Bulusan is the kind of destination that rewards the traveller willing to go one bus further. Located in the southern tip of Sorsogon province, the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is a UNESCO-listed geothermal landscape of crater lakes, natural hot springs, cold mountain pools, and mossy rainforest — and it sees fewer than 5,000 foreign visitors a year. The volcano itself erupted as recently as 2022, giving the whole place an edge of geological aliveness that you feel the moment you step into the park.
Best time to visit
November to May, dry season. The crater lake trail is passable year-round but the forest path can be muddy and slippery from June to October. Hot springs are most enjoyable in cooler months (December to February).
How to get there
From Legazpi, take a bus to Sorsogon City (2 hours, PHP 90–120), then a jeepney or van to Irosin town (45 minutes, PHP 40), then a tricycle to the park entrance (15 minutes, PHP 80–100). From Donsol: 3 hours total via Sorsogon City on the same route. No direct van service exists — the journey requires connections, but signage is clear and locals are helpful.
