Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Canagatan, Philippines

1. Bohol Tarsier Sanctuary Scam

Unscrupulous guides may lead you to a tarsier farm instead of the sanctuary for profit.

Guide Verification: Verify your guide's credentials from local tourism offices.
Tarsier Farm vs Sanctuary: Avoid tarsier farms, only visit licensed sanctuaries for ethical treatment of the animals.
Reputable Organizations: Join tours organized by reputable organizations to ensure a legitimate experience.

Some restaurants and shops in Alona Beach overcharge tourists for food and goods.

Bargaining Skills: Master the art of bargaining to secure reasonable prices.
Local Prices vs Tourist Prices: Ask for local prices before agreeing to buy or eat anything.
Reputable Businesses: Research and choose reputable businesses for a fair pricing experience.

Some tour operators may mislead you to less appealing snorkeling spots.

Tour Operator Reputation: Choose a reputable operator with good reviews for a quality experience.
Clear Agreements: Ensure the tour includes the destinations you desire, and discuss it before the trip.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals about trusted operators to avoid scams.

Some guides may lead you to a fake Hagarng Rosario shrine for profit.

Guide Verification: Verify your guide's credentials from local tourism offices.
Authentic Shrine Identification: Look for the official seal and confirmation from the Hagarng Rosario Church.
Reputable Tours: Join tours organized by reputable organizations to ensure a legitimate experience.

Some drivers may claim the Chocolate Hills are too far and ask for higher fares.

Transport Fare Research: Research average transport fares beforehand to avoid overpaying.
Negotiating Prices: Bargain for a fair price with your driver before starting the journey.
Reputable Drivers: Choose a reputable driver through recommendations or verified services.

Some tour operators may charge exorbitant fees for visiting the Mahogany Forest.

Tour Operator Reputation: Choose a reputable operator with good reviews for a quality experience.
Clear Agreements: Ensure the tour includes the destinations you desire, and discuss it before the trip.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals about trusted operators to avoid scams.

Some park attendants may try to collect an inflated entrance fee.

Know the Correct Fee: Research the official entrance fees before visiting the park.
Dispute Invalid Fees: Dispute any inflated or unjustified fees with the park attendants.
Reputable Park Management: Choose parks managed by reputable organizations to avoid scams.

Some operators may lead you to a less appealing firefly site or use artificial lights.

Tour Operator Reputation: Choose a reputable operator with good reviews for a quality experience.
Clear Agreements: Ensure the tour includes the destinations you desire, and discuss it before the trip.
Natural Experience: Choose operators who prioritize a natural firefly experience over artificial lights.

Some boat operators may cram too many people on their boats for dolphin watching.

Reputable Operators: Choose reputable operators with good reviews to ensure a high-quality experience.
Adequate Space on Boats: Ensure there is enough space on the boat for comfort and safety.
Regulations Compliance: Check if the operator adheres to local regulations regarding marine life protection.

Some tour operators may charge exorbitant fees for visiting the Bohol Bee Farm.

Tour Operator Reputation: Choose a reputable operator with good reviews for a quality experience.
Clear Agreements: Ensure the tour includes the destinations you desire, and discuss it before the trip.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals about trusted operators to avoid scams.

Some tour operators may charge exorbitant fees for the Loboc River cruise.

Tour Operator Reputation: Choose a reputable operator with good reviews for a quality experience.
Clear Agreements: Ensure the tour includes the destinations you desire, and discuss it before the trip.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals about trusted operators to avoid scams.

Some guides may pressure you for larger donations at the Baclayon Church.

Know the Appropriate Donation: Research the suggested donation amount before visiting.
Dispute Invalid Pressure: Refuse to give in to pressure for larger donations.
Reputable Guides: Choose reputable guides who respect your privacy and choices.

Some operators may provide low-quality snorkeling equipment or charge for it.

Reputable Operators: Choose reputable operators with good reviews to ensure a high-quality experience.
Inspect Equipment Quality: Check the condition and quality of the equipment provided before use.
Bring Your Own Gear: Consider bringing your own snorkeling gear to ensure its quality and safety.

Some park attendants may try to collect an inflated entrance fee.

Know the Correct Fee: Research the official entrance fees before visiting the park.
Dispute Invalid Fees: Dispute any inflated or unjustified fees with the park attendants.
Reputable Park Management: Choose parks managed by reputable organizations to avoid scams.

Some helmet diving operators may provide an unsafe or deceptive experience.

Reputable Operators: Choose reputable operators with good reviews to ensure a high-quality and safe experience.
Safety Measures: Ensure the operator follows safety protocols and guidelines.
Check Certifications: Ask for certifications from recognized diving organizations to ensure competence.