Whale Shark Wonder Tours From Playa del Carmen
Active
6h - 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 is the largest fish in the world. Visit Cancun in the summer season and you will have the great opportunity to live a unique experience: swim with this giant, beautiful and harmless in its natural habitat. If you like adventure, get ready to have the most exciting experience of your life!
Whale sharks, despite their enormous size, pose no danger to humans. Actually, they're pretty affectionate, and they're usually playful with divers.
A bilingual guide will tell you everything you need to know about the whale shark, its behavior, migration and feeding. After it’s time to dive 2 to 3 dives with the whale shark, you enter the water in pairs with the help of the guide. (According to the physical condition of the swimmers). Sometimes you can spot large groups of whale sharks and even giant manta rays, which gives an extra thrill to the adventure. At the end of the swim, you will enjoy a delicious ceviche on board the boat and refreshing drinks.
Available options
Whale Shark Wonder Tours From Playa del Carmen
Pickup included
What's included
light breakfast (coffee, juice and bread)
Hotel pick up and drop off
2 to 3 dives per person with the whale shark
Snaks, Water and soft drinks
Use of Snorkelling equipment and Life Vest
36 foot speed boats ride & Bilingual Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
The Shark seeing and swimming excursion is unique in the world. In Isla Contoy, exist the biggest worldwide concentration of this species, and that makes it the whale shark world capital.
Before sailing, you are provided with a light breakfast (coffee, juice and bread), after that, on the boat, you are given life vest and equipment of snorkeling.
The adventure begins with the search for the sharks in an area of 260 hectares of water. After found them, the next activity will be the swimming with 3 to 4 inmersions, entering the water 2 persons and a guide.
The use of vest life is compulsory for you. Our guides are certified to realize this activity. At the end of the snorkeling activity, the passengers can be rinse with fresh water and enjoy the Delicious lunch: Fish Ceviche, ham and cheese sandwiches, and also, drinks like water and soda during the tour.
What's not included
Dock tax 20 Usd -
Tips and Pictures
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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
Mandatory use biodegradable sunscreen
Wear comfortable clothes and bring your swimsuit, towels and Extra Change of clothes
2 people per dive, Please do not touch the whale shark and keep your distance
Important notes
Preservation tax will be required at check in or when you board (22 usd per adult and 19 usd per child)
If you are staying at an Airbnb or an unofficial hotel to board, contact us and we will find the closest boarding point.
About Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.
Top Attractions
Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)
A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.
Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, shopping and dining vary
Xcaret Park
An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.
Nature/Adventure/Cultural
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)
Cenote Azul
A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.
Nature/Adventure
Half day
Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)
Tulum Ruins
Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.
Historical/Archaeological
Half day to full day
Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)
Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)
An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.
Art/Nature/Adventure
Half day
Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.
Main Course
Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination
Ceviche
A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.
Appetizer
Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables
Tacos al Pastor
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Street Food
Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination
Panuchos
A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.
Appetizer
Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Cenote exploration
Zip-lining
ATV tours
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution
Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)
By bus
ADO Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown (Centro)
Playacar
Zona Hotelera
Colosio
Day trips
Cozumel
80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day
A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.
Tulum
60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day
A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.
Akumal
30 km (19 miles) south • Half day
A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.
Festivals
Festival of the Mayan Culture • November
Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November
Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
