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Whale Shark Season in Mexico

Swim with the Gentle Giants of the Caribbean

Every summer, the warm Caribbean waters off the coast of Mexico become home to the largest gathering of the largest fish in the world — the whale shark. And yes, you can swim with them.



From June through mid-September, travelers from around the world come to the Riviera Maya for one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters on the planet. If you're visiting Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or anywhere in the region during this time — this is your chance to check off a true bucket-list experience.


What is a Whale Shark — and Why Should You Care?

Despite their size — up to 12 meters long — whale sharks are completely harmless. These gentle filter feeders glide slowly through the water, feeding on plankton, and ignoring the presence of respectful snorkelers nearby.


Swimming alongside a creature the size of a school bus, in open water, is both humbling and exhilarating. It's not an aquarium or staged experience — this is nature, raw and majestic.


Where and How Does It Happen?

Our tours start in Cancún, but we pick you up directly from your hotel, whether you're staying in Cancún, Costa Mujeres, Playa Mujeres, or anywhere along the Riviera Maya. No need to organize transportation — we’ve got it covered.


After pickup, you’ll head to the marina, receive a short briefing from our certified guide, and board a boat that takes you north into the protected whale shark feeding grounds between Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy.


Once the captain spots a whale shark, you’ll enter the water in pairs, accompanied by a guide, and swim alongside these magnificent creatures for several minutes at a time. Most tours allow for two to three jumps per person, depending on conditions.



After the swim, we make a stop near Isla Mujeres for snorkeling in crystal-clear water and a fresh ceviche lunch on the boat — the perfect way to wind down from the adrenaline rush.


Why Book with DiscoverMaya?

There are many tours in the region — but very few like ours:


Hotel Pickup Included – No stress, no coordination. We come to you.


Licensed Guides & Captains – Safety is our top priority.


No Crowds – Small groups, personalized experience.


Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees, no pushy upsells.


Respect for Wildlife – We follow strict eco-guidelines to protect the animals and their habitat.


You’re not just booking a tour — you’re trusting us with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And we take that seriously.


Good to Know: What to Expect

Season: Mid-June to mid-September. Peak sightings: July–August.


Who Can Join: Ages 5 and up, must be able to swim. Not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.


Included: Hotel pickup/drop-off, certified guide, snorkel gear, life jackets, snacks, lunch, soft drinks.


What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, motion sickness tablets (if needed), GoPro or waterproof phone case.


Book Early — Spaces Fill Fast

Only a limited number of boats are licensed to enter the whale shark zone each day, and demand is high during peak months. If you want to secure your spot, book in advance — especially if you're traveling in July or August.


👉 Reserve Your Tour Now on DiscoverMaya.com


FAQ: Common Questions

Is it safe?

Yes. Our guides are certified, and life jackets are mandatory. Whale sharks are docile and uninterested in humans.


Do I need to be an expert swimmer?

Not at all. You just need to be comfortable in the water and able to follow instructions.


Is the tour eco-friendly?

Absolutely. We follow regulations from CONANP (Mexico’s National Commission of Protected Areas) and limit human impact as much as possible.

 
 
 

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© DISCOVER MAYA, 2023 All rights reserved

Registered Company Name: Ievgen Roiko

Contact:  Solidaridad-77725

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