Whale Shark Tour from Cancun and Playa Del Carmen
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
The whale shark snorkel tour in Cancun, Mexico is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the world's largest fish. Our experienced guides provide an intimate, eco-conscious experience that emphasizes the importance of conservation. With only small group tours, guests have an exclusive chance to observe and interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Available options
From Puerto Morelos
Pickup included
Pickup from Cancun
Duration: 6 hours<br/>Beverages & sof drinks<br/>Round trip van transfer: From any hotel in Cancun hotel zone or AirBnb location<br/>Pickup included
Meeting point no hotel pickup
Pickup from Playa del Carmen
Pickup and drop off from any hotel in Playa del Carmen Hotel
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Snorkeling gear
Lunch
Snacks
Water and soft drinks
Bilingual Guide
What's not included
Whale shark protected area
Port facilities
Hotel pickup Booking "Meeting point option"
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
27 reviews
5★
19
4★
3
3★
3
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
50 reviews
5★
44
4★
2
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum age is 8 years
Children must be accompanied by an adult
It is recommended that you bring a swimsuit, a long sleeve shirt and bring sunscreen and a waterproof camera
Pregnant women are not allowed
Seasonal product operating May to September
Meeting point
IMPORTANT: the port fee & whale shark natural protected area entrance are not included, for a total of both fees USD 30 per person must be paid at the port, and there is no ATM in the port.
**For the meeting point(no transportation) time is 7:30 AM at Punta Sam port.
About Punta Sam
Punta Sam is a secluded and pristine beach located in the Riviera Maya, known for its white sands, clear turquoise waters, and lush surroundings. It's a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the more crowded tourist areas.
Top Attractions
Punta Sam Beach
A pristine, secluded beach with white sand and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs. It's a great place for wildlife watching, kayaking, and boat tours.
Nature
Full day
Moderate (entry fees and tour costs)
Muyil Archaeological Site
An ancient Mayan site with pyramids, temples, and a lagoon. It's less crowded than other Mayan sites and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Historical
Half day
Budget (entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro
Appetizer
Gluten-free, but check for allergens
Cochinita Pibil
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus juice, wrapped in banana leaves
Main Course
Contains pork
Panuchos
Fried tortillas filled with turkey or chicken in achiote sauce, topped with pickled onions and avocado
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Snorkeling
Hiking in Sian Ka'an
Sunbathing
Beachcombing
Yoga on the beach
Visiting Mayan ruins
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. It's also the peak tourist season.
24°C to 30°C
75°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) UTC-5
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Punta Sam is a safe and peaceful destination, but travelers should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
- • Be cautious of wildlife, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Cancún International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
By bus
Cancún Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available to nearby towns, but a rental car or taxi is needed to reach Punta Sam.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber is not widely available; use local taxi services
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Punta Sam Beach Area
Day trips
Tulum
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea, as well as beautiful beaches and a bohemian atmosphere.
Bacalar
150 km (93 miles) • Full day or overnight
A picturesque town known for its stunning lagoon with seven colors, as well as historic forts and a relaxed atmosphere.
Festivals
Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit Punta Sam Beach early in the morning for the best experience and fewer crowds
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
- Bring cash for small purchases and local markets, as card acceptance can be limited
- Respect the natural environment and follow eco-friendly practices
- Try local dishes and support local businesses and artisans
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
