Your weekend guide to Bohol
Related video: Here’s a quick look at beautiful Bohol
Dreaming of a tropical getaway that combines a culture trip with fun in the sun? As Boracay’s more demure yet equally beautiful cousin, the Philippine island of Bohol has been rising in popularity, making it a favourite destination for sun-worshippers, adventure-seekers, and family bonding. Here’s your guide to a blissful weekend.
Fly into Tagbilaran, Bohol’s capital, and head to your weekend digs (we recommend beachfront accommodations along the white-sand stretch of Panglao, Bohol’s southernmost tip). After you’re welcomed with cool towels, a refreshing drink, and signature Filipino hospitality, chat with your friendly concierge on the tours on offer. Package rates too steep? Opt to hire a driver and van and choose your own adventure!
Tarsiers, fireflies, and local dining options
Start off with a visit to the picturesque botanical garden Tarsier Botanika, which, despite its name, does not feature the famed tiny critter at all due to stricter conservation efforts. “It’s got an awesome view and yummy food. A little pricey, but really classy,” shares Tata Mapa, an energy healer, travel writer, and frequent Bohol visitor. Tarsier Botanika also features a museum and equestrian center.
Because you’ll probably want to see some actual tarsiers, head to the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary in Corella, where the wide-eyed, second-smallest primates in the world are cared for in a cage-free, natural habitat.
At dusk, head to Loay or Abatan River for firefly viewing, a natural phenomenon and magical experience for city kids and jaded travellers alike.
For an elegant dining option, Old Heidelberg at the The Peacock Garden Luxury Resort in Baclayon serves excellent and authentic European cuisine, plus the resort owner’s collection of Jose Rizal memorabilia makes it worth the detour! Guiseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roast offers fantastic Italian fare and is currently ranked Trip Advisor’s #1 among the restaurants in Panglao. For something local, Amanda Iliscupides Schoof, Deputy General Manager of The Peacock Garden recommends Golden Cowrie, Payag Restaurant, and Gerarda’s.
Dolphin-watching and diving
Wake up bright and early your second day for a trip to Pamilacan Island, the country’s go-to site for dolphin watching (best between the months of March to June). Hire a pump boat through your resort, or contact the Baclayon Tourist Center for accredited tours with reformed dolphin hunters-turned-“stewards of the sea” as your guides (an inspiring success story!). Avid divers and snorkelers must schedule a stopover at Balicasag Reef, whose crystal clear waters are teeming with marine life.
Exploring Bohol
Spend the rest of the day exploring the idyllic island. Don’t miss the Loboc River Cruise, where you float leisurely down the river on a covered barge and enjoy a native buffet lunch while being serenaded by local minstrels. Then, on your way to the iconic Chocolate Hills, you’ll pass through the Bilar Manmade Forest—go ahead, take that selfie with eerily beautiful mahogany trees.
The Chocolate Hills viewing deck at Carmen gives you an expansive view of this photogenic freak of nature—hundreds of grass-covered limestone formations which turn brown in the summer to resemble Hershey’s Kisses, hence the nickname. For thrill-seekers, Tata tips, “Visit the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park.” Must-try: bike zip in the sky!
History geeks must swing by the Blood Compact (Sandugo) Monument, which marks the first international treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos. Bohol is also known for centuries-old churches, but unfortunately, many were damaged by a recent earthquake. Shares Amanda, “Some churches are completely gone, but the historic Baclayon Church can still be visited, and tourists can see the restoration work underway.”
When your tummy rumbles, visit the Bohol Bee Farm for organic fare and homemade ice cream featuring exotic flavors such as durian, ube, and buko.
After an action-packed day, nothing is sweeter than hitting Alona Beach to watch the sunset, barhop, or dance underneath the stars.
Last Day pampering and “pasalubong”
Go for a swim, get a golden tan, and soak up the island vibe. Complete your blissful visit with a pampering treatment—get a beach massage on the cheap, or visit a spa for a traditional Filipino Hilot. On the way to the airport, swing by Aprononia’s for “pasalubong” (AKA souvenirs)—requisite “I love Bohol” tees, local delicacies, and creepy-cute Tarsier merch as cheery reminders of your blissful island escape.
Rebuilding efforts
Want to help the lovely Boholano people get back on their feet?
Amanda shares, “We are involved in rebuilding efforts through a partner—Bohol Local Development Foundation (BLDF), headed by Dr. Nestor Pestelos. The foundation's community-based projects focus on changes that can be sustained for the long term. Visit BLDF’s Facebook page for information on how tourists can volunteer or send donations to the ongoing rebuilding.” Your contribution will go toward rebuilding houses and funding skills training to ensure the full recovery of disadvantaged households from the impact of the devastating earthquake last year.
