How to Get to Bohol

Central Visayas is home to hundreds of fantastic sights, but if you’re looking for a destination that’s got it all, you might want to check out Bohol. One of the most picturesque spots in the country, Bohol has everything— world-renowned dive sites, white sand beaches, and the inimitable Chocolate Hills. The province’s diverse flora and fauna also make it a great choice for nature lovers, and with such a range of activities, everyone’s sure to find something they like.

While Bohol might not be as famous as popular destinations like Boracay and Cebu, it’s definitely a must-see. Anyone from solo backpackers to couples to families can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Jewel of what many in the country call God’s Little Paradise.

Can We Travel to Bohol?

While Bohol has always been a top tourist destination in the country, getting there during the global COVID-19 pandemic can get a little tricky. For the safety of travelers and residents, the local government has implemented a few rules and regulations. Bohol has been open to residents and domestic tourists since November 2020, provided they fulfill the following requirements:

1)   The traveler must have a validated negative RT-PCR test result taken no earlier than 72 hours before their flights or date of travel.

2)   The traveler must have a confirmed hotel booking with an accommodation that has a Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism, or the Ultimate Bohol Experience (UBE) seal from the provincial government of Bohol.

3)   The traveler must pre-register at tourism.bohol.gov.ph. Necessary information will be sent via email, and each traveler will be given a personal QR code that will serve as their electronic ID while in the region.

4)   Tours and trips outside of the traveler’s accommodation must be booked with Department of Tourism-accredited tour operators only. Do-it-yourself tours are no longer permitted.

5)   The traveler must follow strict social distancing and quarantine requirements, including the wearing of face mask and face shield, regular sanitizing of hands, and other recommended measures.

How Do I Get From Manila to Bohol?

The easiest and fastest way to get to the province is by taking a flight from Manila to Bohol. There are several cheap flights from Manila MNL to Tagbilaran Airport, now known as the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Tagbilaran Airport can be found in Tagbilaran City, and was initially the main hub where flights to Bohol would land.  Tagbilaran Airport was eventually closed in 2018 to make way for the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which is better equipped to handle increased tourism and multiple flights.

While Tagbilaran Airport has served the province faithfully for several years, the Bohol-Panglao International Airport has the distinction of being the Philippines’ green gateway and the country’s first eco-airport. Traveling from Manila to Bohol via this airport is fairly easy, as there are several economy or cheap flights from Manila and other destinations.

Is There A Flight From Manila to Bohol?

There are international airlines that offer economy tickets and flight deals to Bohol from outside of the country. Jeju Air has direct flights from Seoul-Incheon to Bohol-Panglao International Airport. There are also multi city options from other country airlines that can take you into the Philippines via Clark or Manila to Bohol.

You can also choose to book a flight from Manila to Bohol via one of the Philippines’ many local airlines. Flag carrier Philippine Airlines is a popular option, and offers a good price for economy flight tickets. Besides Philippine Airlines, there are also budget airlines such as Cebu Pacific and AirAsia, which also has affordable tickets at a friendly price.

It should be noted, however, that the above information is likely to change. Multi city and round trip flights are currently prone to cancellation due to the global pandemic. Make sure to check in with your travel agent or airlines to make sure that your information on your flight route, flight times, destination airports, and trip hasn’t changed since your booking.

How Far Is Manila From Bohol?

You can opt for economy flight deals from the country’s flag carrier Philippine Airlines. Cebu Pacific and AirAsia are other airlines that offer economy flight tickets, seat sales, and other flight deals to the island. Flights via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, or Air Asia coming from Manila MNL will typically take around 1 hour.

How Do I Get to Bohol By Land?

If you prefer traveling over land, there are several options that can take you from Manila MNL to Bohol. One option is to go via private vehicle, and then take a RORO (Roll On Roll Off) ferry to Bohol. The trip overland from Manila to Bohol will take around 24 hours if you don’t make any stops, but it can be a great alternative to going via any of the above airlines if you prefer to take the scenic routes. The price for a RORO ticket will depend on your vehicle, so be sure to check the website for the updated price and timetables.

How Much Is the Bus Fare From Manila to Bohol?

A popular alternative via land travel is taking a bus from Manila MNL. Again, the trip from Manila to Bohol will take around 24 hours, and price of a one way bus trip will come out to around Php 2700 from MNL via bus ferry. This is the next best option if you aren’t able to get a good price for cheap flights, but will take some time, so make sure you adjust your itinerary accordingly.

How Much Is the Ferry From Cebu to Bohol?

While most tourists coming from out of the country will be taking flights or buses from Manila MNL, that’s not the only option for getting to Bohol. You can also opt to travel from the nearby island of Cebu. This is a great alternative for those taking multi city trips, as Cebu itself is a fantastic place, and one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines.

Because Cebu and Bohol are not connected via bridge, you’ll need to travel between islands via a ferry. The price for a ferry from Cebu to Bohol will depend on which ferry line you choose to take. The cheapest price for a one way ticket typically starts at a little under Php 400, but it also takes the longest. A faster and more comfortable option will cost you a little more, anywhere from Php 400 to Php 1245, depending on your budget and needs.

Again, be sure to check that you have updated information regarding the ferry schedules, dates, route, and other parts of your itinerary.

How Long Is the Ferry Ride From Cebu to Bohol?

There are both fast and slow ferries that travel between the islands of Cebu and Bohol. Fast ferries will typically take around 2 hours, while slower ferries will take around 4 to 5. Slower ferries are typically cheaper in price, so it’s up to you to determine which method best fits your needs. Regardless of the price of your tickets, all ferries will arrive at Tagbilaran Pier in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.