Bohol Travel Guide (Visayas/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Bohol

Bohol is a tropical paradise located in the Visayas region of the Philippines. This island province boasts of crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, cascading waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Bohol also has rich cultural heritage renowned for its Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and centuries-old churches.

Travelers looking to experience a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and culture, should consider visiting Bohol. In this ultimate travel guide to Bohol, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, must-try activities and tours, where to stay, eat, and drink, and tips on how to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Bohol

Bohol is a picturesque island that is home to many attractions for tourists from all over the world. Here’s a list of some of the top places to visit on the island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Baclayon Church
Blood Compact Shrine
Loboc Church
Bohol Museum
The Sikatuna Mirror
Don Pedro Echa-San Memorial Monument
Dauis Church

Natural Attractions of Bohol: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chocolate Hills
Hinagdanan Cave
Tarsier Sanctuary
Loboc River
Alona Beach
Virgin Island sandbar
Danao Adventure Park
Anda Beach
Mag-Aso Falls

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bohol

Bohol is a destination for adventure enthusiasts looking for an escape to nature. Exploring the island on foot or bike is a great way to discover the island’s hidden gems. Here are some of the top hiking/biking trails to try in Bohol:

Chocolate Hills biking trail
Mag-Aso Falls trek
Loboc River hiking trail
Mt. Carmel Hill trek

Best Things to Do in Bohol: Activities and Tours

Bohol is a hub of adventure, wildlife, and cultural activities. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or outdoor adventure, Bohol has something for every type of traveler. Here are some of the top things to do in Bohol:

Island hopping and snorkeling in Balicasag and Virgin Island
Dolphin watching in Pamilacan Island
Firefly kayaking in Abatan River
Countryside tour
Chocolate Hills ATV tour
Scuba diving
Stand-up paddleboarding

Week-Long Itinerary for Bohol

For those who want to explore the best of Bohol, follow this 7-day itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Arrival and Relaxation at Alona Beach
2	Chocolate Hills ATV Tour
3	Countryside Tour
4	Island Hopping and Snorkeling
5	Scuba Diving
6	Firefly Kayaking
7	Departure Day

Food and Drink Scene of Bohol

The cuisine of Bohol is heavily influenced by the traditional Filipino dishes. Expect fresh seafood, coconut milk, and tropical fruits in every meal. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Bohol:

Must-Try Dishes

Chicken Binakol
Adobo
Kinilaw
Calamay

Local Beverages

Bohol Beer
Café Barako
Sago’t Gulaman

Where to Stay in Bohol: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bohol has a wide variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Bohol:

Henann Resort Alona Beach
Amorita Resort
Bohol Beach Club
Alona Vida Beach Resort
L’Elephant Bleu Cottages

What to Buy in Bohol: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bohol is famous for its souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. Here are some of the best items to bring home as a souvenir from Bohol:

Bohol’s peanut kisses
Tarsier stuffed toys
Boholano woven bags and baskets
Shell crafts and accessories
Rattan furniture and home decor

Local Culture and Customs of Bohol

Bohol has a rich and diverse culture that sets it apart from other islands in the Philippines. Here are some of the traditions and customs you’ll encounter during your visit:

The Loboc Children’s Choir
Sinulog Festival in Tagbilaran
Sandugo Festival
Kalamay-making in Jagna

Best Time to Visit Bohol

The best time to visit Bohol is during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors and participate in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bohol

Here are some do’s and don’ts for travelers visiting Bohol:

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions
Bring appropriate clothing for the weather
Try the local cuisine
Bring insect repellent
Go island-hopping

Don’t:

Wear revealing clothing in public places
Litter on beaches and tourist spots
Touch the tarsiers
Do any activities that can harm the environment

Safety and Health

Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy while in Bohol:

Safety in Bohol

Be cautious of pickpockets and thieves
Be mindful of street vendors
Use registered tour operators and guides
Don’t travel alone at night
Use seat belts or helmets

Health in Bohol

Drink only bottled water
Use sunscreen and avoid the midday sun
Bring insect repellent
Get vaccinated before traveling
Seek medical attention if you feel unwell

Getting to Bohol: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bohol is accessible by plane, boat, or bus. Here are some of the ways to get to Bohol:

Airports Near Bohol

Panglao International Airport
Mactan-Cebu International Airport

Bus Stations Near Bohol

Tagbilaran City Bus Terminal

Other Options

Ferry terminal in Cebu City
Private van transfers from Cebu City or Dumaguete City

How to Get Around in Bohol

The best way to get around Bohol is by tricycle or rented motorcycle or car. Tricycles are ideal for short distances, while motorcycles or cars are more suitable for exploring the island at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Bohol: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bohol is close to some of the most popular destinations in the Philippines. Here are some of the places to visit from Bohol:

Siquijor Island
Siargao Island
Cebu City
Coron Island

Conclusion

Bohol is a must-visit destination in the Philippines for those looking to experience a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With this extensive travel guide, you’re equipped with the knowledge to plan and execute a memorable trip to the island. Remember to follow local customs and traditions and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and wellbeing while in Bohol.