Magnificent Giants | Lesser-Known Whale Shark Encounters Around the World

For mindful travelers seeking awe-inspiring wildlife experiences, few moments compare to swimming alongside a gentle giant like the whale shark. While popular spots like Mexico's Isla Holbox and the Philippines' Oslob often grab the spotlight, there are hidden gems around the world where you can enjoy a more ethical, eco-friendly, and intimate whale shark encounter.

If you're crafting your next travel planning adventure for 2025, here are lesser-known destinations offering unforgettable experiences with the ocean’s biggest fish.

1. Mafia Island, Tanzania

Mafia Island, just off Tanzania’s coast, offers one of the most responsible whale shark experiences in the world. From October to February, travelers can join small-group tours that prioritize sustainable travel practices. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and pristine marine environment make it a perfect spot for experiential travel seekers and solo travelers looking for raw beauty without the crowds.

2. Honda Bay, Palawan, Philippines

While Oslob is crowded, the serene waters of Honda Bay in Palawan remain largely undiscovered. Here, travelers can spot whale sharks between April and October, often alongside colorful coral reefs. This destination fits beautifully into a mindful travel itinerary focused on preserving marine life and supporting local communities.

Photo by NOAA

3. Tofo Beach, Mozambique

Mozambique’s Tofo Beach is a hidden gem for adventurers interested in combining beach vibes with impactful wildlife encounters. Whale sharks are present year-round, but November to February offers the best visibility. The area's responsible tour operators emphasize conservation and education, making it ideal for those interested in ethical travel ideas.

4. Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Unlike its famous cousin, the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef offers a more personal, sustainable way to interact with whale sharks. From March to July, small tour groups allow travelers to snorkel beside these gentle giants in crystal-clear waters. It's perfect for those planning a spring adventure off the beaten path.

Photo credits: Belize Scuba

5. Gladdan Spit, Belize

Gladdan Spit in Belize is the only place where you can dive and encounter huge schools of spawning fish at the same time. As well as finding yourself in a school of horse-eye or Carville jacks, Dolphins and other Sharks (Caribbean Reef Sharks, Bull Sharks or Hammerhead Sharks).

Belize Scuba offers visitors diving and snorkelling experiences to see Whale Sharks in Gladden Spit. Its Whale Shark Tour normally lasts around a full day, beginning in the morning and not returning until the late evening. Divers get two dives, and snorkelers get two snorkel sessions in the Whale Shark zone. Lunch is provided and guests can also go snorkelling in the patched reefs inside the barrier reef.

For travelers seeking unforgettable wildlife encounters beyond the typical tourist trail, these lesser-known whale shark destinations offer the chance to connect deeply with nature while practicing eco-conscious, ethical travel. Add one of these spots to your 2025 travel planning and make your next journey truly meaningful.