Whale shark season in La Paz: when to go and what to expect

The whale shark is the largest fish in the ocean. It is also a gentle one: a filter feeder that lives on plankton. In La Paz Bay you can slip into the water and swim alongside one.

This guide covers when to go, what to wear in the water, how a trip with us works, the rules and what to pack.

When is whale shark season in La Paz?

We run the Whale Shark Snorkel from November to April. If a whale shark is the main reason for your trip, plan your dates inside that window.

Outside those months, other animals take the stage. Sea lions, dolphins, mobula rays and whales each have their own season in the Sea of Cortez. Our wildlife calendar guide sets them out month by month.

Will I see a whale shark?

We can't promise it. We don't control marine life, so we never promise to see any animal.

If the whale shark does not show up on your day, that is bad luck. It is part of meeting a wild animal in its own water.

Water temperature and what to wear

The water changes a lot across the season.

In November it is around 28 °C, and you will not need a wetsuit.

From December to February it drops to 23 to 25 °C. A 3/5 mm wetsuit keeps you comfortable.

March and April are the coolest months, at 21 to 23 °C. Plan on a 5/7 mm wetsuit.

Where does the trip start?

We meet at the Muelle Fiscal pier in La Paz, right on the Malecón. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own way to the pier.

How the trip works

The Whale Shark Snorkel lasts about 3.5 hours. Groups are small, with a maximum of 8 guests on board. You can take a shared place and join a small group of fellow ocean lovers. Or you can book the boat privately, so it is just your group at your own pace.

Once we reach the whale shark area, you can spend up to 2 hours there. A certified guide is with you, and snorkel gear is included. Our guides speak fluent Spanish and English. We keep a respectful distance from the shark at all times.

You can choose between a life jacket and a wetsuit. Freediving is not allowed with the whale shark, so you stay at the surface and watch it from above.

On board we carry snacks and fruit, drinking water and soft drinks.

Photos and video

Cameras are welcome in the whale shark area. We also film the experience, and the video is included in your trip. If you want professional still images as well, you can add a photo package when you request your place.

Can I touch a whale shark?

No. Touching the whale shark is prohibited.

This rule sits at the center of how we work. Our philosophy is simple: "The best interaction with wildlife is one in which the animal never had to change its behavior because of our presence."

In practice, that means we do not chase the shark, feed it or crowd it. We keep our distance and let it decide how close it comes. The no-freediving rule is part of the same idea. A calm group at the surface lets the shark carry on as if we were not there.

Who can join?

The trip is open to all levels. Basic swimming skills are required, and you should feel comfortable in the water.

If you are less confident, choose the life jacket. It keeps you floating with very little effort, so you can relax and watch.

There is no minimum age, so families are welcome. If you are not sure the trip suits your kids, message us first. You can ask without booking and without any commitment.

What to bring

Bring swimwear and a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap. Warm clothing is on the list too, so pack a layer for the boat.

Snorkel gear is included. Gratuities are not. You can pay by card.

Is the whale shark snorkel right for me?

It suits you if you want a calm, close encounter with a very large animal, in a small group, without needing any diving experience. It suits you less if you were hoping to dive down beside the shark or get a hand on it. Neither is allowed, and for good reason.

It is also a good first wildlife trip in La Paz. The rules are clear, the group is small, and the time in the water is generous.

Book the Whale Shark Snorkel

Our Whale Shark Snorkel runs from November to April from the Muelle Fiscal pier in La Paz, for up to 8 guests. You can request your place with no payment upfront, and we usually reply within 24 hours. If you have a question about dates, sea conditions or your kids, send us a message on WhatsApp first.