About the ride from Cebu to Bohol
Cebu is an island with a little bit of everything. Big city life, check. Nature and waterfalls galore, check. Spanish-era landmarks, check. So we get why leaving could be difficult.
But perk up because Bohol is the natural next step for anyone looking to trade Cebu's adventure-packed shores for more tranquil island vibes. While Cebu offers a mix of history and adventure, Bohol delivers lush landscapes, the iconic Chocolate Hills, tarsier sanctuaries, and pristine beaches.
The only way to get from Cebu to Bohol is by ferry. If sea sickness is a concern, plan ahead. This is your only choice. But it's a short hop. In less than two hours, you'll be lounging at your next island paradise.
Six impressive things to do in Bohol
Bohol is one of the Philippines’ most well-traveled islands. It’s packed with adventures, both big and small. Here’s how to make the most of your time there.
Marvel at the Chocolate Hills. These 1,200+ cone-shaped hills are Bohol's most famous attraction. Covered in lush green grass that turns chocolate brown in the dry season (hence the name), they create a surreal landscape you won't find anywhere else in the world. Find out the mystery behind these nearly symmetrical hills.
Discover Bohol's secret waterfalls. With its rainforest-covered mountains, this island is full of hidden cascades that seem to appear out of nowhere. They're just waiting to be explored. Take a dip, snap some photos, or just soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
See the tarsiers at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. These uber-tiny, wide-eyed primates are some of the world's smallest (and cutest!) mammals. The sanctuary in Corella is the best place to observe them while supporting conservation efforts.
Cruise the Loboc River. Take a serene journey through the lush, jungle-covered interior. Drift past palm-lined shores and stilted villages, and maybe even spot a tarsier. On board, enjoy local food and live folk music. Some cruises have traditional Filipino dance performances.
Visit the Bohol Bee Farm. It's more than just a sustainable farm. It's an eco resort offering organic meals, homemade ice cream, and a chance to learn about honey production and local crafts. It's a great foodie stop with a relaxing oceanfront view.
Paddle through the jungle. Kayak on the Abatan River through the untouched beauty of the dense jungle canopy. Get ready to soak in the happy sounds of chirping birds and leaves rustling in the breeze, with the occasional splash of wildlife adding to the vibe.
This adventure lets you peek into laid-back rural Filipino life, with riverside villages and stunning views around every corner.
How to get from Cebu to Bohol
You'll need to take a ferry to get between these two island beauties.
Luckily, it's a short ride—between one and two hours, depending on where you depart from and where you want to arrive in Bohol.
Most ferries depart from Cebu City, but a few go from Oslob or Cordova. Your arrival port will most likely be Jefate, Tagbilaran City Port or Tubigon Port, but there are a few other options. It's best to know your accommodations first and then pick your ferry so you don't end up on the opposite side of the island.
There are multiple departure times throughout the day. No need to stress about that.
You'll probably need to pay a port departure fee, but with ferry prices as low as $7, you can't complain.
Many ferries have bathrooms and air-conditioned sections for the sweltering days of the Philippines. But not all. On some, you'll be on deck sitting on benches.
If you're on a larger ship, there will be a little cafe to buy something to nibble on.
All of these details, including luggage allowances, vary by operator, so be sure to pay attention to them when booking.
When is the best time to go to Bohol?
Since it is hot all year long — it's the wet and dry seasons you need to be aware of when booking.
The best months for beach hopping and exploring are the dry months of December through May when temps are around 86°F/30°C. The dry season means the Chocolate Hills actually look brown, like chocolate, makes sense, right?
But this is also the high season, bringing crowds along with higher prices to all the hotspots.
Outside this window, the rains will catch up with you and might ruin a few of your travel plans. On the flip side, the Chocolate Hills will have a lush green carpet over them, giving them a different natural beauty.
How many days do you need in Bohol?
Three days if you're in a hurry. Five if you have more time. Seven, if you're a slow traveler and want to delve into all the nature this island awards its visitors. For most travelers, 3-4 days is the sweet spot!
Where to travel after Bohol
Ready for a little island mysticism? Siquijor, the up-and-coming island, is your best bet. It's not on the beaten path just yet, but it won't be long.
Siquijor is home to witches, healers, and black magic and is unlike any other place in the Philippines.
Even if that's not your thing, the island has a beauty unlike most others. Its beaches, waterfall and jungle are an enchanting reason to go.
The ferry ride to Siquijor is only 2.5 hours away. You could go on a day trip if you're staying in the south of Bohol or Panglao. But there is no way to get a real sense of an island full of such lore on a day trip. Are you brave enough to stay over?
