Summer whale watching in Tulum centers on one incredible experience: swimming with migrating whale sharks. From June to September, reliable tour operators run daily excursions from Tulum, Cancun, and Riviera Maya.
I’m a big fan of the small-group tours that include everything you need – transportation, quality snorkel gear, and beach time. The best operators maintain strict environmental guidelines while getting you remarkably close to these magnificent creatures.
You’ll likely spot sea turtles too. Check out our tested and recommended tours below.
Good To Know
- Swim with the gentle giants of the ocean on a whale shark tour from Tulum, available from June to September.
- Enjoy an intimate encounter with up to 10 travelers on a small-group tour with round-trip transportation, breakfast, and lunch.
- Explore the stunning beaches and natural wonders of Tulum before or after your whale shark swimming adventure.
- Experience the thrill of snorkeling with whale sharks, sea turtles, and diverse marine life on a Tulum-Akumal tour.
- Take advantage of the “skip the line” feature for a seamless and hassle-free whale shark watching experience.
Whale Shark Swimming Seasonal Adventure From Tulum
Visiting Tulum’s stunning beaches and exploring the region’s natural wonders are enchanting experiences, and the seasonal opportunity to swim with whale sharks near Isla Mujeres adds an unforgettable adventure to any Tulum itinerary.
This small-group tour whisks travelers from Tulum to the Isla Mujeres area, where they’ll have the chance to snorkel alongside the world’s largest fish. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a continental breakfast, and a light lunch, ensuring travelers are well-fueled for the underwater experience.
After swimming with the gentle giants, guests can relax on Punta Norte beach before heading back to Tulum. With a maximum of 10 travelers, this personalized tour offers an intimate encounter with the magnificent whale sharks. Participants should note the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and they’ll need to bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, and other essentials.
Read our full review: Whale Shark Swimming Seasonal Adventure From Tulum Review
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Whale Shark Swimming Adventure From Cancun & Riviera Maya – Seasonal June/Sept
For those seeking an unforgettable encounter with the ocean’s gentle giants, the Whale Shark Swimming Adventure from Cancun and Riviera Maya is a seasonal must-do experience. Available from June to September, this tour offers the chance to snorkel alongside the majestic whale sharks, the world’s largest fish.
The adventure includes a certified guide, air-conditioned transportation, a sighting and swimming session with the whale sharks, non-alcoholic beverages, a continental breakfast, and a light lunch. Participants will also have access to private facilities, including a pool, bathrooms, and showers. A professional photographer accompanies the group to capture the magical moments.
The tour departs early from hotels in the Mayan Riviera, with pickup times varying based on location. After a safety briefing and learning about the whale sharks’ behavior and habitat, guests will search for the gentle giants in groups of up to 10 people, slipping into the water in pairs with experienced guides. An optional second snorkeling session is also offered before the return to Cancun.
Read our full review: Whale Shark Swimming Adventure From Cancun & Riviera Maya – Seasonal June/Sept Review
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Tulum-Akumal: Swimming With Whale Sharks Tour
An unparalleled opportunity awaits adventure-seekers in Tulum and Akumal, where the chance to swim alongside the majestic whale sharks is a seasonal highlight. From June to September, visitors can embark on a Tulum-Akumal: Swimming With Whale Sharks Tour, a 5.5-hour excursion that allows them to snorkel and interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
The tour includes transportation from select hotels, as well as all necessary snorkeling equipment. Participants will have the opportunity to see not only the impressive whale sharks but also sea turtles and a variety of vibrant marine life. The tour’s “skip the line” feature ensures a seamless experience, allowing guests to make the most of their time in the water.
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time adventurer, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the wonders of the Riviera Maya’s underwater world.
Read our full review: Tulum-Akumal: Swimming With Whale Sharks Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Tulum and the surrounding Riviera Maya region offer exceptional whale shark swimming experiences from June to September. Travelers can choose from tours departing from Tulum, Cancun, or Akumal, each providing a chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. With advance planning, visitors can make the most of this bucket-list activity and witness the incredible marine life of the Mexican Caribbean.