Bohol

Bohol, an island province in the Central Visayas of the Philippines, is home to unique geological formations and rare wildlife. Here, you can see the cone-shaped Chocolate Hills, observe tiny tarsier primates, and relax on white sand beaches. You can also float down the Loboc River or explore the surrounding islands near Panglao, making Bohol an ideal destination for nature and coastal experiences.

Geography and Location of Bohol

Bohol is the 10th largest island in the Philippines, situated in the Central Visayas region. The main island spans over 4,000 square kilometers and has about 70 smaller islands around it. You'll find Bohol just east of Cebu Island, with the Bohol Strait between them. The island's interior consists of limestone hills, while its coastline has beaches and mangrove forests.

How to Get to Bohol

You can reach Bohol by air or sea. Fly into Bohol-Panglao International Airport on Panglao Island, which connects to Manila, Cebu, and other major cities. The flight from Manila takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, take a 2-hour fast ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran, Bohol's capital city. Several ferry companies run this route multiple times daily.

Getting Around Bohol

For maximum flexibility, rent a motorbike or car to explore Bohol. Many hotels offer motorbike rentals. If you prefer guided tours, hire a car with a driver or join group tours. For short trips around towns, use tricycles (motorized three-wheelers). When visiting nearby islands, you'll travel in small outrigger boats called bancas.

The Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are Bohol's most recognizable landmark. Over 1,200 cone-shaped hills, formed from limestone, spread across the island's interior. During the dry season, these hills turn brown, resembling chocolate drops. You can see this unusual landscape from several viewpoints, with the most popular being the viewing deck in Carmen town.

Tarsier Sanctuaries

Bohol is home to the Philippine tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates. These nocturnal animals with large eyes are sensitive to disturbance. You can observe tarsiers at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella town or the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc. Both locations allow you to see tarsiers in their natural forest habitat. Guides will help you spot these well-camouflaged creatures clinging to tree branches.

Beaches and Islands

Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by bridges, is the primary beach destination. Alona Beach on Panglao has white sand and clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. For a less crowded experience, visit nearby Dumaluan Beach. The small islands around Bohol make great day trips. Balicasag Island is known for its snorkeling and diving spots, where you might see sea turtles. Pamilacan Island has a long white sand beach, and you may spot dolphins during the boat ride there.

Loboc River Cruise

Take a boat trip down the Loboc River to see Bohol's riverside scenery. Most cruises include a buffet lunch of Filipino dishes as you pass by riverbank communities and forests. Some boats have live music or cultural performances. The cruise typically lasts about an hour and ends near a small waterfall.

Waterfalls of Bohol

Bohol has several waterfalls throughout its interior. Can-umantad Falls in Candijay is the tallest at about 60 meters. You can swim in the pool at the base of these multi-tiered falls. Mag-Aso Falls in Antequera has twin falls surrounded by forest. The name means "smoky" in the local language, referring to the mist created by the cascading water.

Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

In Candijay town, you'll find Bohol's own rice terraces. The Cadapdapan Rice Terraces cover hillsides, creating a striking stepped landscape. You can hike through the terraces for views of the fields and surrounding countryside. Local communities still actively farm these terraces.

Best Time to Visit Bohol

Bohol has a tropical climate with a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November. March to May are typically the driest months and also the peak tourist season, especially around Easter. June to August can be good months to visit, with less rain than later in the wet season. September and October usually have the most rainfall and potential for typhoons.

Where to Stay in Bohol

Most visitors stay on Panglao Island for easy beach access. Alona Beach has accommodations ranging from budget guesthouses to upscale resorts. For a calmer environment, consider hotels around Dumaluan Beach or Danao Beach. If you want to explore the Chocolate Hills and other inland attractions, Loboc town makes a good base. Tagbilaran City has some business hotels if you need to be near the ferry port.