Every year, from May to September, Isla Mujeres and Holbox receive their most anticipated visitors, the fascinating whale sharks, one of the largest animals on the planet and that coexist naturally with humans.

These harmless fish come to our idyllic islands because of the favorable conditions and the nutrients in the sea to make plankton grow, and they feed on that.

Interacting with the whale sharks may seem a bit scary to you, however, it is a unique and safe experience.

These mysterious creatures are actually a fish, — the largest in the world — growing up to 14 meters long and weighing up to 15 tons. They live up to 100 years.

Holbox Whale Shark

As mentioned before, whale sharks favorite meal is plankton, but they also feed on tiny fish that happen to be around, so there is no reason to fear them.

 

What will you experience during the tour?

The whole trip to get to the place where whale sharks are is a great adventure! You might see dolphins, giant manta rays, sea turtles and some other marine creatures in their natural habitat:

This beautiful paradise called the Mexican Caribbean.

 

Tips for being a responsible traveller

Unfortunately, whale sharks are enlisted as endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is up to all of us to do what we can to preserve them, so we ask you to help us by following these basic rules when you swim with them:

  • Make sure that the tourist provider with whom you are going to take the tour is certified and legally constituted, as well as that it has certified guides.
  • Wear a life vest at all times and follow the instructions of the people in charge.
  • To protect yourself from the sun, we recommend you to wear a long-sleeved rash guard, a cap or a hat, since sunscreen —even if it is biodegradable— damages the ecosystem.

 

Swimming with Whale Sharks in Holbox

  • Get slowly into the water, so you don´t disturb the marine life. Don´t jump from the boat.
  • Keep a distance of at least two meters from the wildlife and remember that under no circumstances you should touch them.
  • Do not swim underneath the whale sharks or any other marine species.
  • Take as many pictures as you want, but please don´t use flash.
  • Do not try to feed them.

 

Holbox - Aerea

Isla Mujeres - Aerea

 

What to bring along with you?

  • Bathing suit
  • Long-sleeved rash guard
  • Towel
  • Cap or hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Extra clothes
  • Water-proof camera
  • If you suffer from motion sickness, we recommend you to take a pill to prevent it.

 

We are sure that interacting with the whale sharks will be a unique adventure that you will treasure for life. You have to try it! Only possible in the Mexican Caribbean...