Whale Shark Season in Bahía Solano
Every April and May, the wild Colombian Pacific transforms. Leave the crowds behind and experience the raw thrill of scuba diving and freediving alongside the ocean's most magnificent and gentle giants.
Where Adventure Runs on Fins
Bring your camera, bring your respect for the ocean, and let the wild Pacific write your story.
Diving with Giants (Scuba)
- Drop into our spectacular rocky reefs and shipwrecks. As you glide through the water, a curious whale shark might just swim right over you. We dive in small, expert-led groups to give you the ultimate freedom to explore.
Surface Encounters (Freediving & Snorkeling)
You don't need a tank to witness the magic. We frequently spot them hunting near the surface. Slip into the water with your mask, fins, lifejacket, and surface buoy, keep pace, and share a quiet, profound moment with these beautiful creatures. Safety and visibility are our top priorities.
Respecting the Wild Pacific
The ocean is wild, and nature sets the schedule. While our local SSI-certified guides know the ocean's rhythms, every dive is a unique expedition. To protect this incredible ecosystem, Ankla Azul strictly enforces our three golden rules of the ocean:
- Do not touch.
- Do not feed.
- Do not harass or annoy any animal.
New to the Pacific? We’ve got your back. We handle the navigation and currents so you can relax, drift at your own pace, and focus entirely on the magic around you.
Price & booking
Choose your adventure. Whether you book a course or a fun dive, we take you straight to the dive sites where whale sharks roam—at no extra cost. Just remember, it is Mother Nature: open your heart and she will gift you, but nothing is guaranteed.
Next Season:
Humpback Whale Season
From July to October, the warm waters of the Colombian Chocó become a sanctuary for migrating Humpback Whales. Experience the pure magic of diving vibrant reefs while being serenaded by their haunting, beautiful songs echoing through the deep.
Frequently asked questions
Do you sell guaranteed "Whale Shark Tours"?
We do not "sell" animals; we sell unforgettable ocean experiences. With over 10 years of experience exploring the waters of Bahía Solano, we have the deep regional knowledge to know exactly where and when you are most likely to encounter these giants. However, they are wild animals in the open Pacific, so we can never 100% guarantee a sighting. Mother Nature makes the rules, and we respect her schedule!
I am not a certified scuba diver. Can I still see them?
Absolutely! You don’t need a scuba tank to witness the magic. We frequently spot whale sharks feeding near the surface, making it an incredible experience for snorkelers and freedivers. For safety and visibility, all surface observers are required to slip into the water with a mask, fins, lifejacket, and surface buoy. If you have never dived before but want to get beneath the surface, you can also book a Try Scuba experience with our instructors!
Can I touch the whale sharks if they get close?
No. At Ankla Azul, protecting the ocean is our top priority. We strictly enforce three golden rules for all encounters: Do not touch, do not feed, and do not harass the wildlife. We maintain a respectful distance to ensure the safety of both the animals and our guests.
What is the water temperature and visibility during this season?
During April and May, the waters cool down to attract the sardine migration, bringing the whale sharks with them. Temperatures typically range from 19°C to 29°C (66°F to 84°F). Visibility can change quickly in the wild Pacific; it might be crystal clear at the surface and change a few meters down. We highly recommend wearing a wetsuit for comfort.
What else will I see if the whale sharks are hiding?
The Colombian Chocó is always teeming with life! Even if the giants are passing through deeper waters, you are diving during the thrilling Sardine Run. You can expect to see massive swirling bait balls, hunting tunas, dolphins, eagle rays, and our vibrant rocky reefs and shipwrecks. Every dive in the wild Pacific is an adventure.
Need Help Starting Your Journey?
It’s normal to have questions before your trip. Here’s what we can help with:
Scheduling: Want to combine this course with fun dives?
Electives: Not sure which 3 specialty dives to pick?
Groups: Coming with friends who are also getting certified?
Send us a message, and we'll help you plan the perfect itinerary.
What Divers Say
400+ Reviews
Vinha Damanta
"I did 3 dives with the guys from Ankla Azul and all three were great... The diveshop gives much attention to safety and following the right procedures which gives you a very safe feeling. They have excellent gear almost new do they kit you out like a pro."
Magda K
"The dive center impressed us a lot – the equipment was top quality, making every dive comfortable and safe... Besides scuba diving, we had the chance to try freediving, which at the waterfall was an absolutely unique experience."
Nicole Reynolds
"I spent three days with the Ankla Azul team for scuba diving and it was an incredible experience... Ja, the main dive master and instructor, takes pride in his diving excursions and it's clear he has a huge love for Bahia Solano and the wildlife here."
Gloria Guillin Cuello
"This time, I did my first dive with Ankla Azul and three other friends. The experience was spectacular, from the beginning of the training to the practice session. Our instructor demonstrated kindness and knowledge, providing us with a safe guide."
Adèle B
Absolutely amazing experience! The dive was unforgettable, we could hear the whales singing underwater the entire time... The team at Ankla Azul is super professional, the equipment is top quality, and everything felt very safe and well-organized."
Dayana Jamaica
Excelente experiencia, Andres y Victor son unos duros, muy amables, atentos, cuidadosos, nos hicieron sentir seguras todo el tiempo y disfrutar del buceo aun nosotras sin saber nada, la pasamos muy bien, 100% recomendado