Chocolate Hills Bohol 2024 Guide

Panoramic view of Bohol's Chocolate Hills Bohol, a geological wonder in the Philippines

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Chocolate Hills Bohol, Philippines, are you curious about this natural wonder? We’ve got you covered! Discover all you need to know – from ticket prices to the best visiting times. Dive into our firsthand experience, complete with awesome photos. Join our journey and get ready for your own exciting adventure!

Best Time to Visit Bohol

The best time to visit Bohol is between November to April. The Philippines experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April, ideal for clear skies and outdoor activities, and a wet monsoon season from May to October, which can offer budget-friendly travel opportunities due to fewer tourists.

The Ultimate Bohol Travel Guide Alona Beach

Pre-Arrival Checklist

Before you set foot in Bohol, we’ve put together a pre-checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming journey.

When traveling to Bohol we do recommend purchasing a SIM card if you don’t have a roam-like home service with your cellular plan. To ensure we had reliable connectivity during our Bohol trip we purchased a reliable SIM card and picked it up in Cebu where we were flying.

Where to Purchase a SIM Card In the Philippines 

The best place to purchase a SIM card in the Philippines depends on your preference. You can get them at malls, electronic stores, or vendors in popular tourist hubs. For the ultimate convenience, we recommend Pre-booking in advance, the booths are easy to find once you arrive in the international terminals of Manila and Cebu.

Upon arrival in the Philippines, you are granted a free 30-day visa, which can be extended for an additional 30 days online for approximately ₱3,030 or around $54 USD. Proof of vaccination or a test result is not required for entry.

We always recommend seeking advice for vaccinations for Indonesia on the CDC website, and visiting a travel medical clinic before traveling to a destination.

Disclaimer: The information shared regarding travel vaccines is based on our experiences and research and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. For personalized vaccine information and guidance, please consult with a medical expert such as a travel clinic.

The power plugs in the Philippines typically have Type A or Type B sockets, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 60Hz. It’s also recommended to carry a universal adapter when traveling internationally with many types of plug variations.

Before traveling, it’s crucial to have travel & medical insurance coverage whenever you’re traveling abroad to another country. We always recommend checking your credit card’s insurance policies to understand the coverage and duration of your insurance. Most travel credit cards have coverage between 14-30 days on the high-end. Therefore, depending on the coverage type and duration of your trip, purchasing travel insurance that supplements these policies, is recommended to provide you with peace of mind and financial security, to ensure your trip is worry-free.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, we’ve handpicked a selection of must-have travel items that will make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. From packing hacks to smart gadgets, these essential travel items have helped us organize better and maintain a stress-free travel experience while saving us time!

Where to Stay in Bohol

The picturesque island of Bohol, where idyllic beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture await. We’ll reveal the best places to stay and accommodations that cater to every budget and taste. Whether you seek beachfront luxury, serene countryside retreats, or charming budget-friendly stays, we’ve got you covered.

Ideal for beach lovers and vibrant nightlife seekers, Panglao Island boasts stunning beaches like Alona Beach and a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Budget: Bohol Coco Farm 

A highly rated budget-friendly accommodation that offers a unique and eco-friendly experience. You can stay in charming bamboo cottages nestled in a lush garden setting, providing a serene and sustainable stay.

Mid-tier: Amorita Resort 

This resort combines modern luxury with Bohol’s natural beauty. This beachfront resort offers stylish rooms, excellent dining, stunning ocean views, a spa, and 2 pools.

Luxury: Hennan Resort Alona Beach  

This resort stands out as the top-rated luxury hotel in Panglao Island. With its luxurious rooms, beautiful infinity pools, direct beach access, and impeccable service. We loved the perfect row of slanted palm trees looking directly into the pristine aqua-blue waters.

Nestled along the scenic Loboc River, this area offers tranquility, river cruises, and easy access to attractions like the Tarsier Conservation Area and Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park. It’s perfect for those seeking a serene riverside retreat, while 4-5 star resorts don’t exist in this area we will provide 2 great options under budget and mid-tier.

Budget: Loboc River Resort Loboc River Resort 

This beautiful budget-friendly option, offering a unique stay along the scenic Loboc River. The accommodations are accommodations, offers riverfront dining, and a serene riverside atmosphere is so unique.

Mid-tier: Fox & Firefly Cottages

This is another great option that offers a unique and eco-friendly stay in a riverside setting. You will stay in your own individual cottage and among the serene ambiance of Loboc River. The restaurant has great authentic food and smoothies.

 

Getting Around Bohol

Getting around Phnom Penh is an essential aspect of your Cambodian adventure. From navigating the journey from Phnom Penh International Airport to the best ways of getting around the city, we have you covered.

We travelled from Cebu to Bohol by OceanJet Ferry. We pre-booked discounted tickets here. 2-hour ride (Note: 1 carry-on per person and check-in luggage 15kgs max for tourist class, 20kgs for business class.)

Bohol has two main entry points: Tagbilaran Airport and Tagbilaran Seaport

How do you get from Tagbilaran Airport or Seaport to your hotel? 

The most convenient way to get to the city center is by taking a tricycle or taxi. Tricycles are readily available outside the airport and can accommodate up to 3 passengers, sometimes 4. 

Tricycles are not regulated, so you may need to negotiate with the drivers to get the best price. It’s always good to ask how much the fare is before you get in. When you exit the Seaport, yes, you will be swarmed by people asking you where you are going and they will help you arrive your transportation to your hotel. There seems to be a set rate of 800 pesos for a Taxi from the Seaport to Panglao area. For a tricycle it’s about 300-400 pesos.

The public transportation in Bohol is primarily by jeepney, which is just a local bus that operates on set routes around the island, it can accommodate more than 15 passengers at a time. It’s definitely the most affordable and local way to get around, however, it may be culture shock and less desirable for the average tourist. 

Tuk-Tuk is another option versus the jeepney which is popular among tourists for getting around however, this option will be more expensive as it’s not regulated on the island, therefore, the drivers can charge a lot higher than in big cities.

Taxis are not as readily available in Bohol but mostly waiting at arrival ports, however, they are the most expensive option. You can find them in major tourist areas like the airport, the seaport, shopping malls, hotels and more. When we stayed near Alona Beach, we didn’t see many around. There are plenty of TukTuks/Tricycles.

As of May 2023, my experience was that taxis have a fixed rate of 800 PHP or $14 USD from the Taligran Sea Port to the Panglao area. This is actually quite expensive compared to getting around in a city like Cebu.

Tricycles are the more affordable option but for shorter distances, and when not transporting a lot of luggage.

Travel Tip: The best decision that made our Bohol trip so memorable was deciding to rent a car. This was not only more cost-efficient than the other transportation option, but we also had no trouble with parking, and we had the flexibility to craft our stunning 3-day Bohol itinerary which we will share all the details in the itinerary section.

Chocolate Hills Bohol 2024 Guide

Entrance to Chocolate Hills Bohol View Point is just 100 PHP (~$1.80 USD) – bring cash for hassle-free entry!

Bohol Countryside Tour (Comprehensive Tour with transportation): Join the Bohol Countryside Tour, complete with transport, guide, and access to Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River Cruise, and Chocolate Hills. Plus, you will be picked up from your hotel.

Group of 11+: $35.25 USD per person

Group of 5-10: $41.45 USD per person

Group of 2-4: $58.19 USD per person

Prices quoted in USD are subject to fluctuation depending on exchange rates.

It’s open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

The Chocolate Hills Bohol Complex facilities including the bathroom and shops open from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. I recommend double-checking these hours of operation as they can vary.

Map & Location Info

Bohol Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

Billar Man-Made Forest Bohol

Tarsier Sanctuary

Pangas Falls

Loboc River Cruise

Our Experience & Guide

There are many different ways you can see the Chocolate Hills Bohol. We opted to rent a car for 3 days in Bohol, therefore, we’re driving to the Chocolate Hills. We will be sharing our ultimate 3 day itinerary in Bohol soon!

Chocolate Hills Bohol 2023 Guide

Best Time To Visit Chocolate Hills Bohol

The best time to visit Chocolate Hills is in the dry season between January to May.We set the alarm for 4:00 a.m. Trust us, it’s totally worth it! We left our accommodation in Loboc, aiming to reach the Chocolate Hills by 6:00 a.m. We wanted to do this to avoid the possibility of large crowds and tour groups.

Bohol Chocolate Hill 26

How Long Does It Take To Get To Chocolate Hills Bohol?

The drive from Loboc to the Chocolate Hills Bohol is a breeze, taking just about 45 minutes. The roads were smooth, and the best part? We practically had them all to ourselves! If you’re traveling from Panglao, it will take 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Chocolate Hills Bohol 2023 Guide

Chocolate Hills Bohol Complex

Upon arrival, we drove up a hill to reach the entrance of the Chocolate Hills Complex. We paid 100 Pesos per person for entry and parked our rental car. Pay up, and get ready to be amazed. Make your way up 214 stairs to the observation deck for the best viewpoint.

Ultimate Bohol Chocolate Hill Guide 2023
Chocolate Hills Bohol 2023 Guide

Why is it called Chocolate Hills?

As we stood there, taking in the view, it was hard to believe our eyes. Picture this: endless rolling hills, covered in grass, and looking like giant Hershey Kisses. Yes, you read that right! These hills are actually made of limestone, and during the dry season, they turn a rich brown, resembling a classic favorite chocolate treat.

Ultimate Bohol Chocolate Hill Guide 2023 Views binoculars

Chocolate Hills Group Tour

While we recognize not everyone will be able to rent a car, rest assured, there is a great top-rated group tour. You can still see the beautiful chocolate hills and much more in the tour below!

 

Group Tour With Guide: We recommend checking out this group tour if you’re staying in Panglao or Tagbilaran and are interested in a guided tour. Check off most of the popular attractions in Bohol on this tour which provides hotel pickup and drop-off.

 

Get ready to be blown away by the breathtaking beauty of Chocolate Hills Bohol, Philippines. We embarked on this unforgettable adventure, and here’s how you can make the most out of your visit too!

Bohol Chocolate Hill 30

Chocolate Hills Bohol | Secrets

The Chocolate Hills: Bohol’s Sweet Geological Mystery 🍫🏞️

 

Ever wondered why the Chocolate Hills resemble a field of oversized Hershey kisses? Nature has a playful side! During the dry season, these conical hills, lush with grass, turn a rich chocolate brown, creating a landscape reminiscent of everyone’s favorite sweets.

 

The secret lies in the grass’s reaction to the climate, transforming the hills into a delicious visual treat. It’s a whimsical touch to Bohol’s scenic wonders, where geology meets the artistry of nature, leaving visitors in awe of the Chocolate Hills’ sweet charm.

Chocolate Hills Bohol Adventure Park

Curious about the adventures awaiting you at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park? Brace yourself for a whirlwind of excitement! Zip through the treetops on thrilling canopy rides, conquer the Aerial Walk Challenge, or take a leap of faith with the exhilarating bike zipline.

 

For nature enthusiasts, embark on a Chocolate Hills ATV tour, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscape. And for those seeking a tranquil escape, explore the serene butterfly dome. It’s not just a park; it’s a playground for the adventurous spirit, offering a perfect blend of nature and adrenaline. Discover, explore, and create lasting memories at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park!

We booked our tickets on Klook! Use the search bar below to browse attractions in Bohol and use my coupon code “HUNGRYPURSUIT” for additional discounts at checkout. 

Klook.com
Our Thoughts

Make sure to visit The Chocolate Hills Complex when you’re in Bohol! Our top tip? Arrive early! Being there before the crowds provides a surreal, almost magical experience. It’s still breathtaking later, but arriving early means capturing the best photos without any background crowds. If you’re on a smaller group tour, consider requesting an earlier start time if everyone agrees. So, fellow adventurers set that alarm, hit the road early, and prepare for a jaw-dropping encounter with nature’s wonders at the Chocolate Hills. It’s a journey you’ll always remember, filled with chocolatey vibes! Safe travels!

 

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Andrew & Melissa

@HungryPursuit

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