Bohol: Whaleshark + Choco Tour + Rio Verde Lunch Buffet

Bohol, a picturesque island in the Philippines, offers an unparalleled adventure that combines the thrill of whaleshark watching, the awe-inspiring beauty of the Chocolate Hills, and the delights of a sumptuous lunch buffet. This tour promises an immersive experience, allowing travelers to swim alongside the gentle giants, savor local delicacies while witnessing traditional dances, and explore the unique Tarsier Conservation Area. With convenient transportation and the option to cancel hassle-free, this tour invites visitors to uncover the natural and cultural wonders that make Bohol a must-visit destination. What further insights await those who embark on this captivating journey?

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Lunch Experiences In Philippines.

Key Points

• The Bohol tour package offers a full-day exploration of the island’s natural and cultural wonders, including whaleshark watching, Chocolate Hills sightseeing, and a Loboc River lunch buffet.

• Participants can swim with the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, and enjoy snorkeling in their natural habitat under the guidance of experienced local guides.

• The tour includes a scenic Loboc River lunch at Rio Verde Floating Restaurant, where visitors can enjoy a vast selection of local and international dishes and a traditional dance performance.

• The Tarsier Conservation Area provides an opportunity to observe the elusive Philippine tarsier, a small nocturnal primate, in its natural habitat and learn about local conservation efforts.

• The tour package includes transportation, admission fees, travel insurance, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering a hassle-free and cost-effective way to explore Bohol’s top attractions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Bohol Tour package offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, featuring a whale shark encounter, a visit to the Chocolate Hills, and a riverboat lunch buffet.

Priced from $104.85 to $116.49 per person, the 8-hour tour provides exceptional value, with savings of up to 10% compared to booking separately.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes a driver as a guide, transportation, admission fees, and travel insurance, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of Bohol’s natural and cultural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

Pickup locations for the Bohol Tour include Tagbilaran City and Panglao, providing convenient access for participants. The main activities on this tour include:

Activity	Description
Whaleshark watching and snorkeling	Swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat near Lila.
Loboc River lunch and dance show	Savor a buffet lunch at the Rio Verde Floating Resto along with a traditional dance performance.
Tarsier Conservation Area	Stop for photos and visit the protected habitat of the tiny tarsier primates.
Chocolate Hills	Enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Chocolate Hills, a natural geological formation.

After the activities, you will be dropped off at either Panglao or Tagbilaran City, though the itinerary is subject to change.

Whaleshark Watching and Snorkeling

Visitors have the unique opportunity to swim alongside gentle whale sharks in their natural habitat near the town of Lila. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows them to observe the world’s largest fish up close as they feed on plankton in the waters off the coast.

Guests will receive detailed safety briefings and guidance from experienced local guides, ensuring a safe and responsible encounter. Snorkeling gear is provided, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the underwater world and capture unforgettable memories.

The thrill of swimming alongside these majestic creatures is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who participate in this extraordinary tour.

Loboc River Lunch and Dance

After the exhilarating whale shark encounter, the tour proceeds to the scenic Loboc River, where guests savor a delightful lunch buffet at the iconic Rio Verde Floating Restaurant.

The restaurant offers a vast selection of local and international dishes, allowing visitors to indulge in the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine. During the lunch, guests can also enjoy a traditional dance performance, providing a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Bohol.

This part of the tour offers a chance to relax, soak in the serene beauty of the river, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tarsier Conservation Area

What’s the Tarsier Conservation Area? It’s a sanctuary dedicated to protecting the smallest primate in the world – the Philippine tarsier.

These unique, nocturnal creatures are known for their large, bulging eyes and long, slender fingers. At the conservation area, visitors can observe the tarsiers in their natural habitat.

The experience provides an up-close look at these amazing animals and supports efforts to safeguard their future. The tour includes a photo stop at the tarsier sanctuary, allowing guests to capture memories of these captivating creatures.

This stop on the Bohol tour offers a chance to learn about and appreciate the local wildlife and conservation initiatives.

Chocolate Hills Sightseeing

The Chocolate Hills is an iconic landmark on the Bohol tour, drawing visitors to marvel at its unique and picturesque landscape. This geological wonder consists of 1,268 individual hills, each standing between 30 to 50 meters tall.

The hills are covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season, creating a striking visual effect across the rolling terrain. Visitors can explore the Chocolate Hills and capture stunning panoramic views from several designated viewpoints.

The tour also includes:

• Scenic drives through the lush countryside
• Photo opportunities at the famous hills
• Exploration of the unique geological formation
• Learning about the local legend behind the Chocolate Hills

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Bohol tour package includes a driver as a guide, fuel and parking fees, admission fees to all attractions (including the whaleshark viewing and Rio Verde lunch buffet), as well as travel insurance and tips and gratuities.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, high blood pressure, visual impairments, or wheelchair users.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, a change of clothes, and a towel. A waterproof camera is recommended for capturing whale shark photos, though GoPro rental is available on-site but not included in the package.

Recommendations and What to Bring

Participants are advised to pack a waterproof camera, such as a GoPro, to capture memorable moments during the whale shark encounter.

It’s also recommended to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as well as a change of clothes and a towel. The tour involves various activities that may require different attire, so it’s best to be prepared.

Plus, visitors should consider the following recommendations:

• Wear sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
• Bring a small backpack or day bag to carry personal items
• Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle
• Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes for the walking and hiking portions of the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Age Limit for This Tour?

The tour does not have an age limit. However, it is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, high blood pressure, visual impairments, or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities involved.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch Buffet?

The tour includes a lunch buffet at Rio Verde Floating Resto, which offers a variety of local and international dishes. There are no specific dietary restrictions mentioned, so guests can enjoy the full selection of menu items.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling equipment for the whaleshark watching activity. However, the tour package includes snorkeling gear, so it’s not necessary to bring your own unless you prefer to use your personal equipment.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Whaleshark Activity?

There is no specific weight limit for the whaleshark activity. However, participants should be able to comfortably snorkel and swim in the water. Those with mobility issues may want to check with the tour provider beforehand.

How Many People Are Typically in a Group for This Tour?

The tour typically accommodates groups of varying sizes, with an average group size of 10-15 people. The exact number may vary depending on demand and availability at the time of booking.

Recap

This Bohol tour offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. From swimming with majestic whalesharks to savoring a delightful lunch buffet amidst traditional dance performances, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Bohol’s highlights. With convenient transportation and free cancellation, it’s a hassle-free way to take in the beauty and charm of this Philippine destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: