Bohol Island is part of the Visayas, making up the geographical island center of the Philippines. Close proximity and easy connections to Cebu City make Bohol a popular island stop in the area.
Orientation
Bohol is a medium-sized island with a green, relaxed interior and decent infrastructure. Tagbilaran is the hectic commercial center and seaport on the west side of the island with a tiny airport.
A bulk of visitors to Bohol end up crossing the big bridge near Tagbilaran over to Panglao Island, just southwest of Bohol.
While most of Panglao is incredibly tranquil, busy Alona Beach on the south coast is the tourist epicenter of the area.
- See this guide to Panglao Island and Alona Beach.
Seeing the Tarsiers
Tarsiers, tiny endangered primates with huge eyes, are a big hit on Bohol; you'll begin seeing signs and pictures of the cute critters as soon as you step off of the boat. The most sustainable way to enjoy this endangered species is to visit the Tarsier Sanctuary located outside of Corella and before Sikatuna (northeast from Tagbilaran) on the island.
You can arrange private transportation to the Tarsier Sanctuary, or make your own way there via motorbike or bus. Catch the bus from Tagbilaran to Sikatuna and tell the attendant you want to get off at the sanctuary. The tarsier sanctuary is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Get directions and more information on the official website: www.tarsierfoundation.org.
While some resorts and tourist places on the island have been granted permission to keep tarsiers in captivity to draw in tourists, they are being exploited and often do not live long like this.
Avoid supporting the unreasonable practice by never paying to photograph or handle one. Tarsiers have even been known to commit suicide while in captivity!
- Read more about responsible travel and things not to do in Asia.
The Chocolate Hills
Hyped and touted as a major attraction in Bohol, the Chocolate Hills are a panoramic and photogenic landscape in the center of the island. In reality, you'll probably just snap a few photos and leave after all the effort of getting there, however, some walks are porentially available. The Chocolate Hills are best appreciated when combined with a scenic motorbike ride or visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary.
You can arrange a tour or get there yourself via motorbike or by taking the two-hour bus from Tagbilaran to Carmen; ask for the Chocolate Hills Complex.
Other Things to Do on Bohol
Other than seeing the tarsiers, Chocolate Hills, diving, and soaking up some sun, there are a handful of smaller sites and activities around Bohol.
- Whale Spotting: Dolphin and whale watching boat excursions are available from Pamilacan Island – a short distance from Panglao Island. The whales are easier to spot between February and July. You are much more likely to see dolphins throughout the year. Read more on www.baclayontourism.com.
- Prehistoric Drawings: Some ancient cave drawings can be viewed in Anda, on the very eastern side of Bohol. Inquire around town for more information and enjoy the quiet beach while you are there.
Getting Around Panglao and Bohol
The most popular way to get around Panglao and Bohol is to hire a tricycle taxi. You'll certainly have no shortage of offers while walking around; there are more drivers than passengers on the island! Negotiate your fare before getting inside and make sure that luggage is secure on the back. Tricycle taxis aren't known for speed or comfort, so plan extra time if you have a boat to catch.
Private cars -- both with driver and without -- are also available to hire.
- Read about using jeepneys in the Philippines.
Riding a Motorbike on Bohol
Quite a few motorcycle clubs have popped up in Bohol and for good reason: the driving conditions are fantastic! Motorbike is the nicest and most flexible way to explore both islands. With the exception of chaotic Tagbilaran, roads are typically in good condition and have less traffic than expected. Buzzing along a wide island road with beautiful scenery on both sides is simply unforgettable.
Some resorts and guesthouses can arrange scooter/motorbike rentals, or you can simply accept one of the many offers from drivers hanging around the main intersection in Panglao. Unlike Vietnam and other places in Southeast Asia, hiring a scooter directly from the owner is relatively safe and common. Negotiate your price, return time, and agree how much fuel should come back with the bike. Prices should be between 200 - 350 Philippine pesos per day. Always wear a helmet, both for safety and to avoid potential hassle from bored police.
- See tips for negotiating prices in Southeast Asia.
- Read more about renting and driving a scooter in Southeast Asia.
Getting to Bohol
There are many ways to get to Bohol and ultimately Panglao, depending upon your budget and time restraints. Flights are available directly from Manila to the tiny Tagbilaran Airport on Bohol, or you can catch one of the many Cebu Pacific flights from Manila to nearby Cebu City, then take a ferry over to Bohol. Flights and boats are relatively inexpensive because Cebu City has the second-busiest airport in the Philippines and the busiest port in the country.
Bohol has many ports of entry, including Tagbilaran, Tubigon, and Talibon. Tagbilaran is the most convenient port for reaching Panglao Island. Opt for Talibon if you wish to stay in Anda or on the east side of Bohol rather than in Panglao.
Bohol is also connected to Negros via ferry from Dumaguete to Tagbilaran. The same ferry also runs to Siquijor Island.
When to Go
While Bohol receives rain year round, the busiest and driest months are between December and May. March and April usually receive the least amount of rainfall.
The Bohol Fiesta, a large festival celebrating St. Joseph, hits around May 1 making the island incredibly busy.
- Read more about the complex weather in the Philippines.