Swim with whale sharks on a private tour
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Can you imagine swimming with a 14-meter-long animal? Whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world, come every year to visit Holbox. They are totally harmless, so you will be able to swim by their side in an amazing and life changing experience. During the boat trip, you may see turtles, giant manta rays, dolphins, flamingos and/or many other species. As it is a private tour, flexibility is on your side.
Available options
Swim with whale sharks on a private tour
What's included
Guacamole and mango for those who do not eat fish.
Cool water and sodas.
Snorkeling equipment.
Bilingual guide.
Light breakfast in Luuma: coffee, tea, fruits, yoghurt and sweet buns.
In case you do not eat the included food, you can take fruits from the breakfast table to the tour.
Our famous ceviche.
Boat with GPS.
Detailed itinerary
1
You will meet with your guide and group at the local restaurant Luuma (one block away from the tour operator's office) in Isla Holbox at 7am. There, you will have a small briefing and get all the necessary equipment. You will also enjoy a light breakfast to have a great start.
Then, you will walk to the pier, where the boat is waiting to start the journey to find the whale sharks. The trip will take you between one and two hours and you may find different species on the way (if you see a giant manta and its behavior permits it, you can also swim with this harmless creature). Once in the area, you will swim by the whale shark in groups of two plus the guide, for safety reasons and to ensure you get the best experience.
On the way back, you will stop near Cabo Catoche to snorkel the "cuevones" reef and maybe see sea turtles, nurse sharks, lobsters, squids, octopuses, and different reef fish. During the journey, you will get some catch of the day from a fisherman and prepare the freshest ceviche. Finally, you will go to Santa Paula, where you can stretch your legs, have a pleasant swim and enjoy the ceviche. From this point, you have a 45-minute journey back to Holbox.
What's not included
Flask / bottle (we provide cold water in a large recipient)
Taxi to / from meeting point
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.3
18 reviews
5★
13
4★
1
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children under 6 years old are not allowed.
Season starts officialy May 15, but the arrival of whale sharks to the area vary each year.
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
Meeting point
Office (Mayan yellow house) and garden.
Important notes
As our tours depend on weather conditions, it is very important you contact us at least 24-hours prior the tour.
You can come by our office, VIP Holbox, located one block away from the main square, under Azotea 14 (former “La Parrilla de Juan”). Otherwise, our email address is: reservas@vipholbox.com and our phone numbers are:
USA: (305) 396-6987
MEX: +52 (984) 875-2107
https://goo.gl/maps/o7a2JcDC1q82
About Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is a car-free island paradise in the Mexican Caribbean, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere. Unlike its more developed neighbors, Holbox retains a rustic charm with colorful houses, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community.
Top Attractions
Playa Holbox
This stunning white-sand beach is the heart of Holbox, offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the island's natural beauty.
Beach
Half-day to full-day
Free
Yum Balam Nature Reserve
This protected area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including crocodiles, birds, and sea turtles. The reserve offers opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and eco-tourism.
Nature
Half-day
Free to enter, guided tours may have a fee
Punta Cocos
This scenic point at the northern tip of the island is a popular spot for watching the sunset and spotting whale sharks (seasonal). It's a great place to enjoy the island's natural beauty and wildlife.
Nature
Half-day
Free, whale shark tours have a fee
Las Nadas
This area is known for its natural pools and shallow waters, creating a unique and beautiful landscape. It's a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the island's natural beauty.
Nature
Half-day
Free
Holbox Village
The main village on the island offers a charming mix of colorful houses, local shops, and restaurants. It's a great place to experience the island's laid-back atmosphere and local culture.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lobster
Holbox is famous for its fresh lobster, often grilled or prepared in various traditional Mexican dishes. It's a must-try for seafood lovers.
Dinner
Contains shellfish
Tikinxic
A traditional Mayan dish made with fresh fish, habanero peppers, and other local ingredients. It's a spicy and flavorful appetizer that's unique to the region.
Appetizer
Contains fish and spicy ingredients
Ceviche
A popular dish made with fresh raw fish cured in fresh citrus juices and spiced with ají or chili peppers. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish, often served with tortilla chips.
Appetizer
Contains raw fish and shellfish, can be made vegetarian with vegetables
Coconut Shrimp
A tropical twist on classic fried shrimp, coated in coconut flakes and served with a sweet chili sauce. It's a delicious and unique appetizer that's popular on the island.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish and coconut
Popular Activities
Whale shark tours
Snorkeling
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Yoga
Spas and wellness
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's the most popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
24-29°C
75-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) or UTC-5
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Holbox is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Cancún International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
Getting around
Public transport
Bicycles are the primary mode of transportation on Holbox. Rentals are widely available and affordable. The island is flat and bike-friendly, making it easy to explore.
Taxis
Limited
Rentals
Bike
Neighborhoods
Holbox Village
Playa Holbox
Punta Cocos
Day trips
Isla Contoy
20 km (12 miles) • Half-day to full-day
A small, uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. It's a great place for birdwatching, snorkeling, and enjoying the island's natural beauty.
Cabo Catoche
30 km (19 miles) • Full-day
A scenic and remote area known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It's a great place for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the island's natural landscapes.
Chiquilá
20 km (12 miles) • Half-day
A small coastal town known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and traditional architecture. It's a great place to explore the region's history, culture, and local cuisine.
Festivals
Carnaval de Holbox • February or March (dates vary)
Día de los Muertos • November 1-2
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season, as they can fill up quickly.
- Rent a bike or golf cart to explore the island easily and conveniently.
- Try local specialties, such as lobster, tikinxic, and ceviche, for an authentic culinary experience.
- Respect the island's car-free environment and eco-friendly practices by using alternative transportation and reducing waste.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
