Coutryside Tour from Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River | Philippines

The Chocolate Hills are renowned for their unique geological formation, comprising over 1,268 uniform conical hills spread across the landscape. During the dry season, the grass covering the hills turns a distinct chocolate brown, creating a stunning and surreal panorama. It's considered a geological wonder and offers breathtaking views from dedicated viewing decks, making it a primary highlight for any visit to Bohol.

For the Chocolate Hills, visitors typically spend about 30 to 60 minutes. This duration allows ample time to climb to the main viewing deck, capture photographs, and fully appreciate the panoramic landscape. While the time spent at the site itself is relatively brief, the journey to reach the hills in Carmen, Bohol, should also be factored into your overall tour schedule.

Local legends offer enchanting explanations for the Chocolate Hills' formation. One popular myth recounts two giants who engaged in an endless rock-throwing battle. When they finally made peace, they left behind the thousands of mounds as remnants of their conflict. Another tale involves a giant named Arogo who wept tears of sorrow over his lost love, with each tear solidifying into a hill.

At the Tarsier Sanctuary, visitors can observe Philippine tarsiers, among the world's smallest primates, in their natural forested habitat. They are notable for their incredibly large, fixed eyes, which necessitate rotating their heads almost 360 degrees to see. Tarsiers are primarily nocturnal, so during daylight hours, they are typically seen resting or moving slowly, showcasing their shy and reclusive nature.

The Loboc River Cruise offers a delightful floating restaurant experience. Guests typically enjoy a buffet-style meal featuring a variety of local Filipino dishes. The meal is often accompanied by live music or cultural performances from local communities situated along the riverbanks. As you dine, the boat gently cruises down the picturesque Loboc River, providing serene views of Bohol's lush tropical surroundings.

During a Bohol countryside tour, transportation between major attractions like the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary is typically provided by a private air-conditioned van or bus, depending on the tour package. These tours commonly include a dedicated vehicle and driver, ensuring comfortable and convenient travel between the various stops. This arrangement eliminates the need for visitors to organize separate transport.

The best time to visit the Chocolate Hills for optimal viewing conditions, particularly to witness their iconic brown color, is during Bohol's dry season, which typically spans from December to May. Minimal rainfall during these months allows the grass covering the hills to dry out and turn its distinct chocolate hue. The wet season (June to November) also offers beautiful vibrant green hills, presenting a different yet equally stunning landscape.

Yes, when observing tarsiers at the sanctuary, it's essential to follow strict rules to protect these sensitive creatures. Visitors must maintain absolute silence and avoid any loud noises, as tarsiers are highly susceptible to stress. Flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can harm their large, delicate eyes. Always keep a respectful distance and refrain from touching the tarsiers to ensure their well-being and natural behavior are undisturbed.