Chocolate Hills in Bohol Island: Everything You Need to Know

The Chocolate Hills are undoubtedly Bohol Island’s most iconic tourist attraction and a must-visit for anyone exploring this breathtaking destination. This natural wonder, made up of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills, stretches across multiple towns, creating a mesmerizing landscape that has baffled geologists and captivated travelers worldwide.

Recognized as the Philippines’ 3rd National Geological Monument and often dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Chocolate Hills are not only a top highlight of Bohol tours but also a symbol of the island’s rich natural beauty—so much so that they are featured on the PHP200 bill, the rarest banknote in the country.

The best way to experience this world-renowned attraction is by joining Bohol Island countryside tours, which take you through stunning landscapes, historic sites, and cultural experiences.

Many tours to Chocolate Hills offer stops at panoramic viewpoints where you can admire the hills' seasonal transformation—lush green during the wet months and a rich chocolate brown in the dry season, which gives them their famous name.

Whether you’re visiting for sightseeing, photography, or adventure activities like ATV rides, this is a must-have experience in any Bohol Island itinerary.

For a stress-free trip, Bohol Island tour packages provide everything you need in one convenient booking, including flights, comfortable hotel accommodations, seamless airport transfers, and expertly guided tours to the top tourist spots on the island. These pre-arranged itineraries ensure that you make the most of your visit without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

With its breathtaking landscapes, geological significance, and effortless accessibility, the Chocolate Hills remain one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the Philippines—a sight that truly defines the magic of Bohol Island.

Whether you’re planning a quick visit or an extended getaway, knowing the best ways to get there, the ideal tours to join, and where to stay will help you make the most of your trip.

Read on to discover everything you need to know about planning your visit to the Chocolate Hills.

Facts & Information about the Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are more than just Bohol Island’s most famous tourist attraction—they are a geological wonder shrouded in fascinating legends and natural history. These perfectly cone-shaped mounds stretch across vast landscapes, but their origins and significance make them even more intriguing for travelers visiting Bohol Island.

What is the legend of the Chocolate Hills?

Several legends attempt to explain the mysterious formation of the Chocolate Hills. One popular tale tells of two giants engaged in a fierce battle, hurling stones and sand at each other for days. When they finally made peace, they left behind the scattered mounds now known as the Chocolate Hills.

A more romantic version speaks of a heartbroken giant who wept endlessly over the death of a human girl he loved—his tears solidified, creating the rolling hills that remain today.

Where is the Chocolate Hills located?

The Chocolate Hills' location are spread across multiple towns in Bohol Island, including Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The best vantage point for visitors is the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen town, which features a viewing deck offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the hills.

How were the Chocolate Hills formed?

Scientifically, the Chocolate Hills are believed to have formed from the uplift of ancient coral deposits combined with erosion from rainwater and natural weathering. This process, which took thousands of years, sculpted the landscape into the unique conical shapes that define the area today. A bronze plaque at the Chocolate Hills Complex details this geological formation.

How many Chocolate Hills are there?

The official count estimates around 1,260 Chocolate Hills, but some reports suggest there could be as many as 1,776 scattered across 50 square kilometers of land. This vast and surreal landscape makes the Chocolate Hills one of the most remarkable natural attractions not just in Bohol Island, but in the entire Philippines.

Best Time to Visit the Chocolate Hills

Bohol Island enjoys a tropical climate, but the best time to visit the Chocolate Hills is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and island-hopping in Bohol.

For the least chance of rainfall, April is the driest month, making it ideal for exploring the Chocolate Hills and other top attractions in Bohol Island.

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

The Chocolate Hills transform with the seasons. From January to May, during the dry months, they take on their iconic chocolate-brown hue, making them look exactly as their name suggests.

In contrast, during the rainy season, the hills turn a lush green, resembling mint chocolate mounds. While the dry season attracts more visitors eager to see the hills in their signature brown color, the rainy season offers a uniquely scenic, verdant landscape.

No matter when you visit, the Chocolate Hills remain a breathtaking sight and a must-see destination in Bohol Island.

How to Get to the Chocolate Hills in Bohol Island

The Chocolate Hills are located in Bohol Island, Philippines, which is accessible from major cities across the island regions of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Your main entry points to Bohol Island are Panglao Island and Tagbilaran City, where the province’s major airport and seaport are located.

By Flights

Flying is the most convenient way to reach Bohol Island. The Bohol-Panglao International Airport (also called Panglao Airport) serves direct flights from key Philippine cities:

• From Luzon Region: Flights to Bohol Island are available from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Manila Airport and Clark International Airport in Pampanga Province.

• From Mindanao Region: You can fly directly from Davao International Airport to Bohol-Panglao Airport.

Once you land at Bohol-Panglao Airport, you have several options to get to the Chocolate Hills:

• By Public Transport: Take a tricycle or taxi to Dao Integrated Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran City, then board a bus or van bound for the towns of Carmen or Sagbayan. Upon arrival in Carmen, take a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to the Chocolate Hills Complex.

• By Private Transfers: For a hassle-free trip, booking Bohol Island airport transfers or joining Bohol Island tours with vehicle service is highly recommended.

By Ferry

If you're traveling by sea, ferry trips to Tagbilaran City Seaport are available from various locations, including the neighboring province of Cebu, Dumaguete City, Cagayan de Oro City, and Camiguin Island. While ferry travel takes longer than flying, it offers a scenic journey and a unique adventure.

Upon arrival at Tagbilaran Port, take a tricycle to Dao Integrated Bus Terminal, where you can ride a bus or van to the towns of Carmen or Sagbayan. Ask to be dropped off at the junction leading to the Chocolate Hills Complex Viewpoint in Carmen or Sagbayan Peak, another scenic viewing area.

For a seamless experience, consider booking a Bohol Island tour package that includes flights, hotels in Bohol Island, airport transfers, and guided tours to the Chocolate Hills. There are also Cebu to Bohol Tour Packages that include all the transfers and top attractions in the two islands.

Top Chocolate Hills Tours and Activities

The Chocolate Hills are among the most unique natural wonders in the Philippines, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy their beauty. Easily accessible from various parts of Bohol Island, this iconic attraction is often paired with other must-visit spots for an unforgettable experience.

Many Chocolate Hills tours include stops at scenic locations such as the Loboc River, where you can enjoy a relaxing Loboc River Cruise, or at historical and cultural sites around the island.

Here are some of the best ways to experience the Chocolate Hills:

Climb up the Chocolate Hills Complex Viewpoint in Carmen Town

The Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen is the most popular viewing area for this natural wonder. Located about 55km from Tagbilaran City, this resort-style complex sits atop two Chocolate Hills and offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the seemingly endless landscape of conical mounds.

To reach the main observation deck, visitors must climb over 200 steps, but the breathtaking view at the top makes the effort worthwhile. The complex features a restaurant, swimming pool, activity area, conference room, and covered deck rest stops, making it an ideal stop for both sightseeing and relaxation.

For travelers who want to stay overnight surrounded by the Chocolate Hills, the complex has accommodations available. However, most visitors explore this site as part of a Bohol Island countryside tour, which includes transportation and stops at other nearby attractions.

Escape the crowd at Sagbayan Peak Viewpoint

For those seeking a less crowded and more spacious alternative to the Chocolate Hills Complex, Sagbayan Peak offers a scenic and serene experience. Located in Sagbayan town, about 16km (10 miles) from Carmen town, this mountain resort and recreational park provides another fantastic vantage point of the Chocolate Hills.

Aside from its stunning views, Sagbayan Peak offers a variety of attractions, including a tarsier sanctuary, butterfly dome with 18 species, an open-sided chapel, a covered pavilion for dining, and an air-conditioned café. Families with kids will also enjoy the cartoon character figures scattered around the area, adding a fun and playful touch to the visit.

One unique feature of Sagbayan Peak is the opportunity to see the sea that separates Bohol Island from Cebu, offering a different perspective beyond the rolling hills.

Have fun at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park (CHAP)

Photo by Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

For an exciting twist to your Chocolate Hills tour, visit Chocolate Hills Adventure Park (CHAP) in Carmen town of Bohol Island. This eco-tourism park offers thrilling rides like the Bike Zip, where you pedal midair with a breathtaking view of the hills, and The Wave Runner, a surf zipline that makes you feel like you're gliding through the skies.

Beyond these adrenaline-pumping attractions, CHAP features a variety of outdoor activities, including rope courses, an eco-hiking trail, horseback riding, and a butterfly garden (Ang Paru-Paro).

Visitors can also feed chickens and fishes, making it a fun stop for families. For those who love wildlife encounters, the Serpentarium houses different snake species right before the stairway leading to the Chocolate Hills viewing deck.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or just a unique way to experience the Chocolate Hills, CHAP is a must-visit destination. 

Explore the Chocolate Hills on an ATV

Photo by Chocolate Hills ATV Rental 

For a thrilling way to experience the Chocolate Hills, take on the rugged trails with an ATV ride in Bohol Island! This exciting activity lets you explore the hills up close while riding through scenic dirt paths surrounded by Bohol Island’s stunning countryside.

Before hitting the trails, all riders receive a quick orientation on how to operate the ATV, along with essential safety guidelines. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, an ATV tour adds an exhilarating twist to your Chocolate Hills tour and is a must-try for adventure seekers visiting Bohol Island!

Chocolate Hills Travel Tips 

Make the most of your visit to Bohol Island’s Chocolate Hills with these handy travel and safety tips for a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.

Currency & Payments

While major establishments in Bohol Island accept credit cards, and ATMs and money changers are available in Tagbilaran City and Panglao Island, it’s best to carry Philippine Pesos (PHP) for convenience.

Always have smaller bills (₱50 or ₱100) and loose change ready, especially when taking public transport, paying entrance fees, or buying snacks from local vendors.

What to Wear

Keep it light and comfortable—breathable clothing like summer outfits, shorts, and cotton shirts are ideal for exploring under the sun. Since Bohol Island’s weather can be unpredictable, bring a light rain jacket or poncho, especially if you're traveling during the rainy season.

Language & Communication

Locals in Bohol Island mainly speak Cebuano and Tagalog, but most can understand and communicate in English. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations—a friendly smile and a simple "hello" go a long way!

Nearby Attractions from Chocolate Hills to Visit 

While the Chocolate Hills are the star attraction of Bohol Island, there are plenty of other must-visit destinations nearby. Here are two incredible stops to add to your itinerary:

Bilar Man-Made Forest 

If you're heading to the Chocolate Hills in Carmen town, you’ll pass through the enchanting Bilar Man-Made Forest, making it a popular pit stop and photo-op for travelers. This 2-kilometer stretch of towering white and red mahogany trees sits on the border of Loboc and Bilar towns, forming a dense, tunnel-like canopy.

The forest was developed as part of a reforestation project to protect the Loboc watershed from deforestation. Its thick foliage creates a cool, refreshing breeze, offering a noticeable drop in temperature—especially during the summer months.

With its cinematic ambiance, the Bilar Man-Made Forest feels like a scene straight out of a fantasy film, making it an ideal backdrop for stunning travel photos.

Tarsier Sanctuary

Aside from the Chocolate Hills, Bohol Island is also famous for its big-eyed nocturnal primates, the tarsiers. These tiny creatures—about the size of a human hand—are among the smallest primates in the world. No Bohol Island experience is complete without spotting these fascinating animals, which is why Tarsier Conservation tours are a must for wildlife lovers.

There are multiple tarsier sanctuaries in Bohol Island, but the most visited ones include the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary and the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc town. These protected sites allow visitors to observe tarsiers up close while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts.

Since tarsiers are sensitive to noise and light, visitors should remain quiet, avoid flash photography, and never touch them, as stress can be harmful to their well-being.

Plan Your Trip to Bohol's Chocolate Hills

A visit to the Chocolate Hills is a must when exploring Bohol Island. To make the most of your trip, set aside a full day to enjoy this natural wonder, along with nearby attractions like the Bilar Man-Made Forest and Tarsier Sanctuaries. For a more immersive experience, consider joining a Bohol Island countryside tour, which includes lunch at the Loboc River Cruise and stops at top cultural and scenic spots.

Beyond the Chocolate Hills, Bohol Island offers a diverse range of experiences. Witness the magical firefly watching along the Abatan River, or go on island hopping tours to pristine destinations like Balicasag Island and Pamilacan Island for snorkeling and dolphin watching. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Bohol Island has something for every traveler.