The Whale Shark, tagged as the world’s largest fish can be found in tropical and warm-temperate seas in the world. It is a filter-feeder, which means it only eats small crustaceans, fish and planktons. In the province of Sorsogon in the Philippines, the yearly arrival (which peaks from November to May) of these creatures are celebrated with much fanfare as it provides eco-tourism income to the small town of Donsol in Sorsogon. In Donsol one can swim and snorkel along the side of these gentle creatures.

Going to Donsol, Sorsogon from the capital city of Manila one can catch the daily Philippine Airlines flights to Legazpi. Inside the airport one can immediately spot people renting out vans to the town of Donsol. The van transport usually costs 1,500 to 2,000 pesos. Alternatively you could ask tricycle drivers to bring you to Donsol. The tricycle rides cost 50 pesos.

In Donsol, there are several resorts that offer accommodations for Whale Shark tourists. The nightly rate is usually at 2,500 pesos. You can check out some of the resorts in the list below through their contact numbers.

Amor +63 (909) 518-1150
Casa Bianca +63 (906) 309-9372
Giddy’s Place +63 (917) 848-8881
Vitton +63 (927) 912-6313
Woodlands +63 (927) 912-6313

Image from Wikipedia.com

Convenient location, very near Whale Shark visitor’s center.

Telephone: 0921 969 3802

Located right next to Whale Shark visitors center.

Telephone: 0917 823 3802

Three basic rooms with shared bath and kitchen.

Telephone: 1920 388 1218

Nice interiors showcasing the regional product of Bicol – abaca or hemp.

Telephone: 211 1357

Modern rooms that provide best value for money.

Telephone: 211 1275

Decent rooms.

Telephone: 211 1370

The best of Bicol cuisine. Also serves continental dishes.

A somewhat ritzy hotel that has tasteful furnishings. The resort sits on a beach in Albay Gulf.

Telephone: 0919 582 2732

Celeste is a charming little bed-and-breakfast inn in the midst of an orchard.

Telephone: 056 211 2991