Bohol is an island paradise east of Cebu in the Philippines. Travellers from all over the world come here for beautiful beaches, welcoming local people, and the diverse range of things to do in Bohol.
Amazing Things To Do in Bohol
Visit Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills are a unique geographical marvel. Around 2000 small, conically shaped and symmetrical hills cover an area of 50 sq/km.
These unusual peaks are called The Chocolate Hills because in the summer when it is hot and dry in Bohol, they transform from green into a rich brown colour and look like row upon row of Hershey’s Chocolate Kisses.
Two of these petite peaks have been turned into tourist attractions. Sagbavan Peak and The Chocolate Hills Complex, a holiday resort not far from the city of Carmen. Both delight visitors with stunning 360-degree views.
Legends suggest that the hills might be the remains of a boulder fight between giants, the tears of a heartbroken goliath or the poop of a giant Carabao. The more sensible suggestion is that they are weathered limestone formations.
The Chocolate Hills can be explored on foot or by booking an All-Terrain Vehicle tour.
Cruise down the River Loboc
A cruise on the River Loboc is a wonderful way to spend a day. Recline on a wooden decked boat while watching the lush rainforest slide by and enjoy sumptuous local food.
Most cruises begin at lunchtime and depart from the small, picturesque town of Tay Tay. From the waters of this incredible jungle river, you will experience nature-filled forest scenes, call greetings to friendly local fishermen and see the pretty Busay Falls.
At the small bamboo ticket terminal near the centre of Tay Tay, tourists can book a cruise, a small boat trip or hire a SUP (stand up paddleboard).
Whatever form of river transport you choose, there will be stops at banks decorated with elegantly draped palm trees. Local singing groups might also treat boat passengers to a cultural performance of song and dance.
Famous Hinagdanan cave in Panglao island
Photographers, geologists and anyone who finds joy in experiencing the weird beauty of nature will love Hinagdanan Cave on the island of Panglao.
This spectacular cave is home to a huge number of limestone stalactites and stalagmites eerily clinging to the floors and ceilings. The water of the lagoon inside is gorgeous turquoise and the whole place is lit with ethereal natural light.
Hinagdanan Cave is an epic 100 metres wide and is a ‘must-see’ when visiting Bohol. But, be warned! It can get very busy, and the water isn’t clean enough to swim safely.
Apparently, locals used the cave as a hiding place from the Japanese Imperial Army in WW2. The darkness of this terrible time is reflected by the deep, velvet shadows in the corners of Hinagdanan Cave.
Discover the history of Tagbilaran City
Tagbilaran is the capital city of Bohol but feels more like a sleepy town than the bustling metropolis you would expect from the centre of one of the Philippines’ most famous provinces.
Yes, the shops are closed on Sundays and the nightlife is minimal BUT the locals are friendly, it’s a very safe city there’s a wonderful, relaxed vibe.
Tagbilaran, widely known as ‘The City of Peace and Friendship’ has a fascinating history. The first reference is from the 15th century when trade with China, Malaysia and Indonesia began.
The ‘Blood Compact Marker’ is a great place to begin to understand Tagbilaran. It is the spot where a blood treaty of understanding was made between a native chieftain and a representative of the King of Spain in 1565.
More recent history can be explored at Bohol Cathedral, a baroque building placed on land that was the hub of trade and community from the 18th century onwards.
Have fun in Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park
The Loboc Eco-Tourism Adventure Park is where adrenaline junkies head when they are visiting Bohol.
The adventure park is set in spectacular natural surroundings and there are lots of exotic flowers, trees and wildlife to discover.
Action is centred around the Loboc River which meanders through the park. There is an exhilarating zip-wire to fling yourself down and the slightly less scary opportunity to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the rainforest from a cable car.
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Explore Can-umantad Falls
If your time is short, then a trek to the Can-umantad Falls is a fantastic way to get a taste of the beautiful landscape of Bohol. The goal of your hike, a powerful waterfall hidden in dense jungle, is jaw-dropping!
Your walk will include fording sparkling rivers, leaping onto and off rocks and lots of scrambling. It’s definitely a challenge but you’ll be rewarded with swims in cool, clear water, a tasty picnic and plenty of time for relaxation on sun-warmed boulders.
If you don’t have the energy for a strenuous walk, then there is also the option to travel by road to a place very close to the falls.
Beach time on Pontod island
Pontod Island is also called Virgin Island. The creamy sand of this magnificent beach curves delicately and then disappears gradually into the azure surf. Pontod Island is one of the most famous images of Bohol. It really is picture-perfect, no Insta filters needed here!
Once you’ve located the ideal beach camp, seek out the enthusiastic, chatty food vendors. These guys will be thrilled to cook you a mind-blowing delicacy to enjoy as you chill out on the pristine sand. We recommend the fried coconut, toasted bananas and ocean-fresh seafood.
Scuba diving in Bohol
Scuba divers will adore investigating the sea off Dulio Point on Panglao Island. It has calm currents and a drop-off point festooned with enormous sea fans and colourful coral. The range of sea-life you will see is vast. The reef is teeming with species such as razorfish, jacks, batfish and surgeonfish.
Snake Island, a sunken landmass near Pamilican Island is also a great dive site. The currents are gentle, and highlights include sea snakes, butterflyfish and if you’re really fortunate, Manta Rays and Whale Sharks.
> SUGGESTED READ: 8 MUST-VISIT PLACES IN MANILA
PLANNING YOUR PERFECT BOHOL TRIP
Book ahead for your Bohol trip
- Find the best hotel deals in Bohol on Booking.com
- Organise travel insurance to suit your needs with World Nomads
Book a tour of Bohol
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