Popular Tours & Experiences in Chocolate Hills

Besides the spectacular Chocolate Hills, there are many other worthwhile attractions around Bohol Island. Common package tours often include a Loboc River cruise, where you can enjoy lunch on board while admiring the scenery on both banks; visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary for a close-up look at the world's smallest primates; and exploring historical and cultural landmarks like the Baclayon Church and the Blood Compact Shrine. Additionally, the Salug Waterfalls is another spot nature lovers might consider, adding more diversity to the itinerary.

Simply visiting the Chocolate Hills viewpoint for photos and enjoying the scenery usually takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you opt for activities like ATV or buggy rides in the surrounding areas, you might need an additional 1 to 2 hours. Generally, many travelers combine the Chocolate Hills with other major Bohol attractions into a full-day or half-day tour, making the overall experience richer.

A half-day tour for the Chocolate Hills typically includes only the viewpoint and possibly the nearby Tarsier Sanctuary, making it a more condensed experience suitable for travelers with limited time or those who want to focus on highlights. A full-day tour covers more classic Bohol attractions, such as the Loboc River cruise, Baclayon Church, and the Blood Compact Shrine. The itinerary is more diverse and allows for a deeper experience of Bohol's nature and culture, ideal for travelers who want to see all the main sights in one go. We recommend choosing based on your travel duration and interests.

The best season to visit the Chocolate Hills is generally during the dry season, approximately from November to May. During this period, the weather is usually clear with less rainfall, causing the iconic limestone hills to turn their famous chocolate brown color as the vegetation dries out, creating the most classic landscape. During the rainy season (June to October), the hills are covered in lush green vegetation, offering a vibrant emerald view. While it lacks the distinct 'chocolate' hue, it presents a beautiful, lively scene.

There are several ways to travel from Tagbilaran City to the Chocolate Hills. You can hire a private taxi or van, which is the most convenient and comfortable option, especially for group travelers. Alternatively, you can rent a motorcycle for a more independent exploration, but be mindful of road safety. Many local tour operators also offer package tours that include the Chocolate Hills, handling transportation and providing guide services. The journey typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

When planning your Chocolate Hills itinerary, consider your time budget and interests. Most travelers combine the Chocolate Hills with other classic Bohol attractions for a full-day tour. A common itinerary might include visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary in the morning, heading to the Chocolate Hills viewpoint in the afternoon, followed by a Loboc River cruise, and ending with visits to historical sites. If you enjoy outdoor activities, ATV or buggy rides are available near the Chocolate Hills. If time permits, you could also combine this with island-hopping tours in Bohol for a more diverse experience. It's advisable to allocate ample time to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

The main observation deck for the Chocolate Hills is located near Carmen town. This official viewing point offers the most expansive and classic panoramic view of the Chocolate Hills. Climbing approximately 200 steps from the viewpoint leads to the highest vantage point. From here, you can see hundreds of hills of various sizes stretching out endlessly, providing a sweeping vista that is ideal for capturing iconic photos and appreciating the unique landscape. While there might be a second viewing area in some sections, the main observation deck remains the primary choice for most visitors.

Yes, there is typically an entrance fee to visit the Chocolate Hills observation area. This fee is used for maintaining the viewing facilities and environment, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors. Upon purchasing a ticket, you can access the official observation deck and walk along the path to the highest point for the best views of the magnificent Chocolate Hills. It's recommended to check the latest information before your visit to ensure a smooth entry.

Yes, ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) and buggy ride experiences are available in the areas surrounding the Chocolate Hills, particularly near the observation deck. These rides are not conducted on the hills themselves but on designated trails or areas at the foothills. Visitors can ride ATVs through muddy paths and fields, getting a closer look at the countryside and enjoying different perspectives of the Chocolate Hills. This is a popular, thrilling activity for younger travelers, adding more fun and adventure to the trip.

While direct dining options immediately around the Chocolate Hills viewpoint are limited, you often have opportunities to sample Bohol's local cuisine en route to or from the site. For instance, the Loboc River cruise typically includes a buffet lunch with local specialties like barbecue, seafood, and tropical fruits. Additionally, small restaurants along the way or in Tagbilaran City offer Filipino dishes such as Lechon (roast pig), Lumpia (spring rolls), and fresh seafood. It's recommended to look out for local food stalls to experience authentic flavors.