Bohol - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Bohol

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bohol, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bohol and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bohol, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Bohol for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bohol

Bohol is an island province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural attractions. Among the most popular sights in Bohol are the Chocolate Hills, a series of over 1,000 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, and the Tarsier Sanctuary, a protected habitat for the tiny, endangered primate known as the Philippine tarsier. Other notable attractions include the historic Blood Compact site, the centuries-old Baclayon Church and the white-sand beaches of Panglao Island. Bohol is also known for its lively festivals, with the most famous being the Sandugo Festival, which is held every July to celebrate the island's rich cultural heritage.

What to visit in Bohol

1. Chocolate Hills - This is the most famous attraction in Bohol. These mounds of limestone hills turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolates, thus the name. There are over 1,200 hills covering an area of 50 square kilometers.
2. Tarsier Sanctuary - The Tarsier is a tiny nocturnal primate that can only be found in Southeast Asia. The sanctuary provides a safe and natural habitat for them to live. You can observe these cute creatures up close without disturbing them.
3. Loboc River - A scenic river that flows through Bohol with stunning scenery. The best way to explore the river is by hiring a small boat called a "floating restaurant." Here you can have lunch or dinner while being serenaded by local musicians.
4. Baclayon Church - A National Historical Landmark, this church is one of the oldest in the Philippines. It was built during the Spanish colonial period and is made entirely of coral stones.
5. Alona Beach - A popular tourist destination with long stretches of white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It has many restaurants and bars that offer seafood dishes, grilled meats, and refreshing drinks.
6. Panglao Island - This island offers a variety of water activities, such as diving, snorkelling, and island hopping. The white sand beaches and crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
7. Blood Compact Site - A marker that commemorates the friendship treaty that was sealed between the Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Bohol's chieftain Sikatuna. The place is characterized by a specially designed structure and sculpture which depicts the famous historical event.
8. Hinagdanan Cave - A geological formation located in Panglao Island, the Hinagdanan cave is made up of limestone and is characterized by a natural pool of freshwater. The water is crystal clear, and visitors can take a dip to cool off from the warm temperature outside.
9. Bohol Bee Farm - A local organic farm that is famous for its honey. It also offers a wide selection of organic food and drinks, which are all sourced from the farm. Be sure to try their unique flavors of ice cream made from natural ingredients such as malunggay, squash, and avocado.
10. Punta Cruz Watchtower - This watchtower was built during the Spanish era in Bohol. It is an important piece of Bohol's history since it kept watch over the sea to ward off enemies. It also provides a panoramic view of the sea and the mountains.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bohol.

When to go on holiday to Bohol

The best time to visit Bohol, Philippines is between November and April. During this period, the weather is dry and sunny, and you can enjoy all outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the beaches and attractions of the island. The rainy season in Bohol is from May to October, with the highest chances of typhoons in September and October, so it's better to avoid this period if you want to have a pleasant and safe holiday. However, keep in mind that the peak season in Bohol is from December to February, so the prices may be higher and the places more crowded during these months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bohol

Bohol is an island province in the Philippines, and it can be reached by plane or ferry.
By Plane: The easiest and most convenient way to get to Bohol is to take a direct flight to Tagbilaran City. Major airlines like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have daily flights from Manila to Tagbilaran City. The flight takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
By Ferry: Another option is to take a ferry from Cebu City. There are several shipping companies that operate daily boat trips to Tagbilaran City. The travel time is around 2 hours.
Once you arrive in Tagbilaran City, you can hire a private car or take a tricycle to your chosen destination in Bohol.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bohol, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bohol

Sure, here are some typical foods of Bohol, Philippines with a short description for each of them: 1. Sikwate - a rich and thick chocolate drink made from cacao beans and sugar. It is traditionally served with puto maya, a glutinous rice cake.
2. Calamay - a sweet and sticky dessert made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and brown sugar. It is usually served wrapped in banana leaves.
3. Peanut Kisses - a crunchy and nutty cookie made from peanuts, egg whites, and sugar. It is a popular pasalubong or souvenir item from Bohol.
4. Kalamay Hati - a sticky and sweet dessert made from malagkit (glutinous rice), coconut milk, and sugar. It is often topped with latik, a coconut caramel sauce.
5. Binagol - a sweet treat made from mashed taro, coconut milk, sugar, and sometimes peanuts or chocolate. It is usually cooked in coconut shells.
6. Balbacua - a rich and hearty soup made from beef skin, bones, and meat. It is slow-cooked for several hours with spices and vegetables.
7. Chicken Inasal - a grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of calamansi, vinegar, garlic, and lemongrass. It is often served with rice and a side of atchara or pickled vegetables.
8. Kinilaw na Tangigue - a raw fish salad made from tangigue (mackerel), vinegar, calamansi, onions, and chili. It is a popular appetizer in Bohol and other parts of the Philippines.
9. Lechon - a whole roasted pig that is seasoned with spices and stuffed with lemongrass, onions, and other aromatics. It is a staple dish in many celebrations and festivals in the Philippines, including in Bohol.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Bohol an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Philippines such as Boracay and Palawan, Bohol can be considered a relatively affordable destination. However, prices can vary depending on the season, location, and type of accommodations and activities you choose. Generally, the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and tours in Bohol are reasonably priced. It's best to plan your trip in advance and do some research on the costs to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Bohol

There are several areas in Bohol where it is great to find accommodation: 1. Panglao Island - This is the most popular area for tourists to stay, with plenty of beachfront resorts and hotels.
2. Alona Beach - Located on Panglao Island, Alona Beach is a vibrant area with plenty of bars, restaurants, and water sports activities.
3. Tagbilaran City - This is the provincial capital of Bohol and a convenient place to stay if you want to explore the city's historical sites and attractions.
4. Loboc - A quiet town nestled in the lush greenery and home to the famous Loboc River Cruise.
5. Anda - A secluded town on the eastern side of the island, offering pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Ultimately, the choice of where to stay depends on your preferences and itinerary.
You can check hotel prices at Bohol here:
Booking.com

Is Bohol a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bohol is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The local authorities have put in place measures to ensure the safety of tourists. However, like in any other destination, it is recommended that visitors take precautions and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching may occur, especially in crowded areas, so it's best to keep your belongings secure. Additionally, it's always a good idea to stay updated on any travel advisories from your home country's embassy or consulate.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bohol.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bohol the most?

Bohol caters to different types of travelers. It is an ideal destination for couples, as it boasts incredible natural scenery and a laid-back atmosphere. Young people looking for fun can also have a great time in Bohol, with a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.
Families with kids will also enjoy Bohol with its exciting attractions such as the Chocolate Hills, tarsier conservation area, and cultural experiences at the Bohol Bee farm and Baclayon Church. There are also several resorts that offer family-friendly amenities and activities.
Overall, Bohol is a great destination for all types of travelers who are looking for a relaxing and unique experience in the Philippines.

How to get around Bohol

There are several options for transportation to move around Bohol: 1. Tricycles - These are motorcycle taxis with a sidecar that can fit up to 3 passengers. They are common in rural areas and short distances.
2. Jeepneys - These are the most common mode of transportation in the Philippines. They are colorfully decorated, elongated vehicles that can fit up to 20 passengers.
3. Motorbikes - Many tourists rent motorbikes to explore the island. They provide flexibility and independence. 4. Vans and buses - These are ideal for larger groups and longer distances.
5. Taxi or Grab - For those who want more comfort and privacy, taxis and Grab (ride-hailing service) are also available.

What to see around Bohol

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Bohol: 1. Panglao Island - Located just off the southwest coast of Bohol, Panglao Island is a popular beach destination known for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and impressive diving sites.
2. Chocolate Hills - One of the iconic landmarks of the Philippines, the Chocolate Hills are a series of geological formations that are made of limestone and take on the appearance of large chocolate mounds during the dry season.
3. Loboc River Cruise - Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the scenic Loboc River while feasting on traditional Filipino dishes.
4. Tarsier Conservation Area - Visit these adorable little creatures at the Tarsier Conservation Area in Corella, where you can observe them up close in their native habitat.
5. Hinagdanan Cave - This mysterious and enchanting cave is located in Panglao Island and offers visitors an opportunity to see spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.
6. Blood Compact Shrine - Learn about the history of the Philippines and Bohol at the Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City, which commemorates the historic blood compact or Sandugo between the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and the native chieftain Sikatuna in 1565.
These are just a few suggestions for a day trip from Bohol. There are many more beautiful and interesting sights to see in the surrounding areas, so don't hesitate to explore!
For every travel information about Philippines you can click here.

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