Shark Ray Alley

“Live every week like it’s shark week!”
—Tracy Morgan, in Sharks! By Tracy Morgan

People can’t seem to get enough of sharks. And, there’s no up-close shark experience like the one offered by Shark Ray Alley.

But what does that really look like? Discover what it is, how it works, and why this Belize adventure has ranked in the top ten eco-tour destinations for over a decade.

What Is Shark Ray Alley In Belize?

Shark Ray Alley is a shallow, underwater zone within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. It’s part of the Belize Barrier Reef, a biodiverse reef that’s unusually filled with sharks, rays, and fish visitors can interact with while snorkeling.

What Types of Marine Animals Might You See There?

As featured in the episode “Sharks In Belize, Jaguars of the Sea“, in PBS’ Changing Seas, peaceable nurse sharks are numerous in Shark Ray Alley.

Other marine wildlife oft spotted in the zone include sea turtles, jack fish, manta rays, lemon sharks, eels, and stingrays

Experiences & Activities In Shark Ray Alley

The most popular activities among Shark Ray Alley’s visitors are snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving.

Notably, while eco tour leads may chum the water to attract marine animals, it’s important to note that feeding the sharks directly is not an activity offered to non-professionals.

Travelers get the most out of their visit when they choose activities aligned with their skill level and age. Fortunately, there are options for those whose skills cross the spectrum, from easy underwater photography and guided eco-tours, to SCUBA adventures reserved for Advanced Open Water Divers.

How Safe Is It To Swim With Sharks In Belize?

Swimming and snorkeling with sharks in Belize, particularly nurse sharks, is safe as long as three things are true:

  • You’re with a reputable guide or your
  • You follow all guide instructions
  • You do not attempt to pet or hand-feed sharks

The majority of Shark Ray Alley adventures are for ages 8+, and participants are encouraged to swim gently.

Adventure Tips In Shark Ray Alley

Book a Morning Tour

Some seasons are stormier than others! In Belize, your best shot at calm waters and clear skies is in the morning and first afternoon hour.

Use Appropriate Gear

Instructors typically advise participants on appropriate safety gear when boating, snorkeling, or swimming with sharks. Often, the first phase of the experience is dedicated to gear selection and training.

How To Get To And From Shark Ray Alley Safely

Sign on with a guide or organized, professional Shark Ray Alley adventure group. It is inadvisable to venture out to the zone on your own.

Most Shark Ray Alley excursions depart from San Pedro or Caye Caulker in Belize. That said, visitors can join day trips by boat from the Belize Tourism Village on the East Side of Belize City. There are several trips offered in the village that include a stop at Shark Ray Alley.

Island Hopping: From Shark Ray Alley To Nearby Cayes and Reserves

Once you’re out to sea off the Belize coast, it’s fun to explore the neighborhood! While Shark Ray Alley might be the main attraction, nearby cayes and reefs shouldn’t be missed. Nearby worthwhile spots include:

  • Ambergris Caye, known for its premier location along the second-largest reef in the world
  • Caye Caulker, an isle that’s earned its reputation as a laid-back, restful, and easily walkable place
  • Hol Chan Marine Reserve, internationally recognized for extraordinary conservation efforts, and the mangrove islands of Boca Chica.

Experience The Intrigue of Belize’s Shark Ray Alley With Caravan

Since 1952, Caravan has invited travelers on journeys of relaxation, discovery, and wonder—not stress. How? Our tour experts curate guided, all-inclusive packages from start to end, so our guests never need to worry. We hand-pick and book optimal transportation, overnight accommodations, meals, and activities for our guests, all at one affordable rate.

On a Caravan tour, the only work you’ll need to do is book your spot. Then, you’re free to rest and enjoy.

If you want to experience the excitement of Shark Ray Alley on our 10-Day Belize and Tikal Tour, don’t wait! Call our agents toll-free at 1-800-227-2826 to book your spot. Or, learn more by calling our information team at +1-312-321-9800.

Caret DownCaret Up RedWhy Travel with Caravan?

Why Travel with Caravan?

Excellence Since 1952

You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.

PanAm Jet
In 1959, Pan Am invited Caravan to be the very first tour company to fly their clients on its new line of Clipper Jets.
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In 1964, Caravan introduced the very first fleet of air conditioned motorcoaches in all of Europe.
Leather Back Turtle Park
Caravan is a proud supporter of the Leatherback Turtle National Park and Costa Rica's efforts to protect this endangered giant.
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Caravan Care

For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received.

Caravan's Proud History

In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.

Great Hotels

Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.

Meals

Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.

Complete Sightseeing

Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.

Fully Guided by Tour Directors

All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.

All-inclusive

Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.

Shopping Freedom

Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.

Great Value, Book Early

Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. Most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best airfare.

How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?

Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.

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Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).

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