Imagine swimming in clear blue waters and suddenly being greeted by a friendly giant of the sea, the whale shark. This flagship marine attraction was officially introduced in 2018 during the international Sail Moyo Tambora event, and since then it has become one of the main highlights of marine tourism in Sumbawa Regency.

Saleh Bay is known as a “home” to more than 150 whale sharks, making it the second-largest whale shark population in Indonesia. Remarkably, the chance of encountering these iconic creatures is almost 100 percent, a rare experience that is difficult to find elsewhere in the world. The best time to witness this natural wonder is between April and November, when whale shark sightings are most frequent.

The allure of Sumbawa’s whale shark tourism has captivated not only domestic travelers but also international visitors who are willing to journey great distances to fulfill their dream of swimming alongside these gentle giants.

The whale shark is more than just a tourist attraction; it has become an icon and a compelling reason to explore Sumbawa’s marine wonders. A visit to Sumbawa feels incomplete without experiencing the magical moment of encountering whale sharks in their natural habitat.