Our adventure in Bohol started with a day full of scenic rides, unique wildlife encounters, and stunning landscapes. With motorbikes delivered to our hotel the night before, we set out early to explore the island’s must-see attractions, including the famous Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Sanctuary, and the breathtaking man-made forest.
Breakfast at Overgrow Café
We kicked off the morning with a visit to Overgrow Café, a beautifully designed spot offering delicious breakfast options.
- Our Order: A mango banana smoothie bowl and a latte, while Dave opted for a classic grilled cheese sandwich with lemonade.
- Atmosphere: Cozy, plant-filled, and perfect for fueling up before a day of adventure.
Hitting the Road: Biking Across Bohol
Our motorbikes were delivered the night before, so we took a little time to get used to them before embarking on the hour-and-a-half journey towards the Chocolate Hills. Along the way, we planned stops at the Tarsier Sanctuary and the Bilar Man-Made Forest.
- Travel Tip: Always wear sunscreen, even early in the morning—the sun was already intense by 9 AM!
- Road Conditions: Generally smooth, but some areas were quite narrow with roaming dogs, so caution was necessary.
- Duration: The ride took around an hour instead of the estimated 45 minutes due to a quick break and adjusting to the roads.
Tarsier Sanctuary Visit
Our first stop was the Tarsier Sanctuary, home to some of the world’s smallest primates. There are two sanctuaries on the island, but we chose the officially registered one to ensure the well-being of the animals.
- Entrance Fee: 150 pesos per person
- Experience: A short but memorable visit. We watched a 5-minute educational video before exploring a small, protected section of the sanctuary.
- Wildlife Sightings: We spotted three tarsiers up close, their enormous eyes and tiny bodies making them almost unreal!
- Controversy: Some visitors had mixed opinions about the sanctuary, but we found it well-maintained and educational. Staff ensured that people remained quiet and respected the tarsiers' space.
Bilar Man-Made Forest: A Quick Photo Stop
Next, we drove another 45 minutes to reach the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a densely planted mahogany forest stretching over two kilometers.
- Photo Opportunity: A popular stop for tourists looking to capture the stunning tree tunnel effect.
- Safety Tip: Some visitors took risky photos standing in the middle of the road, which has sharp curves and moving traffic—always be cautious!
- Drone Footage: Dave attempted to fly his drone but found it tricky due to the dense branches.
Chocolate Hills: The Highlight of the Trip
Finally, we reached the Chocolate Hills, one of the Philippines’ most iconic landscapes.
- Entrance Fee: 100 pesos per person, including a return shuttle ride to the viewing deck.
- Expectations vs. Reality: The hills weren’t as chocolate-colored as expected since it was just after the rainy season. Instead of the typical brown hue, they were lush and green.
- Scenic View: Climbing up the viewing deck provided a breathtaking panoramic view of the unique, dome-shaped hills stretching as far as the eye could see.
- Travel Time: About 40–45 minutes from Bilar Man-Made Forest (longer than the estimated 30 minutes).
Lunch Break at Two Mamas Grill & Restaurant
After leaving the Chocolate Hills, we stopped at Two Mamas Grill & Restaurant for a late lunch.
- What We Ordered: Sweet and sour pork with rice, barbecue pork with rice, and a large bottle of soda to share.
- Food Quality: Simple but satisfying, perfect after a long morning of riding.
- Cost: Very affordable compared to other tourist spots.
The Journey Back: Sunset Ride to Panglao
With our stomachs full, we began the two-hour ride back to our hotel. We took a slightly different, faster route to avoid potential rain.
- Challenges: Long, tiring ride with multiple short breaks to stretch.
- Weather: Surprisingly, this was the first day in the Philippines where we didn’t encounter a torrential downpour.
- Arrival: Just in time to watch the sunset and relax before heading out for dinner.
Dinner at Thai Lang
After a long day, we splurged a little on a delicious Thai dinner.
- Our Order: Chicken Pad Thai, stir-fried chicken with basil, steamed rice, and fried spring rolls.
- Food Review: Flavorful, authentic, and well worth the slightly higher price.
- Final Thoughts: The perfect way to end an adventurous day on Bohol!
Final Thoughts & Travel Tips
✅ Best Time to Travel: Start early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
✅ Bike Rental: Convenient for exploring at your own pace, but ensure you're comfortable riding on local roads.
✅ Tarsier Sanctuary: Choose the officially registered one for a more ethical experience.
✅ Chocolate Hills: Expect a lush green view if visiting after the rainy season.
✅ Lunch Break: Stop at local roadside eateries for budget-friendly and tasty meals.
✅ Safety Reminder: Be extra cautious when taking photos in the Man-Made Forest—it's still an active road!
Next Adventure: Exploring Panglao Island
Stay tuned for our next blog, where we take a self-guided tour around Panglao, visiting stunning beaches, a hidden cave, and a cat sanctuary!
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