Buhatan River Cruise and Eco-Adventure
We had a tight schedule during our trip in the Bicol Region, and after our adventure with the little giants in Donsol, Sorsogon, we headed to Buhatan River Cruise for a relaxing afternoon. Somehow, I felt “healed” as we cruised through the clear river and lush mangroves.
Buhatan Eco-Adventure River Cruise started as a project of the late Gina Lopez (Chairman of ABSCBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation) as part of the 2014 clean-up drive. The goal to rehabilitate the dying river was soon developed into an eco-tourism site that provides livelihood to locals while highlighting the province’s most famous product – pili nut.
Rates and How to Book
Rates vary depending on the number of pax. For 10 pax 750.00PHP or you can also book as a couple/friends for Php 3,000
Tour duration is 3 hours. It is best to go around 4:00 pm to catch the sunset.
Other activities include bird watching and firefly experience.
You can book and inquire via Donsol Eco Tour.
My Experience
The tour started with a cooking demo of an exotic local delicacy baluko – it is a meaty shellfish that looks like scallops. From lumpia (spring rolls), sauteed in coconut and deep-fried, baluko is delicious in every way it was cooked.
Our group was then divided into 2, and we hopped on the bamboo rafts. Simple bamboo rafts made comfortable with pillows. More snacks like peanuts and pili nuts (and cold water and soda drinks) were served that we could enjoy as we cruise through the river. I enjoyed snacking on freshly picked pili nuts – they say that it is also a good alternative ingredient to Pesto Sauce.
As we sailed, our tour guide proudly shared the Buhatan River Cruise story, and how the late Gina Lopez became an instrument and inspiration in transforming the river.
I enjoyed my quiet time, taking all the beauty in. Occasionally we spotted birds and a happy dog from the surrounding community. The scene is mostly crystal-like water and lush greens. We also spotted a rainbow! We would have wanted to go further (to see and experience the fireflies) but it was time to go for our next commitment.
When we went back to our van, I felt like I was “healed”. I was feeling sick and nauseous in the afternoon – and I think I would passed out during the afternoon activity at the Travel Fair. After the cruise, I felt light and healed. Interestingly, Nathan (@idreamedofthis) also felt the same way. He said that Sorsogon reminds him of Sorcery. There truly is magic in that river cruise.
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Please include Buhatan River Cruise in your Sorsogon Itinerary!
Thank you to the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines for having me on this trip!
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