Featured destinations to spot Whale Shark
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- Likely
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Where Whale Shark has been recorded
Frequently asked questions about Whale Shark
Where can you see the Whale Shark?
The Whale Shark can be seen at 45 dive destinations in 11 countries. The best spots include Addu Atoll (Maldives), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Apo Reef (Philippines), Ari Atoll (Maldives), and Baa Atoll (Maldives).
What is the best time to see the Whale Shark?
Sightings of the Whale Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Aliwal Shoal from April to September, Apo Reef from March to May, Baa Atoll from June to September, and Baja California Sur from October to April.
Can you see the Whale Shark all year round?
Yes. At Ari Atoll and South Ari Atoll, the Whale Shark is seen all year round.
Where can you see the Whale Shark in Maldives?
In Maldives, you can see the Whale Shark at Addu Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Fuvahmulah, Hanifaru Bay, and South Ari Atoll.
Where can you see the Whale Shark in Mexico?
In Mexico, you can see the Whale Shark at Baja California Sur, Holbox, Isla Mujeres, Revillagigedo Islands, and Socorro Islands.
Where can you see the Whale Shark in Thailand?
In Thailand, you can see the Whale Shark at Koh Lipe, Koh Tao, Richelieu Rock, and Similan Islands.
How big does the Whale Shark get?
The Whale Shark can reach up to 12 m in length and 19 t in weight.
What habitat does the Whale Shark live in?
The Whale Shark is found in these habitats: open water.
How deep does the Whale Shark live?
The Whale Shark lives from the surface down to 1200 m.
What does the Whale Shark eat?
Lives on plankton, picking drifting animals and larvae out of the water column.
When is the Whale Shark most active?
Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.
How long does the Whale Shark live?
The Whale Shark lives 70 to 100 years.
What is the conservation status of the Whale Shark?
The Whale Shark is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Whale Shark. Spotted something that looks off?
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