Hundreds of cone-shaped hills that turn chocolate brown
From the observation deck of the Chocolate Hills Complex, you get a 360-degree view of hundreds of cone-shaped hills repeating endlessly to the horizon. During the dry season, the grass covering them dries out and takes on a chocolate brown hue, a phenomenon that gave the site its name.
Why visit the Chocolate Hills
These conical karst hills formed through the dissolution of limestone by rain and groundwater, followed by river erosion. The site counts at least 1,268 hills, with some estimates reaching up to 1,776, spread across an area of over 50 square kilometers in the center of the island of Bohol.
This geological formation was declared the third National Geological Monument of the Philippines and is on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.
The climb up to the platform
Getting to the panoramic view requires climbing about 214 concrete steps from the base to the summit, an ascent that typically takes 10 to 15 minutes for most visitors. For those who prefer to skip the stairs, lower viewpoints exist near the parking lot.
The complex also houses a restaurant, a pavilion, and souvenir shops.
Friendly tip: aim for early morning or late afternoon to climb the steps, as temperatures are cooler and the softer light makes for better photos.
Best for
- fans of unusual geological landscapes
- visitors able to climb a staircase of several hundred steps
Less suited for
- travelers with limited mobility, despite the presence of lower viewpoints
- visitors passing through Tagbilaran without planned travel time, as the site sits 59 kilometers from the city
Opening hours
| Monday | 08:30-17:30 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 08:30-17:30 |
| Wednesday | 08:30-17:30 |
| Thursday | 08:30-17:30 |
| Friday | 08:30-17:30 |
| Saturday | 08:30-17:30 |
| Sunday | 08:30-17:30 |
How long for this activity
Plan on 1 to 1.5 hours to head up to the viewpoint, take in the panoramic scenery, and walk around the grounds.
*Information subject to change
If you are looking into a trip to the Philippines, you have definitely heard of these famous chocolate hills. I had heard so much about them that I was expecting to fall totally in love, but in the end it was a huge disappointment. There are crazy crowds there, the viewpoint is completely mobbed, and honestly the site is way overhyped compared to its reputation. The hills are still unique to see, but between the crowd and the wait, the experience loses all its charm. If you happen to be in Bohol, it is still a curiosity, but do not expect a magical moment.