Every summer, whale sharks gather in large numbers in the plankton-rich waters off the north-eastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Scientists have counted hundreds in a single aggregation, one of the largest known anywhere. Boats from Holbox, Isla Mujeres and Cancún take snorkellers to swim with them. See our whale shark profile.
At a glance
| Season | Roughly mid-May to mid-September (peak July and August) |
| Getting there | Holbox: ferry from Chiquilá. Isla Mujeres: ferry from Cancún |
| Time needed | A full-day boat trip |
| Big draws | Whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, turtles |
| Good for | Snorkellers, families with confident swimmers |
The aggregation
- Whale sharks feed on plankton and, in the “afuera” area further offshore, on fish eggs from spawning little tunny.
- The official whale shark season is set by Mexican authorities, usually from about mid-May to mid-September.
- The feeding area lies within the Whale Shark Biosphere Reserve and nearby waters.
What a trip is like
- Boats leave early and travel one to two hours to the feeding area.
- Swimmers enter the water in pairs with a guide, for a few minutes at a time, then rotate.
- Life jackets or wetsuits are often required.
- Trips often include snorkelling on a reef or a beach stop on the way back.
Rules for swimming with whale sharks
- Only two swimmers and a guide in the water with a shark at a time.
- Keep at least 2 metres from the head and body and 3 metres from the tail.
- Do not touch, chase or ride the sharks.
- No flash photography and no scuba diving.
- Use only reef-safe sunscreen, or better, wear a rash guard.
Choosing a responsible operator
- Choose licensed operators authorised by Mexico’s environmental authorities.
- Avoid boats that crowd sharks or allow too many swimmers in the water.
- Small groups and experienced guides make a better experience for you and the sharks.
Holbox Island
A car-free island with sandy streets, Holbox is a relaxed base with flamingos in the lagoons, bioluminescence at night and excellent birding.
Other wildlife
Manta rays (spinetail mobulas and giant mantas), dolphins, sea turtles and, in the Gulf of Mexico waters, sailfish (in winter). See our giant manta ray and sailfish profiles.
Frequently asked questions
When is whale shark season in Mexico? Roughly mid-May to mid-September, with the best months usually July and August.
Holbox or Isla Mujeres? Both offer similar trips. Holbox is quieter; Isla Mujeres and Cancún are easier to reach.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer? You should be comfortable snorkelling in open water. Life jackets are available.
Is it safe? Yes. Whale sharks are harmless filter feeders.
Related guides
- Swimming with whale sharks responsibly in the Philippines
- Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef
- Belize wildlife guide
- Animal profiles: Whale shark, Giant manta ray, Sailfish
Cover photo: Dr Marin, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons