Donsol Whale Shark Interaction
Donsol
Snorkeling with wild whale sharks off Donsol in Sorsogon province. There is no feeding, the number of visitors is limited, and it's a model for responsible whale shark viewing.
Donsol was one of the first places to develop whale shark tourism. Visitors register at the tourist center and watch a briefing, then head out in boats carrying up to six people, led by a “whale shark observer.” When a shark is spotted, you snorkel toward it. Feeding and touching are prohibited, and you must stay at least 3 to 4 metres away from the animals, so whether you see one depends on luck. Boat fares are charged per boat, plus a separate registration fee. In the evening, you can take a small boat on the river to watch fireflies. It's about 1 to 1.5 hours by car from Legazpi.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:30–15:30 (registration center)
Nearby sights
- Quitinday Green Hills
- Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave
- Daraga Church
- Sumlang Lake
- Cagsawa Ruins
- Albay Park and Wildlife
- Ligñon Hill Nature Park
- Legazpi Boulevard