Donsol

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
17/08/2025
Explore the breathtaking emerald waters and lush landscapes of Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand.
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Donsol is a tranquil coastal town in the Philippines, primarily known as a leading destination for ethical whale shark interactions, where visitors can observe and swim alongside these magnificent creatures. It also offers unique experiences such as firefly watching and access to excellent diving spots for manta rays in the surrounding areas.

Opportunities for socializing with other tourists are primarily found within the beach resorts, particularly in Barangay Dancalan, which hosts most of the accommodations and dive shops. These resorts often provide common areas, restaurants, and bars where travelers can gather and interact.

Top 3 Things to do in Donsol

Visitors to Donsol can experience unique wildlife encounters, from swimming with whale sharks to observing fireflies, alongside opportunities for advanced scuba diving.

1. Ethical Whale Shark Interaction

Engaging in ethical whale shark interactions in Donsol offers a rare opportunity to snorkel alongside these magnificent 'gentle giants' in their natural habitat. Unlike other locations, Donsol adheres to strict guidelines to protect the whale sharks, ensuring a respectful and sustainable encounter. Visitors are briefed at the Donsol Whale Shark Interaction Center by trained Butanding Interaction Officers (BIOs) before heading out on a boat to find the sharks. The experience emphasizes observation over direct interaction, maintaining a safe distance and prohibiting touching. The best time for sightings is from February to May, though the season runs from November to June. Being patient is key, as these are wild animals.

Cost: The cost involves a registration fee of PHP 300 for foreign tourists and a boat rental fee of PHP 5,000 for a three-hour trip, accommodating up to six people. Snorkeling gear rental is an additional PHP 300. Therefore, if split among six, the approximate per-person cost is PHP 1,433.

Transport: The Donsol Whale Shark Interaction Center is located a short distance from most accommodations. Tricycles are readily available in Donsol, with fares typically ranging from PHP 20 to PHP 40 for a trip around town to reach the center.

2. Firefly Watching River Tour

As dusk settles over Donsol, a serene boat trip along the Ogod River provides a magical encounter with thousands of fireflies. This relaxing evening activity showcases nature's light show as fireflies illuminate the mangrove trees and shrubs along the riverbanks, creating a mesmerizing, almost dreamlike spectacle. Local guides share insights into these fascinating creatures during the one-hour tour. It is a tranquil way to end a day of adventure.

Cost: The tour typically costs between PHP 1,250 to PHP 3,000 per boat, which can be split among up to five to six passengers, making it approximately PHP 200 to PHP 600 per person depending on group size. Some tours include hotel transfers.

Transport: Many firefly tours include round-trip transfers from local hotels or resorts in Donsol. If self-serving, tricycles can take visitors to the jump-off point by the Donsol River, with fares similar to those for other local distances.

3. Scuba Diving at Manta Bowl and San Miguel Island

For certified divers, Donsol serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich underwater ecosystems beyond the bay, particularly at Manta Bowl and San Miguel Island. Manta Bowl, often called the 'Manta Ray Capital of the Philippines,' is a renowned cleaning and feeding station where divers frequently encounter majestic manta rays, and sometimes even whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and thresher sharks. San Miguel Island offers diverse coral formations and vibrant reef life, including fascinating macro critters and underwater caves. It is important to note that scuba diving is not permitted for whale shark interactions within Donsol Bay itself, which is reserved for snorkeling.

Cost: A typical dive package for three dives, including equipment rental, lunch, and water, can be estimated at around USD 100 (approximately PHP 5,800, subject to exchange rates). Prices may vary depending on the dive center and inclusions.

Transport: Transport to dive sites like Manta Bowl and San Miguel Island is typically provided by the dive centers as part of their tour packages, involving boat trips from Donsol. Dive shops are often located near the main accommodation areas.

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