What to Expect:

To have complete flexibility, we didn't do the tour from Lombok, but travelled to Sumbawa instead. We searched for a long time and finally found the perfect tour operators with Go Whaleshark and Andi. Here's everything you need to know:

Swimming with whale sharks in Sumbawa is one of those bucket-list experiences that feels both raw and intimate. Unlike more commercialized whale shark destinations, this tour still keeps a community-based and respectful approach. Here’s everything you need to know before you go:

• Do it local: You’ll leave around 4:00 AM by boat from Labuhan Jambu Village and reach the fishing platforms (“bagan”) at sunrise.

• Up-close encounters: The whale sharks regularly come to feed on bycatch released by local fishermen. There are no big crowds — usually just a few boats and a handful of people in the water.

• Plenty of time: Unlike busy sites elsewhere, you won’t be rushed. You can stay in the water as long as the whale sharks are around (typically until about 9:00 AM).

• Respectful guidelines: No touching, no chasing, and always keeping a safe distance. Guides will explain the rules and share insights about whale sharks and local traditions.

• Family-friendly adventure: The trip is flexible, calm, and kid-friendly, with patient guides and safety equipment provided.

• Real community connection: The tour is run with local fishermen, so you’re supporting the community directly.

📍 Itinerary

• 04:00 AM – Departure by boat from Labuhan Jambu Village

• 06:00 AM – Arrival at the fishing platform (bagan)

• 06:30 AM – 09:00 AM – Snorkeling with whale sharks

• 09:00 AM – Return to the harbour

• 11:00 AM – Arrival back at Labuhan Jambu

⏳ Duration: About 7 hours

⚠️ Note: Schedule may change depending on weather and whale shark presence.

🛶 What’s Included

• Breakfast, coffee & tea, mineral water

• Boat trip & platform access

• Tour guide & videographer

• GoPro 12 use for underwater shots

• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)

💰 Prices

• Private Whale Shark Tour: IDR 700k per person (~$45 USD)

• Accommodation: Villa Aqila – IDR 700k per night (Family Room)

• Transport: Car transfer from Sumbawa airport to Villa Aqila – IDR 600k one way

🌍 Infos:

Labuhan Jambu Village, Sumbawa

📍 Google Maps Location

📞 Contact (Andi Muhar) +62 823-4159-1553

You can book everything over Go Sumbawa Whaleshark Tour

🙌 Insider Tips

• Bring a dry bag for your phone and valuables.

• If traveling with kids, bring snacks for after the swim.

• Book directly with local operators to support the community.

• Manage expectations: whale sharks are wild, so sightings are never 100% guaranteed (though very common here).

✅ If you’re looking for a whale shark encounter that’s less crowded, more authentic, and family-friendly, Sumbawa is one of the best places to do it!

⚠️Keep in mind that whale sharks are fed with bycatch from local fishermen. Ethics were a major topic for us. However, as tourism here is low-key, the whale sharks are certainly less stressed than in places where they are not fed but are surrounded by hundreds of tourists. The most important thing is to find a reputable tour operator.