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What are the Top 10 Bohol Tourist Spots?

Top Tourist Attractions in Bohol Province, Philippines

Alona Beach Bohol Tourist Spots by Qaalvin via Wikimedia cc

Top 10 Best Tourist Spots in Bohol, Philippines

Bohol, a province in the Philippines, is a beautiful destination with various natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and fun activities for tourists to enjoy. Many scenic spots exist, from the famous Chocolate Hills to the Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River, Alona Beach, and Panglao Island.

The province also boasts historic sites like the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church and adventure activities like zip-lining and caving at Danao Adventure Park. Visitors to Bohol can enjoy beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation, culture, and adventure. Planning to visit Bohol soon? Here are the top 10 tourist spots in Bohol:

Bohol Chocolate Hills
Bohol Chocolate Hills

Marvel at the Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation of over 1,200 individual hills spread out over an area of about 50 square kilometers. The hills are cone-shaped and range from 30 to 120 meters in height. They get their name because, during the dry season, the grass covering the hills turns brown, giving them a chocolate-like appearance.

The Chocolate Hills are believed to be made up of limestone and were formed millions of years ago through erosion and deposition. The unique landscape is now one of the most famous and recognizable tourist attractions in the Philippines. Visitors can view the hills from observation decks or climb to the top of some of the hills for a more panoramic view. Various legends and stories are associated with the formation of the Chocolate Hills, adding to their allure and mystique.

Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

Observe the Philippine Tarsier

The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary is a conservation center dedicated to protecting and preserving the Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates and a critically endangered species.

The tarsiers are tiny creatures known for their big eyes and unique features. They are nocturnal animals and are mainly active at night, feeding on insects and small animals. The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for the tarsiers, which allows visitors to see them in their natural environment without disturbing them.

Visitors to the sanctuary can observe the tarsiers up close but are not allowed to touch them or use flash photography, which can cause them stress and harm. There are trained guides who can provide information about the tarsiers, their behavior, and the conservation efforts undertaken to protect them. The sanctuary is an important educational and conservation center highlighting the importance of preserving the natural environment and its species.

Loboc River
Loboc River

Take a river cruise along the Loboc River.

The Loboc River Cruise is a popular attraction in the town of Loboc. The river cruise is a relaxing way to experience the area’s natural beauty and enjoy a delicious meal simultaneously.

The cruise takes visitors along the scenic Loboc River, surrounded by lush green forests and towering trees. The river is also home to various bird species, which can be spotted along the way. Along the riverbanks, visitors can see traditional Filipino houses and children swimming and playing in the water.

One of the highlights of the river cruise is the floating restaurant, where visitors can enjoy a buffet-style meal of traditional Filipino dishes while taking in the views. Live music and entertainment are also provided, making for a festive atmosphere.

The Loboc River Cruise is a popular activity for families and couples, providing a peaceful and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon or evening in Bohol.

Alona Beach Bohol Tourist Spots by Qaalvin via Wikimedia cc
Alona Beach Bohol Tourist Spots By Qaalvin – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, cc

Relax on the white sands of Alona Beach.

Alona Beach is a stunning white sand beach and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area and is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful coral reefs, and thriving marine life.

Alona Beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. The beach has several dive centers that offer diving courses and guided dives to explore the nearby coral reefs and underwater life.

Visitors can find various restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops along the beach, making it a lively and bustling area. The beach is also surrounded by several resorts and hotels, offering visitors a range of accommodation options.

Alona Beach is a great place to unwind, relax and soak up the sun while enjoying the beauty of nature. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to experience the beach and underwater adventures while visiting Bohol.

Baclayon Church by Marksky via Wikimedia cc
Baclayon Church By Marksy – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, cc

Visit the Baclayon Church and Museum

Baclayon Church is one of the oldest stone churches in the country, built in the 16th century by the Spanish colonizers.

The church has a rich history and has witnessed various significant events that have shaped the country’s history. The church is known for its intricate architecture and is considered a cultural treasure of the Philippines. The church features various elements of Baroque and Rococo styles, such as ornate carvings and frescoes.

Besides the church, visitors can also explore the Baclayon Museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts, antique religious items, and centuries-old ecclesiastical vestments. The museum also features an array of centuries-old books and manuscripts, including one of the oldest books in the Philippines, dating back to the 16th century.

Baclayon Church and Museum is a popular attraction for those interested in history, art, and culture. It offers a glimpse into the country’s past, and its architecture and artifacts are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Hinagdanan Cave by Qaalvin via Wikimedia cc
Hinagdanan Cave By Qaalvin – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, cc

Experience the Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan Cave is a natural cave in Dauis on Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines. The cave is a popular tourist attraction for its natural beauty and unique geological formations.

The cave is accessed through a narrow opening, which leads to a small underground chamber with crystal-clear water. Visitors can swim in the cool water, naturally illuminated by a hole in the cave’s ceiling, creating a magical effect.

Inside the cave, visitors can see stalactites and stalagmites formations that have been formed over thousands of years. These formations create unique shapes and patterns that are a sight to behold.

Hinagdanan Cave is also an important archeological site as it has revealed the remains of the early inhabitants of Bohol, including pottery, jewelry, and tools. The cave is now protected, and visitors cannot touch or remove any artifacts.

Visiting Hinagdanan Cave is a great experience for those interested in nature, geology, and archeology. The cave’s unique features and natural beauty make it a must-visit attraction for visitors to Bohol.

Bilar man-made Forest by Daxster16 via Wikimedia cc
Bilar man-made Forest by Daxster16 via Wikimedia cc

Explore the man-made forest.

The Bilar Man-Made Forest was created as a reforestation project in the late 20th century. The forest comprises densely planted mahogany trees stretching for several kilometers along the road leading to the Chocolate Hills. The tall and straight trees form a natural canopy that blocks the sunlight and creates a cool and serene atmosphere.

The Bilar Man-Made Forest is not only a beautiful sight to behold, but it also serves an important ecological purpose. The forest helps prevent soil erosion, provides a habitat for wildlife, and supports the livelihoods of the local communities who rely on the forest.

See the Blood Compact Shrine

The Bohol Blood Compact Shrine is a historical landmark in Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines. The shrine is a monument to an important event in the country’s history, known as the “Sandugo” or blood compact.

The blood compact was a traditional ritual of friendship and alliance between two parties, which the indigenous people of the Philippines practiced before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers. In 1565, the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and the chieftain Datu Sikatuna of Bohol performed the blood compact, symbolizing the first international treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and the Filipinos.

The Bohol Blood Compact Shrine is a tribute to this historic event, and it features a bronze sculpture depicting the blood compact ceremony. The shrine is surrounded by a landscaped park and offers a panoramic view of the Bohol Sea.

Dolphin watching
Dolphin watching

Go dolphin watching

Dolphin watching is a popular activity in Bohol, particularly in the waters off the coast of Panglao Island. Visitors can join a boat tour early morning to watch dolphins playing in their natural habitat.

The tour usually starts before sunrise and lasts for about two hours. Tourists will be taken to the dolphins’ habitat, about 10-20 minutes from the shore. Once the dolphins are spotted, the boat will slowly approach the area where they are playing, allowing tourists to take pictures and observe them up close.

Balicasag Island by Qaalvin via Wikimedia cc
Balicasag Island by Qaalvin via Wikimedia cc

Dive or snorkel at Balicasag Island

Balicasag Island is a small island located off the coast of Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

The island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts who come to explore the underwater world. The waters around Balicasag Island are home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.

In addition to snorkeling and diving, visitors to Balicasag Island can also enjoy other activities such as island hopping, beachcombing, and swimming. The island is surrounded by white sandy beaches, making it an excellent spot to relax and soak up the sun.

Balicasag Island is also an important marine sanctuary, and visitors are encouraged to respect the marine environment and avoid touching or damaging the coral reefs. The island is well-maintained and offers basic amenities such as restrooms, showers, and food stalls.

Ube Ice Cream by Alexander Grey via Unsplash
Ube Ice Cream by Alexander Grey via Unsplash

Try the local cuisine.

Ube, also known as purple yam, is a popular ingredient in Filipino desserts and is a specialty in Bohol. The province is known for its delicious ube-based delicacies, which include cakes, pastries, and ice cream.

Bohol’s most popular ube delicacy is the “ube halaya,” a sweet and creamy dessert made from mashed purple yam mixed with condensed milk, butter, and sugar. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations.

Bohol is an excellent destination for those who want to experience the beauty of nature, learn about the country’s history and culture, and enjoy a relaxing vacation. Have you been to any of the tourist spots listed above? Share your comments below!

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Written by Markus Castro

A cat person by day and a writer by night. He loves to travel to his favorite destinations in Southeast Asia.

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