Join a guided tour to swim alongside the largest fish in the world in the waters of La Paz, one of the best places in the world for whale shark encounters
⭐ Small groups | 👥 Expert guides | 🤿 Wetsuit and Snorkeling gear included
Important (dates, times & group limits):
This activity is fully regulated by authorities, who control operating dates, time slots, and the number of people in the water.
Dates
The whale shark season opening is determined by local authorities and depends on the number of whale sharks present in the Bay of La Paz each year. If the season has already started and your selected date appears available, your tour is considered confirmed. If the season has not yet started, we strongly recommend having at least one additional day available.
Authorities assign designated operating days only once the season officially opens (typically mid to late November), and no company can guarantee a specific date in advance. If we are unable to operate and you do not have flexibility for an alternative day, you will receive a full refund, and we will gladly assist you in finding availability with trusted collaborators.
If your preferred date does not appear available, feel free to contact us. It may be one of our non-designated operating days, and we can request availability with the authorities and check for any open spaces.
Times
There are four possible time slots, which include meeting at the docks, gear fitting, boat ride to the checkpoint with authorities, authorization, approximately 2 hours of activity, and the return boat ride:
7:00 am – 11:30 am (first slot of the day; it has one extra hour as we are among the first to locate the sharks)
9:30 am – 1:30 pm
11:30 am – 3:30 pm
1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
The exact time is assigned by authorities and is usually confirmed the day before. While we always aim for our preferred schedule (9:30 am), assignment depends on the official system, so we recommend being flexible or having a second option. Unless otherwise requested, we prioritize time slots in the following order: 9:30 am, 7:00 am, then 11:30 am. The last time slot (1:30 pm) is only recommended for guests who do not have other options.
If you are only available during a specific time of day (morning or afternoon), please contact us before booking so we can confirm availability for your schedule.
Number of people
Authorities allow a maximum of five people per boat in the water at any given time, regardless of how many guests are onboard. Whether a boat has four or thirty guests, the rules do not change. Larger groups must rotate, which often means more waiting and less actual time swimming. Time in the area is also limited for all operators. Encounters can vary—sometimes the sharks remain in one area, while other times they move quickly. For this reason, small groups are strongly recommended, especially for less confident swimmers. Fewer people typically means more time in the water and a calmer, more personal experience.
Activity
Encounters can vary—sometimes the sharks remain in one area, while other times they move quickly. For this reason, small groups are strongly recommended, especially for less confident swimmers. Fewer people typically means more time in the water and a calmer, more personal experience. We prioritize small groups, quality equipment, a well-prepared boat, and professional guides—ensuring a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable experience overall.
Difference between our boats
The main difference in pricing comes down to group size. On the larger boat, we accommodate up to 10 guests, while the smaller boat is limited to just 5, offering a more private experience. Authorities limit both the time spent in the area and the number of people allowed in the water to a maximum of five per boat at any given time. On a 10-person boat, guests are divided into two or sometimes three rotations (depending on the group), meaning some will be waiting while others are in the water.
With the smaller boat, rotations are not necessary, allowing you to maximize your time swimming and enjoy a smoother, more continuous experience with the whale sharks.
Have the BEST swim with whale sharks in La Paz with:
- Comfortable and secure boats
- Group tours designed for adventure
- Rental of wetsuit and snorkel gear INCLUDED and in great condition
- Departs from Muelle Fiscal in Downtown La Paz
- Experienced guides and captains
- W/C on board
- Small freshwater shower on board
- First Aid Kits and Oxygen on board
Please note:
The whale shark season opening is determined by local authorities and depends on the number of whale sharks present in the Bay of La Paz each year.
Contact us to book a COMBO TOUR, an excellent way to enjoy this activity and the other popular experience of swimming with sea lion in La Paz. -> BOOK your combo tour
Whale shark regulations are the same for all companies: limited time in the area and a maximum of five people in the water at once. Whether a boat has four or thirty guests, the rules do not change. Larger groups must rotate, which means more waiting and less actual time swimming with the whale sharks.
Encounters vary, sometimes the sharks stay in one spot, other times they move quickly. For this reason, small groups are strongly recommended, especially for less confident swimmers. Fewer people means more time in the water and a calmer, more personal experience.
Our tours may be priced differently because we prioritize small groups, quality equipment, a well-prepared boat, and professional guides, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Whale Sharks La Paz Tour – Itinerary*
To be determined
Meeting and Departure at Muelle Fiscal
Meet your crew, check in, sign necessary waivers, and get fitted with snorkel gear. Board the boat and set off into the Bay of La Paz. The boat ride to the whale shark zone takes approximately 20-30 minutes, where you can enjoy views of the coastline.
2 hours
Find and Swim with the Whale Sharks
The guide will help locate the whale sharks and lead you into the water for an up-close snorkeling experience. Each person will have opportunities to swim with the whale sharks, rotating in small groups to ensure a safe and intimate experience. The time spent in the water depends on how many whale sharks are in the area and how they are behaving. Between swims, relax on the boat and enjoy snacks and soft-drinks.
To be determined
Return to shore
After the whale shark swim, take a short scenic boat tour of the bay.
Arrival to Muelle Fiscal 2 – 3 hours after departure.
*For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.
FAQ
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