How to get from Legazpi to Donsol

Why visit Donsol?

Donsol is a small but world-famous coastal town in Sorsogon, Philippines. It rose to fame when a group of divers discovered its hidden gem — whale sharks, locally called butanding, swimming freely in its waters.

If you’re keen on swimming with whale sharks, we recommend doing so in Donsol, instead of the more popular Oslob (Cebu). Most companies in Donsol follow an ethical policy and do not lure whale sharks for profit (like they do in Oslob). The best time to see whale sharks is from February to April, which is Donsol’s peak season.

There are 2 ways to travel the 60 kilometres (37 miles) from Legazpi to Donsol. You can choose between the van and jeepney. The journey takes 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours and the quickest way is by van. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by jeepney with tickets starting at 70 PHP ($1.20).

Most travellers prefer taking a van from Legazpi to Donsol. It’s more convenient, and it’s faster than local transport. Also, vans depart from and arrive at the centralized public transport terminals, which make them easy to locate.

Keep in mind that vans don’t operate on regular schedules. They leave once they’re full.

The van ride to Donsol from Legazpi takes about 1 hour 30 minutes and costs around 170 PHP ($3) per person.

Departure and arrival stations

To catch a van to Donsol, head to Legazpi Grand Central Terminal in the southern part of the city centre. It’s accessible by tricycle for around 20 PHP ($0.40) — just agree on the price before hopping in.

You can also book a Grab. From within Legazpi, a 4-seater car costs about 120 PHP ($2.10). If you’re coming from Daraga, it’s around 165 PHP ($2.90). GrabTrike is another option, starting at 50 PHP ($0.90).

The van will drop you off at Donsol Centralized Shuttle Station. Depending on where your accommodation is, you may have to walk or travel by tricycle within the town centre.

If you’d like to experience local transport, you can take a jeepney from Legazpi to Donsol. You might get to meet locals and can ask for recommendations. However, jeepneys take a little longer since they make a stop in Pilar. Travel time with a jeep takes about 2 hours.

Departure and arrival stations

Like the vans, jeepneys depart from Legazpi Grand Central Terminal. You can also hail them from the street, but it’s best to ask for assistance from your hotel on which roads they pass.

Jeepneys drop off passengers at the Donsol Centralized Shuttle Station. To be on the safe side, tell the driver that’s where you’d like to get off.