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Bohol Travel: First Time Traveler's Ultimate Guide
Planning to visit and explore Bohol? Let this travel guide help you with useful how-to’s and practical information on the top activities to do, attractions, and tourist spots in Bohol, Philippines.
This blog post aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for those who want to travel and explore Bohol, Philippines, one of the must-visit places for first-time travelers in the country.
- Bohol is the Philippines’ 10th largest island and is located in the middle of the Visayas.
- Bohol is composed of one main island and 75 smaller islands and islets.
- Called as a residencia, Bohol used to be part of the province of Cebu. It became a separate province, along with Siquijor, on July 22, 1854.
- The province of Bohol is a first-class A province composed of 47 municipalities and one city and has a total of 1,109 barangays.
- Its capital city is Tagbilaran City.
- Tagbilaran City is the only city in the Philippines that requires tricycle drivers to have bible scripture verses painted at the back, as mandated by Bohol provincial government’s ordinance.
- The locals of Bohol, known as Boholanos, have their distinct native dialect also called Boholano, which is closely related to the Cebuano language. Cebuano, Tagalog, and English are also widely spoken and understood.
First-Time Traveler’s Guide
to the Awesome Province of Bohol, Philippines
Considered as the most diverse place in the Philippines, visiting Bohol will give you a sort of an overview of what you can expect to find in the whole country. From stunning white sand beaches, awe-inspiring natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, to interesting history, Bohol offers a bit of everything in one place.
Bohol, an oval-shaped Central Visayan island province boasts everything from vivid green paddy fields, breathtaking rolling hills, lush jungles, stunning beaches, spectacular diving sites, striking rivers and waterfalls, and abundant biodiversity of flora and fauna, as well as rich and colorful history - pretty much a mini-showcase of the marvels of the entire Philippines.
This blog post aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for those who want to travel and explore Bohol, Philippines, one of the must-visit places for first-time travelers in the country.
Top Attractions in Bohol
Below is a list of the top attractions you wouldn’t want to miss when visiting Bohol.
Chocolate Hills
Spread over the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan
Arguably the most famous attraction that draws thousands of tourists each year, the Chocolate Hills is a unique geological formation of grass-covered hills that turn brown during the dry season, hence the name.
Scattered over an area of 50 sq km, the Chocolate Hills, consists of at least 1260 hills, with varying height ranging from 30 to 120 meters spread over Barangays Sagbayan, Sierra Bullones, and Carmen.
To get a glimpse of the panoramic view of this one of a kind natural wonder, you need to climb roughly 200 steps to the top where an observation deck is built. There is a small restaurant in the Chocolate Hills complex as well as souvenir shops. The entrance fee here is Php 50 per person.
Tarsier, World’s Smallest Primates
Philippine Tarsier Foundation, Corella, Bohol
Bohol is widely-known as the home of the Philippine Tarsiers, locally known as “mamag,” one of the smallest primates in the world. They are endemic to the Philippines, and besides Bohol can be found only in Leyte, Samar, and some parts of Mindanao.
Measuring 5 to 6 inches (about the size of an adult palm), tarsiers with their teeny tiny body, oversized eyes, and bat-like ears might be the most peculiar primate on earth. You will find these adorable creatures lazing around in the trees during the daytime, and are active at nighttime.
Tarsiers are considered near threatened and these delicate creatures are known to behave suicidally when distressed. If you plan to have an up-close encounter with the Philippine Tarsiers in Bohol, make sure you avoid touching them. Don’t use your camera’s flash, and zip it as they are also sensitive to loud noises.
The Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc is just along the main road, and usually, this is included in Countryside Tour packages. The entrance fee is Php 60 per individual.
Loboc River
With unique, rustic charm, Loboc River Cruise is another must-try experience in Bohol. Sample all-time favorite authentic Filipino delicacies on a floating raft along the river’s calm and serene waters. Plus, you will be treated with a local band performing Boholano songs and old love songs while aboard.
The river, bordered with greenery left and right gives off a dazzling verdant glimmer. Another highlight of the river cruise is a stopover at a station where a group of locals performs cultural presentations, singing and dancing Filipino folk songs and dances.
Typically, the cruise lasts for about an hour, starting at the Loay Bridge or mouth of the bridge. At the end of the cruise, the sight of Busay Falls awaits. The boat then turns back to return to the docking station.
The Loboc river cruise experience and buffet meal cost Php 550 per person, and pre-booking is not necessary.
Bilar Man-Made Forest
A two-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees, the Bilar Man-Made Forest is one of the tourist drawers in Bohol. Located between the towns of Bilar and Loboc, when entering the natural-arched tunnel of the towering mahogany trees, you’ll feel like you have just entered another realm. You will be greeted with cold, fresh air with the trees almost covering the sun.
Sipatan Twin Hanging Bridge
Spanning over the Sipatan River located in the Municipality of Sevilla, Bohol, the Twin Hanging Bridge was originally built with just ropes and indigenous bamboo. Today, steel cables were added for safety and stability. The bridge’s deck is made out of intricately wooden bamboo slats.
The bridge spans around 40 meters long and 20 meters high, and stepping unto the bridge can be a bit daunting at first because of the swaying and bouncing movements, especially when several people are crossing. All in all, it’s a fun attraction and you can catch a good view of the Sipatan River below. At the end of the bridge, there are stalls where you can buy cold drinks and snacks and some souvenirs.
Hinagdanan Cave
Hinagdanan Cave is one of the wondrous caves in Bohol. It has a natural underground swimming pool with cool, clear spring water that’s about 10 to 12 meters deep. The cave is made of limestones and boasts several stalactite and stalagmite formations parallel to each other, and natural light passes in through the number of holes in its ceiling.
Besides its awe-inspiring beauty, Hinagdanan Cave played an important role during World War II. The cave once served as a hideout for locals to escape from the Japanese Imperial army. The cave was accidentally uncovered by a local farmer while clearing his land. The farmer came across two holes, and out of curiosity, dropped a rock down the hole and heard a splash. He built a ladder, or ‘hagdan’ in the local dialect, and was able to access the cave and found an enormous cave with freshwater lagoon, thus the origin of the name Hinagdanan. The cave is found on the northern coastline of Panglao Island.
Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
A remote treasure found in Candijay, about two hours away from Tagbilaran, Cadapdapan Rice Terraces were formed from elevated areas were converted into farmlands by the native locals of barangay Cadapdapan many years back.
Top Activities in Bohol
1. Beach Bumming In Bohol: Best Beaches in Bohol
For beach lovers and sun-worshippers, Bohol will definitely not disappoint with its pristine fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning reefs. Below we’ve listed the best beaches in Bohol you wouldn’t want to dare miss out on.
Alona Beach
Alona Beach, Panglao Island
Alona Beach boasts a long stretch of fine white sand and is surrounded by rocky cliffs. Located in Panglao Island, Alona Beach has become a go-to destination among tourists and has become a well-known site for various water activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, jet-skiing, kite surfing, and scuba diving.
There are also a handful of world-class restaurants and hotels, as well as cafes and shops you can find lining the strip of its white beach sand.
Alona Beach draws in a crowd of tourists, so it can get busy at times. It also has plenty of bars, and nightlife here is vibrant if that is what you want.
Doljo Beach
Barangay Doljo, Panglao Island
Generally low-key and quiet compared to Alona and Dumaluan, Doljo Beach is located at the northwest side of Panglao Island, and at its very tip.
This 3-km beach with wide sand that comes with a gradual slope into shallow water is fringed with thick forest of coconut palm trees which added to its appeal as a tropical paradise like no other in Bohol. The famous luxury hotel, Bellevue Resort, as well as Ananyana Beach Resort and Spa, can be found in Doljo Beach.
Photo Credits: May Ann Magdua Montilla
Anda Beach
Sitio Dagohoy, Barangay Bacong, Anda, Bohol
Found in the southeast tip of Bohol, Anda Beach boasts unspoiled stretches of fine white sand with azure blue waters and is a perfect choice if you are looking for the off the beaten track. While it’s not as well-known as Alona Beach, Anda Beach can easily beat the former with its long stretch of unspoiled powdery white sand, gorgeous turquoise blue waters, and breathtaking sunset views. It’s also less crowded so you can bask under the sun and enjoy the beach peacefully.
And, speaking of Anda, this beautiful town of Bohol with a laid-back vibe is about 2 to 3 hours away from Tagbilaran City. But the long hours you’ll spend will be totally worth it once you get there. Another attraction you wouldn’t want to miss in Anda is the Cabagnow Cave. A stunning cave pool with clear, deep blue water, Cabagnow Cave can look eerie but it’s a rather charming, irresistible cave. The entrance fee is Php 50 per person and you’ll need to borrow a ladder from the caretaker to get access to the cave.
Dumaluan Beach
Dumaluan Beach is another beautiful beach you should add on your itinerary list when visiting Bohol. Famed for its fine white sand and clear waters, along with accessible restaurants and resorts nearby, Dumaluan Beach makes for an excellent alternative to Alona Beach. Some of the famous resorts you can find in Dumaluan also include the Bohol Beach Club and South Palms Resort.
2. Experience Remarkable Diving Fun in Bohol
Bohol boasts a good number of excellent diving spots that deserve to be in every diver’s bucket list.
Bohol Top Diving Sites:Pamilacan IslandCervera Shoal Dive SiteBalicasag IslandCabilao Island
Top Diving Sitesin Bohol
Pamilacan Island
Nestled in the heart of the Bohol Sea, the tiny island of Pamicalan is a haven for divers in Bohol. The island’s astonishing blue waters are teeming with lush and colorful marine life, impressive coral formations, and is a refuge for dolphins and whales.
Balicasag Island
A small island with fantastic water clarity, beautiful coral gardens, and rich marine life, Balicasag is a world-class diving site.
Cervera Shoal Dive Site
Often the second diving destination after experiencing Pamilacan Island, The Cervera shoal dive site is also widely known as the Snake Island or the Spaghetti Reef because of the enormous number of sea snakes living around the island.
Cabilao Island
Located between the islands of Cebu and Bohol, the biodiversity of Cabilao is a must-see for divers. Turtles, sea snakes, rock lobsters, reef sharks, barracudas, and seahorses abound in the surrounding waters of the island.
3. Island- Hopping and Snorkeling in Bohol
Island hopping in Bohol typically includes a tour to the stunning islands of Balicasag Island and Virgin island.
With island hopping in Balicasag Island, you’ll be in for some serious underwater treat with its crystal clear waters and amazing corals. Here you can see swarms of colorful fishes, swim with the turtles, and is also known as a great spot for dolphin watching. After your visit to the beautiful Balicasag Island, the next destination is the Virgin Island, which is a sandbar. The impressive C-shaped sandbar appears only during low tide and offers the best place for relaxing and unwinding. Be sure to take photos of the vibrant island before you board your boat, which signals the end of the island hopping tour.
4. Fun and Adventure in Bohol
Bohol adventure activities are perfect for those who need a break from the beach and want to fill their adventurous spirits. Here are must-experience activities for the adrenaline junkies in Bohol:
Danao Adventure Park
Danao Adventure Park, located roughly two hours away from Tagbilaran City in the town of Danao, promises a lot of adventures that include the plunge, sky ride, cliff rappelling, river tubing, river trekking and plenty other nature activities designed to give visitors a fun, exhilarating, and fulfilling experience.
Bohol ATV Adventure
What better way to see the magnificent Chocolate Hills than getting down and dirty with an ATV? Another exciting activity for the adventure-seekers in Bohol is riding down into the valleys and villages near Chocolate Hills aboard an ATV or All-Terrain Vehicle. Experience isn’t necessary and you’ll have an experienced adventure guide with you as you explore and enjoy the spectacular views with an exhilarating ATV ride.
CHAP (Chocolate Hills Adventure Park)
Located in Barangay Buenos Aires, Carmen Bohol, CHAP offers visitors adrenaline-pumping experience, which includes a bicycle zipline called ‘The Rush,’ and the Wave Runner, a unique zipline where you’ll be strapped on a surfboard. There’s also a Zorb Ball, Spiderman wall climb, and a series of tree-top challenge rope courses, and more. Otherwise, if you are not an adventurous person, you can pay an entrance fee of Php 60 to enjoy CHAP’s beautiful scenery, scenic hiking trails, and an overlooking campsite. They also have a butterfly garden, the ‘Ang Paruparo’ where you can find the different butterfly species found in Bohol.
5. Chasing Waterfalls in Bohol: MUST-SEE WATERFALLS IN BOHOL
Can-umantad Falls
An adventure not to be missed, Can-umantad Falls is arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Bohol found in the municipality of Candijay. This epic waterfall has a number of rock pools with irresistible milky blue waters and is Bohol’s tallest waterfall at 60ft. The entrance fee at Candijay’s Can-umantad Falls is Php 20.
Camugao Falls
Found in Balilihan, Bohol, Camugao Falls, surrounded by towering curved cliff faces, boasts irresistible rock pools. It’s surrounded by lush forests and it will take no more than a ten to fifteen-minute hike to reach the bottom of the cliffs and to where the jungle trail emerges at the base of this lovely waterfall. The entrance fee is Php 25.
Dimiao Twin Falls
Also known as Pahangog Falls, Dimiao Twin Falls is located in Dimiao Bohol. Dimiao Falls, as its name implies, features a twin set of falls that are approximately 25-meters tall, flowing down a limestone rock face and filling a large natural catch basin on its bottom.
Mag-aso Falls
Nestled in the forested area of Barangay Can-omay in the municipality of Antequera, Mag-aso Falls is a one-level cascade that’s about 8 meters tall. The waters flow through a layered wall that’s dotted with small pods and into a deep catch basin making it excellent for swimming. During dry and sunny days, the pool reflects a lovely turquoise color because of its limestone soil. The entrance fee to the beautiful Mag-aso Falls is Php 50 per person.
6. Bohol Historical Sites and Landmarks
Bohol is not just about the pristine white sand beaches, Chocolate Hills, and the tarsiers, it’s also home to heritage structures and historical landmarks that showcase the island’s remarkable history as well as the piety and religiousness of the Boholanos. Below are some of Bohol’s noteworthy historical sites worth visiting:
Blood Compact Monument
Found in Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran City, the Blood Compact Site serves to commemorate the blood compact forged by Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain, with Don Miguel Lopez de Legaspi who represented the King of Spain. The blood compact took place on March 16, 1565, for the purpose of fostering friendly relations between the two nations, and is considered the first Treaty of Friendship between Europe and Asia.
National Museum Bohol
Address: Carlos P. Garcia Avenue, Tagbilaran City, Bohol
Housed in an old city library, the National Museum Bohol Branch serves as Bohol’s historical and cultural center with interesting collections that include an exhibit of the flora and fauna in Bohol, archaeological finds, and paintings depicting some of the important figures in the province’s history. For a minimal fee of Php 10, you can visit the museum and learn a little about Bohol’s history.
Clarin Ancestral House
Built in 1840, Clarin Ancestral House has been declared as a heritage site by the National Historical Institute. The house’s roof is made of nipa and it has a traditional architectural design. Visitors can view the historical exhibits and several artifacts dating back to the American Era. Inside, there’s also an old small library inside as well as a collection of barongs and Filipiniana dresses.
Dagohoy Marker
Address: Magtangtang, Danao, Bohol
The Dagohoy historical marker was initiated by the Philippine Historical Commission in honor of the heroic deeds of Francisco Dagohoy who led the longest revolt history in the Philippines, the Dagohoy Rebellion, against the Spanish colonial government that lasted for roughly 85 years.
The Heritage Churches
Baclayon Church (Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church)
A Jesuit-built church, Baclayon Church is known for the mysterious images that appear on its walls. It is the oldest church in Bohol and among the oldest existing churches in the entire Philippines. Unfortunately, Baclayon Church suffered heavily during the 2013 earthquake. Still, it pays to visit this historic church, which also has a museum showcasing astonishing collections of religious artifacts and old treasures.
Loboc Church (The Church of San Pedro)
The parish church of St. Peter in Loboc is one of the oldest churches in Bohol. Built by the Jesuits around the middle of the 17th century, it’s among the few but beautiful architectures built by the order. There’s the bell tower that is far from the church and the one-of-a-kind three-level convento. The church also features interesting decorative corbels and cornices resembling mystical animals, as well as ornamental bas-reliefs and friezes.
Dauis Church (Our Lady of Assumption Church) and Miracle Well
The 18th-century Dauis Church is located on the island of Panglao, on the side facing Tagbilaran City. It is dedicated to the Our Lady of the Assumption. The church has a fascinating Byzantine-Romanesque architectural style. The church is flocked by devotees due to a miracle well found inside the church. Legend has it that during the Dutch invasion, locals hid in the church. Just when the locals ran out of provisions and water, a miracle took place - a well appeared at the foot of the altar. To date, the well is still the source of water for locals who lived nearby. The water from the well is remarkably fresh despite the fact that the church stood close to the sea.
Nightlife in Bohol
Aluna Lounge Bar
Located directly across the beach in Panglao, Aluna Lounge Bar is owned by a retired US Army veteran. Aside from their reasonably priced cocktails, the lounge bar offers great ocean views and is a fantastic place to unwind and meet new friends.
AliaHailey Reggae Bar
A relaxing beach shack with lively decor and friendly staff in Alona Beach, AliaHailey Reggae Bar offers Jamaican feels with Jamaican music played on the loop. They serve delicious pork barbecue and their moreish rum and gin cocktails are to die for. Best of all they have the longest happy hour on the island, running from 10 am to 10 pm every day.
Pinarella Bay
Pinarella Bay in Panglao Island is the place to be if you’re looking for a bar with a cool vibe, vivacious crowd, awesome music, and cheap drinks. And, if dancing the night away isn’t your thing, there’s a second floor where you can just chill and is a great spot to catch a glimpse of the sunset.
The Gun Bar
This charming bar that features a nice garden with a treehouse, is strategically located in the center of Panglao yet still away from the busy crowd. Here you can relax and enjoy soothing music as you sip on their refreshing cocktail drinks. Happy hour starts from 5 pm until 8 pm daily.
Namaka Beach Bar
A beach bar that serves a variety of yummy pizza and along with other daily specials, including their famous carbonara, Namaka is a perfect spot for lunch or dinner by the beach. It’s also one of the best places in Alona for picture-perfect sunset views. What’s more, they have a fire dancers show, live music band, and happy hour is between 5 pm and 8 pm.
Ken’s Place
Part of the Alona Pawikan Resort, Ken’s Place is a Swedish-run bar that offers a tranquil ambiance perfect for when you’re relaxing with your friends over a sip of your favorite cocktail drinks. Ken’s Place also has an impressive selection of local craft beers that are a must-try.
Bohol Festivals
Boholanos, known as fun-loving and deeply religious people, celebrate a number of fiestas and religious festivals each year as part of their culture.
Festivals in Bohol are marked by elaborate celebrations and various activities including street dancing, trade fairs, beauty pageants, and a feast of delicious food.
Most town fiestas fall during the month of May and everyone is invited and served food. This lavish fiesta celebration has been ingrained in the hearts of Boholanos and has become their way of showcasing their colorful history and traditions.
Celebrated in honor of Tagbilaran’s patron saint, Saint Joseph, the city fiesta of Tagbilaran City is held annually starting in the first month of May. Exciting and fun-filled activities are scheduled during the days leading to the fiesta, specifically nine days before the actual date, including dances, concert shows, beauty pageants, musical shows, stage plays, and more.
How to Get to Bohol
Albeit a bit more expensive, traveling by air is the most convenient and fuss-free way to reach the island province of Bohol. If you are coming from Luzon, there are direct flights from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. The duration of the flight is approximately an hour and a half. Air Asia, Philippine Airlines, and Cebu Pacific have daily flights from Manila to Bohol.
The Best Time to Visit Bohol
Like most of the country, Bohol has a tropical climate and sees little fluctuation in temperature. Due to its surrounding island provinces, Bohol is often shielded from the numerous typhoons that hit the country. Thus, the province enjoys a mostly mild climate all year round. Whenever a typhoon does affect the island province, it typically crosses quickly and is no longer as fierce.
When planning to visit Bohol, what matters most is the amount of rainfall and knowing when the peak seasons are.
If your goal is to enjoy as much sun as you can, you might want to avoid planning your trip between June to November, the rainiest months in the country. On the other hand, the period around Christmas in December, as well as the Holy Week, are peak seasons, particularly for the locals.
A good time to visit Bohol, therefore, will be anywhere between January to mid-March, when the weather is ideal and there are not as many tourists. In terms of sunshiny weather, April and May will also be great, but then again, you’ll want to see to it that you don’t come to the island province during the Holy Week.
Getting Around Bohol
There are a variety of ways to get around the island of Bohol. One may take a bus or a colorful jeepney at a minimal fare. Multicabs and tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) are popular in outlying areas and the suburbs, most notably within its capital city, Tagbilaran City.
Metered taxis are also widely available. Other well-known means of transport are Vehicles for Hire, ranging from vans, cars, and coasters. If you know how to drive, you can also rent habal-habal or motorbike available for P 400 to P 800 per day.
What to Pack
Pack light, comfortable, and breathable clothes you can wear for the duration of your trip. A light rain jacket is also advised as we never know when the occasional storm will come. Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses, as well as a cap or a hat for sun protection. Bring comfy shoes for touring around the city and slippers for when you’re lounging at the beach.
When planning to visit the churches and other sacred places, bring along decent clothing items you can wear as a sign of respect. Have a small, handy bag with you where you can keep your essentials, such as your camera, cellphone, and your wallet, within easy access. Don’t forget to carry bottled water with you as the climate can be warm and you’ll need water to quench your thirst from time to time.
Where to Stay in Bohol
As a top tourist destination, Bohol provides an array of accommodations set in the island’s diverse sceneries designed for every traveler’s desires. Depending on your budget and chosen location, you can select from luxury accommodations, mid-priced hotels, to budget-friendly pension houses.
Types of Accommodations
Location is an essential factor when picking your accomodation in Bohol. You will find a range of accommodations catering to different types of travelers around the island. There are luxury resorts and hotels, as well as budget accommodations concentrated mostly in the capital Tagbilaran City, Dauis, Panglao Island, and Anda. You can also find affordable places to stay near Carmen and in Loboc, Bohol.
Sometimes when you are on a vacation, you’ve got to just treat yourself. So, if you can afford to splurge on your accommodation while staying in Bohol, you can choose from premier beach resorts and hotels in Bohol offering world-class services, facilities, and amenities including excellent restaurants, swimming pools, and spas. Here are some top-rated luxury accommodations you can choose from:
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