Summer visitors to Cancún and the Riviera Maya can have their own once in a lifetime wildlife encounter straight out of National Geographic, a swim with the whale sharks, the world’s largest living fish. From mid-May to mid-September, hundreds of these gentle giants migrate to the northern waters of the Mexican Caribbean to feed on plankton, in what biologists say is the largest whale shark gathering in the world.
Whale sharks are great ocean wanderers, migrating thousands of miles through the tropics in search of the plankton and fish eggs that are their staple diet. Each one has a unique pattern of dappled markings that are used by marine biologists to compile a photo catalog. Using this international database and by tagging sharks they can now begin to map the movements of these enigmatic creatures during the year.
Imagine snorkeling alongside a whale shark and watching as a creature the size of a bus swims placidly by. It is an amazing feeling and if you are interested in nature, it’s one you shouldn’t miss.
Guided trips to the whale shark feeding grounds are available through Thomas More Travel. Book online or at the tour desk during your stay.
