When it comes to travelling in the Philippines, it doesn’t get much better than Bohol. This dazzling not so little island is home to insane beaches, flourishing marine life and lush green landscapes. It’s one of those “pinch me” kind of places.
Whether you’re heading to Bohol to unwind on the beaches, cruise down the Loboc River or find your thrill at the WILD adventure parks – this epic island is brimming with activities to get involved in.
After spending a month exploring the island, I am here to present to you the creme da la creme of things to do in Bohol. Most of these activities involve appreciating the island’s natural wonders but there are also a few man-made creations thrown in there for good measure too.
AT A GLANCE: Our Top Picks for Things to Do in Bohol
- The Most Classic: Marvel at the Chocolate Hills
- The Most Complete: Bohol Loboc River Cruise
- The Most Fun: Go Island Hopping
Although I’ve got a pretty good list here (if I do say so myself), it’s always a good idea to get chatting with locals when you arrive to see if you can find out any additional hidden gems on the island.
But for now, let me take you through the best of what Bohol has to offer…
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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The Top 10 Things to Do in Bohol
Travelling in the Philippines tops the list as a bucket list spot for many of us globetrotters. The culture is rich, the people are some of the friendliest in the world and the landscapes are out-of-this-world.
From mind-bogglingly beautiful beaches and vibrant underwater worlds to lush green rolling hills and rice terraces – Bohol boasts some of the BEST of the Philippines.
Here is my list of the best things to do in Bohol.
| THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BOHOL | |||
|---|---|---|---|
THE MOST CLASSIC THING TO DO IN BOHOL  | Marvel at the Chocolate Hills
| VIEW ON GETYOURGUIDE | |
THE MOST COMPLETE THING TO DO IN BOHOL  | Bohol Loboc River Cruise
| VIEW ON GETYOURGUIDE | |
THE MOST FUN THING TO DO IN BOHOL  | Go Island Hopping
| VIEW ON GETYOURGUIDE | |
1. Marvel at the Chocolate Hills
Photo: @Rhenzy
It would be rude not to kick off the list with the Chocolate Hills of Bohol. This is easily one of the most famous attractions on this incredible Philippine island. These fascinating “bumps” make for a pretty damn unique sight! They are SO iconic that they feature on the 200 Philippine Peso bill.
Most travellers will visit the Chocolate Hill Complex in an area called Carmen to marvel at the 1,260 mounds. The Complex is pretty snazzy, not only does it have the viewing deck but you’ll also find it’s got a restaurant & swimming pool.
A note for travellers who may not be keeping fit on their travels… there 200+ steps on the way up to the awe-inspiring sight of seemingly endless Hershey’s Kisses-like hills. It is 10/10 worth the effort but you may work up a sweat.
If you’re staying in Panglao (as most travellers do) and don’t have your own transport, you’ll want to check out this Chocolate Hills tour from Panglao. They will pick you up, drop you off and take you not only to see the Chocolate Hills but also take you for an adventure around the Bohol countryside.
- Rating: 10/10
- Cost: The entrance fee is PHP 100 ($1.70 USD)
- My Personal Opinion: Although touristy, it is a pretty magical sight that I would recommend visiting while you’re in Bohol.
2. Explore the Beaches of Panglao
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
If you’re heading to the Philippines to soak in the sun, drink a few San Miguels and enjoy world-famous beaches… Pangao is where you’ll want to be. Panglao is the most popular area to stay in Bohol for travellers, it’s fairly built up with epic nightlife, places to stay and of course, the best beaches on the island.
From the likes of the infamous Alona Beach with resorts and restaurants as far as the eye can see to the more low-key vibes of Dumaluan Beach – beach hopping in Panglao is a MUST.
Home to endless stretches of white sand, swaying palm trees and crystal clear waters – they are the tropical islands we all dream of. Plus, the marine life below the surface will absolutely BLOW YOUR MIND. So, don’t forget to pack your snorkel (or rent one from one of the spots along the beach).
- Rating: 10/10
- Cost: FREE
- My Personal Opinion: Isn’t this why we visit the Philippines?!?
3. Venture to the Hinagdanan cave
The Hinagdanan cave is pretty damn spectacular. The sparkly turquoise-blue lagoon is sheltered within a naturally lit cave – it’s incredible to marvel at and also swim in!
The story goes that the cave was discovered by a farmer after he dropped something down a hole and heard a splash. He chucked a ladder down and viola he discovered this secret GEM. The name of the cave literally translates to “laddered” cave.
The entrance is narrow and tight but don’t worry, it won’t take long for it to open up into all its glistening glory. However, the cave is getting more and more popular… which is, unfortunately, taking away from its secluded sparkle.
- Rating: 7/10
- Cost: 50 PHP ($0.90 USD) to marvel at it and another 75 PHP ($1.30 USD) to swim.
- My Personal Opinion: It is seriously beautiful, but it can be crazy busy. Get in early before the crowds to really enjoy this one.
4. Go diving!!
Photo: Alex Hatton
It’s no secret that the Philippines is PACKED with incredible dive spots and Bohol is at the pinnacle of it. Home to some of the most vibrant coral and marine life known to man – you HAVE to go diving here (or at least dabble in some snorkelling).
Most of the best dive spots in Bohol are in Pangalo and a handful in Anda. If you’ve never been diving before, this is a great place to learn. There is so much to see – from white-tip sharks to captivating coral reefs. There are even places to dive with whale sharks (ethically!)
Pro Tip: If you wanna go diving in Panglao, be sure to hit up Alex — he’s a LEGEND and really knows his shit… both under AND above water. Just reach out via WhatsApp and let him know I sent you: +44 7812 648968.
- Rating: 12/10
- Cost: Approx PHP 3650 ($65 USD for two dives in Panglao)
- My Personal Opinion: If you love diving, this is not a spot to skip.
5. Bohol Loboc River Cruise
The Loboc River Cruise in Boho is quite the ride, literally. The cruise takes place in a traditional floating restaurant (traditional bancas/ outrigger boats). Feast away on traditional Filipino cuisine while soaking in some pretty incredible views.
The cruise ventures through LUSH tropical landscapes and you’ll often get to enjoy live performances of indigenous music and dance. It’s a rather tranquil way to enjoy a day.
The Loboc River itself is a jungle river, it snakes all the way from Carmen (by the Chocolate Hills) down to the beaches of Panglao. Don’t worry, the cruise isn’t thaaaat long – the cruises start from the small town of Tay Tay.
If you want to combine the Chocolate Hills and the Loboc River Cruise into a day trip, check out this full-day Bohol tour.
- Rating: 8/10
- Cost: $70-110 USD
- My Personal Opinion: This activity is epic but it is pretty expensive, especially if you’re travelling on a budget.
6. Find your Thrill at Bohol’s Adventure Parks
Photo: Sasha Savinov
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Bohol has you covered with the perfect hit. Home to not one but three EPIC adventure parks: the Chocolate Hill Adventure Park, the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park and the Danao Adventure Park.
The Loboc Eco Adventure Park’s zipline is also one that will get your blood pumping. At this adventure park, you’ll be taking flight almost 600ft above the Loboc River… while facedown in a Superman position. (You’ll definitely impress those on the river cruises below). This is one of the best ziplines I’ve ever ridden.
The Chocolate Hill Adventure Park is pretty wild. I’ve been ziplining before and I’ve been biking before, but never before have I been ziplining on a bike… yep, this place is not for the faint-hearted! Not to mention, you get to marvel at the view across the Chocolate Hills while you do it.
The Danao Adventure Park also doesn’t disappoint – if you want to dive off of platforms or zipline through the trees, you can also check out this park.
- Rating: 9/10
- Cost: Depends on the activities you choose. The zipline is approx 400 PHP ($7 USD)
- My Personal Opinion: Loboc Eco Adventure Park is my favourite and I’d recommend a visit if you’re up for a dose of adventure.
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Get Yours Here Read Our Review7. Stroll over the Bamboo Hanging Bridge
A couple of key things to note about the Bamboo Hanging Bridge (also known as Tigbao Hangin Bridge or the Twin Hanging Bridge) are:
1. The bridge is in fact two bridges! One for walking in each direction (clever bridge designers)
2. The bridges cross the famous Sipatan River – where the Loboc River Cruises cruise down.
Upon arrival, you may think there is no way I’m getting on that thing. I get you, I felt the same – it looks a little sketchy especially when it’s covered in swarms of tourists. But it is safe! The support cables are made of steel and you’ll often see locals crossing the bridge on their motorbikes.
The bridge is surrounded by some pretty incredible, lush scenery. However, the bridge is only 40m long and as it’s a popular attraction it can get pretty busy.
- Rating: 7/10
- Cost: 35 PHP ($0.60 USD)
- My Personal Opinion: Gorgeous scenery and the bridge is pretty impressive but can get very busy. Head there early to beat the crowds.
8. Visit Baclayon Church
Photo: @Rhenzy
The Baclayon Church is a historic Roman Catholic church that is worth a visit if you’re into impressive old buildings and a dash of history. The Baclayon Church is one of the Philippines’ oldest churches and dates back to 1727.
Structurally, it’s still in its original form and is a great example of architecture using traditional local materials and techniques. And we’re talking SUPER authentic materials – coral stone and egg whites mixed as plaster. The church has been restored after various disasters and incidents over the years, so its original aesthetic has changed with time.
The church has survived through fires, earthquakes, the invasion of American forces, and damage from World War II – it’s seen a lot.
- Rating: 7.5/10
- Cost: FREE
- My personal opinion: It’s a great free activity! Especially if you’re Catholic or a history buff.
9. Cambuyo Rice Terraces
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
We’ve all seen the infamous rice terraces of Bali all over Instagram but not so many talk about the rice terraces of the Philippines… but they should. Cambuyo Rice Terraces are a sight for sore eyes, they go on for days and are jaw-droppingly beautiful.
If you’re after a day out in nature, the Cambuyo Rice Terraces are a nice change up from the adventure parks and hanging bridges. However, you can add some adventure to your life by hiring a scooter and making your way up – whether you’re coming from the closer destination of Anda or Panglao (which is approx 2.5 hours away), both are beautiful scenic drives.
If you’re up for even more rice terraces in your life, you could also check out Cadapdapan Rice Terraces – also beautiful and also on Bohol.
- Rating: 8/10
- Cost: 50 PHP ($0.90 USD)
- My Personal Opinion: I love visiting rice terraces, there is just something about them that puts you at ease. If you’re staying near Anda it’s a no-brainer to visit. However, if you’re staying in Pangalo I’d recommend finding activities toward the south of the island.
10. Visit Dimiao ‘Twin’ Falls (Pahangog Falls)
Bohol has a wildly diverse landscape – from tropical beaches, rolling Hershey’s Kisses-shaped hills, endless rivers AND incredible waterfalls! The BEST waterfalls in Bohol are Dimiao ‘Twin’ Falls (Pahangog Falls) + The Secret Waterfall.
The Secret Waterfall is just that… it’s a secret. It’s a super local spot that isn’t too busy – yet! The internet is collectively working together to keep it a secret. But don’t worry, when you arrive, ask around and someone will tell you the top secret location.
But Dimiao ‘Twin’ Falls (Pahangog Falls) is well and truly on the traveller’s map when it comes to Bohol. It’s a pretty impressive sight. The landscape is lush, the pool is incredibly blue and the waterfall is – in the words of Tom Petty – freeeee fallin!
To my knowledge, there are no set tours that come to this waterfall so I’d recommend renting a scooter, loading up your towels & swimmers and hitting the road for a day of exploring. The falls are around 1.5 hours away from the popular area of Panglao. I was lucky that my host from my Airbnb in Bohol took me here, what a legend!
- Rating: 10/10
- Cost: 20 PHP ($0.34 USD)
- My personal opinion: Overall, this place is not very touristy and often full of locals enjoying their backyard. It’s a beautiful place to swim, hang out and jump off the rocks.
Bonus Activities in Bohol
The top 10 things to do in Bohol are pretty cool, eh? But honestly, Bohol has so much to offer it’s hard to condense it into ten. So, I’m going to be a bit cheeky and add in a couple more for you because why not?
Visit Bilar (The Man Made Forest)
The Man-Made Forest in Bohol is a unique experience and not what you’d expect to find in Bohol! The forest is a 2km stretch of mahogany trees that create a canopy overhead, blocking out the sun from the road below.
The road has a few tourist stands to grab a bite to eat under the shade while you marvel at the trees. I’d recommend this as a quick stop on your way to the Chocolate Hills from Loboc.
Trek up Binanaje Hills at Sunrise
Although Bohol isn’t known for its hikes, it does have a couple of small ones around. My favourite hike on the island is Binanaje Hills Sunrise Trek in Alicia. It’s relatively short (around 45 minutes up from the point you park your bikes) but the sunrise reviews are incredible.
Mayana Peak is another hike that you can do on the island. It’s an hour and a half round trip and has some rather beautiful scenery. But overall, I’d say this hike is nice for a bit of movement and to do something a bit different – but I’d recommend the Binanaje Hills over Mayana.
Day Trips From Bohol
If 12 activities weren’t enough for ya then let me take it one step further and give you a couple of day trips to consider too. If you’re after a bit more adventure off the main island, I’ve got a couple of things in mind.
Go Bohol Island Hopping
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Bohol it’s self is mind-blowingly gorgeous but you just wait… there’s more. Bohol is also surrounded by more tropical islands to explore. Including the obvious, Panglao (which we travellers flock to like moths to a flame – for good reason) but you’ll also find other islands such as the Virgin Island (Pungtud Island) and Batayan Island.
If you’re up for a bit of island hopping from Bohol, I’d recommend this Virgin Island tour. Enjoy your afternoon soaking in the island life, bathe in the sea and lap it all up.
Explore Anda
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Panglao gets most of the attention when it comes to Bohol… there is just something about it that we travellers can’t keep away from. Maybe it’s the pristine beaches? Maybe it’s the nightlife? Who knows, but whatever they are doing… it’s working. I mean, we’ve all spent a bit of time backpacking Panglao, but there’s more to see!
However, Anda has become the overshadowed second child. Anda is located on the eastern side of the island along the coast. Here you’ll be able to soak up the lush beaches, explore the lagoons and if you’re up for it… go diving! Anda is home to the kind of underwater life that gets divers all giddy.
You could visit Anda as a day trip OR go crazy and do something different from the crowds, you could even opt to stay in Anda!
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Bohol
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Bohol.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Things to Do in Bohol
Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Bohol, Philippines.
Final Thoughts on the Top Things To Do in Bohol
As you can see, Mother Nature has put on a real show in Bohol – from the rivers and waterfalls to pristine beaches and vibrant coral… you won’t be short of activities on the island. I hope a few of these activities tickled your fancy and you’ve noted them down for your next trip.
My favourite things to do during my time in Bohol were to check out the Chocolate Hills (they are touristy, but pretty damn cool to see) and also diving with Alex in Panglao; the underwater world in Bohol is mind-blowing.
Don’t forget to flick Alex a message on WhatsApp if you’re keen to go diving: +44 7812 648968 (let him know I sent you).
Whatever you decide to get up to in your time on Bohol I hope you love it as much as I did!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking in Philippines.
- Have a look at our guide to where to stay in Bohol to choose the perfect area!
- You’ll need a hostel in the Philippines – it’s a great way to start your trip!
- Get yourself covered with travel insurance for the Philippines before you leave.
- Check out our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
- Our in-depth backpacking packing list has all the info you’ll need for your trip.
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