Why This Popular Activity Near Los Cabos May Not Be As Easy To Book This Year 

Share The Article

Last Updated 3 months ago

One of the most popular activities among tourists visiting Los Cabos, particularly during the months of October through March, is swimming with whale sharks.   

One of the best places to take a whale shark tour is in La Paz, which is about 2 hours from Los Cabos.   

Hundreds, if not thousands, of tourists book whale shark tours every year, but this popular activity near Los Cabos may not be as easy to book this year.   

Limits On Whale Shark Tour Operator Permits In La Paz 

For obvious reasons, there is a limit on how many tour operator permits can be handed out to whale shark tour operators in La Paz.   

According to reports, that number is 83, which left several operators out of the scope.   

The limits are likely imposed so as not to overpopulate the waters with tour operators, as well as to help control the effect on the environment and the population of whale sharks.   

@helenabarberc Swimming with a 6 meter long young Whale Shark in La Paz, BCS. Adults can measure up to 12 meters in length. The largest ever reported was 18 meters long. Not a whale but an actual shark, they are by far the largest living non-mammal vertebrate – so clearly the biggest fish out there! They are very docile and feed only on plankton and very small things they filter through their mouths. #whaleshark #scubadiving #ocean #sealife #shark #adventure #swimming #nature ♬ Slip – Elliot Moss

Issues Facing Whale Shark Tour Operators  

A number of tour operators that have been giving whale shark tours for more than 15 years were denied permits this year.   

This is reportedly due to new rules regarding the submission of documents, which the tour operators denied permits say that they did follow.   

The situation led to a protest, but no resolution has been introduced so far.   

@wanderwithwendyf Swimming with whale sharks in La Paz, Mexico. What an amazing opportunity to see these gentle giants up close! #whalesharks #lapazmexico #cabosanlucas ♬ Here Comes the Sun – HERDIANSYAH

What This Means For Tourists Who Want To Take A Whale Shark Tour 

The limit on the number of tour operators that can provide tours means there are only a certain number of tours offered.   

Because of this limited number of tours, you may want to book this popular tour in advance.   

The most highly-rated tours are sure to sell out first. 

@_vane_p The largest fish in the world 🦈 #whaleshark#whalesharkdiving#whalesharkswimming#whalesharks#lapaz#lapazbajacaliforniasur#baja#bajacalifornia#fyp#travel ♬ Take My Breath Away – EZI

Swimming With Whale Sharks In La Paz 

The Bay of La Paz is a popular spot for swimming with whale sharks from around October to March.   

During this time, there can be nearly 100 whale sharks in the area.   

These gentle beasts can reach as much as 60 feet in length but typically range between 18 and 32.   

They are completely safe to swim with, an experience that is sure to be one you’ll never forget. 

@laura_milliken #lapazmexicobajacalifornia #lapazmexico #whalesharksmexico #swimmingwithwhaleshark ♬ Happy – TimTaj

La Paz Whale Shark Tours You Can Book Now 

Even with a limit on how many tour providers can operate, there’s still no shortage of tours available.   

Whale shark tours range in price but start at around $120 per person.   

An average whale shark tour for that price will just include snorkeling and use of equipment, and maybe snacks and water.   

The higher priced the tour, the more extravagant it is.   

For example, a $227 tour might include lunch and even alcoholic beverages, so it’s important to shop around for tours.   

@cabolife #whalesharks #lapaz #baja #loscabos #swim #whales #snorkel ♬ Chill Vibes – Tollan Kim

Other La Paz Marine Life Tours  

Swimming with whale sharks isn’t the only opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife in La Paz or Los Cabos.   

Snorkeling is popular in both areas due to the abundance of marine life, particularly in the Sea of Cortez, which famous oceanic explorer Jaques Cousteau once referred to as the “World’s Aquarium.”   

During certain times of the year, whale watching is also a super popular activity, from about December through April.  

@gomezherb Amazing to see whales on our trip sea of Cortez #travel #traveltheworld #vacation #travels #lapaz #vacations #goodtimes #whale #islaespiritusanto ♬ Don't Worry Be Happy – Reggae Allstars

More Reasons To Visit La Paz 

La Paz is the capital city of the state of Baja California Sur and has much to offer for tourists.   

Rich history, culture, art, and more are all worth exploring in La Paz.   

Since it’s only a short drive from Los Cabos, it’s the perfect addition to a Los Cabos getaway.