As an avid traveler, I was always on the lookout for off-the-beaten-path destinations, and Anda and Candijay in Bohol proved to be a true gem. My sister and I embarked on a journey to uncover the natural wonders of these lesser-known areas, and we were not disappointed.
Upon arriving at Tagbilaran Airport, we wasted no time and headed straight to Anda, a three-hour drive from the city. We had pre-arranged a car rental with Kuya Johnfel Caseres’ Car Rental Service, splitting the cost of PHP 2,500 among four fellow backpackers we met along the way. This turned out to be a wise decision, as it allowed us to explore the area at our own pace without the hassle of public transportation.
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Our first stop was the Cabagnow Cave
the deepest cave pool in Anda, with depths said to reach 25 feet. The entrance fee was a mere PHP 10, and the experience of descending into the cool, crystal-clear waters was truly breathtaking. We then visited the nearby Cateres Cave, a smaller but equally enchanting cave pool.
Next, we ventured to Quinale Beach, a stunning stretch of fine white sand that rivaled even the famous Boracay. The beach was well-maintained and offered basic amenities like a beach bar and rental chairs and tables. We spent a few blissful hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquility of this hidden paradise.
Our final stop for the day was Talisay Beach, a more rugged and natural beach with a unique charm. The shallow waters made it an ideal spot for families with children, and we relished the opportunity to simply sit back and enjoy the strong sea breeze.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Tagbilaran City, where we checked into the LTS Lodge for the night. After a satisfying dinner, we retired to our rooms, eager for the adventures that awaited us the following day.
Day 2: Bohol Countryside Tour and Panglao Island Hopping
The second day of our Bohol adventure was dedicated to exploring the countryside and the stunning Panglao Island. We embarked on a guided tour, which took us to some of the most iconic attractions in the area.
Our first stop was the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation consisting of hundreds of perfectly cone-shaped hills. The view was truly breathtaking, and we spent some time taking in the unique landscape and capturing memorable photos.
Next, we visited the Tarsier Conservation Area, where we had the opportunity to observe these tiny, wide-eyed primates in their natural habitat. It was a humbling experience to witness these endangered creatures up close, and we left with a newfound appreciation for conservation efforts.
Our tour continued with a visit to the Butterfly Sanctuary, a serene oasis filled with vibrant and colorful butterflies fluttering freely. We learned about the importance of preserving these delicate creatures and their role in the ecosystem.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we made our way to Panglao Island for an unforgettable island-hopping adventure. We boarded a traditional outrigger boat and set sail for Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary renowned for its rich underwater life. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters was an absolute highlight, as we witnessed an array of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species.
Our next stop was Virgin Island, a pristine and secluded paradise with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. We spent a few blissful hours basking in the sun, swimming, and simply enjoying the tranquility of this tropical haven.
As the day drew to a close, we returned to Alona Beach, a lively stretch of beach lined with restaurants, bars, and resorts. We indulged in a delicious seafood dinner and enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the beach, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared.
Day 3: Chasing Waterfalls in Dimiao
On our third day in Bohol, we embarked on a journey to chase waterfalls in the picturesque town of Dimiao. Our first stop was the Pahangog Twin Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder nestled deep in the lush jungle.
The hike to the falls was challenging but rewarding, as we navigated through dense foliage and crossed crystal-clear streams. Upon reaching the falls, we were greeted by the sight of two cascading waterfalls tumbling into a refreshing pool below. We couldn’t resist taking a dip in the cool waters, reveling in the serenity of our surroundings.
After our invigorating swim, we continued our adventure to the Camugao Falls, another hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Dimiao. The journey involved a steep descent through a narrow trail, but the effort was well worth it when we laid eyes on the majestic waterfall cascading down a towering rock face.
We spent the afternoon exploring the area, taking in the lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the rushing water. It was a true escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and we left feeling rejuvenated and connected to nature.
Day 4: Dolphin Watching and Farewell to Bohol
On our final day in Bohol, we decided to start our morning with a unique and unforgettable experience – dolphin watching. We boarded a small boat and set sail into the open waters, eagerly anticipating the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
As we ventured further from shore, our guide skillfully navigated the waters, and before long, we spotted the first pod of dolphins. It was a truly magical sight to see them gracefully gliding through the waves, occasionally breaching the surface and putting on a playful display.
After our dolphin-watching adventure, we spent the remainder of the day exploring the charming town of Panglao, browsing local markets, and savoring the delicious local cuisine one last time before our departure.
As the sun began to set over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the pristine beaches, we reflected on the incredible journey we had embarked on. Bohol had truly captured our hearts with its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. We left with a deep appreciation for this hidden gem and a longing to return and uncover more of its secrets.
ILOCANO + TRAVELER + BLOGGER + ENTREPRENEUR
With over 8 years of global travel experience and a Master’s degree in Travel Journalism, our author brings a blend of academic expertise and real-world exploration to ByAJayRo.com. Passionate about discovering unique destinations and sharing insider tips, they provide practical advice and authentic insights to enhance your travel experiences.
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