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Nestled in the heart of Bohol, Philippines, the Chocolate Hills stand as one of the country's most iconic natural wonders.



This enchanting geological formation, comprising thousands of cone-shaped hills, leaves visitors awe-struck with its unique charm. Here's your comprehensive guide to exploring the enigmatic Chocolate Hills.

Chocolate Hills aerial shot

What is Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills feature a distinctive landscape characterized by haycock-shaped hills, each with a generally conical and almost symmetrical form. Estimated to range from 1,268 to 1,776 individual mounds, these hills are composed of grass-covered limestone. Ranging in size from 30 to 50 meters (98 to 164 feet) in height, with the largest reaching up to 120 meters (390 feet), they are scattered across the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan in Bohol, making them one of the province's most iconic tourist attractions. They have been designated as the nation's third National Geological Monument and are under consideration for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.


Location

Here's a locator map of the Chocolate Hills. Greatest concentration of the hills (dark brown) are in Sagbayan, Batuan, and Carmen while lesser concentration (light brown) are in Bilar, Sierra Bullones, and Valencia.


During the dry season, typically, the grass covering the hills dries up and takes on a chocolate brown hue, hence the name. The vegetation is primarily comprised of grass species like Imperata cylindrica and Saccharum spontaneum, with various Compositae and ferns also flourishing in the area. In the spaces between the hills, flat lands are utilized for agricultural purposes, predominantly for rice cultivation and other cash crops. However, the natural vegetation of the Chocolate Hills faces threats from ongoing quarrying activities.

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The Origin of the Name

The name "Chocolate Hills" is derived from the hills' brown color during the dry season, resembling delectable chocolate mounds. These limestone formations change color, turning lush green during the rainy season and brown during the dry months, adding to their mystical allure.


Local Legends and Folklore
The local legend of the Chocolate Hills involves two giants, Arogo and Aluya, engaged in a battle that lasted for days. After Arogo's death, his tears formed the hills, creating the breathtaking landscape we see today.


Protection

The Chocolate Hills were declared a National Geological Monument in 1988 due to their unique characteristics and high scenic value. Legislation such as Proclamation No. 1037 further protected the hills and surrounding areas, designating them as a natural monument. However, land-use conflicts led to amendments allowing for development in certain areas while preserving others. Efforts to strengthen protection, including bills filed in Congress, have been ongoing, but as of now, no specific law has been passed.


Additionally, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources submitted the Chocolate Hills for consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 due to its outstanding universal value.



Best Viewing Spots

Thinking where to spot the best view for Chocolate Hills? Here are 2 of the most visited places for sightseeing the Bohol wonder:


Chocolate Hills Complex

Chocolate Hills Complex

Head to the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen for a panoramic view of the hills. A viewing deck provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the beauty of this natural phenomenon.


Sagbayan Peak

Sagbayan Peak

Located in Sagbayan town, Sagbayan Peak offers breathtaking views of the Chocolate Hills. The complex also features a butterfly dome and a tarsier sanctuary, providing additional attractions.


Activities and Sightseeing

Adventure Tours: Embark on an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) adventure that takes you through scenic trails amidst the Chocolate Hills. It's an exhilarating way to explore the area and experience the natural beauty up close.

ATV at the foot of Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills Adventure Park: Thrill-seekers can enjoy activities like ziplining, bike ziplining, and the exhilarating "The Rush" – a ride that swings you over the Chocolate Hills.

Bilar Man-Made Forest: En route to the Chocolate Hills, don’t miss the enchanting Bilar Man-Made Forest, a dense mahogany forest that adds to the mystical ambiance of the journey.

Man-made Forest in Bohol



Visiting Tips

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during the dry season (from November to May) when the hills exhibit their chocolate-brown hue.

Bring Essentials: Carry water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for a pleasant experience, especially during outdoor activities.

Respect Nature: As a protected natural monument, it's essential to respect the environment. Avoid littering and follow designated trails to preserve the beauty of the site for future generations.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN BOHOL 

Klook.com

The Chocolate Hills of Bohol are not just a sight to behold; they are a testament to the Earth's captivating natural wonders.


Exploring these enigmatic hills offers an unforgettable experience, merging adventure, folklore, and awe-inspiring beauty into one remarkable journey that travelers cherish for a lifetime.


Or read my complete Bohol Province Guide to know more.


ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA

Tagbilaran Hotels & Resorts Accommodation

Here are top-rated resort accommodation near Tagbilaran, Bohol:
The Bellevue Resort



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

CHOCOLATE HILLS: Guide to its Origin and Best Viewing Sites in Bohol


Nestled in the heart of Bohol, Philippines, the Chocolate Hills stand as one of the country's most iconic natural wonders.



This enchanting geological formation, comprising thousands of cone-shaped hills, leaves visitors awe-struck with its unique charm. Here's your comprehensive guide to exploring the enigmatic Chocolate Hills.

Chocolate Hills aerial shot

What is Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills feature a distinctive landscape characterized by haycock-shaped hills, each with a generally conical and almost symmetrical form. Estimated to range from 1,268 to 1,776 individual mounds, these hills are composed of grass-covered limestone. Ranging in size from 30 to 50 meters (98 to 164 feet) in height, with the largest reaching up to 120 meters (390 feet), they are scattered across the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan in Bohol, making them one of the province's most iconic tourist attractions. They have been designated as the nation's third National Geological Monument and are under consideration for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.


Location

Here's a locator map of the Chocolate Hills. Greatest concentration of the hills (dark brown) are in Sagbayan, Batuan, and Carmen while lesser concentration (light brown) are in Bilar, Sierra Bullones, and Valencia.


During the dry season, typically, the grass covering the hills dries up and takes on a chocolate brown hue, hence the name. The vegetation is primarily comprised of grass species like Imperata cylindrica and Saccharum spontaneum, with various Compositae and ferns also flourishing in the area. In the spaces between the hills, flat lands are utilized for agricultural purposes, predominantly for rice cultivation and other cash crops. However, the natural vegetation of the Chocolate Hills faces threats from ongoing quarrying activities.

Loading...

The Origin of the Name

The name "Chocolate Hills" is derived from the hills' brown color during the dry season, resembling delectable chocolate mounds. These limestone formations change color, turning lush green during the rainy season and brown during the dry months, adding to their mystical allure.


Local Legends and Folklore
The local legend of the Chocolate Hills involves two giants, Arogo and Aluya, engaged in a battle that lasted for days. After Arogo's death, his tears formed the hills, creating the breathtaking landscape we see today.


Protection

The Chocolate Hills were declared a National Geological Monument in 1988 due to their unique characteristics and high scenic value. Legislation such as Proclamation No. 1037 further protected the hills and surrounding areas, designating them as a natural monument. However, land-use conflicts led to amendments allowing for development in certain areas while preserving others. Efforts to strengthen protection, including bills filed in Congress, have been ongoing, but as of now, no specific law has been passed.


Additionally, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources submitted the Chocolate Hills for consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 due to its outstanding universal value.



Best Viewing Spots

Thinking where to spot the best view for Chocolate Hills? Here are 2 of the most visited places for sightseeing the Bohol wonder:


Chocolate Hills Complex

Chocolate Hills Complex

Head to the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen for a panoramic view of the hills. A viewing deck provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the beauty of this natural phenomenon.


Sagbayan Peak

Sagbayan Peak

Located in Sagbayan town, Sagbayan Peak offers breathtaking views of the Chocolate Hills. The complex also features a butterfly dome and a tarsier sanctuary, providing additional attractions.


Activities and Sightseeing

Adventure Tours: Embark on an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) adventure that takes you through scenic trails amidst the Chocolate Hills. It's an exhilarating way to explore the area and experience the natural beauty up close.

ATV at the foot of Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills Adventure Park: Thrill-seekers can enjoy activities like ziplining, bike ziplining, and the exhilarating "The Rush" – a ride that swings you over the Chocolate Hills.

Bilar Man-Made Forest: En route to the Chocolate Hills, don’t miss the enchanting Bilar Man-Made Forest, a dense mahogany forest that adds to the mystical ambiance of the journey.

Man-made Forest in Bohol



Visiting Tips

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during the dry season (from November to May) when the hills exhibit their chocolate-brown hue.

Bring Essentials: Carry water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for a pleasant experience, especially during outdoor activities.

Respect Nature: As a protected natural monument, it's essential to respect the environment. Avoid littering and follow designated trails to preserve the beauty of the site for future generations.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN BOHOL 

Klook.com

The Chocolate Hills of Bohol are not just a sight to behold; they are a testament to the Earth's captivating natural wonders.


Exploring these enigmatic hills offers an unforgettable experience, merging adventure, folklore, and awe-inspiring beauty into one remarkable journey that travelers cherish for a lifetime.


Or read my complete Bohol Province Guide to know more.


ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA

Tagbilaran Hotels & Resorts Accommodation

Here are top-rated resort accommodation near Tagbilaran, Bohol:
The Bellevue Resort



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

Attraction Bohol Central Visayas Nature Philippines Tourist Spot Visayas

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