Diani Beach is one of the rare places in the world where you can encounter the largest fish on Earth – the whale shark. These gentle ocean giants can grow up to 18 metres long and weigh as much as 20 tonnes, yet they are completely harmless to humans.
From December to mid-March, especially between mid-January and mid-March, whale sharks migrate close to the shores of Diani, creating an incredible opportunity for visitors to snorkel or dive alongside them in the warm Indian Ocean waters.
The Swahili Legend of “Papa Shillingi”
Locally, whale sharks are known as Papa Shillingi, which means “the shark with shillings.”
According to Swahili folklore, God was so impressed by the beauty of this massive fish that He asked His angels to scatter gold and silver coins across its back. That is why the whale shark is covered in shimmering white spots and often swims close to the surface — as a sign of gratitude for its blessing.
Why Diani Beach is Special for Whale Shark Encounters
Whale sharks are migratory and usually stay far from the coast, making sightings in many parts of the world unpredictable. Diani Beach is different.
Here, observation aircraft are used to spot whale sharks from the air, guiding boats directly to their location. This greatly improves your chances of a successful encounter.
For adventurous swimmers, an underwater scooter (Sublue) allows you to glide through the water and follow the whale sharks for up to 5 kilometres, offering a truly immersive experience.
A Fair & Flexible Sighting Policy
Because whale sharks roam freely in the vast ocean, sightings can never be 100% guaranteed. However, Diani operators offer a generous policy:
- No sighting on your first trip? Get a second trip at half price
- Still no luck? Your third trip is free
This ensures you have multiple chances to experience this unforgettable marine encounter.
Capture the Moment
To make your experience even more special, you can add:
- Professional underwater photography or videography
- Aerial photos and videos from the spotting aircraft
Perfect for memories, social media, or simply reliving the magic.
Is Swimming with Whale Sharks Safe?
Absolutely. Whale sharks feed only on plankton and small fish. They are calm, slow-moving, and non-aggressive, making them safe to swim with under proper guidance.