DIY Guide to Bulusan Lake in Sorsogon

If you’re exploring Sorsogon Province, one of the best nature attractions you should see is Bulusan Lake.

Bulusan Lake is nestled within Bulusan Volcano National Park, a 3,672-hectare protected landscape at the foot of Mount Bulusan, an active stratovolcano. The park covers lakes (Aguingay, Blackbird, and Bulusan) and rainforests and is home to endemic flora and fauna.

The first time I visited Bulusan Lake was around 2015, where I had a great time kayaking with my boyfriend Hali and friends.

The most recent one is this summer of 2022, during a Bicol Trip organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB). I was surprised by how much the park has improved. Normally, I am skeptical about developments on nature attractions, but I was glad to see that it was done tastefully. Most importantly, the lake remains as peaceful and beautiful as I remembered it to be.

The new facilities include an Ecotourism Center, where you find the registration booth, an alfresco coffee shop and a restaurant called Sagurong Restaurant, a spa massage spa, and a souvenir shop where you can buy pasalubong including local arts and crafts.

From the Ecotourism Center, e-shuttles will take you to the entrance to Bulusan Volcano National Park. There you can find the Bulusan Lake, an emerald-green still lake that spans 16 hectares and measures 33 meters deep. Enjoy the surrounding in the park’s viewing deck or gear up for its offered water activities.

Things to do in Bulusan Lake

1. Kayaking, boat riding, and paddling

Kayaking is a must-do in Bulusan Lake. Rent a solo or two-seater kayak and paddle your way around the lake. It’s a tiring yet peaceful activity that you’re sure to enjoy.

For families and groups, boats are preferable since there will be a boat person to do the paddling for you. Other activities include stand-up paddling and fishing.

2. Take nature photographs

Bulusan Lake is a sight to behold, so prepare a good phone or camera for taking pictures. Start at the view deck, which offers an overview of the lake and its surrounding mountains. From there you can take a leisurely walk along the perimeter of the lake or rent a boat, where the guides can help in pointing out interesting flora and fauna.

For bird watchers, you can find species such as the Spotted Wood Kingfisher or the Luzon Hornbill. Other endemic animals in the area include the Golden-Crowned Flying Fox, Southern Luzon Giant Cloud Rat, and Philippine Warty Pig. There are also different types of vines, orchids, and fruit-bearing trees around the lake.

3. Trek to Mount Bulusan

Bulusan Lake is a jump-off point for trekking to Mount Bulusan. This trek is challenging and is therefore recommended for seasoned climbers. The trek takes 2 days and offers a rewarding view of the three lakes as well as the crater-rim summit.

During our visit, trekking activity is not yet resumed due to active volcanic activities. Make sure to contact the tourism office for updates if you are interested here.

How to get to Bulusan Lake

From Sorsogon City, ride a jeep bound for Bulusan (1 hour). Then charter a tricycle to Bulusan Lake (about 15-20 minutes).

Register and pay the necessary fees at the Ecotourism Center. From there, ride a shuttle service to the entrance of Bulusan Volcano Natural Park. (Note: Private vehicles are not allowed to enter the park. You can leave your vehicle at the parking area in the Ecotourism Center). An alternative is to walk for 20-30 minutes to reach the park.

Bulusan Lake Rates

Here are the current rates (Updated as of 2022):

Entrance fee	Regular – P50 / student – P25 / PWD, senior, children below 7 years old – free
Environmental fee	P10 per person
Shuttle service (two-way)	P35 per person
Activities	Trekking: P10 per person Kayaking: P100 per person (30 minutes) Stand-up paddleboarding: P200 per person (30 minutes) Boating: P600 good up to 5 persons Fishing: P20 per person
Others	Ego-guide fee: P150 per hour Guide fee for kayak or stand-up paddleboarding: P100

Book a Bulusan Lake Tour

You can book a Bulusan Lake tour via Klook. This tour also includes other tourist spots in Sorsogon.

For tourist inquiries, you can contact Bulusan Tourism Office – Facebook.

Travel Tips

Here are tips before you head to Bulusan Lake:

• There are limited kayaks and boats available. In case you visit falls on a busy hour, you may need to wait so it’s best to allot extra time here.
• Bulusan Lake is only 10 minutes drive away from another must-visit spot called Zoe’s Resort and Eco Adventure Park, which is home to three waterfalls. It is 30-45 minutes away from the town of Irosin, where you can find hot springs that use geothermal-heated ground water from the volcano.

Have you been to Bulusan Lake in Sorsogon? Do you have questions or comments? Let us know in the comment section below!

What to read next:

Here are our guides about Sorsogon:

• Travel Guide to Sorsogon
• Sorsogon Tourist Spots + Things to Do
• Island Hopping in Matnog, Sorsogon
• Whale Shark Watching in Donsol, Sorsogon
• Buhatan River Cruise in Sorsogon
• Bulusan Lake in Sorsogon
• Zoe’s Resort and Eco Adventure Park

Looking for a place to stay?

• Siama Hotel in Sorsogon City
• Best Resorts in Sorsogon for Your Next Vacation