The Riviera Maya boasts an impressive number of natural wonders, both on land and in the water. It’s hard to keep up! This is one of the reasons people keep going back over and over: one trip is not enough!
Among the region’s major attractions is the phenomenon that takes place every year from May through September. During these months, the Caribbean Sea welcomes hundreds of the biggest fish species in the world: whale sharks.
Now, before you freak out, you should know that, when it comes to behavior, whale sharks are more whale than shark. They are harmless to humans and widely considered one of the most docile species of fish. So much so, that they are often referred to as “gentle giants.”
Whale sharks visit the coast of Yucatan every year to feed on plankton for a few months. This provides a unique opportunity to snorkel and swim with them! With their tranquil character, they make for great swimming companions.
If you have a chance to live this incredible experience, go for it! It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Cancun. So let’s dive into the best whale shark excursions from Cancun and the Riviera Maya.
But before we do… You should know that since 2016, whale sharks are considered an endangered species. It’s of paramount importance that, when booking Cancun whale shark tours, you do your research and hire only responsible tour operators.
Make sure to choose a company that cares about the well-being of the animals and takes care of the environment as a whole. And please be a responsible traveler yourself (only eco-friendly sunscreen!)
The whale shark experiences I recommend are handled by responsible tour operators. They also take you to great locations to enjoy a whale shark swim!
➥ Why can you trust me? I have a decade of experience in the travel industry, curating top-notch activities and itineraries around the world.
My extensive travels around Mexico have made me a bit of an expert in the region, and since I’m deeply committed to sustainable experiences, I know exactly what to look for when choosing worthy whale shark tours. You can trust that these experiences are high-quality, led by professional experts, and eco-friendly.
All the tours I recommend here are by Viator because it is a trusted company that has an excellent cancellation policy. If you book a tour and your travel plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
In a rush? These are the very best tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Small-Group Eco-Friendly: Whale Sharks Tour in Cancun |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Eco-Friendly Private Whale Shark Tour from Cancun |
OUR PICK: The BEST Whale Shark Tour from Cancun
Cancun whale shark season goes from mid-June to mid-September (though your best chance to see them is in July and August!) You’ll find more tours than you could count during this time, so it can be hard to choose an experience. This is my top pick among them all.
The Whale Sharks Small-Group Tour in Cancun is a full-day experience. The trip starts with pick-up at your hotel in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, or Tulum, followed by a boat ride to find the largest fish in the sea.
You’ll go whale shark snorkeling by Cancun’s nearby islands of Isla Contoy, Holbox, or Isla Mujeres. These are three stunning locations and a prime whale shark area. With some luck, you’ll also see dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles.
The onboard biologist guide will explain everything about the whale sharks, along with tips on how to interact safely with them. You’ll also learn about the natural habitat of the animals and their migration patterns.
When the time is right, jump off the boat and swim with these gentle giants, always following the instructions of your guide.
After your snorkeling session, you’ll sail to Isla Mujeres and dock at the beautiful, white-sand beach of Playa Norte where lunch and soft drinks will be served. Expect ceviche, guacamole, and ham sandwiches.
You are asked not to wear sunscreen to protect the fauna and flora. Wear long sleeves or eco-friendly sunscreen instead!
➤ Why is this the best tour? This small-group (max 10 participants) tour is eco-friendly and guarantees a comprehensive, wholesome experience. You’ll be guided by an expert in marine life, ensuring your swim alongside whale sharks is not only safe but informed. Plus, it offers everything for a hassle-free day – from transfers to lunch and drinks!
Read what the reviews say:
“Awesome experience! Very kind and friendly staff, who guide you through everything perfectly. They know the spots, they know the procedures, they know it all and you can trust them to show you the best time possible. The Whale Sharks are incredible, and so cooperative with all of us side swimmers. Pretty surreal. All around amazing experience. Would highly recommend.”
Brett_M – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, snorkeling gear, and lunch with soft drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other GREAT Whale Shark Tours from Cancun
▶️ This Whale Shark Tour from Cancun is an 8-hour trip that starts with hotel pick-up, and breakfast. Then, hop aboard a speed boat and travel to a prime location where you’ll swim with whale sharks near Cancun.
A professional guide will monitor the whale shark encounter, as well as explain fascinating details about the animals. On the way, you might also spot dolphins, turtles, and rays.
Cap off the tour with a ceviche lunch and soft drinks. Photos of the experience will be available for purchase.
This tour includes: Transfers from Riviera Maya hotels, a guide, snorkel gear, life jackets, breakfast, lunch, and soft drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Whale Shark Adventure in Isla Mujeres and Cancun is a great alternative. It’s a slightly shorter trip, lasting only 6 hours, so it’s perfect if you don’t have all day.
Join a small group and an expert guide, and set sail in search of the amazing creatures. You’ll get geared up with snorkeling masks and tubes, and get in the water to swim with whale sharks.
Snacks and lunch will be available to help you refuel after the adventure.
This tour includes: A guide, snorkeling gear, all taxes, snacks, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Whale Sharks Tour from Cancun
If you would rather go solo and have the boat and guide all to yourself, here’s the perfect option.
▶️ This Eco-Friendly Private Whale Shark Tour from Cancun provides a personalized experience for your group of 10.
You’ll get an informative briefing about whale sharks before departing. This way, you’ll be informed about their habits and know how to interact with them.
Then it’s time to go snorkeling with whale sharks, Cancun’s greatest adventure! You’ll have more time in the water than most tours allow, and get to refuel with lunch and soft drinks. It’s a fabulous activity to enjoy with the whole family!
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a guide, snorkel gear, soft drinks, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Private Whale Shark Tour from Cancun caters to groups of up to 10 people. You’ll embark on a memorable boat trip in the Caribbean Sea as an expert guide tells you all about the activity.
You’ll learn fascinating facts about the whale sharks, and get to jump in the water with them. After an unforgettable experience, get back onboard for a tasty lunch with soft drinks and beer served by the boat crew.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, snorkel gear, lunch, snacks, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cancun Whale Shark Tour with Isla Mujeres Visit
Check out this Cancun Whale Shark Experience with Snorkel and Transportation. It combines two of the most astounding activities from Cancun…in a single trip!
Start the day with a speedboat ride to Isla Contoy. Enjoy a light breakfast, and then get in the turquoise waters to swim with whale sharks. A professional guide will be with you to ensure a safe and memorable encounter.
You’ll enjoy two immersions, and then head to Isla Mujeres. Relax on its most beautiful beach, Playa Norte, before it’s time to head back. Fresh ceviche will be served onboard!
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, boat cruise, snorkel gear, breakfast, and fresh ceviche. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
