Bohol Choco Tour: A Detailed Rio Verde Lunch Buffet Review

Thinking about going on the Bohol Choco Tour? It’s almost certainly on your list if you’re visiting Bohol! Of course, the star attraction is undoubtedly those awesome Chocolate Hills. But you, too, might be wondering about the famous Rio Verde Floating Restaurant lunch buffet that’s usually part of the deal. This review will tell you more or less everything you need to know about that buffet so you can figure out if the whole tour, food included, is, like, really worth your precious vacation time and money.

What is the Bohol Choco Tour, Anyway?

So, the “Choco Tour,” too, is just a very common name given to one of the main tour itineraries around Bohol. That trip, you see, normally packs in several major inland attractions into one day. Usually, it starts with the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. You know, it’s that place to see those teeny tiny tarsiers with enormous eyes! Then it continues to the Chocolate Hills viewpoint where you can gawk at these unique geological formations that seriously resemble giant chocolate kisses during the dry season. Often, it also includes a stop at the Loboc River, where a floating restaurant cruise with lunch is basically the main event… and that’s where the Rio Verde comes in.

The Rio Verde Floating Restaurant Experience

As I was saying, Rio Verde Floating Restaurant is basically one of several “floating” restaurants that cruise along the Loboc River. Actually, these restaurants are very often large motorized rafts equipped with dining areas. So, for about an hour or so, too, they’ll take you drifting along the river, past lush tropical scenery as you eat. You know, that whole idea sounds quite nice, alright?

Setting and Atmosphere

First, the Loboc River is generally pretty scenic, that it is. You’ll see dense jungle greenery along the banks, native-style houses, and very often children playing or swimming in the water. So, too, if you’re lucky, you might spot some interesting wildlife. Really, the restaurant itself tends to be simple and functional. As a matter of fact, the focus definitely is on the views and, of course, the food!

The Buffet Spread: What to Expect

In a way, the lunch is generally a Filipino buffet, so it usually includes a variety of local dishes. As a matter of fact, think rice, grilled fish or pork, chicken adobo, pancit (noodles), vegetables, and very often some local fruits for dessert. Like your average buffet, too, it is what it is, meaning it aims to offer enough variety to appeal to a range of tastes. Well, let’s be real, don’t expect fancy, high-end cuisine. The goal is certainly decent, filling food while you enjoy the sights.

Food Quality and Taste

The quality of the food, too, is very acceptable, but very few would actually use the words awesome or delightful, I mean, this is very mass-produced stuff meant to feed a whole boatload of tourists all at once. Clearly, it isn’t really fair to expect Michelin-star level fare. As I was saying, if you like Filipino food you’ll probably be satisfied. It’s just a little, sort of… standard.

Entertainment Onboard

Onboard, there is very, very often a local musician or group providing entertainment. Clearly, they play a range of Filipino songs, very often requests, and sometimes even international pop tunes. To be honest, the quality can vary, but it certainly adds to the festive atmosphere. So, just be ready to tip them! You know, these guys are very often working hard to create a cheerful, party kind of vibe, and that really adds to the whole experience.

Is the Rio Verde Lunch Buffet Worth It?

Arguably, this all boils down to expectations and priorities, right? Now, if you’re expecting a fancy gourmet dining experience, you’ll probably be disappointed. Then again, if you’re just looking for a convenient, reasonably-priced meal combined with a scenic river cruise, the Rio Verde is alright. Very often it’s worth considering the overall package: The Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, the river cruise—that’s what a lot of visitors look forward to on their first trip to Bohol.

Pros

Convenience: Everything is basically taken care of for you in a very straightforward package tour.
Scenery: Floating along the Loboc River is definitely quite relaxing and offers unique views.
Good value: Arguably, the food isn’t superb, but there’s tons to choose from and most visitors leave happy and quite full.

Cons

Mass Tourism: Obviously, you’re experiencing this tourist spot with tons and tons of others, especially during peak seasons. It might get crowded.
Average Cuisine: I mean, if you’re a foodie in search of a special culinary experience, this might not be it. That floating restaurant might be an enjoyable novelty but there isn’t anything that truly stands out.
Somewhat generic experience: In some respects, some travelers actually like a sense of “authenticity”. That authenticity tends to be hard to find on a buffet raft packed full of people.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Choco Tour and Rio Verde Experience

By the way, some planning and preparation can really make a huge difference when you go for this kind of tour!

Book in Advance: Alright, during the high season, basically make reservations! That way you’re definitely guaranteed a spot on the floating restaurant.
Come prepared: Bring a camera, alright? Actually, you’re gonna need it. Like your sunblock, a hat, too. Then also bring a little cash for tipping the musicians and anyone who assists you along the way.
Be open: Look, relax. Don’t worry so much, and definitely don’t sweat the small stuff! I mean, just embrace this tour for what it is! I mean, it’s supposed to be all about discovery and enjoyment and that spirit of adventure, very, very cool, I mean seriously awesome fun!
Hydrate: Bring lots of water, you know, to counter the Philippine heat. You could bring your own water container, you know. The buffet often provides drinks anyway. That being said, always always bring enough water with you to stay fresh while exploring!

Alternative Bohol Tour Options

Maybe the Choco Tour doesn’t really seem perfect? So, there are lots of other options for touring Bohol! Like your white sand beach adventures on Panglao Island. Then you’ve also got countryside exploration further inland! Here are just a couple:

Panglao Island Hopping: Perfect if you basically prefer snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing.
Danao Adventure Park: This is perfect if you’re after basically ziplining and a bit of an adrenaline rush.
Exploring Anda: Arguably, the eastern coast of Bohol offers basically more serene, less crowded beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly is included in the Rio Verde lunch buffet?

The buffet very often features classic Filipino fare, for example, chicken adobo, grilled fish, pancit (noodles), rice, lots of different veggies, and fresh fruits for dessert.

How long is the Loboc River cruise?

Very often, cruises are just a bit more or less an hour long.

Is the Rio Verde accessible for those using wheelchairs?

Actually, it might be just a little difficult, that’s all. Maybe just ask about the boarding assistance as you’re booking a spot!

So, is the Bohol Choco Tour with the Rio Verde lunch buffet the perfect experience ever ever? Maybe not, especially. Then again, in a lot of respects it depends, doesn’t it? As a matter of fact, it really delivers some amazing views of the Chocolate Hills plus you get that fascinating experience of seeing the adorable tarsiers… Then that boat ride comes and all of those little factors are what will probably create one heck of a trip, too!