Private tours with hotel pickup in Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Tulum

★★★★★

5.0 · 1,500+ reviews on Tripadvisor

  • 5.0 · Tripadvisor
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★★★★★5.0· 1,500+ reviews on TripAdvisor· Travelers’ Choice 2021–2025

Whale Shark Private Tour

Live a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with this Whale Shark Private Tour – or semiprivate. Swim safely alongside the world’s largest fish in the warm Caribbean waters, guided by certified experts who prioritize your comfort and safety. After your snorkel, relax with a beachside meal on Isla Mujeres. With private transportation, this is the perfect Private tour from Tulum and Playa del Carmen for ocean lovers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
7-8 hours
Your group only, up to 10

Hotel pickup included

Lunch included

English, Spanish, French
Swimming with whale sharks in clear waters off Cancun, offering a serene and immersive experience by Carey Tours.
Snorkeling with majestic whale sharks in clear waters near Cancun, an immersive marine experience by Carey Tours.
Swimming alongside gentle whale sharks in the clear waters near Cancun, a serene experience by Carey Tours.
Two boats anchored in calm waters off the coast of Tulum, enjoying a serene day of exploration by Carey Tours.
Swimming with a whale shark in the warm waters off Cancun, an immersive experience featuring marine beauty by Carey Tours.
Snorkeling alongside majestic whale sharks in the clear waters off Cancun, experiencing marine life up close by Carey Tours.
Swimming with a gentle whale shark in clear waters, an authentic experience provided by Carey Tours.
Snorkeling with a whale shark in clear waters off Cancun, surrounded by vibrant marine life, provided by Carey Tours
Group enjoying a private snorkeling tour in the vibrant waters of the Caribbean Sea, led by Carey Tours.
Close-up of a majestic whale shark swimming calmly in the warm waters, witnessed during a snorkeling tour by Carey Tours.
Swimming with a majestic whale shark in the turquoise waters off Cancun, guided by local experts by Carey Tours.
Snorkeling in the vibrant waters off Cancun, guided by local experts, enjoying an immersive marine experience by Carey Tours
Snorkeling experience in the vibrant waters of Cancun, guided by local experts, enjoying the marine life by Carey Tours

Ready to Swim with Whale Sharks?

Swim alongside the world’s largest fish in the Caribbean waters between Cancun and Isla Mujeres with this Whale Shark Tour; a premium snorkeling experience . This private tour Tulum and private tour Playa del Carmen option lets you witness whale sharks without crowds or rush. From June through September, whale sharks migrate to feed on plankton in these warm waters. Swimming with these gentle giants—some reaching 40 feet—is a peaceful experience guided by certified local experts.

As a family-owned local agency operating in the Riviera Maya since 2018, Carey Tours specializes in small-group experiences (maximum 10 guests) and fully private whale shark tours exclusively for your group.

Snorkeling with a whale shark in clear waters off Cancun, surrounded by vibrant marine life, provided by Carey Tours
Whale shark private tour – Carey Tours Riviera Maya

This tour combines adventure with comfort: early pickup, breakfast, multiple whale shark encounters, fresh ceviche lunch on Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte, and private transportation. It’s a Tulum snorkeling private tour that respects marine life and prioritizes quality. Therefore, it´s ideal for families, couples, groups, and travellers valuing eco-friendly practices and authentic local expertise from guides who know these waters intimately.

Book you adventure today!

Duration7-8 hoursMonday to Saturday
PickupFrom your hotelTulum, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cancun
GroupUp to 10 guestsYour group only
PriceFrom $199 USDStarting price
GuidePrivate, local guideEnglish, Spanish, French
Ideal forFamilies, Groups & Friends, Couples, Bachelor/Bachelorette PartiesYour group only

SafetyCertified local guidesSafety briefing before each activity

Cancellation95% refundCancel 48 h ahead

Which places does this tour visit?

This private tour visits Caribbean Sea (Cancun-Isla Mujeres) and Playa Norte.

  • Caribbean Sea (Cancun-Isla Mujeres)
  • Playa Norte

Your day, hour by hour

Hotel pickup, every stop and the drive back, with approximate times. Your group only, so the order and the pace adjust to you.

Stop 1: Hotel Pickup (5:30 AM - 7:30 AM)Private pickup from your accommodation in Tulum (5:30 AM), Playa del Carmen (6:30 AM), or Cancun (7:30 AM). Early start ensures calm seas and optimal sightings. Your bilingual guide shares whale shark insights during the scenic drive to Punta Sam.
Stop 2: Punta Sam Marina (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM)Enjoy traditional Mexican breakfast with fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee. Use facilities, receive snorkeling equipment, and attend the safety briefing covering whale shark etiquette and ocean protocols.
Stop 3: Whale Shark Encounter (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)Board the boat and head to active feeding zones. Snorkelers rotate in pairs with the guide, swimming alongside whale sharks for several minutes each. Multiple encounters over 1-2 hours include sightings of sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish.
Stop 4: Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)Relax at one of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches. Fresh ceviche lunch with drinks at a beachfront location. Free time to swim, rest on white sand, or explore the island's northern tip.
Stop 5: Return Journey (1:30 PM - 3:00 PM)Depart Isla Mujeres, return to Punta Sam by 2:00 PM, and arrive back at your hotel by mid-afternoon.

Times are a guide. The order and the pace adjust to your group: customize this tour.

What’s included

What the price covers for your group, and what to bring on the day.

Included

  • Private Guide: Your knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience.
  • Private Round-Trip Transportation: Comfortable transport to and from your hotel.
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, featuring delicious Caribbean cuisine.
  • Snacks and Drinks: Refreshments provided throughout the tour.
  • Entrance Fees: All necessary fees for whale shark activities included.
  • Snorkeling Equipment: Gear provided for your underwater exploration – mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket.

What to bring

To ensure a fantastic experience, please pack the following essentials:

  • Swimwear and towels
  • Sandals or water shoes
  • Hat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Biodegradable sunblock (required for marine protection)
  • Long sleeve shirt or rashguard for sun protection
  • Cash for souvenirs and tips
  • Waterproof bag for personal items
  • Seasickness medication (if prone to motion sickness)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Change of dry clothes for after the tour

Pickup

Do you pick us up at our hotel?

Convenient pickup from your hotel in Tulum, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, or Cancun. Pickup times: Tulum (5:30 AM), Playa del Carmen (6:30 AM), Cancun (7:30 AM). We confirm exact pickup details upon booking. Special locations like Puerto Aventuras and Akumal available with advance notice.

★★★★★

Rated 5.0 by 1,500+ travelers on TripAdvisor

Families, couples and groups write about the guides, the pace and having the day to themselves. Read some of their photos and reviews below.

1,500+reviews, 5.0 average on TripAdvisor

5Travelers’ Choice awards, 2021–2025

2018family-run in Playa del Carmen since

What guests say about this tour

★★★★★

“Our private whale shark tour was absolutely incredible and a true bucket list experience.”

Megan KWinchester, Virginia5-star review on Tripadvisor

★★★★★

“We just had the most amazing day swimming the whale sharks.”

Emma O'Connor5-star review on Tripadvisor

Read all 1,500+ reviews on Tripadvisor

Questions before you book

Ask us anything on WhatsApp
Is this a private tour or shared with others?
This is a fully private experience designed exclusively for your group, allowing flexible timing and personalized attention.
Do I need snorkeling experience?
No experience is required. Our certified guides provide instructions and supervise you at all times.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, this tour is suitable for families with children who are comfortable in the water and follow safety instructions.
What's the difference between semi-private and private?
Semi-private tours have max 10 guests. Private tours mean exclusive boat, guide, and flexible schedule for your group onl
Can I touch the whale sharks?
No. Mexican law prohibits contact. Maintaining distance protects you and these endangered animals.
How far in advance should I book?
Book 2-4 weeks ahead, especially July-August. Reservations 30+ days early get 10% Carey10 discount.
Why choose Carey Tours Riviera Maya?
We are a family-owned local company offering certified guides, private transportation, and luxury experiences that avoid crowds and mass tourism.
Updated October 2026 · Carey Tours, family-run in Playa del Carmen since 2018

Photos and reviews from our guests

Guests on this tour

Close-up of a majestic whale shark swimming calmly in the warm waters, witnessed during a snorkeling tour by Carey Tours.Private boat anchored in clear turquoise waters, providing a serene experience for guests exploring the beautiful coast by Carey Tours.Swimming alongside a gentle whale shark in the clear waters of Cancun during an immersive snorkeling tour by Carey Tours.+4more photos

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Read before you go

Guides from our blog on the places this tour visits.

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Book this private tourFrom $199 p/p · 95% refund if you cancel 48 h ahead
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