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.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Legazpi to Donsol?
There are 2 ways to travel the 60 kilometre (37 miles) distance 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).
Legazpi to Donsol by Van
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 ($2.80) 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 ($0.30) — 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). If you’re coming from Daraga, it’s around 165 PHP ($2.70). GrabTrike is another option, starting at 50 PHP ($0.80).
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.
Legazpi to Donsol by Jeepney
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.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Legazpi to Donsol. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Legazpi to Donsol
What is the distance from Legazpi to Donsol?
The distance from Legazpi to Donsol is 60 kilometre (37 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Legazpi to Donsol?
The fastest way to get from Legazpi to Donsol is by van and takes 1 hour 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Legazpi to Donsol?
The cheapest way to get from Legazpi to Donsol is by jeepney with ticket costs starting from 70 PHP ($1.20).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
