Swim with Whale Sharks
Swim with whales sharks
Just minutes from La Paz lies a protected Whale Shark Sanctuary. Where, for a few months each year, visitors have a rare opportunity to observe and swim with the ocean’s largest fish in the most responsible way. Small groups, expert naturalist guides, and a genuine respect for the animals — that’s the Baja Expeditions way.
What to expect:
- Your journey begins. Meet your naturalist guide at the Baja Expeditions office for a full safety and wildlife briefing — sharing everything you need to know before you set off.
- Out into the bay. Enjoy views of Baja’s coastline and turquoise waters as you head out, your guide reading the water for signs of whale sharks nearby.
- Swimming with whale sharks: When conditions allow, slip into the water and experience something extraordinary, swimming with the world’s largest fish, completely on its own terms.
- Snorkel with sea lions at San Rafaelito. After your time in the sanctuary, head to this small wildlife refuge, where California sea lions bask on the rocks and show off for snorkellers below the surface.
A note on nature’s timing:
Whale shark season in La Paz typically runs from mid-December to March, though nature sets her own schedule, making every season unique. Whale shark sightings can vary as they move through the bay following ocean conditions and food availability. We operate our tours while the Whale Shark Sanctuary remains open and the animals are present.
Possible wildlife sightings
- Whale sharks
- Sea Lions
- Reef Fish
- And More!
- All activities and necessary equipment
- Expert naturalist guide and experienced boat crew
- Drinking water, sodas, and snacks
- Lunch
- Transport to the meeting point (Baja Expeditions office, La Paz)
- Conservation Fee (Protected Area entrance fee)
- Crew gratuities
DEPARTURE DATES
View scheduled departures or contact us for additional dates.
Minimum 4 people required to run the tour. Private boat options available for smaller groups at an additional cost.
Know Before You Go
As a protected Whale Shark Sanctuary, our trips operate in full compliance with Mexican wildlife regulations. The area limits how many boats can enter and caps each visit at two hours, making your time in the bay feel exclusive, not crowded. Life jackets are required at all times. No touching, chasing, scuba diving, or flash photography inside the sanctuary. Your naturalist guide will walk you through everything — all you need to do is show up and enjoy it.
Seasonal Note: Whale sharks are most reliably spotted from mid-December to March, though seasons can vary (the 2024-25 season ended as early as late January). We’ll keep running trips as long as the sharks are here and the sanctuary is open.