Swimming with Whale Sharks in Mexico: Yucatán or Baja?

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Imagine snorkelling alongside the world’s largest fish, an awe-inspiring ocean giant. There is no doubt why this breathtaking  experience tops the bucket lists of many. Swimming with whale sharks in Mexico left such an impression on us, we went back for more! With Mexico’s warm, nutrient-dense waters attracting these magnificent creatures in large numbers, the country has become one of the best places in the world to snorkel with whale sharks. Whether you’re heading to the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, or the sheltered Sea of Cortez of Baja California Sur, Mexico offers unparalleled opportunities to swim with these majestic filter-feeders. Here’s everything you need to know before taking the plunge.

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Whale Sharks – What’s the Big Deal?

Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the world’s largest fish, growing up to an incredible 12-metres (40-feet) or more in length and weighing an average of 5-tonnes. Despite their massive size, they feed primarily on plankton and tiny marine organisms through a filter-feeding system. These docile behemoths can live for over 100-years and are known for their distinct spot and stripe patterns, which are as unique as fingerprints.

Swimming with whale sharks is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to witness their sheer size and grace up close. There’s something utterly humbling about sharing the water with these enormous but docile creatures. The slow, rhythmic motion of their fins, their cavernous mouths filtering seawater for food, and their peaceful nature make every encounter memorable. It’s no surprise that many travellers rank swimming with whale sharks in Mexico among the most exhilarating wildlife experiences in the world.

Where to Swim with Whale Sharks in Mexico

Whale sharks are tropical fish, preferring water over 21°C (70°F), and migrating seasonally to chase an endless summer. Populations keep to an equatorial band around the planet. They are known to hang out off the coasts of western Australia, Indonesia, Belize and the Maldives among other global hotspots depending on the time of year.

Whale sharks appear off the coast of Mexico, both the Caribbean and Pacific sides, in differing seasons. Large groups of them spend the winter months in the Sea of Cortez, where there is an rich food supply. While in the summer, hundreds of whale sharks are drawn to areas off the Yucatán Peninsula. There they can cruise around in warm surface waters while cold upwellings raise plankton from the depths for them to feed on.

The Caribbean Coast: Isla Mujeres & Holbox

The warm, plankton-rich waters off the Yucatán Peninsula attract large aggregations of whale sharks from June to September. Tours take groups to snorkel with the sharks in ocean off Isla Mujeres, located northeast off Cancun, and Holbox, further north.

While tours to swim with whale sharks are available from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and even Tulum, keep in mind that the further south you start, the longer the boat ride will be. As the whale sharks congregate near the northeastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, expect extended travel times if departing from more southern locations.

Tip: If you’re prone to sea sickness, I recommend situating yourself as close as possible, to shorten the boat ride. That means staying on Isla Mujeres or Holbox the night before and after your tour. Isla Mujeres is the more developed of the two, and an easy ferry ride from Cancun. Holbox is less convenient to access and has less tourist infrastructure.

The Pacific Coast: La Paz

On the other side of Mexico, the Baja California Peninsula offers another fantastic opportunity to swim with whale sharks. From late-November to early-April, whale sharks frequent the waters off La Paz in the Sea of Cortez. This area is known for its rich marine biodiversity, and swimming with whale sharks here is often combined with other wildlife encounters, such as sealion snorkelling.

La Paz is 2-hours drive north of Cabo San Lucas. If you’re taking a tour out of Cabo, note that it will be a long day and you will likely have to start early. La Paz is the capital of the state of Baja California Sur, and is a lovely city if you choose to stay there leading up to your tour instead.

When to Swim with Whale Sharks

Timing your visit is crucial to ensuring a successful whale shark encounter in Mexico. Seasonal conditions vary from year to year, so if you plan to your trip at the beginning or the end of the season, you might be disappointed.

Caribbean Side (Isla Mujeres & Holbox): Whale shark season runs from May to September, peaking in July and August when the highest number of sharks gather. However, these are not only the hottest months but there is also overlap with hurricane season. Therefore, if you choose the Caribbean, target June. Also, note that the Caribbean location is open ocean and more prone to days of unfavourable weather. See more things to do on the Yucatán Peninsuala.

Pacific Side (La Paz): Whale shark season is generally mid-November to mid-April, but only opens once there is enough sharks sighted in the swim zone on consecutive days. Peak sightings fall between December and February which overlaps with the coolest water temperatures of the year in January-February. The winter season also sees higher tourist numbers and peak pricing for flights and accommodation. A benefit of the La Paz location is that it is a sheltered bay and therefore less effected by weather conditions than the Caribbean side. See more things to do in Baja California Sur.

Is swimming with Whale Sharks ethical?

Mexico has strict regulations to protect whale sharks and ensure sustainable tourism practices. When choosing a tour, look for operators who follow ethical guidelines, including:

• Permit requirements – Licensed tour operators must have permits to take guests on whale shark tours.
• Group size limits – There are set numbers of swimmers per guide allowed in the water at any time. Tour groups are generally divided into smaller chunks and rotated time in the water in 5-10-minute intervals.
• No touching – It’s strictly prohibited to touch or ride the whale sharks, as human contact can stress them and damage their skin. You must stay 2-metres (6-feet) from them. That’s not to say they won’t touch you though – usually by accident.
• Boat distance regulations – Boats must maintain a safe distance from the sharks and avoid blocking their path. Only one boat is allowed per shark i.e. one group of swimmers per shark. This is great for you and the sealife.
• Eco-friendly sunscreen – Tourists are encouraged to use biodegradable sunscreen to prevent harming the marine ecosystem.

By following these rules and supporting responsible tour operators, you can help protect these incredible creatures for future generations to enjoy. If you tour with an operator that does something questionable, report it. Most operators are vigilant and keep one another accountable, because one foul play can ruin it for the rest.

Additional Tips for Swimming with Whale Sharks in Mexico

• Book in advance: Whale shark tours are popular, especially during peak season. Secure your spot early to avoid missing out.
• Stay close: Plan to spend at least the night before your tour, close to the origin of your tour for a shorter day and/or time on the water.
• Allow a buffer day: If the Port Master closes the water due to weather conditions, there is nothing your tour company can do but adhere. This is done for the safety of all involved. Trust me, you don’t want to be out there in rough weather anyway. Most tour companies will allow you to reschedule in this instance, but won’t necessarily offer a refund. Therefore, it is good to have a back-up day in your itinerary in case this happens.
• Choose the right gear: Most tours provide snorkelling gear. However, bringing your own high-quality mask and snorkel can enhance your experience. In the winter months in the Sea of Cortez, most tour operators will offer a wetsuit, but you can always BYO.
• Lifejackets or wetsuits: Yes, it is regulation that everyone must wear either a wetsuit or lifejacket, no matter how strong you are as a swimmer.
• Prepare for a bumpy ride: Boat trips can be long and choppy. If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand.
• Practice responsible tourism: Respect the marine life and follow your guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and ethical experience.
• Capture the moment: Waterproof cameras or GoPros are great for recording your adventure, but make sure to focus on enjoying the moment as well. Some tour operators provide photos or video as part of their overall package or at an additional cost.

Swimming with whale sharks in Mexico is a magical and humbling experience. It offers a rare chance to interact with one of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures. Whether you choose the warm Caribbean waters of Isla Mujeres and Holbox or the stunning Pacific coastline of La Paz, you’re in for an adventure. By following ethical guidelines and planning your trip at the right time, you can enjoy this incredible wildlife encounter. So, are you ready to snorkel with whale sharks in Mexico? Let’s go!