Tarsiers of Bohol in Cebu and Bohol
Part of the Cebu and Bohol travel guide — see every topic in All Cebu and Bohol Guides.
The Philippine tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world. It has huge round eyes, long fingers and can turn its head almost all the way around. Tarsiers live in the forests of Bohol and a few other islands. They are shy, they sleep in the day and they stress easily. This guide explains where to see them in a way that is good for the animals.
A small and sensitive animal
An adult tarsier can sit in the palm of a hand. Its eyes are very large compared to its body, and each eye is about the size of its brain. Tarsiers are nocturnal. They hunt insects at night and sleep during the day, holding on to branches. They are very sensitive to noise, light and touch. Stress can make them sick, and some captive tarsiers have hurt themselves when frightened. For this reason, how you see a tarsier matters a lot. A calm visit to a protected forest is much better than a photo stop with a caged animal.
The sanctuary in Corella
The best place to see tarsiers on Bohol is the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, run by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation. The tarsiers live free in a fenced area of natural forest. Guides know where the animals are resting that day and lead small groups along a short forest path. You will usually see a few tarsiers sleeping on low branches. The visit is short and quiet. The entrance fee supports the care of the forest and research on the species. Corella is about 30 minutes by road from Tagbilaran City.
Rules for a good visit
At the sanctuary, follow a few simple rules. Speak in a low voice or stay silent. Do not use a camera flash, because bright light hurts their eyes. Never touch a tarsier, and do not tap branches or try to wake one up. Keep your distance and stay on the path. Children should be told the rules before the walk. Phones on silent mode are best. If a guide asks your group to move on, please do so. These rules may feel strict, but they help the animals stay healthy and keep living in the wild.
Places to avoid
Along the main roads of Bohol, some roadside attractions keep tarsiers in small spaces near crowds and noise. Visitors are sometimes allowed to get very close for photos. Animal welfare groups advise against these places, because the stress can harm the animals. Before you book a countryside tour, ask the driver or tour company which tarsier stop they use. Ask clearly for the sanctuary in Corella. Paying to visit a well-run sanctuary sends a clear message that visitors want ethical wildlife viewing. It also helps protect the forest where wild tarsiers live.
Tarsiers of Bohol at a glance
| Getting there | Corella, about 30 minutes by road from Tagbilaran City |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daytime visits only; check opening hours before you go |
| Cost | Small entrance fee that supports the sanctuary |
| Best time | Any time of year; mornings are cooler and quieter |
| Rules | Silence, no flash, no touching, stay on the path |