Whale Shark snorkeling tour in a reduced group with local marine biologist
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
La Paz, Mexico
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Swim with peaceful whale sharks on this snorkeling adventure from La Paz. Join a small group sail and strap on all the complimentary equipment you’ll need—wetsuit, mask, snorkel, and fins. Then, jump in the water with an experienced guide and enjoy multiple swims with these gentle giants. Enjoy complimentary snacks, soda, and water.
- Explore the underwater world of whale sharks on this guided excursion
- Enjoy the personalized experience of a small group tour of no more than 8
- Make the most of complimentary equipment including wetsuit, mask, and fins
- Swim with the ocean’s largest fish, the calm and graceful whale shark
What's Included
- Light refreshments
- Certified guide and captain
- Use of snorkel equipment and wetsuits (3mm shorties)
- Federal permits and donation for whale shark conservation
- Traveler's insurance
- Go pro photos and videos of your tour (quality will depend on the day's conditions)
- Transportation to/from attractions
- Gratuities
- Towel, sweatshirt and biodegradable sunscreen
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Topete 125, Zona Comercial, 23000 La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico
It is VERY IMPORTANT to arrive on time at the hour marked on your ticket. There's no tolerance after the meeting time since the Whale Shark area is strictly regulated by the Government. We will meet at "Marina de La Paz" which is located in the corner of "Topete and Legaspy" streets.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
La Paz (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Bring towel and warm clothes (VERY important Nov-March) and biodegradable sunscreen
- Activity restricted for safety and federal regulations to: women in pregnancy, heart, neck and breathing problems
- Freediving is not allowed due to Federal regulations, only snorkeling in the surface
- In case of bad weather forecast, we will let you know 2-3 days in advance. In some cases the waves can be moderate causing a choppy ride, and on other days with high winds, the bay may be closed officially to all boat tours
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Jerry_P
Carla was the best guide! So positive and communicative. We got a bucket list experience with one of the most beautiful creatures on the planet. We appreciated the professionalism of the entire organization. Would highly recommend this experience to anyone.
Reviews
4.9
based on 649 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Lori_M, Apr 2026
We had a wonderful experience today with Javier “El Cuate” and Angel. We found our first whale shark and they were so helpful getting us close. When we lost that one, they found a second one and we were able to go in a couple more times. Plenty of time with the whale sharks and in small groups of 3 or 4 people at a time. They were professional and all the wetsuits & snorkel gear was in great condition. I would highly recommend.
Ryan_S, Apr 2026
Captain Javier and guide Angel were amazing. Able to quickly find the sharks and drop us off next to the path the sharks would be taking to give us a great view without disturbing them.
Would 100% recommend.
Kristin_T, Apr 2026
Swimming with the whale shark was incredible. Small, personal, and educational. We had many opportunities to swim side by side with the whale shark and felt safe the whole time.
Jerry_P, Apr 2026
Carla was the best guide! So positive and communicative. We got a bucket list experience with one of the most beautiful creatures on the planet. We appreciated the professionalism of the entire organization. Would highly recommend this experience to anyone.
Michael_A, Apr 2026
This was amazing trip with our family. We got to smoke with a couple whale sharks and on our way there we saw dolphins and on our way back we saw humpback whales.
Yu_C, Mar 2026
Our guide Karen was very knowledgeable of the whale sharks. We were able to swim with three sharks. Since only 8 of us, we were divided into two groups and each group was able to swim three times. It was absolutely amazing to swim by such giant but gentle fish. The visibility is not the best but we are close enough to still see them so clear with raw eyes even though the go pro might not capture it call.
Tabatha_N, Mar 2026
Karen was the most incredible guide - she's incredibly passionate about the whale sharks and ensuring everyone is educated, safe, and having a fun time. We got to swim with the whale sharks several times, taking turns in the water and watching from the boat. It was a 10/10 experience.
Natalia_C, Mar 2026
Swimming with the whale sharks was a highlight of the trip. I really loved having a marine biologist on board teaching us about the area, the creatures, their life cycle, and overall the importance of conservation. MeXplore kept the group size small allowing us to swim in small groups and not be bunched up and kicking each other with fins (as experienced in other snorkeling tours). Our guide Carla was very kind and met every traveler at their comfort and skill level in the water. She offered to hold our hand if we were scared or give us a boost to get a closer look if anyone was a slower swimmer. She also got photos and footage of each swimmer and the whale shark and shared it quickly. Would highly recommend!
Renee_F, Mar 2026
This trip was so amazing - they explained everything. Getting in and out watching the wishes was perfect . They knew exactly what to do.the visibility was awful but being that close you could see everything it was fantastic. Matteo and Jesse were with us they were incredible
Michelle_S, Mar 2026
My daughter and I went on this excursion together and had the best time! Swimming with the whale sharks was an unforgettable experience. The care that is offered to these amazing creatures by MeXExplore was outstanding. Something we will never forget.
Theresa_H, Mar 2026
What in incredible, one-in-a-lifetime experience! These majestic fish are truly gentle giants that allow us small humans to admire them from close range. Karla from MéXplore was incredibly kind with me when I freaked out! She took my hand and guided me closer to the whale shark and I felt reassured and could really enjoy observing these amazing animals. Karla also provides very interesting information about the whale sharks which helps us to appreciate them even more as well as all of the conservation regulations that ensure their survival. Went with my husband and daughter and all of us adored the experience. Highly recommend.
Michelle_P, Mar 2026
Karla was very friendly and knowledgeable. You break off into groups of 3 so my partner and I were split up at some points to make things even out but having a solo moment with no one else swimming around me was really nice
Susan_W, Mar 2026
Carla and our captain were informative, friendly, and deeply cared about us having a wonderful experience.
Thomas_S, Mar 2026
We saw and swam with a ton of sharks in the end of February. Guide was super knowledgable. Awesome experience. We just showed up and they had masks, fins, suits. The meeting location is a covered seating area next to the boat launch. Boat ride was pretty quick. Guides also took pictures and videos that they shared with everyone.
Starla_C, Mar 2026
Knowledgeable guides taught us so much about the beautiful whale sharks. We loved being able to experience being so close to these magnificent creatures.
Mehran_S, Feb 2026
Swimming with whale sharks in La Paz was easily one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. From the moment we headed out into the calm waters of the bay, the anticipation kept building. The guides were professional, knowledgeable, and clearly respectful of the animals and the protected marine area.
When we finally slipped into the water and saw the first whale shark approaching, it was surreal. These creatures are massive, yet incredibly gentle and peaceful. Watching one glide effortlessly beneath me in the clear blue water felt humbling and almost dreamlike. Angel, our guide (who was fantastic by the way), made sure everyone followed the rules, kept a safe distance, and avoided touching the animals, which made the experience feel responsible and well organized. He also made sure everyone got an equal opportunity to see the full whale shark.
The tour itself was smooth and well run. Equipment was provided, instructions were clear, and safety was always a priority. Even between sightings, being out on the water with the mountains in the distance was beautiful.
If you are visiting La Paz during whale shark season, this is an absolute must do. It is a rare chance to connect with marine life in a meaningful and respectful way, and it truly becomes a highlight of any trip.
Leslie_B, Feb 2026
This was so cool and completely not what I was expecting! It was hard to swim and keep up with the whale sharks but so worth it! What a unique activity! The guide Mariel was great and so helpful!
Sharon_R, Feb 2026
Swimming with whale sharks has been on my bucket list for a long time, and we finally were able to do it here in La Paz. It was absolutely incredible. I had no idea what to expect. I thought the whale sharks might be off in the distance but when we jumped in the water there was one right near the boat. Our guide briefed us that we were not permitted to be closer than 2 meters (side) or 3 meters (tail), and I think we were close to that. It was just incredible to see this big beautiful animal swimming right past us!
Our biologist guide Angel was extremely knowledgeable about the animals and also very careful to make sure we were safe. Our boat captain Javier was also super helpful and friendly and helped us up and down the boat ladder. The other thing that we really appreciated was that we all got four chances to go in and swim so if you are too overwhelmed and excited the first time to realize what you’re looking at you get a few more chances. I would do it again in a heartbeat. One recommendation: bring a warm sweatshirt or coat. After being in the water multiple times you get chilled on the ride back to the dock.
Linda_J, Feb 2026
Great experience! Karla was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and very considerate of each person in the group. She wanted us to have the best possible snorkel.
KennethMichael_T, Feb 2026
Travel is in an open panga. If windy, expect to get wet. Expect to climb on the boat several times. Entrance to the water is off the side.
Karla, the guide was wonderful, knowledgeable & adorable as a baby bunny rabbit.
Justin_S, Feb 2026
The crew went above and beyond to make sure everybody had a great opportunity to swim with the whale sharks. My first few attempts in the water were challenging and I had difficulty keeping pace with the whale sharks - they are quick! When we finally encountered a slower-moving whale shark, the captain and marine biologist ensured everyone had a turn to swim alongside it and wow, it was a moment I’ll never forget.
Katherine_K, Feb 2026
Great experience and great guide! So amazing to see these giant creatures feeding! Would highly recommend
John_C, Feb 2026
An unforgettable experience with a small group. Everyone one was able to swim with these gentle giants
Nenad_R, Feb 2026
Well organized! Educational! Patient with everyone. Staff will explain in detail what not to do in the water. You will be well prepared
Lisa_H, Jan 2026
This whale shark excursion was hands-down amazing, and a huge part of that is thanks to Angel (our marine biologist) and Marco (our boat captain) Angel explained everything so clearly — from the rules and safety guidelines to how to respectfully interact with the whale sharks — and made sure everyone felt comfortable and confident the entire time.
They helped us find several whale sharks and when some of us weren’t able to get great photos in the water, Angel came through with his GoPro and later emailed us the most incredible photos and videos. That extra effort meant so much and allowed us to truly relive the experience.
This was actually my second time booking this exact excursion with this company, and I can confidently say I would 100% do it again if I’m ever back in La Paz. Professional, knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely caring — you couldn’t ask for a better crew.
Highly, highly recommend! 🐋💙
Melinda_P, Jan 2026
It was pretty intense but very cool! Small boat but easy ride. I'd say that they talked a lot about not getting too close to the whale sharks beforehand but then I was surprised at how much the guide vehemently encouraged us to get as close as possible! The wetsuits and snorkels were in great shape. The snacks were mid, but who cares? An unforgettable experience - the whale sharks are ENORMOUS!
Shannon_M, Jan 2026
What an incredible experience with Karen and Israel! Thank you for creating a safe and adventurous atmosphere to observe the whale sharks. Memories were made. Highly recommend.
Ulrike_R, Jan 2026
We are giving this tour three stars, and we would like to clearly explain why.
First of all, the tour itself was beautifully organized. We did see whales, the explanations were very informative, and the focus on animal protection was excellent. Our guide Angel, the marine biologist, was very professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. From an educational and environmental perspective, the tour was very well done.
The only reason for the three-star rating is the unfair distribution of water time between the groups, which left a very disappointing impression.
There were nine guests on the boat, divided into three groups of three people. For animal welfare reasons, only one group at a time was allowed in the water with the guide, which we fully understand and support. There is also a pre-booked time window during which the whale sharks may be observed.
We were Group 3.
• The first time, we were able to enter the water only for a few seconds before the whale disappeared. We had to get back on the boat immediately. This was understandably treated as not really counting, and we were allowed to go in again right away.
• The second time, we had a proper snorkeling experience with the whale shark.
At this point, the other two groups had already gone into the water three times each, with their third time being very long.
We assumed that, just like the others, all three groups would be allowed three entries. We prepared ourselves to go in again. However, we were suddenly told that our second time window was now closed, that there was no more permission, and that we had to turn back.
This was extremely disappointing.
If the time window was limited, then the tour should have been planned in a way that all groups were treated equally, for example by shortening the last entry of the other groups. After paying a significant amount of money for this experience, it is reasonable to expect fair treatment for all guests.
When we addressed this issue:
• The guide mentioned a misunderstanding between him and the captain.
• The captain stated that we had already been in the water three times, which is simply not correct, as the first entry lasted only seconds and was the reason we were allowed to go again immediately.
Unfortunately, this situation left a negative aftertaste, especially due to the dismissive reaction at the end. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people, and there is no “next time” to make up for it.
To be clear:
The organization regarding the animals, the explanations, and the guide himself were excellent.
However, fair and equal distribution of snorkeling time is essential, and in our case, it was not handled well.
MARTIN_S, Jan 2026
What an amazing experience. Their professionalism gave all on board the maximum time swimming with the whale sharks. Their priority was our safety and respect for the whale shark and the environment. I would do it again in a second! Wow
Haley_G, Jan 2026
you won't enjoy the experience as much if you are hungover boat ride can be rough and the swimming can be exhausting trying to keep up with the shark, but it is incredible to swim with these magnificent creatures!
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