Bohol

Chocolate Hills, tarsiers & the Loboc River

Bohol is the Philippines at its most charming — the geological oddity of the Chocolate Hills, the saucer-eyed tarsiers in their forest sanctuary, a buffet cruise down the Loboc River, and the dive-rich beaches of Panglao Island all within easy reach.

The Chocolate Hills are more than a thousand limestone mounds spread across the interior, green through the wet months and turning cocoa-brown as the dry season sets in — a declared National Geological Monument, and stranger in person than any photograph suggests. Nearby at Corella, the sanctuary run by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation protects one of the world's smallest primates in its own forest, viewed quietly and without handling.

The island's history sits alongside it: Baclayon Church, built in 1727 and painstakingly restored after the 2013 earthquake, and the Blood Compact marker recalling the 1565 pact between Datu Sikatuna and Legazpi. Then the coast — Panglao's Alona Beach, and Balicasag's marine sanctuary, where turtles feed along the drop-off.

Our countryside tour links the inland highlights in a single relaxed day, then turns to Panglao for beach time and a Balicasag island-hopping trip — transport, guide, and fees handled throughout.

Best time & what to pack

When to go

The dry months of December to May are ideal for the countryside loop and island hopping. Seas can be choppy in the wet season, affecting Balicasag trips.

What to bring

• Swimwear, snorkel-friendly footwear
• Reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
• Quiet voice & no flash for the tarsiers
• Cash for entrance fees