Bohol

No visit to Bohol Island is complete without seeing the iconic Chocolate Hills. These over 1,000 cone-shaped mounds, which change color with the seasons—chocolate-brown in the dry months and lush green in the rainy season—are Bohol Island’s most famous natural landmark and even feature on the Philippine Peso. Declared a National Geological Monument, the Chocolate Hills are considered by many to be the "Eighth Wonder of the World."

The easiest way to appreciate their beauty is by joining the best-selling Bohol Island countryside tours, which typically include a stop at the Chocolate Hills Complex, where you can enjoy stunning 360° views from the observation deck.

Spanning 50 square kilometers, the Chocolate Hills are steeped in local legend, with tales of battling giants, heartbroken immortals, and mischievous carabaos said to be behind their formation. In reality, these hills are the result of coral deposits uplifted by geological forces and shaped by rainwater erosion, making them an extraordinary example of karst topography.

Just a short 90-minute flight from Manila City, Bohol Island is one of the Philippines’ most diverse and scenic destinations. Home to the famous Chocolate Hills—a series of over 1,000 uniquely shaped hills—and the Tarsier Sanctuary, which houses one of the world’s smallest monkey-like primates, it is a paradise for both nature lovers and beachgoers.

You can also find here some of the best beaches in the Philippines, like Alona Beach in the smaller Panglao Island within Bohol. 

For those looking to experience Bohol Island’s best attractions, travelers highly recommend the countryside tours. There are a variety of itineraries offered for this tour, but most will take you to the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and the picturesque Loboc River, where you can enjoy a scenic lunch cruise.

If you’re a beach lover, Panglao Island in Bohol is the ultimate destination for sun, sea, and sand. This beautiful island is home to some of the Philippines' finest white-sand beaches and offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Panglao Island is also where you’ll find many of the best resorts in Bohol Island, ranging from luxurious beachfront properties to budget-friendly stays. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the sea or explore the underwater world, Panglao’s beaches have it all.

A tour to Hinagdanan Cave is an unforgettable adventure that should be at the top of your Bohol Island itinerary. This stunning cave is not included in the typical countryside tour of Bohol Island, making it a hidden gem that you don’t want to miss. Located in the town of Dauis in Panglao Island, it offers a unique and thrilling experience for travelers seeking something off the beaten path.

Hinagdanan Cave captivates visitors with its crystal-clear natural pool, where you can swim beneath dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. The name "Hinagdanan," meaning "laddered", comes from its accidental discovery by a farmer who built a ladder to enter this hidden marvel. Adding to its intrigue, the cave holds historical significance, as it once served as a refuge during World War II.

Upon entering the 100-meter-long cave, be prepared to step into another world. The natural light filtering through the entrance bathes the cave in an otherworldly glow, making the freshwater lagoon shimmer beautifully. The water is around 10-12 meters deep, and swimming here feels like being in a magical underground pool. It's a unique experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

For an unforgettable experience in Bohol Island, the Loboc River Cruise is a must-try activity that perfectly captures the island’s natural charm and cultural heritage. Nestled among lush tropical trees, the Loboc River offers a serene escape where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of Bohol Island’s countryside. This stunning river has been preserved by the local community, making it a true natural wonder.

Aboard the popular Loboc River Cruise, you’ll enjoy a delightful Filipino buffet on a floating restaurant as you glide along the peaceful 1.5km stretch of the river. Accompanied by live music from a local band, the cruise culminates at the picturesque Busay Falls, where you’ll be treated to a lively cultural performance of traditional dance and song. Feel free to join the locals—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

When visiting Bohol Island, don’t miss the chance to meet its most iconic creatures—the adorable tarsiers. Known for their large, expressive eyes, these tiny primates are among the smallest in the world, growing to just about 15 centimeters.

While tarsiers can be found in other parts of the Philippines, Bohol Island is particularly famous for its dedicated tarsier sanctuaries, which play a vital role in protecting and preserving these endangered animals.

As part of the popular Bohol Island countryside tour, which also includes a visit to the Chocolate Hills, you can stop by the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc town or the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella town. These sanctuaries not only allow you to observe tarsiers up close in their natural habitat but also offer a chance to learn about the conservation efforts to protect them. It’s an enriching experience where you can appreciate the island’s unique biodiversity while ensuring these sensitive creatures are well cared for.

During your visit, you'll find the tarsiers quietly resting on branches, as they are nocturnal and typically sleep during the day. Visitors are reminded to keep noise levels low, as these animals are highly sensitive to sound. Feel free to take photos, but be sure to turn off the flash, as bright lights can disturb them. Touching the tarsiers is not allowed to avoid causing them stress.

While Panglao Island steals most of the spotlight in Bohol, the quiet town of Anda on the island’s eastern coast is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Far removed from the bustling crowds of Alona Beach, Anda town offers an off-the-beaten-path experience perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more laid-back escape.

Around three hours from the airport of Bohol Island, Anda town boasts a stunning 1.5 km-long stretch of white sand known as Anda Beach, where you can unwind in peace, surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty.

What makes Anda town special is its serene atmosphere, making it ideal for those looking for a relaxing tropical getaway. Aside from its tranquil beach, the town is home to several natural attractions, including breathtaking cave pools.

For adventurers, the Cabagnow Cave Pool—locally known as Kabagno Cave—offers crystal-clear waters up to 25 feet deep, perfect for a refreshing plunge or thrilling cliff dive.

If you prefer something more gentle, head to Combento Cave Pool, where you can swim in shallower waters surrounded by rock formations that resemble a chandelier, giving the cave its name derived from "kumbento," or convent.

Whether you’re lounging on the soft sands of Anda Beach or exploring its magical cave pools, the town provides a peaceful retreat where you can experience the natural wonders of Bohol Island away from the crowds. Perfect for a full-day tour or a longer stay, Anda town is the ideal destination for those in search of a true tropical hideaway.

Bohol Island’s coastline is already famous for its pristine white sand beaches, but the real adventure lies in exploring the nearby islands, where crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life await. If you're looking to add an extra layer of excitement to your trip, joining Bohol island hopping tours is a must.

These tours offer an unforgettable experience, combining snorkeling, diving, and leisurely sunbathing on some of the best islands in the region. Here are the top destinations you shouldn’t miss during your island hopping adventure: