Family-Friendly Adventures in , Bohol!

Abatan River

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Abatan River

Day 1: Arrival and River Cruise

- Morning: Arrive in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. Rent a car or take a local taxi to the Abatan River Visitor Center in Cortes, which is a 45-minute drive. Start your adventure with a family-friendly briefing about the river"s ecosystem and the importance of its conservation.

- Afternoon: Embark on a river cruise. Rent a traditional boat at the visitor center. The tranquil 45-minute journey will introduce you to the lush greenery and diverse wildlife along the riverbanks. Keep an eye out for rare birds and listen to the symphony of nature’s sounds.

- Evening: As dusk falls, take the enchanting firefly watching cruise. This magical experience will light up your children’s imaginations as the riverbanks come alive with thousands of glowing fireflies.

Day 2: Cultural Encounter and Kayaking

- Morning: After breakfast, visit the nearby villages to interact with the local community. Participate in a weaving workshop where you and your kids can learn how to make crafts using traditional techniques.

- Afternoon: Return to the river for a kayaking expedition. Suitable for beginners, this activity is both thrilling and a great way to explore the smaller tributaries of the Abatan River. Paddle at your own pace and enjoy the serene environment.

- Evening: Wrap up your visit with a meal at one of the local eateries near the river, where you can taste traditional Boholano dishes, perfect for a family dinner.

Interesting Facts:

- The Abatan River is home to over 20 species of mangroves.

- Community involvement has been pivotal in the conservation efforts of the river, making it an excellent example of sustainable tourism.

This itinerary blends adventure, education, and cultural immersion, making it a memorable experience for the whole family at Abatan River.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mahogany Forest

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mahogany Forest

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your adventure at Mahogany Forest, located a picturesque drive from the town center of Loboc, Bohol. You can rent a car or take a local bus to reach the entrance of the forest. Upon arrival, take a leisurely morning walk under the towering Mahogany trees, which were planted in the 1960s as part of a reforestation project. The forest now provides a refreshing canopy that stretches over 2 kilometers of the winding road.

Interesting Fact: The Mahogany Forest is often enveloped in a light mist, which gives it an ethereal, fairy-tale ambiance, perfect for enchanting family photos.

Day 2: Bike Ride and River Lunch

On your second day, rent bikes from a nearby local vendor and cycle through the cool, serene path, enjoying the lush greens and occasional chirps of endemic birds like the Philippine bulbul. Biking here is a gentle, flat ride suitable for children and leisurely cyclists.

After cycling, head towards the Loboc River for a traditional Filipino lunch on a floating restaurant. These unique dining experiences slowly meander down the river, allowing you breathtaking views of the jungle and local life along the banks.

Interesting Fact: The Loboc River is home to a community of tarsiers, one of the world’s smallest primates, so keep your eyes peeled during your river cruise!

Day 3: Educational Tour and Departure

Before heading home, join a guided tour specifically designed for families. These tours provide fascinating insights into the forest’s ecosystem, the importance of conservation, and details about the flora and fauna found only in this region. This educational wrap-up will enrich your children’s understanding and appreciation of natural habitats.

Departure Tip: Check out local souvenirs like handcrafted wooden items and local snacks like ‘ube halaya’ for a taste of Bohol to bring back home.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Baclayon Church

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure to the historical Baclayon Church, one of the Philippines" oldest churches, located in Bohol. Begin your journey in Tagbilaran City, where you can easily catch a local jeepney or tricycle to Baclayon, approximately 6 kilometers away. The ride itself offers scenic views and a glimpse into the local life of Bohol.

Upon arriving at Baclayon Church, officially known as La Purisima Concepcion de la Virgen Maria Parish Church, marvel at its centuries-old architecture. Constructed in 1727, the church is predominantly made from coral stones, which were cut into blocks and sealed with lime obtained from seashells. Start your tour by appreciating the façade"s detailed carvings and the museum inside which houses a collection of religious artifacts and relics dating back to the early Spanish era. It’s a wonderful way to give children a live history lesson.

Next, visit the charming garden and courtyard. Here, kids can explore safely and enjoy the outdoors while adults take in the serene ambiance of the historic site. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the old convent connected to the church, which adds to the nostalgic feel of the premises.

For a little break, have some snacks or lunch at one of the local eateries nearby, offering a taste of Boholano cuisine. A family favorite is often the fresh seafood or the traditional "ube kinampay", a delicious and vibrant purple yam dessert.

Wrap up your visit by taking a leisurely stroll towards the shoreline just behind the church. The coastal views are stunning and provide a perfect backdrop for a family photo, capturing the memory of your trip to this remarkable heritage site.

This day trip to Baclayon Church not only offers a spiritual and architectural journey but also a wonderful opportunity to bond with the family amidst the backdrop of Philippine history.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Loboc

Why Visit?

Welcome to Loboc, Bohol, a charming town renowned for its river, cultural heritage, and lush landscapes. Here’s a perfect itinerary for a family-friendly adventure.

Morning: Loboc River Cruise

Start your day with the enchanting Loboc River Cruise. Head to the Loboc Tourism Complex where you can purchase tickets. The cruise offers a buffet lunch while you glide past nipa palms, coconut trees, and local children splashing by the riverbanks. This is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes and the soul. Cruises typically last an hour and are a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bohol.

Afternoon: Visit to Loboc Church

After the river cruise, take a short walk to the historical Loboc Church, officially known as San Pedro Apostol Parish Church. This church is one of the oldest in the country, offering a glimpse into the Philippines’ colonial past with its beautiful architecture. It’s also known for its resilience; despite being damaged by earthquakes, the church remains a proud structure with ongoing restoration efforts.

Late Afternoon: Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park

Next, make your way to the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park. For families seeking a thrill, the park offers the famous Loboc Zipline that flies over the Loboc River. This is a safe and exciting way for both kids and adults to enjoy breathtaking views from above. The park is just a 10-minute drive from the church.

Evening: Dinner at Village Floating Resto

Conclude your day with dinner at the Village Floating Resto for a serene river view and delicious local cuisine. It’s the perfect way to unwind and discuss the day’s adventures.

Each attraction in Loboc offers a unique experience that captures the heart of Bohol’s natural and cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable trip for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hinagdanan Cave

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Hinagdanan Cave, Bohol

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

- Start: Arrive early at Hinagdanan Cave, located in Dauis on Panglao Island, to avoid the crowds. If you"re staying in Tagbilaran, it"s just a short 15-minute drive. Rent a car or take a tricycle – both are convenient and part of the local experience.

- Cave Tour: Gear up for a fascinating tour of Hinagdanan Cave. The cave, naturally lit by sunlight streaming through holes in the ceiling, boasts stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. It"s a brief walk, perfect for kids, with plenty of photo opportunities. Don’t forget to bring water shoes as the ground can be slippery.

Midday: Picnic & Relaxation

- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas around the cave. There are also local eateries nearby where you can taste authentic Boholano dishes.

- Learn: Engage with local guides to learn about the cave’s discovery by a farmer and its role in local history and mythology. Kids will love hearing mysterious tales and fun facts, like how its natural pool glows a mesmerizing blue when hit by sunlight.

Afternoon: Beach Time or Additional Sightseeing

- Option 1: Beach: Head to nearby Alona Beach for an afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building. It’s a quick drive and offers a gentle shore that’s safe for children.

- Option 2: Sightseeing: For more adventures, drive out to see the iconic Chocolate Hills or visit the nearby Bohol Bee Farm where children can learn about beekeeping and sustainable farming practices.

Evening: Return & Rest

- Retire to your accommodation after a day full of exploration and relaxation. Opt for a quiet evening to recharge for more adventures in Bohol or explore local dinner options in Panglao.

Remember: Always check for the latest visitor information as cave access can depend on weather conditions and conservation efforts.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.