Swim with Whale Sharks
- 6-8h
Description
Dare to live a unique experience in Cancún, where you can swim with the whale shark, the largest fish in the world. At roughly 12 meters (40 feet) long, this majestic animal visits Caribbean waters from June through September in search of plankton. The whale shark is completely harmless, so we offer a safe tour that’s perfect for thrill-seekers.
Find out how you can be part of this exciting adventure!
Swim with Whale Sharks: your adventure begins
Want to swim with whale sharks during your visit to Mexico? This unique experience is available daily from June through September. We’ll pick you up at your hotel and head to Playa Mujeres in Cancún, where you’ll be split into boats of no more than 10 people. Once everyone is ready, we’ll set out for the area where the whale sharks gather.
During the tour, you’ll have the chance to make 1 to 2 swims of about 5–10 minutes each, in pairs. These swims let you safely get close to the impressive whale sharks as they glide near the surface. After the encounter, we’ll head to the crystal-clear waters of Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches on Isla Mujeres. Afterward, we’ll return to Playa Mujeres, and from there you’ll be taken back to your hotel.
Please keep in mind that applying sunscreen is prohibited during the tour, as it can harm the marine ecosystem. Although every effort is made to find the whale sharks, nature is unpredictable and sightings cannot be guaranteed, although missing them is very rare. If no whale sharks are sighted, the tour will not be refunded. You should also know that under federal regulations, if there are fewer than 2 sharks, swimming with them is not allowed; only viewing will be permitted. The swims therefore depend on how many sharks are in the area on that particular day.
Get ready for a thrilling underwater adventure alongside these amazing giants of the sea!
Details
- 6-8h
- Tour duration may vary depending on your hotel's location and daily operations
- Hotel pickup.
- Exceptions and meeting points:
- Tulum (Downtown and Hotel Zone): The meeting point is Super Akí Tulum.
- Centrally located accommodations in Cancún and Playa del Carmen (Airbnbs, boutique hotels, or private rentals): Please ask for the meeting point.
- Hotel transportation and pickup
- Travel insurance
- Whale shark watching
- Stop in the waters off Playa Norte
- Box lunch
- Non-alcoholic drinks
- Snorkel gear and life jackets.
- Federal natural reserve fee (20usd/person)
- Tips (optional)
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Hat to protect you from the sun
- Sunscreen
- Flip-flops
- Change of clothes
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Children under 9.
- Pregnant women.
- People with mobility issues or back injuries.
- For safety reasons and due to weather conditions, the planned order of stops may change during the tour. These decisions are made directly by the Port Authority. Such changes do not entitle you to a refund.
- Federal fees are paid at the destination on the day of the activity. They must be paid in cash in € (bills), USD or Mexican pesos, at the provider's exchange rate at the time of the tour. Where card payment is accepted, it will be charged in local currency with an extra 5% fee.
- The season runs approximately from June 1 to September 15.
Frequently asked questions
When should you book?
We recommend booking this tour in advance, since it's in very high demand, spots are limited and they're assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply complete the booking process with the required information, including your preferred date and the number of participants.
What is the whale shark like?
The whale shark is the largest fish in the world, reaching approximately 12 meters in length. These giants usually live in warm tropical and subtropical waters. From June to September, they migrate to the Riviera Maya in search of plankton, their main food source. Despite their impressive size, whale sharks are completely harmless to humans.
Can you always see whale sharks?
Whale shark watching is only possible from June to September, and sightings can't always be guaranteed. While it's rare, keep in mind that nature is unpredictable and the presence of whale sharks varies from day to day. In the exceptional case that no whale sharks are spotted, the tour will not be refunded.
Is it safe to swim with whale sharks in the Riviera Maya?
Swimming with whale sharks in Cancún is a safe experience. We also follow conservation guidelines to protect these creatures and their environment. Interacting with whale sharks is a unique opportunity to admire marine life up close while respecting nature.
Are there any restrictions on the whale shark swim tour in the Riviera Maya?
Yes, there are some important restrictions to keep in mind when joining a whale shark swim tour in Cancún. First, applying sunscreen during the tour is prohibited to protect the health of the marine ecosystem. In addition, the experience depends on natural conditions, and while every effort is made to spot whale sharks, sightings can't be guaranteed on every trip. For the swim to take place, at least 2 sharks must be in sight, in accordance with federal regulations. This means the swims will depend on the number of sharks in the area on the day of the tour. This precaution is taken to protect the sharks and ensure an experience that respects marine life. The activity also requires a minimum level of physical fitness and mobility to take part safely, so this tour is not available for children under 4, pregnant women or people with mobility issues.
What will you see on this Riviera Maya tour?
Besides whale sharks, on this tour you may spot other fascinating marine creatures, such as dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and a colorful variety of tropical fish. This experience will give you an unforgettable look at the underwater world of the Riviera Maya and let you appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of this unique marine environment.
How long is the whale shark swim tour in the Riviera Maya?
The whale shark swim tour in Cancún lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on where your hotel is located.
When is the best time to swim with whale sharks in Cancún?
The best time to swim with whale sharks in Cancún is generally from June to September. This season coincides with the whale sharks' annual migration to the region, which significantly increases your chances of spotting and swimming with them. So if you'd like to enjoy this exciting experience, we recommend planning your visit to the Riviera Maya during these months.
Do I need diving experience to swim with whale sharks?
No, you don't need diving experience to swim with whale sharks. The activity takes place at the surface of the water using snorkel gear to watch the whale sharks as they swim near the surface.
What clothing should you bring on this whale shark swim tour in the Riviera Maya?
We recommend bringing a swimsuit, light and comfortable clothes for after the tour, a cap or hat, sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen.
What services are not included?
Our tour does not include the federal Natural Reserve fee, which is 20 USD per person and must be paid upon arrival.
Can I bring my kids on the tour?
This tour is suitable and available for children over 4. Children under 4, pregnant women and people with mobility issues cannot take part in our whale shark swim tour in the Riviera Maya.
How can you pay for tours with Xplora Riviera?
At Xplora Riviera, you can book your tour using credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and Maestro. We also accept payments via PayPal or bank transfer. Our goal is to give you flexibility in the payment process so this step is easy and doesn't cause any trouble while planning your dream trip.
Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, we highly recommend booking this whale shark swim tour in the Riviera Maya in advance. This tour takes place during high season, demand for these tours can be very high, and spots often sell out quickly. Booking ahead will secure your spot on the tour.
Can I touch the whale sharks?
No, touching the whale sharks is not allowed during the swim tour in the Riviera Maya. Whale sharks are peaceful and vulnerable creatures. Touching or harassing them can cause them stress, which we at Xplora Riviera want to avoid in order to protect their well-being and their marine environment.
Are snorkel gear and a life jacket provided on this tour?
Yes, on this whale shark swim tour in Cancún, all the necessary equipment is provided, including snorkel gear (mask, snorkel and fins) and a life jacket.
Can you spot other animals during the tour?
Yes, during the tour you may spot other marine animals besides whale sharks, such as dolphins, sea turtles or tropical fish.
Which operator will run this tour?
Your provider's name will appear directly on the confirmation voucher after you book. We work hand in hand with local partners for shared experiences, while at Xplora Riviera we operate our private tours directly. Either way, we're your main point of contact: message us on WhatsApp when you arrive at your destination and we'll take care of anything you need.
Is this tour safe?
Your safety is our top priority. We have guides and proper safety equipment, and we follow strict regulations to make sure you enjoy the tour responsibly. All of our tours include travel insurance, which protects you in case of any unexpected event during the trip, outdoor activities or water activities.
Do you need to go as part of a group on this Cancún tour?
No, you don't. At Xplora Riviera, we offer options for both solo travelers and groups, and we guarantee an unforgettable experience no matter the size of your group. However, if you'd like a more intimate and personalized experience, you can opt for a private tour tailored to you.
Cancellation
- Free! Cancel at no cost up to 72 hours before the activity. If you cancel later:
- Cancellations less than 72 hours in advance: a 30% penalty of the total amount applies.
- Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance: a 100% penalty of the total amount applies.
- No-shows: 100% penalty, except in case of an accident or a justified medical reason.
- If you need to reschedule your tour, we'll do everything we can to move your booking to the new date you choose, as long as there is real availability on the date you want.