Swimming with Mexico's Whale Sharks

Limited to 14 Travelers
A very important feature of our trips is the limited group size, as nature expeditions are best experienced with small groups of travelers. We divide our group into even smaller numbers to swim with the whale sharks, with each boat accommodating an average of seven guests.

Take this trip on a private basis, traveling exclusively with your immediate family, multi-generational family or group of friends. Click here for details and pricing.

Accommodations, services of Nat Hab's professional Expedition Leader(s), all meals from dinner on Day 1 through dinner on Day 5, most alcoholic beverages, most gratuities, airport transfers on Day 1 and final day, all activities and entrance fees, all taxes, permits and service fees.

Travel to and from the start and end point of your trip, some alcoholic beverages, some gratuities, passport and visa fees (if any), optional activities, items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry and internet, etc.), airline baggage fees, airport and departure taxes (if any), required medical evacuation insurance, optional travel protection insurance.

Moderate 
This adventure does not require a high degree of physical fitness. However, snorkeling is a big component of this trip, with excursions offered nearly every day, and snorkeling is essential for the fullest encounter with the whale sharks. In order to snorkel with the whale sharks, you must be able to swim a minimum of 150 feet in deep water and moderate currents while wearing a required PFD (personal flotation device), which will be provided. The PFD will provide additional flotation assistance as you snorkel. We strongly recommend practicing snorkeling while actively swimming beforehand if you have limited experience. Our Expedition Leaders also provide instruction for those in need of additional snorkeling guidance. If you choose to enter the water to swim with whale sharks, you must also be able to climb a four-rung vertical ladder that hangs over the side of the boat in order to re-board the vessel. Less capable swimmers and guests who are unable to climb the ladder can view the whale sharks from the boat, which is also an exciting experience. We travel in 23- to 29-foot open panga-style outboard motorboats, sometimes for hours at a time, to find and view the whale sharks. Due to the potential for bumpy seas, these boat rides are not recommended for pregnant women or travelers with back or neck injuries. In order to join this trip, you must be able to climb stairs, as our multi-level accommodations do not have elevators. Additionally, in order to participate in all activities, you should be able to walk unassisted for a minimum of one-half mile, as our itinerary includes several short walks. Travelers should be aware that the heat and humidity may be very high, and roads may be bumpy.

On custom or private departures with smaller groups, our ability to accommodate varying levels of physical abilities or interests is limited, since these trips are staffed with a single Expedition Leader who may be assisted, pending availability, by local guides.

This exceptional wildlife adventure offers a unique chance to swim with one of the world's largest marine creatures. The little-known area we visit is one of the best places in the world to encounter these huge, gentle creatures, donning snorkels and fins to enjoy time in the water with them at close range.

Plan to arrive in Cancun no later than 4:30 pm on Day 1 of the adventure, as there is a group orientation and welcome dinner at 6 pm. You are free to depart anytime on the final day. We can best serve you if our Natural Habitat Adventures Travel Desk makes your reservations, as our staff is intimately familiar with the special requirements of this program and can arrange the most efficient travel. Please call us at 800-543-8917. Note that while we offer you the best possible rates available to us on airfare and additional nights' accommodations, you may find special web rates or better fares online.