Swim with the Crocodiles in Mexico: Book now!
Crocodile Diving
We will be diving with XTC Dive Center in Xcalak, Mexico. XTC organizes excursions to the Chinchorro Banks Atoll from June 1st until September 30th, subject to weather conditions.
While the crocodiles inhabit the area throughout the year, it is not advisable to conduct these trips during other times due to unfavorable conditions such as mating, nesting, and weather.
Imagine yourself submerged in crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by the raw beauty of nature. Banco Chinchorro's warm Caribbean waters are home to a thriving population of American crocodiles, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for intrepid divers seeking an unforgettable adventure. Under the supervision of experienced guides, you'll have the opportunity to witness these magnificent reptiles up close and personal, all while ensuring your safety and that of the crocodiles.
Cancun Mexico Crocodiles
Nichupte Lagoon in Cancun is a place to view crocodiles sunbathing along the lagoon banks in Cancun.
However, Banco Chinchorro is the best location to snorkel with crocodiles. This island atoll is home to a thriving population of American crocodiles and the conditions for snorkeling are unparalleled. Located off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, this biosphere reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe these ancient and majestic creatures up close.
Are crocodiles dangerous to humans?
American ocean crocodiles are giant and untamed creatures. Therefore, these encounters must be carefully managed to guarantee the safety of everyone involved.
To swim with the crocodiles, there are strict safety procedures in place. A trained individual, known as a crocodile 'handler', is present in the water, while two observers are stationed on a deck just above us to constantly monitor the crocodile's whereabouts.
At any given moment, only a maximum of two people are allowed in the water with the handler.
XTC holds the exclusive license granted by the Mexican Federal Government to conduct in-water interactions with untamed American Crocodiles.
What do crocodiles look like underwater?
How do Crocodiles swim?
Crocodiles are skilled swimmers, using their streamlined bodies and powerful tails to glide through the water. They tuck their legs against their bodies and rely on their tails for propulsion. Crocodiles can partially submerge themselves, keeping their vital organs above water. They navigate underwater with agility and can stay submerged for extended periods. On the water's surface, they paddle with their legs for movement. Their swimming abilities contribute to their success as stealthy hunters in aquatic environments.
Accommodation in Playa del Carmen
We recommend staying at a central hotel in Playa del Carmen the night before the trip starts. (Not included in price).
Recommended:
Singular Beach Residences runs about $50-65 a night. Modern, clean, and comfortable as well as walkable to the beach and 5th Ave/ restaurants.
Accommodation in Xcalak
Flying Cloud Hotel; double occupancy rooms. Hotel restaurant & pool on site. (Included in price)
Accommodation in Banco Chinchorro
We have the opportunity to stay in a remote fishing village on the atoll, close to the crocodiles. We will spend 2 nights sleeping in hammocks in a shared room. Bug nets are provided. There is a dry, ecological toilet. There will be electricity to charge cameras and electronics. Meals are provided for us on Banco Chinchorro. (Meals & accommodation included). Bring your sense of adventure as we visit this incredible area.
Join us on a Crocodile Expedition this year!
WyldVentures is currently running two expeditions in September 2023. Whether you are an individual or small group looking to cross this item off your bucket list, we are excited to host you on this expedition. We only have 5 spaces available on each trip, so book now before they fill up!
Keep reading for a sneak peek of this incredible adventure!
Day 1
We will meet for late breakfast/coffee at a local cafe on 5th Avenue. The bus will pick us up from this meeting point in Playa and we will head south to Xcalak.
Transportation from Playa del Carmen to Xcalak is included.
Check in to Flying Cloud Hotel in Xcalak (double occupancy rooms). Group dinner at the on-site restaurant.
Day 2
Local diving in Xcalak! Experience the beautiful remote reefs and perform equipment checks/rentals if necessary before departure to Banco Chinchorro.
In the evening, we will have a pre-trip briefing to prepare for Banco Chinchorro.
Day 3
8am departure to Banco Chinchorro. Scuba dive or snorkel in the morning, hunt for lionfish.
Crocodile snorkel in the afternoon/early evening. We will have up to 4 hours in the water with Crocs daily. Lunch and dinner included.
Itinerary
Day 4
Dive/snorkel in the morning, crocodiles in the afternoon. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Day 5
Dive/snorkel in the morning, crocodiles in the afternoon. Breakfast and lunch are included. Then, return to Xcalak/Flying Cloud Hotel in the evening.
Day 6
Scuba diving in Xcalak (schools of tarpon, hunting for manatees, etc.). Afternoon departure back to Playa. Transfer is included.
The extra days on Xcalak are included to give us some flexibility for the weather to make the crossing to Banco Chinchorro. As per XTC, in the unlikely event, we cannot make the crossing during that time period, a portion of the trip will be refunded. However, they note that this has only happened once in the 9 years they have been operating. This is why the trip is only offered during a small window every year- the weather is optimal.
What’s Included:
Transportation between Playa and Xcalak both ways
3 nights' accommodation in Xcalak
2 nights' accommodation in Banco Chinchorro
All meals in Banco Chinchorro
Transfer by boat to and from Banco Chinchorro
1 scuba dive per day in Banco Chinchorro + 3-4 hrs snorkeling with crocodiles per day
A visit to Cayo Centro, the main island on Banco Chinchorro, which houses the marine research station & is home to the world’s densest concentration of crocodiles and ‘pink’ iguanas
2 days of 2 tank dives in Xcalak on a shared boat
Tank rentals
Weights/weight belts
Marine Park Entrance Fees
Professional underwater photos and video of your trip
What’s Not Included:
Accommodation before & after the trip to Playa del Carmen
Transportation to our meeting point in Playa
Meals outside of Banco Chinchorro
Dive equipment rentals
Mandatory travel insurance
DAN insurance
Any tips for local crew & guides.
Trip and Dive Insurance
We require trip insurance to protect you if you cancel the trip due to a medical emergency, etc. This insurance should also include medical coverage if you were to injure yourself outside of diving while on the trip. We also require DAN Insurance in the unlikely event of a dive emergency.
FAQs
What is the refund policy?
We don’t offer refunds on trips within 90 days of the trip start date. This is why we require travel insurance for your own convenience. In the unlikely situation, we needed to cancel the trip, you will receive a full refund for your deposit and/or final payment.
What will we do with our bulkier luggage while we are in Banco Chinchorro?
The rooms we have in the Flying Cloud Hotel will be kept while we are in the atoll, so we are able to leave luggage in the rooms.
Will there be somewhere to charge our electronics while we are in Banco Chinchorro?
Yes, there are outlets to charge electronics while we are there. We have a generator nearby.
What if I don’t want to dive in Xcalak?
You are free to dive or not dive as you choose! Unfortunately, we cannot make price adjustments with this in mind.
What is crocodile cage diving?
Crocodile cage diving can be found in some locations around the world. We will not be diving with cages in Banco Chinchorro. In fact, this is the best location in the world to dive freely with crocodiles in their natural habitat. There are enhanced safety protocols to ensure our safety in the water without the need for a cage.
Does Cozumel have crocodiles?
While Cozumel offers abundant marine life and exciting underwater experiences, crocodiles are not typically found in the island's natural habitat.