The small coastal town of Donsol in the northeast of the Philippines offers a rare opportunity to interact with whale sharks. Visitors head here to swim and snorkel with these harmless and gentle filter feeders in season.
The sheer size of the largest fish in the ocean will start your adrenalin pumping. These gentle giants of the sea – considered the largest fish in the world, measuring from 5 metres to as long as 15 metres in length, have been found to converge in the waters off Donsol starting sometime during November, and peaking in the months of February to May.
These harmless, gentle, friendly and playful filter feeders allow humans to swim, play and interact with them, as they ponderously glide along close to the surface of the ocean. Donsol, a small coastal town, is reached by a short 55 minute flight from Manila to Legaspi City and then a 45 to 60 minute road transfer.
Swimming with a whale shark - locally known as Butanding - is the epitome of wildlife encounters – an experience of a lifetime, an experience not to be missed!
We can tailor a diving trip to meet your needs, find out more about our whale shark suggested itinerary which offers the perfect opportunity to have unforgettable encounters.
View suggested itinerary