Sorsogon is a province in Bicol that has plenty to offer tourists. I visited some of the islands and beaches when I traveled with a friend. There's a lot of interesting things to do and see when you decide to visit.
Read my budget and itinerary for Sorsogon
Sorsogon is the gateway to Samar by land and sea. Like many provinces in the Philippines, Sorsogon grew from a small village established by friars until it is today. If you're planning to visit, here are some of the things to do and places of interest.
Places of Interest in Sorsogon
This island and lagoon is a natural wonder. The beautiful beach and landscape will make you stop and stare. The waters are also swimmable. The area is also a nice place to just hang out in and chill. Paguriran is a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
How to go: From Sorsogon City, catch a jeepney at the terminal traveling to Sawanga. The fare is approximately P45 one way. Get down at Paguriran Beach. Plan to spend the night in Paguriran because the trip can take two or more hours and there are no more jeeps going back to Sorsogon late in the afternoon.
Like in other parts of the country, you can also go island hopping in Sorsogon. Your jump-off point is Matnog towards the end of the province. The places you'll visit include Juag Lagoon, Tikling Island and Subic Beach (pinkish sand). Juag Lagoon is home to some fish which you can snorkel to see. Tikling Island has plenty of beautiful rock formations. Subic Beach has a pinkish shore with clear turquoise waters.
How to go: Go to the bus and jeep terminal in Sorsogon City. From there, hop on any transportation bound for Matnog. After reaching the town, look for a boatman to take you to the three places mentioned above. Rate is around P1600 for up to 10 passengers.
Fees: P20 environmental fee, P50 locals' registration fee and P300 foreigners' registration fee
This lake by the volcano is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. There are also scenic trails for day trippers and for those who want to reach the mountain's peak.
How to go: Make your way to the bus and jeepney terminal. Board a jeep from Sorsogon bound for Gubat. After reaching the town, get on another jeep going to Bulusan. Once in the town of Bulusan, you can charter a tricycle for P300 round trip to the lake.
Fees: P100 kayak rental, P550 hiking registration fee, P500 per day guide fee (up to five persons) and P350 per day porter fee
Donsol Whale Shark WatchingWhale shark watching is one of the main draws of Donsol. This is where you'll see these gentle giants naturally. The sleepy town became a tourist hot spot because of the whale sharks.
How to go: It is easier to reach Donsol from Legazpi City. Board a van for P100 or a jeep for P70 to Donsol.
Fees: P3500 boat rental for half a day and P300 registration fee
These are just some of the places you might want to visit. There are more destinations you can go to in Gubat, Barcelona and other towns in the province.
You Might Also Want to Visit
You can combine a trip to Sorsogon with Legazpi and other parts of Albay.
Getting Around Sorsogon
Tricycles and jeeps are the modes of transportation you'll use most of the time while exploring the province. Jeeps can take you to other parts of Sorsogon at an affordable price. You can charter tricycles for the day if you want to save time.
How to Get to Sorsogon
Sorsogon is an accessible province by land and air.
The closest airport to this province is Legazpi in Albay. There are regular flights from Manila to Legazpi City. Book early to get the lowest possible price. From Legazpi, take any public transportation to different parts of Sorsogon.
There are buses departing from EDSA Cubao.
- Pintados departs at around 12:30PM fare is approximately P1900
- Isarog Line leaves at about 3:30PM fare is around P1340
- Penafrancia Tours leaves at 5:30PM fare is approximately P1220
- Penafrance Tours Elite departs at around 8:30PM and costs around P16700
Buses also leave from LRT Buendia
- DLTB leaves at around 4:00PM and 7:00PM for around P1200
The bus ride takes approximately 14 to 16 hours one way.
Where to Stay in Sorsogon
There are some places to stay in Sorsogon, but you can also use Legazpi City as your base. You can find accommodation via Agoda.
Budget for Sorsogon
A safe amount would range from P5000 to P7000 for 3 days and 2 nights. This doesn't include bus fare or flights. The amount you'll spend could be less or more depending on your spending habits.
- If you're planning to see the whale sharks, better to join a big group to save money on boat rental and guide.
- Stay in guesthouses or affordable accommodation. You'll be out most of the day anyway.
- Take public transportation to reach the places in your itinerary. Some of the attractions are easily accessible by jeep.
- Take a travel buddy with you to split accommodation expenses. Hostel dorms aren't popular in this part of the Philippines.
- Eat in carinderias or small eateries to save money.
Itinerary for Sorsogon
Here's a sample 3 days and 2 nights itinerary for Sorsogon.
Overnight bus to Sorsogon City or Legazpi
Island hopping: Juag Lagoon, Tikling Island and Subic Beach
Day trip to Legazpi City (Cagsawa Ruins, Lignon Hill, and other places nearby)
This is just a rough itinerary you can add or remove places (or days) depending on your pace and plans.
