach, or you can book it online. Usually, the first stop of the tour will be at Balicasag Island, and the boatmen will take you to some spots for dolphin watching. If you want to maximize your chances of seeing them, I suggest you take the earliest tour, starting at around 6 in the morning. Once at Balicasag Island, you will transfer to a smaller boat that will take you snorkelling along the colourful reefs and fishes in the Balicasag Island Marine sanctuary. You might get to swim with sea turtles that flourish in the area. The last stop is the Virgin Island, which is known for its beautiful sandbar that will make you feel like you are floating in the air. The island also offers fresh exotic seafood and refreshing snacks that you will surely enjoy.
Hinagdanan Cave excursions are a must-add in any Bohol itinerary. Not only because of its beauty, but it's also easily accessible from the Chocolate Hills and waterfall destinations in the province. The Hinagdanan Cave features a pool of clear water at the bottom. You can swim here under the mesmerizing sight of stalactites and stalagmites. The word "hinagdanan" means laddered in Cebuano. This now-famous tourist spot in Bohol is said been accidentally discovered by a farmer who built a ladder to access the cave, thus the name
Panglao Island isn't the only tropical beach destination in Bohol. The town of Anda has become a fast emerging tourist spot in the island province as well. Located on the eastern coast of Bohol (around three hours from Tagbilaran City), Anda features a 1.5km-long white sand beach called Anda Beach. Anda Beach offers a more relaxing tropical escape compared to Panglao Island's famous Alona Beach. Aside from the beach, the town of Anda also offers other natural attractions like blue cave pools. You can explore these and other beaches in the area with a full-day tour of Anda to make the most of your time.
The Bilar Man-Made Forest often included in a Bohol sightseeing escapade is great for a slow walk down a natural tunnel formed by the canopies of well-spaced trees. It's a tranquil place, so it's great if you're looking for a short pit stop before your next Bohol adventure, the forest is just north of it. It has a stretch of two kilometers and is made with white and red mahogany trees. This tourist destination is often packaged with other tourist spots such as Chocolate Hills in a guided sightseeing excursion in Bohol.
If you’re thinking that you could only see the grandeur of the rice terraces in Banaue, think again for Candijay will prove you wrong. The terraces were formed from elevated areas converted into farmlands by the natives of barangay Cadapdapan long time ago.
A 60 feet high and is said to be the tallest waterfall in Bohol. It’s clean, clear and cold water will surely entice you to enjoy swimming. This site is suitable for picnics and other fun activities like river trekking and swimming with your loved ones. Have a free back massage with the splash of heavy flowing water.
Danao Adventure Park offers exciting activities such as rappelling, wall-climbing, bungee-jumping, and many more. You can also ride the zipline, skybike, and ATV to get your heart pumping while admiring the breathtaking view of the park. The zip line in Danao Adventure Park is the longest and tallest zip line in the Philippines. Try it to experience gliding from one mountain to the next in a one-minute exhilarating ride. If you want more adrenaline rush, take on The Plunge bungee-jump. The guy handling the rope will ask you about your preference in falling. If you're feeling adventurous, try falling upside-down — headfirst — and prepare to take the plunge. Make sure someone's taking a video of your successful attempt in facing your fear. Try different recreational activities too such as parasailing, boating, rafting, and wall climbing. Appreciate the remainder of the day before returning to your accommodation in Bohol.
The Church of Immaculada Concepcion, or more popularly known as Baclayon Church, is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines and probably the most famous heritage site in Bohol. It was founded in 1596, but was only elevated as a Parish in 1717 and was completed in 1727. Its original façade is made of coral stones that were dragged from the sea and cut into cruciform shapes. In the 19th century, another facade was built together with surrounding stone buildings. An old convent housing century-old relics is also located next to the church. During the massive earthquake in Bohol in 2013, the church suffered major damage, but reconstruction was already finished in 2017.