Whale Shark Watching in Kenya 2024

The world’s largest fish, whale shark, can be more than 40 feet in length and weigh about 50,000 lb. However, these marine giants are not a threat to humans. They feed on plankton and small fish. In their search for plankton, whale sharks migrate to warm ocean waters near Kenya during the summer months, from January to mid-March, and again in the spring, from October to early November.

Whale sharks are nomadic creatures. They spend most of the time traveling through the ocean solo. In Kenya, whale sharks are often spotted along the South Coast. During the spring and summer months, you can try the amazing experience of seeing and even swimming with whale sharks, if you are brave enough to get into the water next to them.

Where to see whale sharks

Watamu National Marine Park, north of Mombasa, is a sanctuary and breeding ground for numerous species. In addition to whale sharks, you can encounter the devil rays, mantas, dolphins, and turtles. Sea excursions and snorkeling tours to Watamu National Marine Park are offered by many operators. However, it's not guaranteed that you'll see whale sharks. Higher chances are offered south of Mombasa at Diani Beach, a paradise with white sand, colorful corals, and rich and diverse marine life.

The unspoiled environment of Diani is perfect for watching whale sharks, as well as amazing humpback whales, beautiful turtles, and playful dolphins. The area boasts marine research, a scuba diving center, and a variety of fun ocean cruises. Many call Diani the best beach in Africa!

Whale Shark Safaris

Diani Beach is famous for its whale shark safaris, a unique experience of interaction with whale sharks. Tour operators use spotter airplanes to search for whale sharks in the ocean. Once spotted, the boat heads to meet the whale shark. This significantly increases the chances of seeing these amazing sea mammals, and passengers can swim and snorkel next to them.

Whale Shark Adventures is the area's largest tour operator. Its research vessel, White Star, is equipped with a maritime hydrophone and other equipment. Whale Shark Adventures organize whale shark expeditions with the help of spotter airplanes from January 1 to April 1. Tours last for four hours. The minimum age for passengers is 2. The cost is $220 per person. Whale Shark Adventures stand is located at Baobab Beach Hotel and Watano House in the center of Diani Beach.

Coral Spirit is another operator, offering an amazing experience of interaction with whale sharks during February and March. The cost is $250 per person. A charter snorkeling tour is also possible.

Whale Shark Facts

Even though whale sharks can reach the size of a bus, they are usually not aggressive and don't attack swimmers. However, humans must maintain a safe distance from these sea mammals and make sure sharks don't perceive them as a threat. Keep in mind that whale sharks have approximately 3,000 small teeth! Sharks' backs are blue-gray, with distinctive white spots and stripes. Their bellies are bright white. White spots are unique to each individual and are often used to identify and count whale sharks.

Whale sharks live for 70-100 years. Juveniles reach maturity around the time they turn 30. Whale shark pups are born live and are less than two feet long. Mothers protect them from predators until they reach full size. Adult whale sharks are not threatened by any creatures, except for humans.