Budget Travel Guide to Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers and Panglao
Plan a wallet-friendly trip to Bohol Philippines with Homejourney's guide, focusing on Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and Panglao Beach for under PHP 8,000 (about SGD 190) for 5 days excluding flights. This cluster dives into actionable itineraries and tips, building on our Bohol Complete Guide for safe, verified travel planning.[1][3]
Why Bohol is Ideal for Budget Travelers from Singapore
Bohol offers stunning natural wonders like the iconic Chocolate Hills – over 1,200 mounds that turn brown in the dry season – tiny tarsiers in protected sanctuaries, and powdery Panglao Beach sands, all at low costs. Perfect for Singaporeans seeking quick escapes, with direct flights from Changi to Panglao via Cebu Pacific or AirAsia (from SGD 100 one-way).[1][2]
Best time: Dry season (December-May) for Chocolate Hills views; avoid June-November rains. Homejourney prioritizes your safety with verified tips, ensuring trustworthy adventures like locals recommend.[1]
Getting There from Singapore
Fly Singapore to Panglao (Bohol-Panglao International Airport) with 1-2 stops (4-6 hours total). Budget fares: SGD 150-250 round-trip. From airport, tricycle to Panglao (PHP 300-500, 20 mins). Use apps like Grab for safe rides; exchange SGD to PHP at Changi (1 SGD ≈ 43 PHP).[1][3]
Visa: Singapore passport holders get 30-day visa-free entry. Carry proof of onward travel for security.[8]
Top Attractions: Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & Panglao
Chocolate Hills: Hike 214 steps to viewpoint (PHP 50 entry, 6AM-6PM). Sunrise best (arrive 5:30AM via habal-habal PHP 200 roundtrip).[1][2]
Tarsiers: Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella (PHP 80 entry, 6-9AM/4-6PM). See these big-eyed primates in ethical habitat; no flash photos.[2][3]
Panglao Beach: Free access at Alona or Dumaluan. Snorkel with own gear (rent PHP 100/day elsewhere); sunset views unbeatable.[1]
Insider tip: Combine via countryside tour (PHP 1,500-2,500/group of 4).[2]
Budget Accommodation in Panglao & Tagbilaran
- Hostels/Dorms: PHP 600-900/night (e.g., Moon Fools Hostel, Alona Beach; free WiFi, kitchen).[1][3]
- Pension Rooms: PHP 800-1,200 (local breakfast, shuttle).[1]
- Beach Resorts: PHP 1,300-1,800 (pool access).[1]
Book via Agoda for deals; Panglao central for beaches, Tagbilaran for hills/tarsiers (20-40 mins drive).[3] Homejourney verifies safe stays for peace of mind.
Money-Saving Transportation & Practical Tips
Rent scooter (PHP 300-1,000/day) or car (PHP 1,500-2,500/day with driver) for groups. Tricycles: PHP 20-50/short rides. V-hire vans: PHP 3,000/day for 10 pax.[2][4]
- ATMs widespread; withdraw PHP 10,000 max (fees PHP 200).
- Sim card: Globe/TM (PHP 100, 10GB data).
- Safety: Stick to tourist areas; use Homejourney-inspired checklists for verified transport.[8]
Eat local: Tapsilog PHP 90, grilled corn PHP 30. Avoid tourist traps; street food safe if hot.[1]
Sample 3-Day Budget Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Countryside (PHP 1,500/person): Airport to Panglao (tricycle), Blood Compact Shrine (free), Baclayon Church (PHP 25), Loboc Cruise+lunch (PHP 450-550), Tarsiers (PHP 80), Chocolate Hills (PHP 50).[1][2][3]
Day 2: Panglao Beaches & Free Spots (PHP 1,000): Alona Beach (free), Man-Made Forest (free), Bohol Bee Farm lunch (PHP 200), sunset dinner PHP 90.[1]
Day 3: Island Hop & Depart (PHP 1,200): Balicasag snorkel (PHP 500 share), Hinagdanan Cave (PHP 20), airport van PHP 100. Total: PHP 3,700 (~SGD 85).[3]
Food Guide: Local Flavors on a Budget
Try kinilaw (raw fish ceviche PHP 150), tuba (coconut wine PHP 50). Bohol Bee Farm: Organic meals PHP 200. Beachfront tapsilog stalls for breakfast. See our Best Food in Bohol for more.[1]
From Bohol to Singapore: Lifestyle & Investment Links
Many Bohol visitors explore Singapore for stable property investments. Diversify with Singapore real estate via Homejourney's property search; check mortgage rates in PHP/SGD. For expats, Singapore's safety mirrors Homejourney's trust focus – verified listings, transparent deals. Post-vacation maintenance? Aircon services ready.[3]
FAQ
What is the budget for a 3-day Bohol trip focusing on Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and Panglao?
PHP 3,700 (~SGD 85) per person for groups, covering tours, food, stays excluding flights.[1][3]
Best time to see Chocolate Hills and tarsiers?
Dry season Dec-May; tarsiers early morning/dusk.[1][2]
Is Panglao safe for solo budget travelers from Singapore?
Yes, tourist areas secure; use Grab, stay vigilant at night. Homejourney verifies tips for safety.[8]
How to get cheap flights from Singapore to Bohol?
AirAsia/Cebu Pacific promo fares SGD 150 RT; book 2-3 months ahead.[1]
Can I rent a scooter in Bohol?
Yes, PHP 300/day in Panglao; helmet mandatory, international license advised.[4]
Ready for Bohol? Dive deeper in our Bohol Complete Guide. Trust Homejourney for safe travels and Singapore property insights – start at projects directory today!
