Unwrapping the Mystique: A Chocolate Hills Adventure in Bohol, Philippines

Introduction

One meaningful adventure is necessary. And yes, you need it. You need to find a place to captivate you. You may be thinking of Bohol in the Philippines where a geological wonder – the Chocolate Hills – seems plucked from a whimsical dream. As the sun sets over this enchanting landscape, you begin to imagine the undulating hills transforming into a sea of chocolate-brown mounds, creating a breathtaking panorama that has charmed adventurers for generations.

Day 1: A Sweet Arrival

Begin your Chocolate Hills adventure with a sweet touchdown at Tagbilaran Airport. From there, embark on a scenic journey through quaint villages and lush rice terraces, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring experience that awaits.

Upon arriving in the charming town of Carmen, where the Chocolate Hills are concentrated, check into one of the local eco-friendly resorts. Allow the peaceful surroundings to envelop you as you unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Rise and Shine

As the roosters glorify and herald the dawn, grab a robust breakfast before heading to the Chocolate Hills Complex. Your first stop is the viewing deck, which presents a panoramic marvel of the 1,268 conical hills that dot the landscape.

Engage with the local guides who, with infectious enthusiasm, share the folklore surrounding the formation of these mysterious hills. Legend has it that these hills were formed from the tears of a giant who mourned the death of his unrequited love.

Day 3: Trekking and Zip-lining Amidst the Hills

Strap on your hiking boots and embark on a trek through the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park. Traverse the undulating terrain, feeling the crunch of the earth beneath your feet, as you navigate your way to the Chocolate Hills’ heart.

For adrenaline seekers, the Adventure Park offers a thrilling zip-lining adventure. Soar above the hills, embracing the surreal beauty from a bird’s-eye perspective. The wind whispers tales of age-old times as you glide over the iconic landscape.

Day 4: Bohol’s Chocolate Kisses – A Tasting Experience

Explore the local culture and flavors with a visit to a nearby cacao farm. Delve into the complexities of chocolate-making as you witness the journey from cacao beans to scrumptious chocolate treats. Engage in a tasting session, savoring the distinct notes and textures of Bohol’s finest chocolates.

Day 5: Cycling through Bohol’s Backroads

Rent a bicycle and pedal your way through the idyllic countryside, discovering hidden gems nestled between the Chocolate Hills. Engage with locals, share smiles with children playing by the roadside, and relish the warm hospitality that defines Bohol.

A Bittersweet Farewell

As your adventure in Bohol’s Chocolate Hills draws to a close, reflect on the rememberings assembled amid the undulating hills and warm-hearted locals. Leave with a heart full of appreciation and a promise to return to this magical destination that has, in every sense, been a bittersweet treat.

The Chocolate Hills: A country’s wonder to explore

You may be thinking why I feature the Chocolate Hills. Well, even if this beautiful spot is far from Misamis Oriental, I cannot deny the fact we love this place. Some people may not have the chance to glimpse the stunning view of the Chocolate Hills and its geological formation in the Bohol province of the Philippines. As such, this feature article takes you to the Chocolate Hills and its historical narrative and geologic formation.

Well, the Chocolate Hills has been the celebrated tourist attraction of Bohol and in the Philippines. These hills are even highlighted in the regional flag and seal to signify the lavishness of natural attractions in the province. As the Philippine Tourism Authority submits a list of tourist destinations in the Philippines, it includes the Chocolate Hills because of its wonder. The Chocolate Hills as pointed out becomes the third National Geological Monument, and the country proposes for addition in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In other words, the Chocolate Hills become the third National Geological Monument by the National Committee on Geological Sciences on June 18, 1988, in respect of its unusual features, scientific significance, distinctiveness, and extraordinary picturesque value.

A Small Leaping Primate known as Tarsier Found in Bohol

Additionally, tourists may ask us how many hills in the place. Most likely, there have been at least 1,776 hills in the area in which tourists can enjoy hiking and walking. These hills that spread over an expanse of more than 50 square kilometers can be the best place to sightsee and witness the splendor of the venue. Well, we can see tarsier in Bohol. These tarsiers are from the family of Tarsiidae, any of six or more species of small leaping primates found only on various islands of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. Tourists will discover and know that tarsiers are in-between in form between lemurs and monkeys. Surprisingly, these primates measure only about 9–16 centimeters or 3.5–6 inches long. Of course, we do not include the tails in the measurement of about twice that length. These hills called chocolate hills since they become chocolate-brown during the dry season. During the rainy season, green grass covers the hills.

Moreover, rumors of legends spread like wildfire. According to legends, the chocolate hills come into existence due to the two disagreeing titans who tossed boulders, rocks, and sand at each other. Legends continue that these hills become Chocolate Hills. When the fight between these two giants is over, the huge mess of hills becomes the Chocolate Hills.

Jagna Port in Bohol

Finally, if we are from Cagayan de Oro City, we just need to go to Cagayan de Oro Port. We then book a ticket for only ₱700.00 plus or minus and then take a ferry from Cagayan de Oro to Jagna Port. From Jagna, Bohol, we can go directly to Tubigon via Carmen City to the Chocolate Hills. Perhaps, we can take a bus to Carmen at the Tubigon bus terminal. As well, we can find the bus terminal 1 kilometer away from Tubigon Port. Additionally, the road takes 1-2 hours and costs ₱30 – 80 pesos.

South Palms Resorts, Panglao: An idyllic home to hang loose

We just travel from place to place for years. And yet, we lose somewhere in the sun. And yes, we do scout from different websites to check on some exciting beaches and resorts here and abroad. We even check some promotional strategies that offer discounted trips. But, we lose in space and time again and again. We just don’t know why we keep on thinking to go international when we know the Philippines has much to offer.

We will try Panglao this time. Of course, Panglao is in Bohol. It is an island in the north Bohol Sea. Tourists can find it easily on a map as Bohol positions itself in the Central Visayas region. It means that Panglao is in the south-central Philippines. It is home to some beautiful and exhilarating beaches and resorts. It offers South Palms Resort, Henann Resort Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach, and more and serves the table of fun and excitement. However, what brings me to highlight South Palms Resort isn’t the money. I haven’t been sponsored for this article. I just wrote this article a couple of days ago to promote the place and the country in general. Now, I am happy to tell you that Panglao fulfills its promise to be a picture-perfect destination to lure tourists locally and internationally. I just love the place and the fascinating scenery that tell me I will never think of going home after the vacation again.

Henann Alona Beach near South Palms Beach from Panglao, Bohol

South Palms Resort showers delights and enjoyments for tourists to relax. It quarters local and foreign tourists alike as it provides the best customer services. It seems fair to say that South Palms Resort gives us wonderful scenic background that attracts more tourists due to its rich culture. Therefore, the resort tells you more about it once you visit the place.

Now, if you want to go to South Palms Resort, Panglao, you need to consider some important matters to bring and get ready:

    • Internet to check on Maps
    • Contact Numbers for Police and Emergency
    • Money for Expenses
    • Guidelines from the Department of Tourism (Please check if this one is necessary)
South Palms Resort at its Spectacular View

One more thing, if you want to go to Bohol in general, you may be happy to check up on some remarkable places to enjoy and stay for holidays. At this point, Bohol Island as said by its oval-shaped island is an anchorage of sultry natural beauty. You may check the Chocolate Hills and meet the smallest primates of the world – the tarsiers. You can also tour around the place to visit some sites that showcase rich cultural heritage and old stone churches. As Panglao gains a reputation to be one of the famed tourist destinations in the Philippines, you know I am right once you visit the white sand seashores and world-class somersaulting locations. You can’t ignore Panglao and its connections to its natural wonders. Once you visit, you can never abandon the promising Chocolate Hills, the myriad springs, caverns, cascades, and watercourses, and the ever-cute primate known as tarsiers. Because of these, South Palms Resort in Panglao, Bohol attracts many local and foreign tourists for more stirring and electrifying water adventures such as scuba diving, somersaulting, and dolphin-watching.

Happy Faces of Tourists who Spend Holidays out in the Sun

Do you know how to get to Panglao Island? Well, wherever you go, you can reach Panglao via Tagbilaran, the capital of Bohol Province. According to the source, tourists can land on Tagbilaran port where the ferry terminal resides. Please visit this site for more updates on the province.

References

https://www.booking.com/hotel/ph/south-palms-resort-panglao.html