🏞️ Alicia Panoramic Park Tour: Bohol’s Hidden Hiking Gem

Discovering Bohol’s Eastern Wilderness

Nestled in the rugged eastern interior of Bohol, Alicia Panoramic Park, also known as Binabaje Hills, is a hidden gem that showcases the island’s untouched natural beauty and geological wonders.

Located in the municipality of Alicia, approximately 100 km from Tagbilaran City (a 2.5-hour drive), this destination offers a stark contrast to Bohol’s more frequented tourist spots like the Chocolate Hills or Panglao’s beaches.

The park, centered around Mt. Candidiasis, which rises to about 400 meters above sea level, is a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking solitude amidst dramatic landscapes.

Overview
The Alicia Panoramic Park Tour offers an unforgettable adventure to one of Bohol’s best-kept secrets: Mt. Candidiasis and its surrounding ridges. Unlike the more touristy Chocolate Hills or beach tours in Panglao, this tour gives travelers a serene and rugged look at Bohol’s eastern interior.

📍 Start Point: Tagbilaran City or Panglao
🕓 Duration: ~8 hours (including travel, hike, meals)
🚐 Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, local breakfast and lunch, guide, and entrance fees

🌿 Geographic and Natural Highlights

Mt. Candidiasis and Binabaje Hills

The centerpiece of Alicia Panoramic Park is Mt. Candidiasis, a prominent ridge within the Binabaje Hills. These hills, blanketed in cogon grass and dotted with limestone outcrops, offer a striking resemblance to the iconic Chocolate Hills but with a wilder, less-traveled charm.

The landscape is part of Bohol’s ancient karst terrain, formed millions of years ago from uplifted coral reefs and shaped by erosion. The hills are underlain by the Alicia Schist, the oldest known rock formation in Bohol, dating back to the Jurassic to early Cretaceous eras (145–100 million years ago), adding a profound geological history to your hike.

From the summit, expect 360-degree panoramic views of Bohol’s eastern uplands, where rolling hills cascade toward distant rice terraces, coconut groves, and patches of tropical forest. On clear days, you may glimpse the shimmering Bohol Sea to the south or a rare “sea of clouds” phenomenon at sunrise, where mist blankets the valleys below. The park’s highland setting creates a cooler microclimate, with gentle breezes rustling through the cogon grass, offering a refreshing escape from Bohol’s humid lowlands.

Flora and Fauna

Alicia Panoramic Park is a biodiversity hotspot within Bohol’s interior. The trails wind through grasslands, secondary forests, and pockets of native vegetation, including pandan plants, wild orchids, and scattered mahogany and acacia trees. Birdwatchers may spot endemic species like the Philippine bulbul or yellow-breasted fruit dove, while butterflies and dragonflies add bursts of color to the landscape. The park’s commitment to eco-tourism ensures minimal disturbance to these habitats, with guides trained to highlight conservation efforts and the importance of preserving this pristine ecosystem.

Rural Countryside Charm

The journey to Alicia takes you through Bohol’s rural heartland, passing rice paddies, banana plantations, and small farming villages where locals tend to carabaos (water buffalo) and harvest root crops like ube (purple yam). The road from Tagbilaran to Alicia winds through undulating hills and crosses small streams, offering glimpses of traditional Boholano life. These rural scenes, framed by distant limestone peaks, create a sense of stepping back in time, far from the bustling tourist hubs of Panglao or Loboc.

🥾 The Hiking Experience

The hike to the summit of Mt. Candidiasis is a 1–2 hour ascent, depending on your pace and fitness level, covering a moderately challenging trail that’s steep in sections but well-maintained. The path weaves through grassy slopes and rocky outcrops, with occasional shade from small clusters of trees. At the top, a large viewing platform offers a place to rest and soak in the vistas, complete with a basic comfort room for convenience. For those seeking an overnight adventure, camping is available for 500 PHP per person, allowing you to sleep under the stars on the platform and wake to a sunrise that bathes the hills in golden light.

Sunrise vs. Sunset: While sunrise hikes (starting at 3:30 AM) are popular for their ethereal views and cooler temperatures, sunset hikes offer dramatic lighting as the hills glow in hues of orange and pink. However, travelers note that sunrise is often preferred for clearer skies and the chance to witness the “sea of clouds.”

Pro Tip: The trail can be slippery, especially during the rainy season (July–October). Wear sturdy hiking shoes, and avoid flip-flops despite local guides managing in them. Bring at least 1 liter of water, as there are no shops or stalls near the park to preserve its natural state.

🌾 Cultural and Community Connection

Alicia Panoramic Park is deeply tied to the local community, which maintains the trails and promotes sustainable tourism. Your tour supports local guides who share stories of Bohol’s folklore, such as tales of the hills being formed by ancient giants, and insights into the region’s agricultural traditions. The included Boholano breakfast often features suman (sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves), tsokolate (hot chocolate made from local cacao), and fresh fruits like mango or lanzones, served in a village setting. The post-hike lunch, typically featuring chicken adobo, grilled fish, or kinilaw (raw fish ceviche), showcases the flavors of Bohol’s countryside, sourced from local farms.

🌍 Why Alicia Stands Out

Unlike Bohol’s more commercialized attractions, Alicia Panoramic Park remains blissfully uncrowded, offering a rare opportunity to connect with nature without the tourist throngs. Its remote location in eastern Bohol, far from the coastal resorts, ensures a peaceful experience where you might be the only hikers on the trail. The park’s emphasis on eco-tourism aligns with efforts to protect Bohol’s natural and cultural heritage, making it a meaningful choice for responsible travelers.

For photographers, the sweeping vistas and untouched landscapes provide endless opportunities to capture Bohol’s raw beauty, especially during the dry season (December–May) when the hills are lush and the skies are clear. Adventurers will appreciate the chance to explore a less-traveled part of the island, while cultural enthusiasts will enjoy the authentic glimpse into rural Boholano life.

📍 Getting There and Practical Details

• Distance: Alicia is ~100 km from Tagbilaran City or ~80 km from Panglao, a 2–2.5-hour drive through Bohol’s scenic countryside.
• Access: The tour includes air-conditioned transport from your hotel, navigating the winding roads to Alicia. For DIY travelers, a scooter ride from Anda takes about 1 hour, but booking a guide in advance is recommended as the trailhead can be hard to find.
• Entrance Fees: 550 PHP per person, including a 30 PHP environmental fee and a 300 PHP guide fee, ensuring sustainable maintenance of the park.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (December–May) for optimal weather and trail conditions. March is particularly ideal for clear skies and vibrant greenery.

🌄 Why Choose Alicia Panoramic Park?

1. Breathtaking Ridge Views

The hike to Mt. Candidiasis offers 360-degree views of Bohol’s eastern uplands, rice terraces, and rolling hills that resemble a mini-Chocolate Hills range, but without the crowds.

“The view at the top is surreal—totally worth the climb!” – Traveler review on Viator

2. Guided Hike with Local Experts

This is not a casual stroll—expect a moderate to strenuous climb on well-maintained trails. Your local guide helps interpret the geology, vegetation, and local legends.

🧭 Hiking Level: Intermediate
👟 Tip: Wear proper hiking shoes, bring water, and dress light!

3. Cultural and Culinary Experience

Enjoy a traditional Boholano breakfast and a post-hike lunch, served fresh from a local kitchen. This adds authenticity and supports the community.

🍽️ Sample Menu:

• Native rice cakes
• Fried fish or chicken adobo
• Root crops and fruits

“Best local food experience during my Bohol trip. Simple but very filling.” – Visitor from Manila

4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

If you’ve already done the river cruises and beach resorts, Alicia is for the adventurous soul. Located on the eastern side of Bohol, it takes you far from the tourist trail, into a serene landscape.

🌿 Bonus: You may see wild birds or butterflies native to this highland habitat.

💡 Travel Tips & FAQs

• ✅ Is transport included? Yes, with pickup/drop-off from your hotel in Tagbilaran or Panglao.
• 🧍 Is this for families? Best for teens and adults with moderate fitness.
• 📷 Can I bring a drone or camera? Absolutely. Early morning lighting is best for photos.
• ☁️ What about weather? Avoid rainy season hikes (July–October) due to slippery trails.

👉 Book the Alicia Panoramic Park Tour Now on Viator
Secure your slot early—limited to small groups for a more personal experience.

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🌟 Final Thoughts

The Alicia Panoramic Park Tour is more than just a hike—it’s an immersion into Bohol’s wild heart, where ancient geology, vibrant ecosystems, and rural traditions converge. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise over the Binabaje Hills, savoring a home-cooked Boholano meal, or simply standing in awe of the untouched landscapes, this tour delivers an adventure that feels both exhilarating and deeply grounding. Add it to your Bohol itinerary for a day of nature, culture, and unforgettable views.

The Alicia Panoramic Park Tour is perfect for:

• Nature lovers looking for real adventure
• Travelers wanting to support sustainable tourism
• Photographers seeking dramatic mountain and ridgeline views
• Anyone bored of beach tours and looking to stretch their legs!

🌟 Highly Recommended for the active traveler who wants to explore the soul of Bohol, not just the highlights.