Bojo River Cruise — Attraction in Cebu

Bojo River, Aloguinsan: A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering

Spent a quiet day cruising along the peaceful waters of Bojo River - Aloguinsan, Cebu — and it was everything I didn’t know I needed.

This isn’t your typical tourist spot. It’s calm, clean, and beautifully managed by the locals. The river cruise is done on a small paddle boat, no noisy engines — just the sound of water, birds, and stories shared by the guide.

Cruising Through Mangroves (And Learning A Lot!)

I was surprised to learn that Bojo River is home to over 20 species of mangroves — and they all play a role in keeping the ecosystem healthy. Here are a few that stood out to me: • Pagatpat (Sonneratia alba) – These are the ones with those stick-like roots poking out of the water. They help oxygenate the soil and provide shelter for young fish and crabs. • Bakhaw (Rhizophora species) – Probably the most iconic mangrove. Their stilt roots are like natural barriers that protect the coastline from erosion. • Nipa (Nypa fruticans) – Shorter than most mangroves, but important. Locals even use their leaves for roofing, and the sap is used to make “tuba” (coconut wine). • Tonog – This one caught my attention because it’s traditionally used to improve the flavor of tuba. Who knew mangroves had a role in happy hour?

More Than Just a Pretty Place

What really made Bojo River special wasn’t just the scenery — it was the people. The entire tour is managed by the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS), a group of locals who came together to protect their home and offer meaningful experiences to visitors. They’re the reason this place is thriving.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with purpose, this is it. No crowds. No chaos. Just you, nature, and the kindest people...

Important: You don't need to be on a large group to enjoy this beauty. You can come in pair or even fly solo. Just remember to notify the local tourism office at least two days in advance so they can book your reservations.

Walk-ins are allowed but not advisable. You'll be stuck on the wait list until all those who have made their reservations are accommodated.

Though the locals would be kind enough to find you a way to be accommodated (just like they did for us) it would be wise to contact them at least 2 days prior your visit so they can:

advise if the weather is good schedule the window of your trip prepare your lunch even take you to Hermit's Cove

additional perks is the welcome presentation they will prepare for you upon your arrival! Not to mention the welcome lei you can keep for souvenir!

Walk-ins don't get you this much perks, as was our case, but the people there are all friendly and accommodating. They even looked for any available fisherman who can accommodate us despite full schedule.

The local fisherman will serve as your guide and boatman for the entire tour. The tour will span for 45 minutes, paddling through the entire river up until you come to the very mouth of the river where it meets with the blue sea.

A picture-perfect beauty comparable to El Nido in Palawan awaits.

The local fisherman are also very friendly and knowledgeable. A tale of a mysterious sea fairy, the history of Bojo River, the importance of eco-tourism, and the enumeration of several species of flora (with their scientific names) are only a sample of knowledge you can get from them.

At the mouth of the river, where the sea and the river meets, you can take a dip and swim into the waters. Beautiful corals abounds the area...

The people in Bojo are very accomodating and friendly even if you are just a local. If you get the all in package of PhP 650, you will have a leigh upon arrival.

They will sing you a native welcome song, a welcome drink of coconut juice right directly from the fruit. So sweet cuz it's freshly picked. So much coco water in it.

Then they will serve lunch. During that time we had, rice, grilled milkfish, humba, tinolang manok (native chicken) and juice made from camote leaves with calamansi. Super busog ka talaga!

Then when you are ready for the cruise of 1.4km stretch to the mouth of the sea water, an orientation will be held. They were talking about how the area is being managed by an organized group of farmers and fishermen (BAETAS). Everyone is reminded to keep their voices low while at the river due to some folklore.

Should anyone wish to dip on the river, it is advised to cruise during high tide.

It is totally safe to do the river cruise. No crocs/alligator. You are also provided with a vest for floatation.

Overall it's a very good "nature" experience

By the way, the BAETAS association who managed the day to day operation has earned several awards already for preserving the environment. Pls take a look...