Situated in the Central Visayas region, Bohol is among the most frequented tourism destinations in the Philippines. Rich in marine life, picturesque beaches, the Chocolate Hills, and historic cathedrals all contribute to its notoriety. This article provides a comprehensive guide on travel to Bohol.
Arriving There
Tagbilaran Airport is accessible via direct flight from both Manila and Cebu. Major Philippine airlines, including AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, and Cebu Pacific, operate daily flights. The flight from Manila to Cebu takes approximately 30 minutes and lasts for about an hour.
The ferry ride from Cebu City to Tagbilaran Port, which is approximately two hours one way, is an alternative option. Between the two ports, Oceanjet, Weesam Express, and additional entities operate daily ferry services.
Getting Around Bohol is a comparatively compact island, which facilitates travel. Automobiles and motorcycles are available for rental, tricycles resembling motorised rickshaws can be hired, and jeepneys serve as the primary mode of public transportation in Bohol.
Motorcycle taxis and tricycles can transport you to even the most remote villages and beaches. Although jeepneys primarily connect Tagbilaran to neighbouring towns via fixed routes, buses convey passengers from Tagbilaran to municipalities further away.
Principal Attractions
The Chochills
Browning Chocolate Hills, the most renowned landmark on the island, are an absolute necessity for any visitor. Approximately 1,268 peaks in the shape of perfect cones are dispersed throughout the municipalities of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The grass-covered hills acquire a chocolate brown hue during the arid season, hence the origin of the name.
This magnificent natural phenomenon can be observed from several vantage locations, including the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen, which features a restaurant, observation deck, and a colossal replica of the Chocolate Hills.
Beaches Bohol is home to a number of the Philippines’ finest beaches. The most popular beach on Panglao Island is Alona Beach, which features pristine waters, white sand, and breathtaking sunset vistas. Because it is bordered by resorts, restaurants, and taverns, the vicinity can become quite crowded.
Visit Dumaluan Beach, Anda Beach, or Danao Beach for a more tranquil ambiance; these beaches feature pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and minimal visitor traffic.
Ancient Churches
Several of the Philippines’ oldest stone churches are located on the island of Bohol and trace back to the 1600s, during the Spanish colonial period. The ancient architecture and relics of Baclayon Church, Loboc Church, Loon Church, and Maribojoc Church qualify them as National Cultural Treasures. It is worthwhile to admire the ceiling and facade murals adorning these churches that date back centuries.
Area for Tarsier Conservation
The Philippine Tarsier is regarded as one of the world’s most diminutive primates. One of the few locations where you can observe them in their natural habitat is in Bohol. A forest trail in the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc provides vantage points from which to observe these endearing, wide-eyed animals. Simply maintain silence during your visit; flash photography is not permitted.
Cruise on a River
A Loboc River excursion provides an opportunity to dine on a buffet while taking in the verdant interior of Bohol. The cruise vessels depart from Loay Bridge and transport passengers to the town of Loboc along palm-lined shores for an enjoyable journey. You will see cascades, pass through small riverside villages, and listen to live music, among other things.
Isle of Panglao
Panglao Island is highly accessible to Tagbilaran due to the two modern bridges that connect the two cities. It is renowned for its luxurious resorts, beaches, dive locations, and relaxed island lifestyle. The most popular location is Alona Beach, which features a variety of restaurants, bars, and lodging options to suit all budgets. Scuba diving enthusiasts are drawn to locations such as Balicasag Island and Doljo Point, which feature astounding coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish.
Places to Stay
Bohol provides a variety of lodging options to accommodate any budget or way of life. The lodging options along Alona Beach, Panglao Island, range from upscale beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Tagbilaran City serves as a convenient hub, offering an abundance of lodging options such as hotels, inns, and transient houses.
Spend an authentic experience away from civilization by picnicking in a tent on Anda Beach or lounging in a floating cottage on the verdant Danao Lake.
Cuisine and Dining
Bohol’s cuisine features delectable traditional dishes prepared with coconut milk, fresh seafood, and regional ingredients. Local delicacies such as calamay (sticky rice cake) and kinilaw (ceviche) and linarang (grilled seafood) are also available for sampling. Visit the Weekend Market in Tagbilaran to purchase reasonably priced tempura, barbecued skewers, and other street foods.
At Alona Beach on Panglao Island, diners can choose from a variety of international cuisines, including Mediterranean, Indian, and Thai fare. Buffet-serving floating restaurants abound in Loboc during river excursions. Along the highway leading to the historic village of Baclayon are artisan bakeries selling baked goods.
Moments to Visit
When there is less precipitation and humidity, the dry season from November to May is the ideal time to visit Bohol. As a result, beach excursions, island hopping, scuba diving, dolphin viewing, and attraction exploration are all feasible. Summer is the busiest tourist season from March to May; therefore, hotels and excursions should be reserved in advance. The wettest months are June through August, with frequent intense monsoon rainfall.
To conclude,
With its magnificent beaches, majestic natural landscapes, illustrious history and culture, and delectable cuisine, Bohol should be at the summit of every traveler’s Philippine itinerary. This all-encompassing travel guide will assist you in organising the ideal Bohol vacation. Bohol offers something for every type of traveller, from those seeking an exhilarating adventure to those craving a tranquil tropical retreat. I sincerely hope you find this “bohol travel guide” article helpful.
