A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Bohol Island in the Philippines: Tips and Instructions for Visiting

Bohol Island, in the Philippines, is a unique destination that offers exotic landscapes and rare wildlife. While it may not be as popular as other islands like Coron or El Nido, Palawan, it is still worth a visit. There are plenty of things to see and do on Bohol Island, from island hopping and beach activities to exploring the countryside and its natural wonders.

Getting to Bohol Island is relatively easy, with options to fly from Manila or Cebu or take a ferry from nearby islands. Flights from Manila to Bohol are non-stop and take about 1.5 hours. The Bohol international airport is located in Panglao, which is also a popular area for tourists to stay. There are several airlines that operate this route, with prices as low as 1,700 pesos ($30 USD) for a one-way ticket.

From Cebu, you can take a fast ferry to Bohol with Oceanjet or Supercat. The journey takes about 2 hours, and there are multiple departures daily. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability. There are also day tours available from Cebu to Bohol, which include hotel transfers, ferry tickets, and visits to the top sights on the island.

From other nearby Philippine islands like Siquijor, Dumaguete, or Camiguin, one can also take a ferry to Bohol Island. Additionally, there are direct flights to Bohol from Davao or El Nido in the Philippines, as well as from Seoul–Incheon in South Korea.

Once on Bohol Island, the best way to get around is by car, motorbike, or tuk-tuk (motorized tricycle). Motorbikes are the cheapest option and can be easily rented from hotels or rental shops on the island. Tricycles are a safer and more comfortable option, while cars are the most expensive but offer safety and comfort, especially for long-distance trips. Group tours are also available for those who prefer a guided experience.

There are several must-visit attractions on Bohol Island. The Chocolate Hills, with their cone-shaped hills, are a unique and iconic sight. There are over 1,000 of these hills spread out in the interior of the island, offering panoramic views and tourist activities such as 4-wheeling and zip lines.

Bohol is also famous for its Philippine tarsiers, the world’s smallest primates. There are two main places to see tarsiers on the island: the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary and the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area. It is recommended to visit the sanctuary independently to avoid crowds and ensure a respectful experience.

The Loboc River is another popular attraction on the Bohol countryside tour. A buffet meal and a traditional Filipino dance are both included in the scenic boat cruise along the river that visitors can take. Despite the crowds, the boat cruise offers a pleasant experience with beautiful tropical scenery.

For beach lovers, Alona Beach is the main tourist beach on Bohol Island. It offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, bars, massage places, and souvenir shops. Visitors can relax on the white sand beach or engage in water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

In conclusion, Bohol Island in the Philippines is a unique destination with its exotic landscapes, rare wildlife, and a range of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you choose to explore the countryside, relax on the beach, or indulge in water activities, Bohol has something to offer everyone.