Chocolate Hills - the pearl of Bohol Island - Kahibalo Foundation
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Chocolate Hills. The pearl of Bohol

The Chocolate Hills of Bohol is one of the most ethereal views of nature in the Philippines. They are the conical-shaped hills that spread for miles along the horizon. But other than its formation, its geological oddity is what separates it from other natural landscapes.

What makes it a “chocolate hill”?

The Chocolate Hills span over a 50 square kilometers area. One can find 1,776 mounds that are up to 400 feet in height out there. Most of the hills are of the same conical shape that some people associate with Hershey Kisses. This geological landscape was formed through limestone weathering. First, however, coral reefs that have accumulated on the seafloor for hundreds of years. Then they were brought up the sea level due to tectonic activities. Rainwater then seeped into limestone that created the dome-formation of the hills. Now, the hills are covered in lush grass during the rainy season, but when the summer season hits, most of the vegetation dies off – hence why the color change from green to brown is what gives it the name of Chocolate Hills.

Folklore explanation of the Chocolate Hills formation

Another similar geological formation can be found in Java, Indonesia. However, the hills are of irregular shape and are not as numerous as the ones in Bohol. There are several folklore stories on how these Hills were formed. According to urban legends from the local people, the Chocolate Hills are believed to be formed thanks to… giants. One of these legends is more romantic, claiming that these Hills emerged from the tears of a giant who had his heart broken after the death of the beloved mortal woman. On the other hand, Another one is more brutal, where two giants had a fight, throwing rocks and dirt at each other. Finally, they were exhausted and simply became friends.

The Beauty of the Chocolate Hills

Due to its astounding and one-of-a-kind sight, numerous tourists and locals have traveled to see the Chocolate Hills in person. It has been given recognition by the National Geographic as one of the 17 World’s Most Wild and Beautiful Places. On May 24, 2023, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organizations (UNESCO) declared Bohol Island as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The first Island of the Philippines to be named so. However, the Chocolate Hills were recognized much earlier nationally. In 1988 they have already been declared a National Geological Monument for its “scientific value and geomorphic uniqueness”. Because of its global recognition, it is a must-visit destination for tourists that are traveling in the Bohol province.

How to go to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol?

The Chocolate Hills are spread over three Municipalities: Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan. However, the best place to view this landscape is located in Carmen. It is a 70 km drive from Panglao International Airport. If you are traveling from Tagbilaran, the Dao Bus Terminal can take you to Carmen. There is also another viewing point located in Sagbayan Peak. It can be accessed by bus leaving from the same terminal. Some of the places would require a fee and others would require a bit of hiking/walking to get to the viewing points. Alternatively, you can also avail for a guided or packaged tour to also visit other tourist spots in the area.


Author: Sophia del Mar (USC Student)

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