La Paz: Swim with Whale Sharks & Sea Lions, Lunch Included

Summary

Swim beside whale sharks and sea lions in La Paz with lunch

You’ll slip into turquoise waters near La Paz to swim alongside whale sharks and playful sea lions with a local guide, then unwind on Balandra Beach over fresh ceviche and cold drinks. With snorkeling gear and lunch included, expect laughter, salty hair, and moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the quiet hum of the boat engine as we left La Paz behind — not much chatter yet, just everyone squinting at the sun on the water. Our guide, Diego, handed out wetsuits and made a joke about how “everyone looks good in neoprene,” which got a few nervous laughs. I could smell sunscreen and salt, and honestly my heart was pounding a bit thinking about swimming next to a whale shark. It’s not every day you get that close to something so big.

When we finally slid into the water, it was colder than I expected — but then there it was: this gentle giant just gliding past. Diego motioned for us to keep calm and give it space. I tried to remember everything he’d said about their spots being like fingerprints. At one point I looked up and saw another traveler grinning through her mask; we both started laughing underwater, which is harder than you’d think. The main keyword for this tour really is “swim with whale sharks la paz” — but nobody tells you how peaceful it feels floating beside them.

After that rush, we headed over to San Rafaelito where the sea lions were already barking at us (or maybe just at each other). One of them swirled around my fins like it wanted to play tag — Diego called him “El Travieso.” The coral reef there was brighter than any photo I’ve seen; little flashes of yellow fish darting everywhere. And then Balandra Beach — wow. We ate ceviche right on the sand, toes in the water, cold beer in hand. Someone tried to teach me how to say “thank you” properly in Spanish (“gracias” — easy enough but somehow I still mess it up). The afternoon light made everything look softer. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale Shark Snorkeling and Beach Visit

• Snorkel with whale sharks
• Snorkel with sea lions at San Rafaelito
• Visit coral reef
• Relax at Balandra beach with ceviche and beer

Top questions

How do I book a swim with whale sharks tour in La Paz?

You can reserve your spot online or contact the operator via WhatsApp for available time slots.

What’s included in the La Paz whale shark snorkeling tour?

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, wetsuit, underwater photos/videos, snacks, lunch (ceviche), soft drinks, beer, all fees and taxes.

Are there specific times for swimming with whale sharks?

Yes—there are four daily turns: 7 am, 9 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm. Spots are assigned on a first-come basis via WhatsApp.

Can beginners join this snorkeling tour?

Yes—the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with certain health conditions listed by the operator.

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

Yes—fresh ceviche is served at Balandra Beach along with cold drinks.

Will there be a local guide during the experience?

Yes—a local guide leads the group throughout the activities.

Are underwater photos or videos included?

Yes—underwater pictures and videos are part of your package.

Where does the tour end after snorkeling?

The final stop is Balandra Beach before returning to La Paz.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkeling equipment plus wetsuit, underwater photos and videos taken by your guide, snacks along the way, a fresh ceviche lunch at Balandra Beach with soft drinks or beer—all entry fees and taxes covered so you can just focus on enjoying every moment out on (and in) the water.