Bohol is a province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It includes the main Bohol Island and several smaller nearby islands. The province is famous for its Chocolate Hills, over a thousand cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season. Near the capital, Tagbilaran, Panglao Island is known for its beach resorts, diving spots, and dolphin-watching. In the center of the island, Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape is ideal for bird-watching and hiking. Bohol is also home to the Tarsier Sanctuary, which protects the tiny, wide-eyed Philippine tarsier. Visitors can enjoy floating restaurants along the Loboc River and explore waterfalls and caves near Antequera.
sights to visit in Bohol
Panglao Island
Panglao Island lies in the north Bohol Sea, part of Central Visayas in the Philippines.
It’s a popular destination known for its white sand beaches and clear waters.
The island is famous for scuba diving, snorkeling, and dolphin-watching.
Resorts and dive schools are common, especially around Alona Beach.
It is connected to mainland Bohol by two bridges.
Visitors also enjoy island hopping and exploring nearby caves.
Panglao is a key tourist spot in the Bohol province.
Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills are a unique group of over 1,200 natural mounds in Bohol.
During the dry season, they turn brown, resembling chocolate drops.
These hills cover more than 50 square kilometers of land.
They are made of limestone covered in grass.
The exact number may be as high as 1,700 hills.
They are one of the most famous natural landmarks in the Philippines.
A lookout spot offers great panoramic views of the area.
Hinagdanan Cave
Hinagdanan Cave is a natural cave found in Dauis on Panglao Island.
It features a clear underground lagoon surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites.
The cave is naturally lit by sunlight coming through holes in the ceiling.
Visitors can take a guided tour and enjoy photo opportunities.
Swimming is allowed in the lagoon, but it’s optional.
The cave has a slippery path, so care is advised.
It’s a favorite for tourists exploring Panglao’s natural attractions.
Bilar Man-Made Forest
The Bilar Man-Made Forest is a two-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees.
It lies between the towns of Loboc and Bilar in Bohol.
The trees were planted as part of a reforestation project.
It offers a cool, shady place perfect for photos and nature walks.
The forest stands out due to its uniform tree height and alignment.
It’s a popular stop on the way to Chocolate Hills.
The thick canopy makes it a peaceful and scenic spot.
Chocolate Hills Lookout
Chocolate Hills Lookout is a viewing area for the famous hills.
It offers stunning views of the green mounds spread across the land.
A set of stairs leads up to the viewing platform.
The site has benches, signs, and souvenir shops nearby.
It’s best visited during sunrise or sunset for great photos.
The lookout helps tourists appreciate the natural beauty of Bohol.
It’s a must-see stop on island tours.
Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary is found in Corella, Bohol.
It protects one of the world’s smallest primates, the tarsier.
Tarsiers have huge eyes, long fingers, and can turn their heads 180 degrees.
They are nocturnal and sensitive to noise and light.
The sanctuary keeps them in a natural forest habitat.
Visitors can quietly view them along marked trails.
It’s a peaceful place to learn about and support tarsier conservation.
Baclayon Church
Baclayon Church is one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines.
It was built from coral stones by the Spanish in the 1590s.
Located in Baclayon, Bohol, it features classic Spanish architecture.
The church also has a small museum with old religious items.
Despite earthquake damage in 2013, it remains a historical site.
It reflects centuries of religious and colonial history.
The church is still used for worship and cultural visits.
Blood Compact Shrine
The Blood Compact Shrine is a monument in Tagbilaran, Bohol.
It honors the 1565 peace agreement between Spaniards and Filipinos.
The compact was sealed by drawing blood and mixing it with wine.
This act symbolized friendship and unity between the two groups.
The monument features life-size bronze statues of the participants.
It sits on a viewpoint overlooking the sea.
Visitors come to learn history and enjoy the scenery.
Loboc Church
Loboc Church is also called San Pedro Apostol Parish Church.
It stands beside the Loboc River in Bohol, adding charm to river cruises.
Originally built by Jesuits, it has Baroque architecture and a bell tower.
The church contains religious art and old frescoes.
It’s one of the oldest churches in Bohol, dating back to 1602.
Despite past damage, it’s been restored and remains active.
The church is part of Bohol’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Sagbayan Peak
Sagbayan Peak is a family-friendly resort and park in Bohol.
It offers a 360-degree view of the Chocolate Hills and nearby seas.
The park includes fun sculptures, a playground, and a small waterpark.
There’s also a butterfly dome and a cafe for visitors.
The site is elevated, making it perfect for viewing sunsets.
Sagbayan Peak is great for relaxing and sightseeing.
It’s a fun stop for both kids and adults exploring Bohol.
Best time to visit Bohol
The ideal time to explore Bohol is between November and April.
During these months, the weather is mostly dry and comfortable.
Skies are usually clear, making it perfect for sightseeing and beach trips.
It’s a great time for island hopping, diving, and river cruises.
The heat is more bearable compared to the summer months.
Outdoor activities and nature tours are more enjoyable in this season.
Tourists often prefer this period for a relaxing and sunny vacation.
