To swim with whale sharks, people usually head to the Philippines, the Maldives, or Mexico, but few know that you can do it in Indonesia. An encounter with these gentle giants brings goosebumps -- whether from awe or excitement -- and an overwhelming joy of a dream come true, savoring the beauty of the world around us...
We will set out to swim with the largest fish in the world -- the whale shark! You will see these giants in their natural habitat and even touch them, if you dare.
What awaits us?
- A boat trip on a traditional wooden vessel
- Swimming at arm's length from these gentle ocean dwellers
- Watching sharks during feeding time
- Greeting the sunrise with a view of Mount Tambora
- Underwater GoPro photography -- stunning shots alongside the sharks
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Morning arrival at Sumbawa Airport.
Transfer to a mini hotel near the whale shark departure point. Check-in. Rest.
Day 2
Early morning around 3:00 AM (exact time depends on the season), transfer to the meeting point.
At 3:30 AM we depart in search of whale sharks. The ride on a traditional wooden boat takes approximately 1.5 hours. We will have a light breakfast and fresh fruit, warming up with hot tea.
We will greet the sunrise with a view of Mount Tambora and head out to snorkel with these harmless giants. Our guide will film you with an underwater GoPro camera -- capturing stunning photos alongside the sharks.
Drone footage can be ordered for ~100 $ (advance booking required).
Return to port. Transfer to the hotel.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Free time.
12:00 PM Check-out from the hotel.
Transfer to Sumbawa Besar to the hotel listed in the itinerary. Check-in, rest.
Free time.
Day 3
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out with luggage.
Transfer to the airport. Flight to Bali or another island*
Airfare is not included in the tour price. The company does not guarantee a 100% encounter with the sharks
Tour price is quoted in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) per person
Transfers are provided by minivan
Transfers are provided by minivan
| Minivan | Group size | Price per person Single room | Price per person Twin room** |
|---|---|---|---|
| (1st vehicle) | 1 | Rp 8.053.000 (~ $489) | - |
| 2 | Rp 5.084.000 (~ $309) | Rp 4.461.000 (~ $271) | |
| 3 | Rp 4.100.000 (~ $249) | Rp 3.149.000 (~ $191) | |
| 4 | Rp 3.608.000 (~ $219) | Rp 2.657.000 (~ $161) | |
| 5 | Rp 3.444.000 (~ $209) | Rp 2.493.000 (~ $151) | |
| (2nd vehicle) | 6 (2nd vehicle) | Rp 5.248.000 (~ $319) | Rp 4.281.000 (~ $260) |
| 7 | Rp 3.887.000 (~ $236) | Rp 2.936.000 (~ $178) | |
| 8 | Rp 3.461.000 (~ $210) | Rp 2.510.000 (~ $153) | |
| 9 | Rp 3.248.000 (~ $197) | Rp 2.296.000 (~ $140) | |
| 10 | Rp 3.133.000 (~ $190) | Rp 2.165.000 (~ $132) |
This tour uses a minivan. Upon request, we can provide a Toyota Hiace minibus.
** Sharing a room with another group member
Included in the tour price:
- Transfers as per itinerary.
- 2-night hotel stay with breakfasts as per itinerary.
- Whale shark boat tour: boat, certified English-speaking guide, light breakfast and fresh fruit, water, tea/coffee, snorkeling equipment (mask, fins), GoPro photography, administrative fees.
Not included:
- Airfare Bali-Sumbawa-Bali (we can help you purchase tickets).
- Meals.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses -- cash (Indonesian Rupiah).
What to bring:
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Warm sweater and socks (it is cold on the boat in the morning)
- Windproof jacket
- Rain poncho
- Swimsuit/trunks (put on before the shark trip)
- Sunscreen
- Rash guard and leggings, optional (plankton can be present sometimes)
- GoPro, if you have one
- Waterproof bag (recommended)
- Good vibes
Recommendations:
This tour is not recommended for children under 7 years old.