Best Time To See Great White Sharks In Guadalupe | Cage Diving

The Guadalupe Island diving season showcases different phases of great white shark activity.

White shark season at Isla Guadalupe is from July to November, with two distinct shark cage diving seasons to enjoy.

July-Oct is when the most sharks are on the island. In July and August, the waters come alive with numerous male sharks, all eager for attention and dominance.

As August progresses, female sharks start to appear, adding to the diversity of the shark population.

The largest and most mature females are typically seen in October and November, making these months particularly exciting for shark enthusiasts.

The best time to see great white sharks on Guadalupe Island, located off the west coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is during the late summer and fall months, specifically from August to November.

The Best Time To See Great White Sharks In Guadalupe is are the following times:

August to November

This period is considered the prime season for great white shark cage diving at Guadalupe Island.

During these months, the water visibility is at its best, often exceeding 100 feet (30 meters), which provides excellent opportunities for shark sightings and underwater photography.

Mild Weather

The late summer and early fall offer generally mild and pleasant weather conditions, with air temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).

This comfortable climate makes for enjoyable and safe boat trips to the island.

Shark Activity

Great white sharks are attracted to Guadalupe Island during this time due to an abundance of prey, mainly seals and sea lions.

Shark activity is high, and divers have a higher likelihood of encounters.

Clear Waters

Guadalupe Island’s clear, deep-blue waters are known for their exceptional visibility. This clarity is crucial for observing and photographing these magnificent predators.

Cage Diving

Guadalupe Island is renowned for its responsible shark cage diving operations.

Diving in secure cages provides a safe and up-close opportunity to observe great white sharks in their natural habitat.

Conservation Efforts

Operators at Guadalupe Island typically follow ethical and conservation guidelines to protect both the sharks and the marine ecosystem.

They prioritize safe and respectful interactions with these apex predators.

Does Guadeloupe have great white sharks?

Guadeloupe, an overseas region of France in the Caribbean, is not known for having great white sharks.

Great white sharks inhabit different regions of the world, primarily calmer waters in places like the coastal areas of California, South Africa, Australia, and Guadalupe Island (located off the west coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula).

Guadalupe Island is renowned for its population of great white sharks and is a popular destination for shark cage diving and shark watching.

However, it should not be confused with the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, located in a different part of the world and does not have a significant fabulous white shark presence.

Guadalupe Island or other known shark hotspots will be the appropriate destinations for observing great white sharks in their natural habitat.

Best Time To See Great White Sharks In Guadalupe

Is Guadalupe Island closed for great white shark diving?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Guadalupe Island had not been closed for great white shark diving.
However, it’s important to note that conditions and regulations related to shark diving destinations, including Guadalupe Island, can change over time.
Various factors, including environmental considerations, conservation efforts, and government policies, may influence these changes.
To get the most current information on the status of great white shark diving at Guadalupe Island, including any potential closures or restrictions, I recommend checking with reputable shark diving operators that offer excursions to the island.
They typically stay updated on the latest regulations and conditions and can provide the most accurate and current details regarding shark diving opportunities at Guadalupe Island.

What time are great white sharks most active?

Great white sharks are most active during the daytime, primarily in the early morning and late afternoon. Several factors influence their activity patterns:

Hunting Behaviour
Temperature Regulation
Visibility
Predator Avoidance

Is Guadalupe Island open in 2023?

The status of Guadalupe Island and its accessibility for activities like great white shark diving can change over time due to conservation efforts, regulations, and environmental conditions.
Starting on January 9, 2023, the Mexican Government has decided to indefinitely suspend all diving activities film and television productions on Isla Guadalupe.
This move effectively means that one of the world’s premier destinations for cage diving experiences with great white sharks is temporarily unavailable to visitors and filmmakers.

When should I go to Guadalupe?

The best time to visit Guadalupe Island for great white shark diving is typically from late July to early November.

During this period, the conditions favor shark encounters and underwater visibility.

Here’s more detail on the seasonal considerations:

Late July to Early November

This is the primary shark season at Guadalupe Island. It’s considered the best time to go because:

Warm Water– Water temperatures are warmer during these months, often ranging from 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C), making it comfortable for divers.
High Shark Activity– Great white sharks are most active during this period, attracted by the presence of seals and sea lions.
Excellent Visibility– Water visibility is typically at its best this season, often exceeding 100 feet (30 meters), providing clear views of the sharks.

Late November to Early July

Guadalupe Island is less visited for shark diving during this time due to less favorable conditions:

Colder Water– Water temperatures can drop significantly outside the primary shark season, making diving less comfortable.
Reduced Shark Activity– While some sharks may still be present, the chances of encounters are lower compared to the peak season.
Reduced Visibility– Water visibility can be lower during the colder months.

Which part of Guadeloupe is best?

(Where to Stay in Guadeloupe):

The 4 Best Areas to Stay in Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is a beautiful Caribbean destination with various areas catering to different interests and preferences. Where to stay in Guadeloupe depends on what you want to experience during your visit.

Here are the recommended areas to stay in Guadeloupe in 2023:

Le Gosier
Pointe-Noire
Saint-François
Deshaies

Do you need a passport to go to Guadeloupe?

Yes, you typically need a valid passport to travel to Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe is an overseas French region and part of the European Union.

As a result, it follows the exact entry requirements as traveling to mainland France or other European Union countries.

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Guadeloupe. Many countries and regions, including Guadeloupe, have this requirement.

Visa Requirements

Travelers from many countries, including the United States, Canada, and European Union member states, do not need a visa for short visits (usually up to 90 days) for tourism or business purposes.

However, visa requirements can vary based on nationality, so you must check with the French embassy or consulate in your home country to determine whether you need a visa.

Travel Documentation

While a passport is the primary travel document required, having a printed copy of your travel itinerary, accommodation reservations, and any other relevant documents when you arrive in Guadeloupe is also a good idea.

Customs Regulations

Be aware of customs regulations and restrictions on items you can bring into Guadeloupe, including duty-free allowances, agricultural products, and prohibited items.

How long can I stay in Guadeloupe?

The duration of your stay in Guadeloupe can vary depending on your nationality and the specific visa or entry requirements that apply to you.

Generally, for many travelers, Guadeloupe allows short visits of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without needing a visa.

These 90 days are typically calculated within 180 days. Here are some essential points to understand:

Schengen Visa Rules

As an overseas region of France, Guadeloupe follows the Schengen Agreement rules regarding short-term stays.

If you are from a country subject to Schengen visa rules, you can generally stay in Guadeloupe and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa.

Visa-Exempt Travelers

Travelers from countries with visa-exempt agreements with Guadeloupe and the Schengen area can stay up to 90 days within 180 days.

This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, and many other countries.

Longer Stays

Suppose you plan to stay in Guadeloupe for longer than 90 days or purposes other than tourism or business (e.g., work, study, or residence).

You may need to apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit before your trip.

Entry and Exit Dates

Keep track of your entry and exit dates when visiting Guadeloupe to ensure that you comply with the allowed duration of stay.

Overstaying your permitted time can lead to immigration issues and fines.

It’s crucial to check the specific entry requirements for your nationality and the purpose of your visit to Guadeloupe. While many travelers can enjoy visa-free short visits, others may have different rules and need to obtain the appropriate visa in advance.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the French embassy or consulate in your home country or visit the official website of the Guadeloupe Tourism Board.

Conclusion

Do you know the Best Time To See Great White Sharks In Guadalupe? In conclusion, Guadeloupe, an overseas region of France, follows entry and visa requirements similar to those of mainland France and the Schengen Agreement. Travelers from many countries can enjoy short visits to Guadeloupe for tourism or business purposes without a visa, typically allowing stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. However, the specific rules may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

FAQs

Who Can Visit Guadeloupe Without A Visa?

Many travelers, including citizens of the United States, Canada, and European Union member states, can visit Guadeloupe for tourism or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within 180 days.

However, specific visa requirements vary by nationality, so travelers should check their eligibility before departure.

What Is The Schengen Agreement, And How Does It Relate To Guadeloupe?

As an overseas region of France, Guadeloupe follows the Schengen Agreement rules for short-term stays.

The agreement allows for visa-free travel among its member states and sets guidelines for the duration of stays for visa-exempt travelers.

How Long Can I Stay In Guadeloupe As A Tourist Or Business Traveler?

Typically, travelers can stay in Guadeloupe for up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa.

These 90 days are often calculated from the date of your initial entry.

Can I Extend My Stay In Guadeloupe Beyond The Allowed 90 Days?

Extending your stay in Guadeloupe beyond 90 days for tourism or business purposes may require applying for the appropriate visa or residence permit in advance. Overstaying your permitted time can lead to immigration issues.