Chocolate Hills

OVERVIEW MAP NEED TO KNOW STAY TIPS & HACKS GALLERY NEARBY

OVERVIEW

A popular tourist attraction not just in Bohol but in the whole Philippines, Chocolate Hills are seemingly endless conical hills covering an area of more than 50 square kilometers. There are about 1,268 to 1,776 hills covered in green grass during wet season but turn chocolate brown during dry season, hence the name.

While these hills can be seen anywhere within the area, there are viewing decks that provide scenic views of these wonders. There are several Chocolate Hills viewing areas in Bohol but for this post, we refer to the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen, Bohol.

Fast Facts

Attraction:

Chocolate Hills Complex

Type of Attraction:

Geological Formation | Natural Attraction

Address:

Buenos Aires, Carmen, Bohol 6319

Website:

None

Phone:

(+63) 919 680 0492

Hours:

Monday to Sunday: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Closed:

None

Best Time to Visit:

December to May

Food & Drink:

YES

FREE WiFi:

Cost:

$1-5 per person

Payment Type:

Cash

Fees:

P 50 ($1.00 USD) – Entrance Fee

Notes:

Chocolate Hills Complex is owned and operated by the government.

MAP

This attraction is located on Bohol Island near Tagbilaran City.

NEED TO KNOW

How to Get to Chocolate Hills?

By Air

Step 1. Domestic Flights
Book a flight to Bohol. Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines have multiple direct flights everyday from Manila to Bohol. Direct flights from Davao to Bohol are offered by both airlines three times a week.

Step 2. Bohol-Panglao International Airport to Chocolate Hills
From the airport, take a bus to Dao Terminal in Tagbilaran City. Fare is P50 and the travel time is less than an hour.

Step 3. From Dao Bus Terminal
At the terminal, you can take a bus passing directly to Carmen such as Tagbilaran-Carmen-SierraBullones route or Tagbilaran-Carmen-Jagna route. The bus leaves as early as 5:00 AM and the last trip is at 4:00 PM. The fare is P60 and travel time is around two hours considering the number of stops to pick up or drop off passengers along the way. If you need to get there faster, consider taking a taxi or renting a private car.

Step 4. To Chocolate Hills Complex
From Carmen public market, you can take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle) going to Chocolate Hills Complex.

By Sea

Step 1. Ferry from Cebu to Tubigon
While Tagbilaran Port is the most popular point of entry to Bohol, Tubigon is nearer to Cebu and Chocolate Hills than Tagbilaran. Fast Cat, Weesam, Lite Ferries, and MV StarCraft have ferries sailing to Tubigon Port multiple times a day from 1:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Travel time is approximately one hour and the fare ranges from P240 to P650.

Step 2. From Tubigon Port
From the port, take a tricycle to Carmen town proper where you can ride a bus bound directly to Carmen. You can also take a bus bound for Tagbilaran City but make sure to tell the driver or conductor that you are getting off in Carmen. Travel time is around one hour but can take longer depending on the passengers getting on and off the bus as you go along.

Step 3. To Chocolate Hills Complex
From Carmen public market, you can take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle) going to Chocolate Hills Complex.

The airport closest to Chocolate Hills

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (IATA: CEB) in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu is closer to Chocolate Hills Complex than Bohol-Panglao International Airport (IATA: TAG) in Panglao Island, Bohol. However, it is easier to get to Carmen via Bohol International Airport.

Alcohol

Consuming alcohol is allowed at this attraction.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this attraction to avoid crowds is early in the morning usually before 10:00 AM.

Closures

This attraction is always open.

Fees

Fees require payment in cash. Credit cards are not accepted at this attraction.

Food & Drink

Food and drinks from outside the attraction are allowed at this attraction.

Pets

Pets are not allowed at this attraction.

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed at this attraction.

Trash

Please dispose of your trash properly or take it with you. Don’t Trash the Philippines!

The Philippines are beautiful islands … let’s all ensure they remain this way.

WHERE TO STAY

Hotels and resorts near Chocolate Hills:

TIPS & HACKS

The following are recommended items for this experience:

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

CamelPack

I always carry a Camelbak Hydration Pack with me when traveling. Not only does it allow me to pack all my daily gear and snacks, but it also has a 3-liter water bladder which holds enough water to get me through the entire day.

Bluetooth Speaker

Compact yet mighty, its setup is a breeze, and the sound quality it delivers for its size is nothing short of impressive. Beyond its audio prowess, this speaker boasts exceptional durability, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

UV Shirt

In my collection of essentials, this rashguards reign supreme. Providing reliable protection during long hours in the water, the fabric is not only comfortable but also ensures a secure shield against the elements.

Snorkel Gear

For my island-hopping escapades, this gear set has become indispensable. Designed to enhance the joy of snorkeling and free-diving, each piece ensures comfort and functionality. Together, they create an immersive and enjoyable underwater experience.

Adventure Camera

As a long-time enthusiast of GoPro cameras, I can attest to their user-friendly nature, excellent image stabilization, and impressive footage quality. Waterproof and rugged, the GoPro is my reliable companion for capturing adventures in any environment.

Aqua Shoes

When it comes to footwear, this pair offers exceptional support, breathability, and overall comfort. Well-crafted and sturdy, it provides effective protection against rocky terrain, quick drying for added convenience, and easy maintenance. A must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

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