Chocolate Hills in Philippines 2024-2025

The Chocolate Hills, a unique geological formation in the Bohol province of the Philippines, are among the region's most famous attractions. Spanning over 50 square kilometers, these hills are covered with lush green grass that turns brown during the dry season, resembling mounds of dark chocolate. While most of the hills range in height from 100 to 165 feet, the tallest reaches approximately 395 feet. Covering an area of about 20 square miles, the Chocolate Hills are visible from the towns of Batuan, Sagbayan, Bilar, and Carmen.

Best Season

For the best views of the Chocolate Hills, it is recommended to visit between December and March, when the weather is cool, or between March and July, which, while hotter, is still a good time. Avoid visiting from August to November, as this period is both hot and rainy. During the rainy season, the hills are covered in lush green grass, lacking the distinct chocolate color that appears when the grass turns brown due to limited water supply in the drier months.

Getting There

The Chocolate Hills are easily accessible via a two-hour ferry ride from Cebu to Tagbilaran, the capital of Bohol. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Bohol-Panglao Airport from Manila or travel to the island by boat from Manila, Siquijor, and various other ports. Visitors to Bohol can reach the Chocolate Hills via scenic roads. Guided tours with transportation and local insights are popular, while rental cars and motorcycles offer independent exploration.

Viewing Access

While the Chocolate Hills cannot be climbed directly, visitors can take in their beauty from well-placed viewing decks. The most notable is the observation deck at the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen, located atop the largest hill and accessible via 214 steps. Another excellent viewing spot is in the nearby town of Sagbayan, where the scenery includes not only the hills but also glimpses of the sea between Bohol and Cebu. Additionally, resorts in the area offer comfortable accommodations and leisure activities, allowing guests to appreciate the stunning landscape of the Chocolate Hills fully.

Activities

For an adventurous twist to your Chocolate Hills visit, head to the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park (CHAP) in Barangay Buenos Aires, Carmen. Thrill-seekers can try the Bike Zip or Wave Runner surf zipline, both offering stunning hilltop views. CHAP also features rope courses, eco-hiking trails, horseback riding, and the "Ang Paru-Paro" Butterfly Garden. Before climbing to the viewing deck, stop by the Serpentarium to see various snake species. For more excitement, try a Bohol ATV ride. Choose a guided tour or solo rental and enjoy an orientation and safety briefing before exploring the rugged terrain with the hills as your backdrop.

Accomodation

The Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Philippines, offer a range of eco-tourism activities and accommodations for visitors. Lodging options include resorts and bed-and-breakfasts, many with views of the hills and surrounding countryside. Guided treks and hiking tours, led by knowledgeable local guides, provide opportunities to explore the hills and learn about the area’s unique flora and fauna. Birdwatching and wildlife tours are available, with chances to observe endemic species, including the Philippine tarsier. Visitors can also explore local villages to learn about Boholano crafts, cuisine, and traditions. Sustainable tourism efforts focus on supporting local businesses, conserving the environment, and preserving the Chocolate Hills for future generations.

Origins

The Chocolate Hills are believed by locals to have been formed after a battle between two giants who threw sand and rocks at each other for several days. Geologists, however, explain that the hills are the result of ancient limestone deposits shaped by erosion from rainfall and natural water sources when the region was once above sea level. This natural phenomenon, consisting of over 1,247 hills, is a prominent symbol on Bohol's provincial flag, representing the area's abundant natural attractions.

Bohol: What to Do

In addition to the Chocolate Hills, Bohol offers other must-see attractions. The Bilar Man-Made Forest, located along the way to the Chocolate Hills, is a popular stop for photos. This lush 2-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees provides a cool, shaded atmosphere, ideal for a brief respite. Another highlight is the Tarsier Sanctuary, where visitors can observe the world’s smallest primates up close in protected areas like the Corella and Loboc sanctuaries. These nocturnal creatures, known for their large eyes, are best seen resting during the day, and visitors are advised to keep noise and camera flashes to a minimum to avoid stressing them.