Donsol Tours

Donsol Tours

Explore the natural wonders of Donsol, Sorsogon, with these tours. During your trip to the Philippines, you can do the whale shark-watching tour in Donsol, swim in rivers and waterfalls, and try firefly watching.
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Frequently asked questions

What is Donsol famous for?

Donsol, a small rural town in Sorsogon, is one of the best places to swim with whale sharks in the Philippines. It is popular for whale shark watching and interaction tours. Donsol whale shark tours are known for observing sustainable practices when swimming with whale sharks in the Philippines. Another emerging tourist activity here is the Donsol firefly-watching tour. Read our guide on the best Sorsogon tourist spots to learn more.

Aside from whale shark watching, Donsol is also known for firefly watching in the Philippines. You'll ride a boat going to the Donsol River, where you'll pass by mangrove trees, and you can see fireflies lighting up the night sky.

When is the best time to visit Donsol?

Donsol is an all-year-round destination. However, it's highly recommended to explore Donsol from February to May or from November to June, especially if you're planning to swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, do some kayaking, scuba diving, and many more.

How do I get to Donsol?

To get to Donsol, board a plane going to Legazpi City Airport, which is the nearest airport. From Legazpi, Donsol is about an hour and a half drive away. Take a tricycle or taxi to the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal or the Satellite Terminal. Vans bound for Donsol are available at the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal. The van ride takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the same terminal, but buses are less frequent and take longer than vans.

For more convenient travel, you may opt to book an airport to hotel transfer or rent a car in the Philippines.

What’s the best way to get around Donsol?

Tricycles and jeepneys are the primary transportation options in Donsol. For convenience, it's also recommended that you rent a private car or van or join guided Sorsogon tours with transfers.

How much time should I spend in Donsol?

It's highly recommended that you plan a trip for at least 2-3 days. Browse our list of the best Sorsogon hotels to stay in for your trip. You can also opt to go on a Donsol day trip, where you can already enjoy a full day visiting its tourist attractions, doing activities like whale shark and firefly watching, or going to other Sorsogon tourist spots.

If you're spending more than 5 days in Donsol or Sorsogon, you can also go on Bicol tours, Albay tours, or Mayon Volcano tours to maximize your stay in the city. You can visit other Bicol tourist spots and enjoy the sight of the Mayon Volcano.

What other activities can I do on a Donsol tour?

There are many Donsol activities you can do during your tour, especially water activities in the Philippines. Philippine whale shark tours are a popular activity in Donsol, where you can meet these gentle giants close by. Another must-try activity is a Donsol firefly tour. During this tour, you can watch fireflies lighten up and dance in the night. There are other Philippine adventure tours you can do in Donsol, such as swimming in the rivers or waterfalls.

To experience these activities, you can book a Donsol Sorsogon tour package and visit other tourist attractions. You can check travel marketplaces like Guide to the Philippines for the best Philippines itinerary tour packages for your Donsol trip.

How much is a Donsol whale-shark interaction tour?

The costs depend on the tours and number of pax. Additionally, there could be an individual registration fee for locals and foreigners. Prices can change, so it's best to check with local tour operators for the latest rates.

Are there specific guidelines to follow during Donsol whale shark interactions?

Yes, there are several guidelines to follow during a Donsol whale-shark interaction. Tourists should keep a minimum distance of 3 meters from the whale shark and are not allowed to touch or ride the whale sharks. If you're bringing cameras, do not use flash photography. No more than six people are allowed to interact with a whale shark at one time.

Can I book a Donsol tour online?

Yes, many travel agencies, like Guide to the Philippines, offer online booking services for Donsol tours. You can also find other Philippines guided tours and packages that you can book for your travel. It's recommended to book your tours in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure availability.

Are there accommodations available in Donsol?

Yes, Donsol offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guest houses to more comfortable resorts. Booking in advance is advisable, particularly during the whale shark season from November to June.

What should I bring on a Donsol tour?

During your Donsol travel, it's advisable to bring swimwear and a rash guard. You may also bring a waterproof camera or GoPro for underwater photography. For sunscreens, it is important to use only reef-safe ones. Also bring a towel, change of clothes, drinking water and snacks.

What language is spoken in Donsol?

Majority of locals in Donsol speak Bicolano and can understand/speak Tagalog and English.
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