Riviera Maya & the Yucatan , Mexico

Whale Shark Wonder Tours From Cancun

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(1 reviews)

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Paper ticket only 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 Cancun

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

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

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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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

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

Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level

Important notes

Get ready early at least 20 minutes before your pick up time

We collect people only from Cancun

2 people per dive, Please do not touch the whale shark and keep your distance

About Riviera Maya & the Yucatan

The Riviera Maya and the Yucatan offer a captivating blend of pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant cultural experiences. This region is known for its turquoise waters, lush jungles, and rich history, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Chichen Itza

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is a stunning ancient Mayan city featuring the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the Great Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote.

Historical Half to full day Moderate (~$25-30 USD including entry and guide)

Tulum Ruins

A breathtaking archaeological site perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya.

Historical Half to full day Moderate (~$10-15 USD for entry)

Cenotes

Natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, cenotes are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula and offer swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Budget to Moderate (~$5-20 USD for entry)

Xcaret Park

An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of cultural performances, wildlife exhibits, and adventure activities like snorkeling, river floating, and underground river exploration.

Entertainment Full day Expensive (~$150-200 USD for entry and activities)

Isla Mujeres

A beautiful island known for its white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. It's a perfect day trip from Cancún.

Beach Full day Moderate (~$20-50 USD for ferry and activities)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, cooked underground in a pit.

Main Dish Contains pork

Poc Chuc

Grilled pork marinated in sour orange juice and spices, served with pickled onions.

Main Dish Contains pork

Sopa de Lima

A tangy and refreshing soup made with lime, turkey or chicken, and tortilla strips.

Soup Contains poultry

Panuchos

Fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.

Appetizer Contains poultry and gluten

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba Diving Zip-lining Cenote exploration ATV tours Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with warm, sunny weather and minimal rainfall. It's the most popular time to visit, with ideal conditions for beach activities and exploring ancient ruins.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, Limited elsewhere

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution

The Riviera Maya and the Yucatan are generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas

Getting there

By air

Cancún International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from downtown Cancún
Cozumel International Airport • 10 km (6.2 miles) from downtown Cozumel

By bus

Cancún Bus Station, Playa del Carmen Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable and frequent, but can be crowded during peak season. They are a good option for budget travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber (in select areas), Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cancún Hotel Zone Playa del Carmen Tulum Mérida

Day trips

Isla Holbox

150 km (93 miles) from Cancún • Full day

A beautiful, car-free island known for its pristine beaches, bioluminescent waters, and whale shark encounters (June-September).

Valladolid

130 km (81 miles) from Cancún • Full day

A charming colonial town with a rich history, known for its cenotes, historic sites, and traditional markets.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

120 km (75 miles) from Cancún • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a diverse range of ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs.

Festivals

Carnaval de Cancún • February/March (dates vary) Festival de la Candelaria • February 2nd Vive Latino Festival • March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit cenotes early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the hottest part of the day
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment
Rent a car for flexibility and to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture