Slow moving filter feeding fish, whale sharks are giants of the underwater world.
Despite its size, the whale shark does not pose danger to humans. They feed almost exclusively on plankton and, therefore, are completely harmless to humans.
These rare gentle giants can only be found in a few parts of the world but it’s well worth the trek. Diving alongside whale sharks is a humbling reminder of nature’s raw and awe-inspiring power.
Here are top destinations where you can hang out with the giant Whale Shark:
1. Holbox, Méxio
This small island off the northwest coast of Cancun, Mexico boasts a relatively large population of whale sharks during the summer season. There are snorkeling tours that will take you out to the areas where whale sharks are known to hang out in. Then, you can jump into the water and swim just meters are from these gentle giants.
2. Oslob Cebu, Phillippines
Whale sharks are off the coast of Oslob Cebu, Phillippines year round. You can hop into the water and snorkel right up alongside these magnificent creatures. The fishermen of this small island give a 99% guarantee of seeing a whale shark on your trip, because they feed the whale sharks at a particular spot every day. This almost-guarantee is a huge plus because although whale sharks are massive animals they can be hard to find in the vast ocean.
3. Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, Ecuador
Swimming with these massive creatures in such a remote place truly intensifies the beauty of the experience.The Galapagos Islands are truly remarkable in terms of natural beauty, and the additional opportunity to swim with whale sharks only enhances it’s magic. It’s a double-package: Not only are the whales beautiful, but the scenery on the island is also spectacular.
4. The Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta
If you aren’t quite up to the feat of swimming in the sea with whale sharks, you can still enjoy them from a distance by taking a trip to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. There are four whale sharks in the massive Ocean Voyager Tank.
You can enjoy them either through the glass or take the plunge and swim with them in the aquarium. It is amazing to just sit in front of the aquarium and appreciate their beauty as the majestic creatures swim around one of the biggest aquariums in the world.
5. Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia
Listed in the world heritage sites, Ningaloo Reef boasts of having the largest fish in the sea and is the only place in Australia where you can experience the adventure of diving alongside the giant sea-creature in all its glory!