Reefs to Rockies Now Offering Swimming with Whale Shark Options in Two Vastly Different Destinations

Denver, CO, January 14, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Denver-based tour operator Reefs to Rockies (http://www.reefstorockies.com/), specializing in conservation tourism to biodiversity hotspots across the globe, has just launched two thrilling itineraries that bring travelers up close and personal with mysterious whale sharks in vastly different parts of the world. Reefs to Rockies' clients can now swim alongside the largest fish on the planet, the gigantic, polka‐dotted whale shark (Rhincodon typus). There are only a few select locations in the world where these gentle giants congregate at the ocean's surface allowing the opportunity to get in the water with them. Reefs to Rockies' top pick for the best whale shark experience in North America is Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Tofo, Mozambique receives top billing for whale shark enthusiasts visiting Africa.

“Whale sharks, or dominos as the locals in Mexico call them because of their spots, are one of only three filter-feeding shark species,” explains Sheridan Samano, co-owner of Reefs to Rockies. “Whale sharks feed on minute organisms including krill, fish eggs, crab larvae, and jellyfish. They are able to open their mouth wide to optimize feeding. They can also feed via suction while vertical in the water. Even though the whale shark has a sizable mouth, it shows no evidence of large, sharp teeth characteristic of most shark species.”

For North American travelers who want a whale shark adventure closer to home, whale shark swimming in Isla Mujeres is a prime location. Isla Mujeres, "the island of women", is only an hour away from Cancun International Airport. Whale sharks congregate in the deep blue waters off the coast of Isla Mujeres every summer. Reefs to Rockies' Swimming with Whale Sharks itinerary (http://www.reefstorockies.com/pdfs/R2R-Swimming-with-WhaleSharks-IslaMujeres-set-departure.pdf) offers a 4-night package that includes two days of swimming with the sharks, snorkeling or a day trip to Isla Contoy, and plenty of time to explore the island. For those interested in traveling with a group, Reefs to Rockies is offering a scheduled departure from August 5th through 9th, 2010.

Isla Mujeres is not the only place for whale shark swimming. For travelers headed to Africa, Tofo, Mozambique also offers this opportunity. During the months of November and December, whale sharks frequent the pristine shores of Mozambique’s coast, and adventurers can hop right in the ocean with them. Lucky swimmers are also likely to see giant manta rays in the area year-round. Reefs to Rockies’ By Land and By Sea itinerary (http://www.reefstorockies.com/mozam-itinerary.html) offers a 10-night trip that includes whale shark swimming, followed by a safari in the famed Gorongosa National Park, and ending at Coral Lodge 15.41 on the country's northern coast.

Travelers can learn more about whale sharks and Reefs to Rockies, a company who believes that responsible and sustainable tourism can make a tremendous impact in areas in need of conservation, by contacting Sheridan Samano by email (Sheridan@ReefstoRockies.com) or by phone (+1.303.860.6045). Also, visit http://www.reefstorockies.com/ for many other wildlife-packed, conservation-based journeys.

Reefs to Rockies (http://www.reefstorockies.com/) is a boutique tour operator specializing in customized itineraries to destinations famous for their wildlife and biodiversity. These “biodiversity hotspots” offer travelers unparalleled opportunities to view wildlife in their natural environments. The company carefully considers the impact of their activities on the environment and local communities, and they remain committed to promoting the principles of sustainable and responsible tourism. Reefs to Rockies’ clients can expect exceptional itineraries, spectacular wildlife, and expert guides. Conservation through tourism.

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