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Whale Shark Tours

Starting at US$191

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Check here before booking your dates.

Unforgettable Dive!

Calm water, soft light, and a high chance of encounters.

A rare wildlife experience awaits you in Sumbawa, widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. Our whale shark tours go beyond a quick snorkel, combining remote island scenery, calm sunrise encounters, and smooth travel from Lombok. The 3-day tour is private, and the 2-day tour is available as a private or shared tour, letting you choose between a more personal experience or a social, budget-friendly option. With overnight stays near the harbor and early-morning departures by boat, you reach the whale sharks at the quietest, safest time, making the experience relaxed, respectful, and unforgettable.

Limited spots are available. Secure yours now.

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Choose Your Tour

We offer two tour options: a private 3-day tour, or a 2-day tour you can take private or shared.

Choose the level of comfort, flexibility, and group size that suits you best.

Read our Frequently Asked Questions and choose the tour option that is best for you.

A man swims behind a whale shark just before it breaches, during his whale shark tour from Lombok

3D/2N

Private

Sumbawa Whale Shark Adventure

  • 3 days · 2 nights
  • Kenawa · Moyo Island
  • Sunrise whale sharks
Private
$519USDper person · US$1,037 total−2 guests
$404USDper person · US$1,213 total3 guests
$338USDper person · US$1,353 total4 guests
$302USDper person · US$1,511 total5 guests
$266USDper person · US$1,598 total6 guests
$251USDper person · US$1,759 total7 guests
$236USDper person · US$1,890 total8 guests
$221USDper person · US$1,992 total9 guests
$215USDper person · US$2,153 total10 guests+
  • Snorkel with gentle whale sharks at sunrise
  • Kenawa Island + Ai Lemak sunset
  • Snorkel the reefs at Poto Jarum & Takat Segele
  • Mata Jitu Waterfall & Lady Diana Pool on Moyo Island
Itinerary & what's includedShow less

Itinerary

  • Day 1 Lombok ➜ Kenawa Island ➜ Ai Lemak Sunset
  • Day 2 Snorkeling ➜ Moyo Island ➜ Labuan Jambu
  • Day 3 Whale Sharks ➜ Return to Lombok
  • Pickup around 08.00 · back between 18.00 and 20.00 on Day 3

Included

  • Private car during the entire trip
  • Guide
  • Ferry tickets
  • Private boat to Kenawa Island
  • Private speedboat to Moyo Island
  • Private boat to Whale Sharks
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • GoPro + cameraman
  • Simple breakfast on Whale Shark boat
  • Hotel rooms (Grand Samota + Alffiah Hotel) with breakfast
  • Entrance fees for all destinations

Not included

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Personal expenses

Hotels

  • Night 1: Grand Samota · Night 2: Alffiah Hotel
  • Private trip: 2 people per room
A male diver gesturing as a whale shark swims below him during a Sumbawa whale shark tour from Lombok

Sumbawa Whale Shark Encounter

  • 2 days · 1 night
  • Kenawa Island
  • Sunrise whale sharks
Shared$191USDper person
Private
$320USDper person · US$641 total−2 guests
$263USDper person · US$790 total3 guests
$218USDper person · US$873 total4 guests
$203USDper person · US$1,016 total5 guests
$188USDper person · US$1,129 total6 guests
$167USDper person · US$1,170 total7 guests
$158USDper person · US$1,265 total8 guests
$152USDper person · US$1,369 total9 guests
$143USDper person · US$1,431 total10 guests+
  • Snorkel with gentle whale sharks at sunrise
  • Kenawa Island: white sand & hilltop views
  • Overnight at Labuan Jambu, the whale shark harbour
  • GoPro + cameraman & snorkel gear included
Itinerary & what's includedShow less

Itinerary

  • Day 1 Lombok ➜ Kenawa Island ➜ Labuan Jambu
  • Day 2 Whale Sharks ➜ Return to Lombok
  • Pickup around 08.00 · back around 21.00 on Day 2

Included

  • Guide
  • Ferry tickets
  • Private wooden boat to Kenawa Island
  • Private boat to Whale Sharks
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • GoPro + cameraman
  • Simple breakfast on the whale-shark boat
  • 1-night hotel room (Labuan Jambu)
  • Entrance fees for all destinations

Not included

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping
  • Insurance

Getting there

  • Private: private car from your hotel in Lombok
  • Shared: meet your guide in Mataram and take a public bus to the port at Labuan Jambu

Hotel

  • Alffiah Hotel (or similar class depending on availability)
  • Private trip: 2 people per room · Shared group: 2–3 people per room

Breathtaking Moments!

Swim With Gentle Whale Sharks

One of the ocean’s most humbling encounters happens here in Sumbawa, where whale sharks gather in calm, protected waters. Reserve your spot.

Led by experienced local guides, you’ll head out at sunrise to meet these magnificent giants in their natural environment. Glide beside the world’s largest fish as they move peacefully through the water, just meters away. This is not an aquarium moment or a rushed snorkel, it’s a rare, respectful wildlife experience that few travelers ever get to enjoy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book this tour?

You can contact us via WhatsApp to request available dates. We will confirm availability, answer any questions, and guide you through the simple booking process.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, a deposit is required to secure your spot. The remaining balance is paid before or on the day of departure. Exact details will be shared during booking.

How far in advance should I book?

The whale shark section often fills quickly, especially during weekends and holiday periods. Booking at least one to two weeks in advance is recommended.

Can I join as a solo traveler?

No, you need to be at least 2 guests to book a tour.

What vehicles are used for land transport?

Groups of two to four guests use a medium car. Groups of five to ten guests use a minibus. All vehicles are air conditioned and comfortable for long-distance travel.

Guests on the 2D/1N [Shared] tour meet their guide in Mataram and use a public bus to the port at Labuan Jambu.
The bus is clean and comfortable: you can even lay down.

What boats are used during the trip?

The trip includes several types of boats.

  • A private wooden boat to Kenawa Island.
  • A private speedboat for snorkeling and Moyo Island on the 3 day tour.
  • A private boat for the whale shark experience.

All boats are operated by experienced local captains.

Which hotels do we stay at?

On the 3 day tour you stay one night at Grand Samota and one night at Alffiah Hotel.
On the 2 day tour you stay at Alffiah Hotel.
Hotels may vary by availability but the quality remains consistent.

How many people share a hotel room?

Private tours include two people per room. Shared group tours include two to three people per room. Single rooms can be requested but may include an additional charge.

What is included in the tour price?
  • Private car for all land transportation
  • Guide and local crew
  • Ferry tickets
  • Private boat to Kenawa Island
  • Private speedboat to Moyo Island on the 3 day tour
  • Private boat to Whale Shark point
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • GoPro and cameraman
  • Simple breakfast on the whale shark boat
  • Hotel nights with breakfast
  • All entrance fees at all destinations
What is not included?
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional tips
  • Travel insurance
Are there any hidden costs?

No. Everything included and not included is stated clearly. You only need money for personal purchases, snacks, or meals.

What time does the tour start and finish?

Both tours begin with pickup around 08.00 in Lombok.
Return times vary.

  • For the 3 day tour you return between 18.00 and 20.00 on Day 3.
  • For the 2 day tour you return around 21.00 on Day 2.
How long is the travel time from Lombok to Sumbawa?

Travel time including ferry crossing is approximately five to seven hours each way. This varies depending on sea conditions, ferry schedule, and stops.

How early does the whale shark activity begin?

Boats leave the harbor very early, normally between 04.30 and 05.30. Sunrise is the best time to see whale sharks and the water is usually the calmest.

Is whale shark activity safe?

Yes. Whale sharks are gentle filter feeders and pose no threat to humans. Your guide will provide safety instructions before entering the water.

Is the whale shark sighting guaranteed?

Sightings are extremely consistent throughout the year. Because this is a natural wildlife encounter, sightings cannot be guaranteed every time, but the chance is very high.

What if the sea is rough or the weather changes?

We always prioritize safety. The itinerary may be adjusted or reordered based on weather or sea conditions. You will be informed in advance whenever possible.

Will I have enough time with the whale sharks?

Yes. The itinerary is designed to give you a long window in the water, usually two to four hours depending on conditions.

Do I need swimming experience?

Basic swimming ability is required for entering the water. Non-swimmers can still join the boat trip and watch from the deck. Life jackets are available for all guests.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes. Children are welcome as long as they are comfortable near water and supervised by adults.

Are there any health restrictions?

Guests with heart conditions, severe asthma, or serious mobility limitations should consult us before booking. Motion sickness medication is recommended for sensitive travelers.

How physically demanding is the trip?

This is a relaxed tour. Activities include light walking, snorkeling, and short transfers. No trekking or steep hiking is involved.

Are meals provided?

Hotels provide breakfast. A simple breakfast is provided on the whale shark boat.
Lunch and dinner are not included so guests can choose their preferred restaurants along the route. Our recommended options are always budget friendly and are not affiliated with our tour companies.

Can dietary needs be accommodated?

Yes. As lunch and dinner are at restaurants, you can choose places that suit your dietary needs. You can also inform us in advance and we will help with recommendations.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkels, masks, and fins are included. You may also bring your own if preferred.

Is a GoPro included?

Yes. A GoPro and a cameraman are included. You will receive footage and photos from the trip.

What do I need to bring?
  • Swimwear and towel
  • Light clothing
  • Sandals or water shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Small backpack
  • Cash for meals and personal purchases
Do I need to bring cash?

Yes. Many small restaurants and stores in Sumbawa accept cash only. It is best to bring small bills for snacks, meals, and souvenirs.

When is the best time to go?

Whale sharks in this region appear throughout the year. The sea is usually calmest between April and October, but tours operate year round.

Are whale sharks seasonal?

In Sumbawa they are not strongly seasonal. Sightings occur throughout the year because whale sharks follow fishing platforms that attract them consistently. Conservationists are constantly monitoring their movement.

Can I join a shared group?

Yes. Shared group tours are available depending on the date. Contact us via WhatsApp for the schedule.

Can I upgrade to a private tour?

Yes. You can request a private tour for full flexibility and privacy. 2 people are required for private tours.

Can I request a private room?

Private rooms are included on private tours. For shared tours, private rooms can be requested for an additional charge depending on hotel availability.

Can I combine this trip with a Komodo cruise or a Mt. Rinjani trek ?

Yes. Many travelers do this. We can help provide free transportation between our tours.

Can the itinerary be customized?

Small timing adjustments are sometimes possible. Major route changes are usually not possible due to ferry schedules, port times, and ocean conditions. Tell us your request and we will be glad to discuss.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on notice period and booking type. You will receive the full policy during booking. If the trip is cancelled due to weather or safety concerns, rescheduling or a refund will be offered. Deposits are non-refundable if cancelled by guests. These deposits are used to reserve our highly in demand guides. There are many guides for these tours, and this is how we are able to keep the best working with us.

What if the ferry is delayed?

Ferry schedules can vary. Our team monitors timing closely and adjusts plans when needed. Delays are common but usually minor.

What if it rains during the tour?

Light or normal rain does not affect most activities. Heavy rain, strong winds, or unsafe sea conditions may cause adjustments.

Is Sumbawa safe for travelers?

Yes. Sumbawa is known for friendly locals, quiet villages, and safe travel conditions. Our guides are from the area and know every route well.

Is this tour suitable for older travelers?

Yes. As long as you are comfortable entering the water and climbing in and out of boats, this trip is suitable for most ages.

What languages do the guides speak?

English and Indonesian.

Is drone flying allowed?

Yes, most areas on Kenawa Island and Moyo Island are drone friendly. Please follow local guidelines and fly responsibly.

Meet Your Guides

Our Crew

Our Crew

Our crew has countless hours of experience navigating the waters around Komodo! We're fun, friendly, and the best crew in Labuan Bajo!

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Deni & Irwan

Deni & Irwan

Deni & Irwan are best friends since they were children. Deni is from Central Lombok, and has a wife and wonderful family. Deni loves fishing and playing volleyball. He is one of our lead guides here at Lombok-Indonesia.org and spends most of his time in Labuan Bajo managing our international customers.

Irwan is from West Lombok. He has a loving family who are farmers of durian & fruit trees. He likes surfing, traveling and playing billiards. He is also lead guide here at Lombok-Indonesia.org and manages the technical planning of our boat tours.

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Edgar & Fandy

Edgar & Fandy

Edgar is from Labuan Bajo, and is “Mr. Labuan Bajo”. He knows everyone in the town and is known for his cool vibe! He is a surfer and DJ. He has been a tour guide for over 5 years and knows anything and everything about the Komodo Island tours.

Fandy is from Labuan Bajo. He loves to travel and professional photography. He is married and has 2 wonderful children. He has been guiding tourists to Komodo for over 10 years, and knows everything about the area.

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Captain Amar

Captain Amar

Captain Amar is from Riung Island. He really loves spear fishing. He has been part of boat crews in Komodo since 2012. He has been a captain for over 10 years, and knows everything about piloting ships.

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Lombok-Indonesia.org basecamp, Senaru