Chocolate Hills, Bohol, Philippines. (Photo courtesy Philippines Department of Tourism)
Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Take an early morning banca ride to watch whales and dolphins in the Bohol Sea with the local boatmen of Pamilacan Island.
Ex-whale-hunting boats have now been converted for this activity, as tourism becomes an important part of the local economy.
You'll be accompanied by skilled local spotters whose familiarity with the area also makes them excellent guides. These locals are descended from whale hunters, although now they simply search to let you have sight of the magnificent wildlife that frequents these waters.
A stop-off on Pamilacan island follows, where you can explore the villages, meet the locals, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, and maybe have a swim or relax with a massage on the beach.
On nearby Balicasag Island, swimming & snorkeling may also be enjoyed. Dolphin & whale watching tours can be combined with other Bohol Tours.
Bohol
Surrounded by beautiful tropical beaches and coral reefs, the Philippines island of Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier, the smallest primate in the world.
Bohol in a nutshell is a little bit of Cebu, Palawan and Boracay rolled into one - Cebu for its rich history and Spanish heritage; Palawan for its lush flora and unusal fauna; and Boracay for its white sandy beaches and resort atmosphere. But make no mistake - Bohol has a unique local flavour unseen in any other part of the Philippines. Throw these all into the mix, and you have one great holiday destination.
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Locals entertain on the Loboc River
Baclayon Church
Countryside Tour
The Chocolate Hills are one of Bohol's most famous landmarks, and look like giant mole hills. Indeed, they are one of the most important visitor attractions in the whole of the Philippines. They are very uniform in shape and are covered with grass, which, at the end of the dry season, turns chocolate brown, which gives them their name.
The Countryside Tour also takes in the Man-Made Forest, Butterfly Farm, Blood-Compact Marker, Hanging Bridge, plus historic landmarks and buildings, such as the Baclayon Church. Take a cruise on the Loboc River, complete with unique entertainment from local musicians, with dancers, skipping over long bamboo poles. This is "tinikling" - the national dance of the Philippines! Keep an eye out for the dazzling colours of kingfishers too.
On the Countryside Tour you'll also get to see the Philippine Tarsier - one of the smallest known primates. Although a protected species, it is still threatened by the destruction of its natural forest environment. You can visit the tarsier at the Philippine Tarsier Foundation, to see it in its natural habitat. More...
Panglao Island
Your Bohol hotel or resort will usually be on Panglao Island, which is attached to Bohol by a short bridge. By taking a Panglao Island Tour, you can visit Dauis Church and Watch Tower, experience the unique Bee Farm organic farming resort, take a tour of a Coconut Plantation, and see the exotic animals, birds, artworks, and gardens at Tarsier Botanika. More information...
