Visitors to the Bahamas come here for different reasons – from escaping the hustle and bustle of the big cities to finding an idyllic spot to enjoy the archipelago’s electric-blue waters. There is so much to do and see here that no one will ever be bored. A unique and one-of-a-kind activity the Bahamas is known for is swimming with pigs, so this is a must do for everyone who comes here. If you’re staying in Nassau or the Exumas you can easily book this activity. You will be picked up from your hotel or villa, and your adventure will start with a boat tour through the Exuma Keys. This is a full-day adventure and there are several tour companies that will take you there. Tours usually depart around 8:00 a.m. and return between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m.
It is unknown how pigs came to the Bahamas since they are not native to the islands. It is believed that pigs were left on the uninhabited Big Major Cay by sailors who were planning to return to the cay later and cook the pigs. Others believe that pigs swam over from a shipwreck nearby. A third theory is that locals relocated the pigs to Big Major Cay in anticipation of a slowdown in the economy during the Gulf War. Whatever the truth is Big Major Cay is now home to more than 20 pigs and piglets attracting thousands of tourists every year. The area the pigs live is called Pig Beach for obvious reasons. The pigs are very friendly and love making friends with visitors. This unusual activity even attracts celebrities, including Gabrielle Union and Amy Schumer, and the pigs even appeared in an episode of The Bachelor. In addition to swimming pigs you can see Bahamian Rock Iguanas who live on this secluded island.
Tour groups are small and lunch and drinks are usually included with your ticket. During your visit you will have the opportunity to enjoy swimming at Pig Beach, which is very remote and scenic. Here you can swim in the same waters the pigs swim and can even feed them. Pigs love all natural foods and your tour guide will provide carrots, watermelons, grapes, lettuce and other natural foods. Avoid processed foods such as bread and starchy foods since they are unhealthy for the pigs. Since pigs have poor eyesight, they may confuse your camera for food, so best is to keep a distance and take pictures from a distance instead of selfies.