Swimming or snorkelling with the largest fish in the world—the whale shark—is nothing like what adventure enthusiasts are looking for. This amazing trip allows you to discover the underwater world and come across these gentle giants in their native habitat, therefore creating a unique experience. Recommended reading?

The biggest fish species on Earth, whale sharks can weigh as much as 23 tons and reach a startling 12 meters in length. Whale sharks are benign filter feeders rather than predatory animals despite their great size and five-foot-wide mouths. They have no teeth, hence there is no need to worry; their peaceful demeanor makes them ideal friends for a snorkelling vacation.

With more and more people rushing to engage in this thrilling sport, the whale shark tourist business in locations like Mexico is exploding. In areas like Cabo San Lucas, conscientious tour companies are encouraging sustainable whale shark travel, therefore benefiting the local population as well as helping to preserve these amazing animals.

Here are some useful pointers to make sure your swimming or snorkelling trip with whale sharks goes as best it could:

1. When should I depart?
Places like Cabo San Lucas usually start their whale shark season in mid-May and runs through September. Try to plan your vacation during the low season, when fewer people will guarantee the best experience. This will enable your personal and more serene meeting with the whale sharks.

2. What should I bring?
Booking your trip with a trustworthy tour operator relieves you of equipment concerns. Most tour companies will provide you all you need—including wetsuits, snorkelling vests, and other required gear. Just make sure you ask ahead whether there is anything especially you should bring.

3. Arrive timing is important.
Arranging your excursion early is usually advisable. Here the adage “the early bird catches the worm” holds true: arriving early allows more opportunity to appreciate the water before the throngs come. Starting early guarantees that you will be serene and peaceful and that you will have enough time to swim among the whale sharks.

4. What NOT to Do?
Not using sunscreen: Although you should take care of your skin, steer clear of using sunscreen right before swimming. Sunscreens’ chemical components might endanger the whale sharks themselves as well as the fragile marine life. If you have to use sunscreen, wash off any lotion or cream before getting into the sea.

Though it’s tempting to approach near to these amazing animals, always keep at least five meters far from the Whale Sharks. Being wild animals, whale sharks should be respected in order to prevent upsetting them.

Though it’s fantastic to capture memories, flash photography can disturb the whale sharks. Rather, capture images and films with a camera free of a flash. This guarantees that the meeting will remain peaceful without interfering with the animals’ normal behavior.

Following these guidelines will help you to be ready for a very remarkable snorkelling trip with the whale sharks. Remember to respect these gentle giants and their habitat for a safe and remarkable encounter; enjoy the experience!