The Philippine Tarsier: Bohol's Most Endearing Resident
The Philippine Tarsier (Carlito syrichta) is one of the smallest primates in the world, and Bohol is home to one of the last significant wild populations. With enormous eyes (each eye is larger than its brain), long spindly fingers, and the ability to rotate its head nearly 180 degrees, the tarsier looks like something from a fantasy film.
What makes Bohol's tarsier experience special is the ability to see these animals in a semi-wild habitat — roosting quietly in their chosen trees during the day, undisturbed by visitors who move quietly and keep their distance. This is a very different experience from roadside displays or caged exhibits, and Bohol has strict rules in place to keep it that way.
Which Sanctuary Should You Visit?
There are two main tarsier sanctuaries in Bohol, and the difference matters:
Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary (Corella) — Run by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation, Inc. (PTFI), this is the most ethical and recommended option. Located in Canapnapan, Corella, about 14 km from Tagbilaran. Tarsiers live in a protected 8-hectare forest and are observed in their natural resting spots. No flash photography. No touching. No feeding. Guides keep groups small and quiet.
Tarsier Conservation Area (Loboc) — A separate, privately managed sanctuary located near Loboc town, about 45 km from Tagbilaran. This is commonly included in tour packages along with the Loboc River cruise. The experience is similar in quality, but tour groups tend to be larger. Still a worthwhile visit, especially if you're already heading to Loboc.
Visitor Rules — Read Before You Go
Tarsiers are extremely sensitive to stress. In captivity or when disturbed, they can stress themselves to the point of death. All ethical sanctuaries enforce strict rules — please respect them.
Keep voices low throughout the sanctuary. Tarsiers hear extremely well.
Follow your guide and stay on designated walkways. Don't approach resting tarsiers.
Photography is allowed but no flash — ever. The burst of light causes extreme stress.
Maintain at least 1 metre distance from the animals at all times.
Handling tarsiers is strictly prohibited. Human contact causes severe stress.
Flash blinds and stresses the tarsiers. Turn off all flash and torch settings.
Some visitors tap the tree to make tarsiers look at the camera. This is harmful and prohibited.
Keep all food and drinks away from the sanctuary areas to protect the animals.
Getting There by Motorbike or Car
The easiest and most flexible way to visit the Tarsier Sanctuary is with your own rented vehicle. The Corella sanctuary is only 14 km from Tagbilaran — a 20–30 minute ride on smooth roads. It makes an excellent morning stop before continuing to Loboc River or the Chocolate Hills.
The Loboc sanctuary is further at 45 km, but the drive is scenic — passing through rice fields, coconut groves, and forest. It pairs naturally with the Loboc River lunch cruise, which is just a few kilometres away.
Morning is Best
Tarsiers rest during the day. Visit between 8–10 AM when they've settled after a night of hunting and are calm and stationary.
Use a Good Camera
Phone cameras struggle in low-light forest conditions. A camera with good low-light performance and a bright lens gets better results without flash.
Silence is Key
You'll see more tarsiers and get closer if your group is quiet. A calm, silent group is treated differently than a noisy tour bus crowd.
Wear Closed Shoes
The forest floor can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Closed-toe shoes or light hiking footwear is strongly recommended.
Combining with the Loboc River Cruise
The most popular day trip in Bohol combines the Tarsier Sanctuary with the Loboc River lunch cruise. If you visit the Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area, the river is literally a 5-minute drive away. If you visit Corella, you can still reach Loboc in about 40 minutes, making a combined morning easily doable.
With your own motorbike or car, you can set your own timing — arrive at the tarsier sanctuary at opening (8 AM), spend an hour, then head to Loboc for the floating restaurant cruise at 10–11 AM. Add the Chocolate Hills in the afternoon and you've covered Bohol's top three in one day at your own pace.
Other Must-See Destinations in Bohol
🚢 Loboc River
5 min from Loboc Sanctuary · Floating lunch cruise
🍫 Chocolate Hills
~30 km from Loboc · 45 min drive
🏖 Alona Beach
~35 km from Corella · Panglao Island