The Philippines is one of the very few places in the world where it is possible to see whale sharks on a regular basis. These magnificent creatures gather in Donsol, Philippines usually from December until May each year. The plankton in the local waters drawn in by the currents attract the whale sharks by the dozens to feed. These curious animals are surprisingly sociable and tend to interact with people. Sightings are frequent and increasing numbers of people are drawn to this remote area to see the sharks.
There are two famous dive sites in the area. A short boat ride is necessary to reach Manta Bowl, known as the 'Manta Ray Capital of the Philippines', the habitat of the world's biggest ray. Ticao Pass has a high concentration of plankton due to strong currents from San Bernardo Strait, making this place an ideal cleaning and feeding station for the Manta Ray. The pass also attracts Whale Sharks, Hammerheads, Thresher Sharks, and other pelagics.
San Miguel Island is a scenic location with a beautiful waterfall. The coral reefs here are fantastic (especially for macro divers), whether your snorkeling or diving there is an abundance of marine wild life for you to see.
