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Isla Mujeres is one of the main hotspots for whale shark tours in the Mexican Caribbean.
This year, the season is expected to be one of the busiest on record, and tour companies are already preparing for unprecedented booking numbers.
The Mexican Caribbean is widely regarded as one of the best destinations in the world to spot – and even swim with – whale sharks.
Isla Mujeres’ proximity to Cancun and other resort destinations makes it an ideal choice when it comes to witnessing the majestic beauty of these gentle giants.
Isla Mujeres Gearing Up For A Record Whale Shark Season
With less than a month to go before the official start of the whale shark season, Isla Mujeres tour companies are getting ready for a potentially record-breaking season.
The first whale shark tours usually begin around May 15, and travelers are already rushing to book tours to spot the world’s largest fish species.
With countless tour companies selling a range of excursions, travelers can look forward to one of the best seasons on record.
Situated just several miles from Cancun, Isla Mujeres has seen its popularity skyrocket among travelers thanks to its sargassum-free shores, excellent safety and cleanliness, and some of the best resorts in the Mexican Caribbean.
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According to hotel representatives, occupancy rates have remained well above 80% during the start of the year, and the situation is expected to carry on well into spring and summer.
Aside from spending time lounging at the beach, whale shark watching is one of the most popular activities for Isla Mujeres travelers.
The whale shark watching industry is one of the most strictly regulated ones in the region; while these majestic giants migrate to the Mexican Caribbean each year en masse to feed and reproduce, a lot of work goes into ensuring their welfare and safety.
Each year, whale shark tour companies need to apply for licenses that allow them to operate safely.
Companies must not only maintain a high environmental standard but also ensure the safety of visitors.
Everything Travelers Need To Know About The Whale Shark Season In Isla Mujeres
The whale shark season lasts from early May until September, during which travelers can spot these massive sea creatures close to Mexican Caribbean shores.
Booking a guided tour is definitely the best way to see them, as tour companies know exactly where to go and how to enjoy them safely.
Measuring up to 45 feet in length, whale sharks are considered the world’s largest fish species.
Isla Mujeres, Holbox, and Isla Contoy generally have the highest concentration of whale shark spottings in the Mexican Caribbean due to their abundance of plankton, which whale sharks feed on.
Some of the most reputable tour companies for whale shark snorkeling and swimming adventures include Whale Shark Adventures, a local Isla Mujeres company with years of experience.
The top-rated company offers a 6-hour tour during which visitors head to a remote location where they get the chance to swim with these gentle giants – indeed, a bucket list experience worth ticking off. Starting at $125 per person, the guided tour also includes gear as well as round-trip transfers.
Travelers can already book whale shark swimming tours with several companies, and availability is expected to increase as the island inches closer to the start of the season.
It’s important to remember some crucial tips: always choose a reputable company for your tour, and be sure to read reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor or Viator.
Before your tour, ensure that the company has necessary life-saving equipment, such as life jackets.
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Tina
Sunday 2nd of April 2023
It's an amazing experience. CASA BUCEO is the dive company to use. They're like family. They care about their tourist but also are very environmentally conscious. We went in 2022 and have plans to go back in 2024.