The Whale Sharks Season in Riviera Maya
The season of the whale sharks in Mexico – Yucatan Peninsula begins from mid-May and ends close to the mid of September. However, the greatest concentration of whale sharks that you can find in Riviera Maya is between the months of July and August. It is during the summer season that people from all around the world come to enjoy their vacation in Riviera Maya. And you will be absolutely surprised to know that a huge number of whale sharks come to feed on plankton, in the northern Isla Mujeres and Holbox areas.
About Whale Sharks in Mexico:
Whale sharks are undoubtedly the largest fish swimming the world’s seas. Growing up to 40 feet or 12 meters in length, they can weigh up to 20 tons! Luckily for most sea-dwellers and snorkelers, whale sharks are not carnivorous. They just love eating their favorite food, which is plankton and they also tend to scoop up tiny sea plants as well. They will occasionally eat very small fish as well – and they do that when they open their gigantic mouths to filter all the plankton and a few fish.
These beautiful and graceful fishes prefer to swim in warm waters, where there are several upwelling of cold, nutritious water where they can come to feed. That is why the island of Isla Mujeres and Holbox are so popular for whale sharking.
Whale sharks are called whale sharks solely because of their massive size, apart from that there are no other similarities and or attributes that the two aquatic giants have in common.
You can easily identify a whale shark, well, duh – it is a 40 feet fish! But apart from that whale sharks have a beautiful grayish to brownish sides and back with several white spots on its upper body with horizontal stripes.
Fun to Swim With Whales Sharks
You can go snorkeling with whale sharks—it’s an incredible experience! However, it’s crucial for experienced snorkelers to participate. Despite their size, whale sharks are gentle and peaceful beings, not threatening to humans at all. Don’t be fooled by their massive bodies—they are surprisingly fast swimmers!
Spotting other Aquatic Life
As you head out to swim with whale sharks in the waters of Isla Mujeres and/or Holbox, be prepared to encounter other fascinating marine creatures like manta rays, mobula rays, and playful dolphins along the way. The journey to the whale sharks offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich diversity of marine life in the area.
A Species Endangered
Sadly, whale shark populations have significantly declined in recent years due to relentless poaching for their fins, particularly in the Philippines. However, the World Wildlife Federation is actively working to combat these atrocities and protect these majestic creatures from mutilation. Efforts are underway to preserve and restore the dwindling numbers of whale sharks, promoting conservation and raising awareness about the importance of their conservation.
A Wonderful Experience
There is absolutely no doubt about the fact that swimming with whale sharks in Mexico is a magnificent experience. Taking underwater selfies with such a beautiful giant will leave you with an immortalized memory and you will yearn for more. And with Absolute Adventure at your side, we ensure that you have the best of time while in Riviera Maya!
