Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Backpacking: Top Tourist Attractions in Bohol, Philippines

Welcome to Travel+Experiment!

The isolated island of Bohol is quaint unique in comparison to the bustling city life of Metro Manila or Cebu City. There are two parts of Bohol, one is the main island in which Tagbilaran is the capital city and second is Panglao Island. Tagbilaran houses the main transportation hub that connects to Cebu, Manila, and other cities while Panglao is the resort destination adjacent to Tagbilaran city.

Get the full vacation experience and discover the fascinating island of Bohol.

Bohol activities & Attractions must see.

Destination: Introducing Bohol Island!
If you plan your travel on your own, these insights below may help you figure out what to do and expect during your tour. My experience which highly I recommend for tourists who want to discover the exquisiteness of Bohol Island in accordance of their length of stay and preference.

There are a lot of inexpensive package tours with accommodations. Packages Including hotel stay and tours usually would cost around 6,000 pesos or more with airport or port to port transfers. If you are traveling in a group, it is advisable that you consolidate and divide the expenses.

Inclusions:
  • 3 days & 2 nights (3d/2n) Accommodation
  • Port-Hotel-Port/airport transfers
  • Daily Breakfast
  • Tour (based on prearranged/customized travel plan)
  • Air-conditioned vehicle with driver and gas for the Tour
  • Driving Guide
  • Buffet Lunch while cruising Loboc River
  • All Entrance Fees and Permits
 

I. Panglao Island Tour

A. Dauis Church
Dauis Church, or the Church of Our Lady Assumption, is one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Here you can see historical and religious artifacts dating back to the Spanish colonial era.

B. Hinagdanan Cave

The Hinagdanan Cave is Bohol's most famous and visited cave. It is a naturally lighted cavern with a deep lagoon and many large stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is lit by sunlight which filters through holes in the ceiling.

C. Bohol Bee Farm

The Bohol Bee Farm promotes a healthy lifestyle with its organic food and products especially honey. They also show you several farm activities like basket weaving, organic farming and bee culture. Bohol Bee Farm also provides room accommodations to stay-in visitors.

D. Island Hopping/Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour

Inclusions: Snorkel gadgets are not included.
  • Tour Driver
  • Dolphin Spotter
Pump boat Rental Rates:
  • 1-4 person/s - 1,800 pesos
  • 5-10 persons - 2,000 pesos
  • 11-15 persons - 2,500 pesos

1.) Dolphin & Whale Watching 

Watch the playful dolphins and endangered whales of Bohol. With the help of trained spotters and guides, who used to be hunters of these sea dolphins and whales before the practice was banned; you can experience the beauty and artistry of these magnificent sea creatures.

2.) Balicasag Island Snorkeling

Explore the beauty of Bohol's vast and colorful marine life. The island has one of the richest tropical fish habitats in the world. You can see for yourself the numerous tropical fishes and corals in their undisturbed environment.

3.) Virgin Island


After a day of watching dolphins, diving and snorkeling, you might want to visit the Pungtud Island - also known as Virgin Island, a small islet famous for its white sands and untouched natural environment. You can take a dip in its clear blue waters or just bask in the sun.

II. Bohol Countryside Tour

1.) Blood Compact Shrine

The Blood Compact Shrine commemorates the first treaty of friendship between the white and brown races. Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and local chieftain Rajah Sikatuna sealed the treaty by drinking wine mixed with blood, thus it was called the "Blood Compact" or "Sandugo."

2.) Baclayon Church

Built in the 16th century, shortly after the arrival of the Spaniards, Baclayon Church is one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Religious relics and cultural artifacts can be seen in this historical landmark.

3.) Python Sanctuary
Do you know that the largest python in captivity can be found in Bohol? A 25-feet long python named Prony can be found in the town of Albur. Prony is considered as a harmless pet by its owner and is fed once a month.

4.) Tarsier Conservation Center


The tarsier is widely considered as the world's smallest primate and is also deemed as an endangered species. With its large eyes, the tarsier hunts small insects for food and climbs from tree to tree. 

5.) Loboc River Cruise and Floating Restaurant

Be mystified and captivated by the enchanting Loboc River Cruise. Take a ride on one of the floating restaurants and treat yourself to an afternoon of relaxation and enjoyment, along with a sumptuous lunch and traditional local music. The trip is about 45-minute cruise on Loboc River while having a delightful lunch buffet on a floating restaurant.

6.) Batuan Shiphaus
The Batuan Shiphaus is a house that was designed to look like a real ship. The owner of this house is a ship captain. The house has different cabins like that of a real ship. Even the employees are dressed like the crew of a ship.

7.) Chocolate Hills
The world-famous Chocolate Hills is a must-see when visiting Bohol. Thousands of green and brown hillocks dot the landscape as far as the eyes can see, truly a natural wonder that can only be seen in Bohol.
 
8.) Gift Shop


After a tiresome but enjoyable day, a good way to cap it off is to buy souvenirs and local items at Aproniana Souvenir Shop. Buy some gifts to bring home to your friends and family, or simply as a souvenir or remembrance of your Bohol vacation.

This photo was taken during our January 2006 Bohol trip; Chocolate Hills as background.

Happy Travels!

 
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