Explore the Chocolate Hills

  • The Chocolate Hills are Bohol’s most famous natural attraction, consisting of over 1,200 conical hills that turn brown in the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds.
  • Visit the Chocolate Hills Viewpoint in Carmen or explore them up close via ATV tours.
  • Please inquire at Bohol Jewel Resort’s Front Desk for excursions and tours.

What are the Chocolate Hills?

The Chocolate Hills are a fascinating natural wonder located in the Bohol province of the Philippines.

Here are some interesting facts about them:

  • Geological Formation: The Chocolate Hills are conical karst hills made of limestone. They were formed through a combination of the dissolution of limestone by rainfall, surface water, and groundwater, and their subaerial erosion by streams.
  • Appearance: There are at least 1,268 hills, but some estimates suggest there could be as many as 1,776 hills spread over an area of more than 50 square kilometers. During the dry season, the grass-covered hills turn a chocolate brown color, which is how they got their name1.
  • Height: The hills vary in height from 30 to 50 meters, with the tallest hill reaching about 120 meters.
  • Tourist Attraction: They are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Philippines and have been declared the country’s third National Geological Monument. They are even featured on the provincial flag and seal.
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to May) when the hills are brown and most visible.
  • Activities: You can enjoy viewing the hills from various vantage points, including the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen and the viewing deck in Sagbayan. There are also various tours available that include visits to the hills.

How To Visit The Chocolate Hills?

Tours

  • DIY Tour: Rent a scooter in Panglao (about 70 km from Carmen) and drive to the Chocolate Hills. It’s a scenic 1.5-hour drive1.
  • Guided Tour: Join a full-day Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour, which often includes visits to other attractions like the Loboc River Cruise, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Baclayon Church. This is a great option if you prefer a hassle-free experience with an experienced guide1.

Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is around ₱150 per person.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to May) when the hills turn a chocolate brown color.

Activities

  • Viewing Decks: There are several viewing decks, including the popular one in Carmen.
  • Adventure Park: For a different perspective, you can visit the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park, which offers activities like zip lining.

Read more at guidetothephilippines.ph

Visit Panglao Island

Panglao Island
  • Alona Beach: A lively beach area with restaurants, bars, and resorts. Great for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
  • Diving: Panglao offers world-class diving spots, including Balicasag Island, home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
  • Hinagdanan Cave: A scenic underground cave with a natural pool that’s great for a quick dip.

Alona Beach, Panglao

Alona Beach is a beautiful tropical paradise located on Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines. Here are some highlights about Alona Beach:

Location and Geography

Location: Alona Beach is situated at the southwestern tip of Panglao Island, about 20 kilometers from Tagbilaran City and just 2 kilometers from the Bohol-Panglao International Airport.

Beach: It’s a small stretch of white sandy beach, about 1.5 kilometers long, bordered by rocky cliffs on both ends.

Activities

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Alona Beach is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its nearby coral reefs. There are many dive shops offering certification courses and excursions2.

Water Sports: You can enjoy various water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddle-boarding.

Beach Activities: Relax on the beach, take a leisurely walk, or enjoy beach side dining at one of the many restaurants and bars.

Accommodation

Hotels and Resorts: There are numerous hotels and resorts along the beach, offering a range of accommodations from budget to luxury.

Resort Amenities: Many resorts offer amenities like swimming pools, spas, and beachfront access.

Dining

Restaurants and Bars: Alona Beach is known for its vibrant dining scene with a variety of restaurants and bars offering local and international cuisine1.

Nearby Attractions

Hinagdanan Cave: A popular nearby attraction where you can explore a beautiful cave with an underground pool.

Tarsier Sanctuary: A conservation area dedicated to the endangered Tarsier, a small primate native to the Philippines.

Chocolate Hills: A short drive away, these unique geological formations are a must-see.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season: The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to May) when the weather is ideal for beach activities.

Explore the Loboc River

Loboc River
  • River Cruise: Enjoy a floating restaurant while cruising the Loboc River. The cruises often feature live music and traditional performances.
  • Firefly Watching: Evening tours allow you to marvel at fireflies lighting up the trees along the riverbanks.

See the Tarsier

Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella or the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc to see these tiny, wide-eyed primates in their natural environment.

Explore Bohol’s Waterfalls

  • Mag-Aso Falls: A picturesque twin waterfall with a refreshing natural pool.
  • Dimiao Twin Falls (Pahangog Falls): A more secluded waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.