photo by Ray in Manila (via Flickr)
Donsol, one of the Philippines' best tour destinations, is a land of enchantment and offers opportunities to explore many wonders and breathtaking moments in nature. Some of the most exciting activities in this region give travelers an opportunity to experience fire, water, and magic in unforgettable ways.
photo by Ray in Manila (via Flickr)
The world's most perfect cone
Rising majestically above the Albay Gulf is the Mayon Volcano. Dubbed "the world's most perfect cone," this stratovolcano is a popular hiking and camping destination at the heart of the Mayon Volcano National Park. Mayon is also the most active volcano in the Philippines, erupting 30 times since records began in 1616. Legends claim that this volcano was created when a beautiful princess eloped with her warrior lover. The girl's uncle, Magayon, chased the couple mercilessly, and they prayed for help from the gods, which arrived in a landslide that buried Magayon alive. When the volcano erupts, it is said to be the anger of Magayon erupting against the treachery of his niece and her husband. While this is a popular destination for travelers, check current news reports on volcanic activity. Don't forget your camera; Mayon volcano is one of the most picturesque volcanoes in the world.
photo by Scott Williams (via Flickr)
Swim with the largest fish in the world
The whale shark has the distinction of being the largest fish (and therefore the largest shark) in the world, but ironically, is also one of the most gentle creatures in the sea. On average, these beautiful and docile sharks reach a length of 18 meters (50-60 feet) long and weigh nearly 40 tons. Fortunately for most fish (and humans, too), the whale shark's primary food source is plankton, jellyfish, krill, and sardines. One of the largest congregations of whale sharks (known locally as butanding) is found annually in Donsol. It is here that scientists have made a base of operations for studying whale sharks, and working with the Department of Tourism, have created an opportunity to enjoy swimming with the whale sharks in eco-friendly ways. Peak season for seeing and swimming with whale sharks is November through June, but the best months are March, April, and May. It's the experience of a lifetime to swim only meters away from these large, majestic sharks.
Fireflies on the Donsol river
The World Wildlife Fund has diligently worked in Donsol to improve the ecosystem and boost tourism by protecting whale sharks, but also by planting mangrove trees, which help fight erosion, provide food for the whale sharks, and provide a little magic each night along the Donsol and Ogod rivers in the form of fireflies. Experience the beauty and mesmerizing light of thousands of fireflies, swarming among the branches of the mangrove trees, like a natural Christmas light show. Even better, the same plankton that feeds the whale sharks are also bioluminescent, and if you dip your hands into the water, you will see the glow beneath you, as well as above. Truly magical! The best nights for viewing are when the moon is dark, allowing the bioluminescence to be the main attraction.
photo by Dahon (via Flickr)
When you travel with Uncharted Philippines' on the Swimming with Whale Sharks in Donsol tour, you will have the opportunities for all of these adventures, as well as time spent exploring beautiful beaches and enchanting lagoons, amazing food, and more. Discover the magic of the Philippines for yourself.