Is the Bohol Countryside Tour Worth It In 2026?
Planning a trip to Bohol and wondering if the famous Countryside Tour is worth it for your time, money, and energy. This guide is based on my full day on a shared tour with optional add ons like ATV riding around the Chocolate Hills. You will see what worked, what didn’t, and exactly who should book it. I have done many tours across the Philippines and I know what separates a forgettable day from a great one.
Don’t miss my free five day Bohol itinerary download below.
Short On Time?
🏨 Best Accommodation Site: Trip.com for price drops and easy rebooking
🚌 Book Day Tours Here: GetYourGuide with free cancellation and hotel pickup
🛡️ Purchase Travel Insurance Here: Visitors Coverage for medical and trip hiccups
📑 Free Bohol Itinerary Download Get it here
1. What the Bohol Countryside Tour Includes
Most providers follow a similar route with minor variations. Expect a full day with a mix of viewpoints, wildlife, heritage, and a buffet river cruise. The exact order can change with traffic and group size.
A typical day tour covers the following:
- Stops
- Chocolate Hills viewpoint plus optional ATV ride
- Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
- Man Made Forest in Bilar
- Loboc River Cruise with lunch
- Baclayon Church and Blood Compact Shrine
- Sometimes the Butterfly Garden and Python Sanctuary
- Logistics
- Hotel pick up early morning
- Transportation in a shared van
- Entrance fees and river cruise lunch usually included
- Duration about 7 to 8 hours including travel
- Extras you might choose
- ATV ride at the Chocolate Hills
- Private tour upgrade
If you prefer a guaranteed small group with clearer timings, compare a few operators here and pick one that caps the van size and includes the river cruise lunch.
There are plenty of other tourist activities in Bohol beyond the countryside tour: you can see my guide to the 12 Best Bohol Tourist Spots & Best Things To Do for more ideas.
2. My Real Experience and Impressions
Your experience depends a lot on van quality, departure time, and group size. Here is what stood out for me and how I would adjust the day to make it smoother.
- Van quality and comfort: The van was cramped, the seats were a bit uncomfortable, and some people had issues with the wheel wells and placing their legs in awkward positions for long rides. If you care about space or comfort, go with an upgraded van.
- Tarsier Sanctuary crowds: It’s a tight space and with the heavy crowds it made it difficult to really enjoy the visit or take good pictures. Arrive early if possible to avoid the crowds.
- ATV quad add on: Definitely a fun highlight. It adds adventure and makes the stop at Chocolate Hills more memorable.
- Church and zoo exhibit: These were underwhelming. The zoo part in particular felt like an afterthought. If time is tight skip those or do minimal time there.
- Loboc River Cruise: The food was tasty and the scenery was beautiful, but the start was messy. There were no clear instructions, we waited about an hour to board, people weren’t sure where to line up, and boarding felt chaotic. It came across as a bit of a tourist trap, but once the cruise got going it was still enjoyable.
Pay a little more for a smaller group and you trade cramped seats for comfort, wasted minutes for flexibility, and a tiring day for one you’ll remember fondly. Check current private countryside tour options here and see how much better the day feels when it’s built around you.
3. Cost and Comparison: Shared vs Private Tours
| Option | Price (USD) | What You Get | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Group Tour | $25–45 | Budget-friendly, all main stops included, chance to meet other travellers | Less space in the van, fixed schedule, limited flexibility |
| Private Tour | $60–140+ | More comfort, flexible pacing, exclusive experience, better vehicles | Higher cost, sometimes entrance fees not included |
Extra costs to keep in mind
- Entrance fees (if not bundled)
- Optional activities like ATV or zipline
- Tips, parking, souvenirs
- Upgraded meals or drinks on the river cruise
Best Value Pick
If you want comfort and a more relaxed pace consider booking a private countryside tour. For just a bit more you avoid cramped vans get flexible scheduling and enjoy the day more on your own terms.
4. Pros and Cons Who It is Best For
The tour is designed to cover a lot in one day. That is perfect for first time visitors who want highlights, but it can feel rushed if you prefer slow travel or photography.
Best for:
- First time visitors with limited time in Bohol
- Travellers who prefer ease and no planning stress
- People who want to hit many highlights in one day
Less good if:
- You dislike crowds or rushed itineraries
- You prefer slow travel photography time or relaxing moments
- You want high comfort or luxury
5. How to Maximize Value
- Book a provider that promises smaller group size and better van to avoid feeling cramped
- Start early tour around 7 AM to avoid worst crowds at Tarsier Sanctuary
- Bring snacks, water, mosquito repellent, cash
- Make sure you know what’s included before you book, especially entrance fees, lunch, and drinks.
- If you enjoy adventure include the ATV option
6. Explore Bohol on Your Own Terms
If group tours are not your style, it is easy to recreate the countryside loop. A private driver or renting a scooter gives you the same headline stops with breathing room for photos, coffee breaks, and detours.
- Hire a private driver plus local guide for more flexibility and comfort
- Rent a scooter and do it yourself
Back in 2007, I rented a scooter and rode out to the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier exhibit, Loboc, the Blood Compact site, and even Hinagdanan Cave. I stopped in small towns along the way, met locals, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable trips I’ve had in the Philippines.
7. FAQs
How long is the full tour including transit and all stops?
Around 7 to 8 hours when you include waiting times, traffic, and lunch.
When is the best time of day to go?
Early morning is best to beat the crowds.
Is the tour suitable for kids or elderly travellers?
Yes, but the van ride may be uncomfortable for long periods, and the Chocolate Hills have steep stairs to reach the top.
Which time of year is best to visit?
Dry season from December through May has the best weather.
Do I need to book ahead?
Yes especially in peak season or if you want better van or private tour options since popular tours fill up.
Can I book the Bohol Countryside Tour from Cebu City?
Yes, many travellers visit Bohol on a day trip from Cebu. Ferries run regularly between Cebu City and Tagbilaran, and some tour providers even offer combined packages that include the ferry ticket, transfers, and the countryside tour itself. You can check current options and book here.
If you’re starting in Cebu, you might also enjoy my full guide to Cebu City for more things to see and do before or after your Bohol trip.
8. What I Would Do Differently Next Time
- Choose a van with more space.
- Start earlier to avoid crowds and heat.
- Skip or shorten less interesting stops like the python zoo and church.
9. In Summary, Is the Countryside Tour Worth It
If your schedule is limited and you want the highlights in one day, the Bohol Countryside Tour is worth it. You will see very different sides of the island in a single loop, from the Chocolate Hills to the Tarsier Sanctuary to the Loboc River.
If comfort and flexibility matter most, book a private tour or recreate the route with a driver and guide. Grab my free five day Bohol itinerary and compare current tour options to build a day that matches your style.
Plan Your Trip to Bohol With My Top Picks
✈️ Best flights: Trip.com
🏨 Best hotel: Booking.com
🚌 Best day tour: Bohol Countryside Tour
📱 Best eSIM: Airalo
🛡️ Best insurance: Visitors Coverage
Free Bohol Itinerary Download Get it here
