Bulusan Lake Travel Guide – What to Expect and Things to Do in Bulusan Volcano Natural Park

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is a protected area rich in diverse animal and plant species. The name “Bulusan” is derived from the Bicolano word “bulos,” meaning a place where water flows. The forest surrounding Mt. Bulusan was designated as a National Park in 1935.

Located at the foot of Mt. Bulusan, the park was rehabilitated and reopened to the public earlier this year. It has been a few years since my last visit to this eco-tourism destination, and my most recent one was just as memorable. I was able to visit the park and marvel at the flora and fauna while enjoying the view of Mt. Bulusan courtesy of DOT Region 5 and the Tourism Promotions Board.

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park was closed for two years for restoration and rehabilitation. The park now features a massage spa, tourist shop, a new alfresco coffee shop, and a restaurant, Sagurong Restaurant. Other attractions, like the 18th-century bell tower of St. James the Great Church, will be restored in partnership with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). With the easing of travel restrictions amid the decrease of COVID-19, more local and foreign guests are expected to come.

Upon our arrival at the Eco-Tourism Center, we registered and paid the necessary fees to enter the park, including the entrance fee, environmental fee, and shuttle service. Tourists had to exchange a valid ID for a temporary card number that the staff gave them.

Private vehicles are not allowed to enter the park, hence the shuttle service fee. The shuttle ride includes a round trip from the Bulusan Ecotourism Center to the entrance of the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park and back. At the time, there were only three shuttles, so we had to wait for our turn to take the ride to the lake. Guests can choose to forgo the shuttle ride and walk, but it can take 20-30 minutes to get there on foot.

There is a bridge that also serves as a viewing deck for visitors, facing the lake. Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is filled with several bodies of water. There is the Bulusan River and the other lakes in the natural park – Lake Aguingay, which accumulates water during the rainy season, and the Blackbird Lake found at Mt. Bulusan’s crater.

The main attraction of the park is Bulusan Lake, which spans 16.43 hectares and is 33 meters deep. The boat ride across the lake was a profound experience. We got to take advantage of the lake’s serenity and appreciate the park’s natural beauty. From the lake, guests can trek to Mt. Bulusan.

There is also a 100-hectare Rattan Plantation Project with 50,000 seedlings planted.

The protected rainforest that surrounds the lake is flourishing with endemic flora and fauna. Some of the animals found in the area are highly protected species of birds, such as the Potted Wood Kingfisher, Luzon Hornbill, South Luzon Cloud Rat, and Philippine Warty Pig.

Before we left, we were transported back to the main entrance via a golf cart. It was a worthwhile visit to the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park, and one everyone should try.

THINGS TO DO IN BULUSAN VOLCANO NATURAL PARK

Trek to Mt. Bulusan

Bulusan Lake is a great starting point for guests visiting Mt. Bulusan. It is a 14-hour trek to and from Mt. Bulusan, which requires guests to camp in the forest. Guests can take a guided walk around the lake and cross the hanging bridges. It is not as adventurous as trekking, but crossing the canopy walkway is another great way to be one with nature.

Take a Boat Ride and Explore Bulusan Lake

Guests can choose between a romantic kayak ride across the lake or a long boat ride with family and friends. This ride offers a different perspective on the lake, surrounded by a protected rainforest. Other activities at Bulusan Lake include Stand-Up Paddling and Fishing.

Admire the Flora and the Fauna

The Bulusan Lake Park protects the endemic species that live there. Guests should be mindful of their trash because these species could accidentally eat it and die. Guests can see some of the protected animals: the Potted Wood Kingfisher, Luzon Hornbill, South Luzon Cloud Rat, Philippine Warty Pig, Philippine Frogmouth, and Philippine Fairy Bluebird. There are also two plant species named after Bulusan that can be found in the park – Pronephrium bulusantum, a fern, and Schefflera bulusanicum, an aquatic plant.

BULUSAN VOLCANO NATURAL PARK FEES AND CHARGES

Entrance Fee

• Adult: Php 50
• Student (with valid ID): Php 25
• Bulusan Resident (with valid ID): Php 25
• Filipino PWD (with valid ID), Senior Citizen (with valid ID), Children below 7 years old: Free

Environmental Fee – Php 10

Service Charge for other services

• Eco-guides Fee: Php 150.00/hour
• Massage: Php 250
• Paddling Guide for Kayak or Stand-Up Paddling: Php 100

Shuttle Service – Php 35

Recreational Activities

• Trekking: Php 10 per person
• Kayaking: Php 100 for 30 minutes
• Stand Up Paddling: Php 200 for 30 minutes
• Boating: Php 600 for 5 persons, inclusive of 2 paddlers
• Fishing: Php 20 per person

Parking Fees (maximum of 4 hours)

• Motorcycle: Php 20
• Tricycle: Php 30
• Cars/SUV: Php 50
• Jeepney/Coaster: Php 60
• Truck: Php 70
• Bus: Php 150

HOW TO GET TO BULUSAN VOLCANO NATURAL PARK

From the Araneta Center Bus Terminal, there is a bus bound to Irosin through DLTB or Philtranco. The travel time is around 13-14 hours. From Sorsogon City, take a jeepney bound to Bulusan, then take a tricycle bound to Bulusan Lake.

Location: Barangay San Roque, Bulusan, Sorsogon

Contact: 0960-505-0988

Social Media: facebook.com/bulusanlake | facebook.com/ExploreBulusan

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is a great addition to anyone’s Sorsogon trip. Anyone can enjoy the refreshing experience of being in nature and the heart-filling awe at the sight of the lake. Local and foreign visitors can truly enjoy the beauty of this park that is protected and maintained by the local townspeople of Bulusan.

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