Best time to travel to Bahamas

Swimming Pigs in Bahamas

Johnny Depp, Eddie Murphy, and Bill Gates—the Bahamas have quite a long list of notable residents. Who could ever know that the swimming pigs would outshine all the rest?

Best time: June–August

Swimming Pigs
Swimming Pigs
Swimming Pigs

The Bahamas have always been a playground for the rich and famous. Paparazzi constantly informed us on every other house purchase in the islands. But what are this news against the sensational swimming pigs of Exuma? During recent years they seem to have become a true sensation and the top must-see item on travelers’ wishlists.

Everyone who arrives to the Bahamas, heads to Exuma for the swimming pigs. Both kids and grown-ups enjoy watching cute animals. At the same time, it’s not that surprising the pigs have become so popular. How many of you can boast ever spotting a pig swimming?

Some locals suppose that this ability owes to the clarity of water—as though the pigs are not afraid and set off in depth, as they can see the bottom below. Well, maybe… Another mystery is where they actually come from to settle on Bahamas? Some suggestions indicate Columbus… But again nobody knows exactly. The only certain thing is their startling fame. Besides the pigs, Big Major Cay is also inhabited by A few stray cats and goats.

So if you ever get lucky to visit the Bahamas, don’t hesitate swim alongside with a beautiful pig. The most delightful season is summertime as it's warm enough for a beach season.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Bahamas to see the swimming pigs?

You can catch a glimpse of the swimming pigs in the Bahamas between June and August during the warm summer months. Visiting at that time promises the best opportunity to swim with the pigs and experience their charm for yourself. Show more

Where can I find the swimming pigs in the Bahamas?

Venture to Big Major Cay in the Exuma district of the Bahamas where the swimming pigs call home. Friendly pigs roam the land and waters, and tour boats can take you from Nassau to Exuma to see them. You can photograph and swim with these delightful animals, who also live on Treasure Island, Pig Beach, and Pig Island. Show more

What other animals inhabit Big Major Cay apart from the swimming pigs?

While the famous swimming pigs are the main attraction on Big Major Cay, visitors can also find some friendly cats and goats. In the surrounding waters, visitors can spot diverse marine life such as sea turtles, stingrays, and nurse sharks. Show more

Why are the pigs able to swim in the Bahamas?

An explanation on why the swimming pigs can swim is still unknown. Locals suggest their comfort in the water could be because they can see the bottom of the shallow water and that they are unafraid of humans. Also, their hooves act as paddles, which helps keep them afloat. Show more

Where did the swimming pigs come from and how did they settle on the Exuma island in the Bahamas?

There isn't a concrete record of how the swimming pigs arrived at their home of Big Major Cay in the Exuma islands of the Bahamas. One theory suggests that farmers released the pigs, while another suggests that they swam ashore after a shipwreck. Despite their origin, the swimming pigs have become a beloved attraction for many years on the island and have become popular among tourists. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin