Blue Whale Watching Tours in Baja California | Baja Expeditions

Best Place to See Blue Whales: The Baja Blues

Baja Expeditions Crew — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:20:13 +0000

Searching for the best place to see blue whales? Look no further than the Sea of Cortez off Baja California Sur, Mexico. Every winter, these ocean giants return for calving, nursing, and feeding in the calm, nutrient-rich waters around Loreto and Agua Verde — the heart of Baja Expeditions’ Ultimate Whales adventure.

There’s a moment — when the sea stills, your breath catches, and a shimmer of turquoise moves below the surface — that feels like magic. Then, with a slow, thunderous exhale, a blue whale surfaces near your boat. It’s a sound you feel in your chest. It’s humbling, unforgettable, and utterly Baja.

Giants in the Sea of Life: Blue Whales in Mexico

The blue whale — Balaenoptera musculus — is the largest animal ever known to exist. North Pacific blue whales grow up to about 90 feet and weigh over 100,000 pounds (NOAA Fisheries). In Antarctica, adult females can reach up to 110 feet in length, and their hearts alone are the size of a small car! Yet for all their immensity, blue whales are gentle, elusive, and profoundly graceful.

Research from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) shows that blue whales’ deep calls can travel hundreds of miles underwater. During migration, this helps them communicate across vast distances. In Baja, these hauntingly low songs echo beneath the surface as they navigate their seasonal routes.

Baja’s deep canyons and rich upwellings create a marine buffet that draws whales, dolphins, and whale sharks throughout the seasons. Here, travelers don’t just witness blue whales, but an entire ecosystem teeming with life. Dolphins weaving between the waves, mobula rays leaping into the air, and whale calves playing and learning survival skills near the surface.

As Captain Pascal, resident ocean expert, recalls:

…we had encounters with blue whales the entire day… I guess, and this is an educated guess, we saw 8–12 different blues. We had a total of 77 individual sightings of those whales… That is a mind-blowing number, and we are talking about one of the more shy whales, which are not seen in a lot of places worldwide.

An animal of superlatives, a peninsula of superlatives, a trip of superlatives.”
Captain’s Log, January 2025

Curious about Baja’s other whales? You’ll love our blog: ‘Whale Watching In Baja: Species, Seasons, And The Best Spots’

Voices from the Deck — Blue Whale Encounters in Mexico

We can say that Baja is the best place to see blue whales, but no scientific fact can compare to seeing these giants in person. Guests immersed in the Baja Ultimate Whales expedition describe the experience with joy and pure wonder.

Isobel and Jennifer, visitors from England, shared:

To say we were impressed is an understatement! … Once we started, we didn’t stop. Pascal told us what to look out for and had the whole group watching for the distinctive blowhole spray. He was a fantastic captain of the RIB, able to position us right next to where the whales were swimming… It was magical!

…They were gorgeous creatures to see up close and truly breathtaking in their natural habitat; a once-in-a-lifetime experience… and one we won’t forget for a long time!”
Guest Report, January 2025

Captain Mantarey, a lifelong Sea of Cortez mariner, reflected:

An amazing day with blue whales in the Sea of Cortez. I have been working here all my life, and today is one of my best encounters — almost a hundred sightings in the day with at least 12 different individuals… This unique spectacle can only occur in the Sea of Cortez.”
Captain’s Log, January 2025

And from Clair and Greta, epic memories from their first day aboard the Gallant Lady:

Our first full day was an epic blockbuster! … We were super lucky with our day and conditions, and had one big blue whale reappear for us many times. Plus, we could see the spouts of at least three other blue whales in our local area. They are truly awe-inspiring creatures.”
Guest Report, February 2024

Wondering how the Sea of Cortez fits into your travel route? Check out our ‘Baja Mexico Map’.

Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounters

So what makes Baja California Sur the best place to see blue whales? Calm, blue waters, nutrient-rich upwellings, and krill blooms make the Sea of Cortez one of the few places you can reliably spot blue whales.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or simply chasing the world’s most extraordinary encounters, seeing blue whales in Mexico is an experience beyond words. Each exhale of a whale is a reminder of how wild and connected our planet is.

The Sea of Cortez has been called “the world’s aquarium,” a phrase coined by Jacques Cousteau, who extensively documented its exceptional biodiversity. Its nutrient-rich waters and protected marine parks supports incredible marine life. Look out for pods of dolphins and colonies of sea lions to keep you entertained between blue whale sightings!

With Baja Expeditions’ expert crew, observation-plane support, and deep respect for marine life, you can witness the giants of the deep in a way few people ever will. Sustainably. Up close. And with wonder that lasts a lifetime.

Ready to trade screens for sea spray?

Let your Baja Expeditions team plan your next big adventure. We handle every detail — all you need to do is show up, breathe in the salty air, and watch the ocean’s biggest residents.

Contact us today to start your journey to see Baja’s blue whales.

The post Best Place to See Blue Whales: The Baja Blues appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

Luxury Liveaboard Kayaking

Baja Expeditions Crew — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 12:52:13 +0000

Mothership Kayaking Adventure (Expedition Yacht)

SEASONS

October – March

2 to 7 nights

TYPES OF ADVENTURES

Mothership Supported Kayaking

PRICING (Pp. dbl occ.)

Pocket Liveaboard & Beach Camp From $1,895

Expedition Yacht From $3,450

Mothership Kayaking Adventure in Baja California

Explore the most beautiful islands in the Sea of Cortez including Loreto and Espiritu Santo. Paddling, relaxing and adventuring during the day and then effortlessly travelling and covering miles in the evening or early morning in comfort and luxury aboard our expedition yacht or one of our small ships.

Loreto National Park, Espiritu Santo UNESCO World Heritage Site and much more. Paddle, relax or adventure during the day. And then effortlessly travel between these gorgeous islands.

Video of our kayaking adventures! →

Some of the most spectacular paddling & scenery

Loreto National Park, Isla Espiritu Santo and San Jose del Cabo. Some of the most spectacular paddling, scenery, mountains, deserted white sand beaches and animals in baja are all easily accessible in one week by mothership.

Paddle, swim, snorkel, adventure and hike or just plain relax during the day. We’ll cover the miles with your mothership in the evening or early in the morning.

Perfect for paddlers of all ages, abilities, experience and fitness levels, whether you are a new paddler who isn’t sure you have the fitness or ability to those experienced paddlers who want to clock lots of miles.

Insider Tips

October and November offer the beautiful warm weather and spectacular cobalt blue water and clear visibility.

The north wind can sometimes blow from December through March, but we know from experience exactly how to work around it. This is when loads of whales come to Mexico on their winter vacation. February and March are especially perfect for spotting blue whales in the Loreto National Park.

April and May have a charm all of their own as the water and weather warms up. Special features are enormous schools of mobula rays, pods of dolphins, whale sharks and fingers crossed on orcas and sperm whales.

Luxury Liveaboard

Paddle as much or as little as you like in a kayak or on a paddle board or both. All from the comfort of your boutique hotel at sea completed with attentive service, fine dining, hot tub which is especially perfect under a starry Mexican sky, enormous water level back deck, and of course, individually controlled air con, shower and bathroom in each stateroom and suite. We will do the driving so that you can enjoy each spectacular location to the fullest.

Extra activities included with your trip: swimming with whale sharks, snorkelling with sea lions, guided shore hikes, introduction to scuba diving as well as diving opportunities for experienced divers.

Typical Itinerary

Fly into SJD. Cabo. Cab

Day 1

Start with a meet and greet at 2:45 pm at our SeeCreatures activity centre in Cabo San Lucas. Your expedition yacht will be boarding in La Paz, and transfers to and from SeeCreatures Cabo are complimentary. If you prefer, you are very welcome to meet us at Baja Expeditions headquarters in La Paz around 4:45 pm. Our captain and crew will be standing by to welcome you with champagne and big smiles. We’ll be setting sail this afternoon for Isla Espiritu Santo as you settle in onboard.

Day 2

We cater to paddlers of all fitness and experience levels with lovely, patient and very experienced guides plus our high-speed 32 ft RHIB support boat. Whether you’re new to paddling or are your shoulders aren’t what they used to be, no problem, today is an easy start to the trip and you can paddle as much or as little as you like with one of our guides nearby. What you can be sure of is that the scenery will be beautiful and excellent water visibility.

Are you a highly experienced paddler who would prefer to head off on full day adventure? We can easily accomodate your comfort level and send you off with a portable marine VHF radio to stay in touch with us as well as a Nautilus marine rescue GPS. We truly cater to paddlers of levels.

Your Seaward kayak is an easily maneuverable and very seaworthy fibreglass boat outfitted with carbon fibre paddles. Since this is mothership-supported kayaking, your boat will be light and fast without any cargo or gear onboard other than sunscreen and a camera. You can plan on meeting up with the mothership whenever you want with lunch, snacks, cocktail hour and dinner onboard as well as hot tub and the beautiful starry Mexican night sky.

Days 3 – 7

Hmmmm. Where will you wake up today!!! We typically get the mothership underway in the late afternoon, with all the kayaks stowed onboard and head off for an easy and comfortable ride to the jumping off point for tomorrows kayaking. Sometimes we will be at anchor by 9 pm, sometimes later. Unlike other kayaking trips, you can be assured of hot showers, hot tub, fine dining, sophisticated bar and a very comfortable sleep with full air conditioning.

Your choice to get up early the next morning for coffee service, a continental breakfast, and your first paddle of the day before main breakfast is served. Or sleep in, relax, and go for a paddle after breakfast.

The southern sea of cortez is our cruising ground on this trip. We will be ranging from Espiritu Santo to as far north as the gorgeous Loreto national park, Carmen and Danzante Islands, and heading south again.

Day 8 7

Sadly this is the last day of this part of your adventure with us. We hope you will be joining us again soon. Disembarkating by 8:30 am after a nice breakfast with complimentary transfers back to Baja Expedtions HQ, SJD Los Cabos airport, or Cabo SeeCreatures.

Operated For Safety

Safety is a very serious business. Mother Ocean can be capricious and unforgiving. We hold ourselves to the highest standards and you should expect and demand no less. In our view, every dive boat should be operated within a certified ISM safety management system, outfitted with sprinklers, emergency smoke hoods for everybody and the same safety, fire, life saving equipment and radios as the largest cruise ships. Captains, mates and engineers should have professional commercial mariner qualifications and all crew should have STCW professional mariner certification. Safety is not something to publish in a brochure. It’s part of our DNA. A cornerstone of our culture. Something that we have been living by for every day of the last 30 years.

> Discover Gallant Lady

Ready for Your Luxury Liveaboard Kayaking Adventure?

Find Your Trip

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Sea of Cortez Safari: Mobulas, whales and even orcas

Baja Expeditions Crew — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 10:10:40 +0000

Mobulas & Orcas in the Sea of Cortez

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SEASONS

April – July

8 Days, 7 Nights

TYPES OF ADVENTURES

Liveaboard

PRICING (Pp. dbl occ.)

From US$4,050

Whole Boat Charter Available

Orcas in the Sea of Cortez

Multiple pods of orcas (killer whales) visit the Sea of Cortez every spring and summer. Unlike almost anywhere else in the world, these magnificent apex predators often choose to interact with us. Orcas are present here year-round, but their numbers become more noticeable from January, with peak activity in July and August, when they are frequently encountered for up to 20 days each month. During the season, our team monitors two key hotspots—or “orca cafés,” as we call them—at Cerralvo Island and up north by Isla San Jose. Of course, orcas don’t just stay in one place and can appear throughout the region.

Special feature during the season: joyful, jumping mobula rays. Enormous schools of mobulas rays are resident from the end of March through early July. Getting in the water with a “fever” of 4 to 5 ft rays is a truly special experience.

Mobula Madness Video ▶

Interact with whales and mobula rays

The iconic creature on these adventures is the orca, also known as the killer whale. With a combined experience of over 80 years between Baja Expeditions and Nautilus, we have had the privilege of respectfully interacting with these magnificent creatures, from the chilly waters of Alaska to Roca Partida and Socorro Island further south. The sight of those sleek black dorsal fins slicing through the water when the orcas make an appearance is truly unforgettable. Any interaction is always done in full compliance with the laws of Mexico.

Interaction is always respectful and on the animal’s own terms. You can expect to be in the water with the rays, any whale sharks that swim by, inquisitive dolphins, and interactive orcas, and possibly fin whales.

We provide a range of boats, crews, and experiences that come from being the oldest and original eco-tourism operator in Baja. You can choose from limited-load, ocean-going liveaboard small ships with just 12 guests onboard, our 116-foot expedition yacht, a 55-foot pocket liveaboard, an eco-experience camp on Isla Espiritu Santo, our 45-foot luxury sailing catamaran with 3 private guest staterooms, or our 48 ft fast day boats for ocean safaris, offering a level of luxury far superior to that of any traditional fishing boat (panga).

Sample Itinerary

Typical Itinerary

Fly into SJD. Cabo. Expedition yacht might leave from Cabo or La Paz. Sailing catamaran leaves from La Paz.

Day 1

Our Nautilus owned SeeCreatures is located near the harbour in downtown Cabo San Lucas and is your home away from home. We encourage you to fly in early and allow us to arrange for some local diving. Your trip includes a complimentary photo lesson at 1:00pm. Our photo pros will coach you on how to get that perfect underwater image, help set up, service or repair your camera gear, and assist with camera rentals. You are welcome to drop your bags off and check-in whenever it’s most convenient. We ask that you please check-in at SeeCreatures Cabo by 4:30pm latest for your complimentary coach transfer to La Paz, where our hosties will be waiting on the back deck for you with trays of margaritas and champagne.

This trip is predominantly focused on snorkelling and freediving, however if you would like to dive we have rental gear available at SeeCreatures before boarding, or you can bring your own gear.

Days 2 – 7

Our expert team is dedicated to providing the best possible wildlife experiences. With extensive knowledge of the region, our crew specializes in observing and understanding marine life, ensuring you make the most of your time on the water. They have one goal in mind: to maximize your encounters with the animals.

You might have heard that the best place to see the mobulas is in the triangle between Espiritu Santo, Carpenter Rock on the west side of Cerralvo, and Las Ventanas on Baja. Our expedition yacht and high speed RHIB changes the calculus on this completely. We are seeing animals like never before and will take you to where a mama blue whale and calf might be waiting for you, or humpback whales, whale sharks, cow nose rays, and hundreds of dolphins. Be patient, as it might take ten splashes for the mobulas to allow snorkelers and freedivers into the middle of the pack, but you’ll be rewarded with truly spectacular encounters.

Your day might start with a dive or snorkel with typical RHIB missions heading out at 11am after the local Corumuel wind lies down making it easier to critter spot. Our RHIB, or high-speed skiff, carries 12 guests, so everyone is welcome onboard at the same time.

After a delicious lunch on deck, we’ll head back out on the water in the afternoon. We will keep our support boat running as late as anyone wants up until dusk. You will get plenty of time in the water.

Your ship will always be close by. Take a break whenever you want and relax on the sundeck with a good book or soaking in the hot tub. We also have kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

In the evening, you’ll have the chance to see the mobula rays in a different light. Literally. There will be the opportunity to go snorkelling at night in a calm, protected bay, where we will suspend lights off the bottom of the boat to attract swarms of mobulas. The mobulas come in to feed on the plankton exposed by the lights, providing a spectacular show against the inky ocean. If you’re a certified diver with your own gear, we can also arrange for you to go night diving.

The highlight of any trip is if we see the black fins of orcas slicing through the water. All interactions are conducted in compliance with the laws and regulations of Mexico. For our diving friends, bring your dive gear, and we will be sure to get you some splashes on local dive sites.

Day 8

Morning breakfast. Disembark at 8:30 am in La Paz and complimentary transfer back to either SeeCreatures Cabo San Lucas or SJD Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will we see orcas on these trips?

Maybe. We hope so. The iconic creature on these adventures is the orca, also known as the killer whale. The sight of those sleek black dorsal fins slicing through the water when the orcas make an appearance is truly unforgettable. With a combined experience of over 80 years between Baja Expeditions and Nautilus, we have had the privilege of respectfully interacting with these magnificent creatures, from the chilly waters of Alaska to Roca Partida and Socorro Island further south. Any interaction is always done in full compliance with the laws of Mexico.

Are orcas guaranteed?

No. We are confident that you will have great encounters with schools of mobula rays, California sea lions, mega pods of bottlenose dolphins, and much more. Along the way, you may also encounter sperm whales, fin whales, pseudorcas, pilot whales, Risso’s dolphins, and the super-acrobatic spinner dolphins. Whale sharks are spotted on almost every trip. When reports of exciting wildlife activity come in, we will make every effort to position ourselves in the best possible location to maximize your experience.

When will we be able to get in the water?

Most snorkelling and freediving will be done either from our 32-foot-high speed aluminum hulled “zodiac style” RHIB or even from the large water level platform at the stern (that’s the back end) of your yacht. You can count on a couple of evening snorkels in a quiet bay with underwater lights and, hopefully, swarming mobulas. But you can spend as much time as you want in the water.

What other wildlife will we see?

We’ll be watching for large pods of dolphins, and of course, you’ll have the opportunity to jump in with them as well. To be frank, you never quite know what amazing animals you might encounter in the Sea of Cortez. Along the way, you may come across sperm whales, fin whales, and whale sharks. Note that the famous whale shark conservation area at Mogote is closed to visitors at this time of year.

What is included in the trip?

Accommodation, all meals (continental breakfast, breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert), non-alcoholic beverages and snacks, daily room service, towels and onboard facilities such as the hot tub and lounge… and lots of fun!

Exclusions: 5% tax, bar, gift shop, crew gratuities, internet access, $35 port fee.

What Guests Have to Say About Mobulas & Orcas

We Jumped in the Water with Orcas!

There are few words to describe todays adventure. We jumped in the water with Orcas!! They were curious about us and kept circling back to check us out. Read full review
Kelley, onboard the Nautilus Gallant Lady

Amazing Mobula and Orca Trip on the Nautilus Gallant Lady

My mom and I are just finishing up a week of snorkeling with mobula rays and orcas in the Sea of Cortez, Mexico with the crew of the Gallant Lady and it was absolutely the trip of a lifetime and exceeded all expectations. Read full review
Connie, California onboard the Nautilus Gallant Lady

Did Someone Say Orca?

WHAT A CHANCE OF A LIFETIME THAT WAS. An opportunity came up with some friends to go snorkeling and swim with mobulas and orcas in the open ocean of the Sea of Cortez. Read full review
Stephanie, California onboard the Nautilus Gallant Lady

Underwater with One of the Most Iconic Orca Families of the Population Found in Baja

On the first day of the trip, the first open ocean safari, seven orcas! No words! Read full review
David Serradell, In-house Photographer.

Operated For Safety

> Discover Gallant Lady

The post Sea of Cortez Safari: Mobulas, whales and even orcas appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

Sailing

Baja Expeditions Crew — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 09:29:07 +0000

Sailing in Baja California
Our Push into Sustainability

WALKTHROUGH VIDEO ➤

SEASONS

Year-Round

TYPES OF ADVENTURES

Liveaboard

PRICING

US$2,250 Per Day

Staterooms 5 – 6 Guests

45-ft Sailing Catamaran – Mango Wind

It’s easy to fall in love with sailing. Especially when you raise the sails and feel them fill with wind as the yacht accelerates and then totally quiet with just the hiss of the water going past.

It is equipped with kayaks, paddle boards, snorkelling and scuba gear. It’s your adventure and it’s our job to make it happen.

Time to go sailing!!

Push Into Sustainability

Our 45-ft sailing catamaran represents our push into sustainability with the amenities of a yacht. Captain. Chef and fine dining. Naturalist/guide/dive guide who is equally happy to introduce you to scuba diving, take everyone paddling or go for an interpretive hike in the desert.

Because it’s a catamaran, your yacht is very wide which makes it much more spacious than a monohull and very stable.

Ready to go sailing?

Interested in Chartering a Bigger Boat?

Our 116-ft expedition yacht Gallant Lady accommodates up to 12 guests in 6 suites.
$7,850 + tax per night.

The post Sailing appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

Baja Ultimate Whales

Staff — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 20:36:33 +0000

Baja Ultimate Whales

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SEASONS

January – April

8 Days, 7 Nights

TYPES OF ADVENTURES

Liveaboard & Luxury Camp

PRICING (Pp. dbl occ)

Gallant Lady Suite & Luxury Camp: US$5,095

Baja Ultimate Whales

The great whales come home to Baja every winter, giving us a plethora of experiences and adventures. Our ultimate whale trips combine swimming with whale sharks, snorkelling with sea lions, and spending 3 nights on your own 116-ft expedition yacht, immersed in the beauty of the Sea of Cortez and its abundant wildlife, including blue whales, humpback whale mommas and babies, fin whales, and pods of dolphins. The adventure continues with a private sightseeing flight across Baja to our luxury camp at San Ignacio Lagoon with the most extraordinary whale interaction on the planet. This is an unforgettable 8 day / 7 night adventure and a tremendous value.

Your expedition begins in Cabo San Lucas with humpback whale watching, followed by a transfer to a boutique hotel in La Paz. The next morning includes swimming with whale sharks (weather permitting), a beach lunch at UNESCO Isla Espíritu Santo, and swimming with sea lions. Then, board our 116-ft expedition yacht for cocktail hour and dinner as we sail north toward Loreto, taking in the stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life of the national park.

The adventure continues as you return to La Paz for a private 1-hour, 40-minute flight to San Ignacio Lagoon, where you’ll experience the most extraordinary whale interactions on the planet over 4 days and 3 nights. Conclude your journey with a private flight back to the SJD executive terminal in Los Cabos.

Your 116-ft Expedition Yacht

Enjoy 3 nights aboard our Nautilus Gallant Lady, complete with our 32-ft high-speed rigid hull inflatable. We will be steaming north to the Loreto National Park, taking in the breathtaking marine environment, where blue whale mommas with their new calves, humpback mommas, huge pods of dolphins, giant fin whales, and, with fingers tightly crossed, orcas, pilot whales, and sperm whales may be along the way. You will also have the option to enjoy shore hikes guided by our naturalist, go kayaking, take beach walks, and sunset drinks ashore on beautiful islands.

Glamping & Luxury Camping with Gray Whales

The most extraordinary thing happens when gray whales return to the birthing lagoons of Baja every winter. They reach out to us for interaction, to be stroked and pet, to get scratched between their pectoral fins, and to drench us with whale halitosis! It’s one of the most spectacular experiences on the planet, and it’s entirely on the whales’ terms. While we have learned that they like to be touched, the question is whether it’s ok to do so? Click here for more about this.

While the gray whale encounters are the main reason to visit San Ignacio, we make no apologies for the comfort and style of our seasonal pop-up camp. Spacious tents with 24-hour power, private bathrooms with hot and cold running water, and your choice of a king or double bed with fine linens ensure a restful stay. Add in fine dining and a well-stocked bar, and you’ll find there’s plenty to enjoy beyond the whales. Perhaps best of all is gathering around the campfire, soaking up the beauty of a starry Mexican night sky.

Find out more! →

Itinerary Overview

We recommend SJD Cabo San Lucas as your gateway airport for seamless transfers from the arrivals hall at Cabo San Lucas.

Our concierges will be on standby to assist with arrangements, address special requests, and to answer any questions you might have. We recommend flying into Cabo early to enjoy and partake in our Baja hospitality.

Day 1 – Whale Watching and Central La Paz!

Humpback whale watching adventure in Cabo accompanied by your own personal naturalist who will guide you throughout your entire trip. Afternoon transfer to a boutique hotel on a quiet beach in La Paz.

Days 2-4 – Whales Whales Whales

Let’s go and have some fun, heading out to UNESCO Isla Espíritu Santo to snorkel with sea lions, explore, and a beach lunch. Late afternoon transfer to our 116 ft expedition yacht to head north towards Loreto National Park to search out blue and humpback momma and baby whales, dolphins, and fin back whales. Supported by our observation airplane. There should be time for kayaking, nature walks, and on one special evening, cocktails on the beach while watching a sunset.

Day 5 – San Ignacio!

Morning flight to San Ignacio for the most extraordinary whale interaction on the planet.

Our staff will be waiting to meet you at the airstrip with welcoming smiles, glasses of champagne, and hot apple cider, followed by a 5 minute ride to camp. Once there, enjoy brunch, a welcome briefing, and a naturalist introduction to the whales and what you might see and experience this afternoon. We recommend heading out for two afternoon whale-watching encounters, but of course, it’s always your option to stay and relax at camp or try some of our other activities. In the evening, enjoy cocktail hour and watch the sunset around one of our fire pits, followed by dinner and a presentation by one of our naturalists.

Days 6-7 – San Ignacio Lagoon Gray Whales

All operators in the lagoon work together to maximize guest experience while ensuring no negative impact on the whales. For this reason, all whale encounters are in a small defined area of the lagoon with pangas taking turns entering the restricted area for a maximum of 90 minutes. The timing is worked out between the operators which means that we abide by scheduled departure times. For this reason, unfortunately, we are not able to send pangas out “on demand”. The departure times are defined.

Option 1:
7 am breakfast after watching the sunrise over the sierras and then head out at 7:45 am for several whale watching encounters.

Option 2:
Sleep in and relax. Breakfast when you are ready. With a fixed departure time of 9:45 am, if you want to join the second whale watching session of the day. The second round is around 10 to 10:30 am, depending on the availability in the area for whale watching, and then back to camp for lunch.

After lunch, enjoy another whale-watching encounter. Or, as long as the weather cooperates, enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the mangroves on the other side of the lagoon, or go mountain biking. Visit a local village to experience and learn about their turtle conservation efforts. Take a leisurely walk, hike, or bird watching with one of our naturalists. Or just kick back, and relax at camp. In the evening, enjoy cocktail hour and vibrant sunsets, make new friends around a fire pit, or over a game of billiards, or an evening presentation by a naturalist. All fine ways to finish off your day in camp.

Day 8 – Return to Cabo

Breakfast at 7 am. One more whale watching encounter (always weather dependent), and then the beautiful flight back to SJD Los Cabos, arriving by 1:30 pm. If you are flying home that day, we recommend booking a return flight after 3:30 pm. Otherwise, transfer back to SeeCreatures Cabo for more adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What am I going to see?

You can expect blue whales, humpbacks, fin whales, mega pods of dolphins, whale sharks, sea lions, and, if you’re lucky, orcas and sperm whales. Also, up close and personal interactions with Pacific gray whales! San Ignacio Lagoon is also home to a variety of bird species, including nesting ospreys and egrets.

When should I go?

We only operate in peak season when large numbers of whales are present, from January through April.

Why do your trips leave out of SJD?

Because the shortest flight to the Lagoon is from SJD which is super easy to get to with service from 15 different US cities, most of Mexico and even direct flights from overseas. Because Cabo San Lucas in the winter and spring is a really fun place to visit!! Because you won’t have any border crossing hassles. And because we offer all sorts of other activities from our Cabo San Lucas base including swimming with whale sharks and other adventures in the Sea of Cortez, scuba diving including our Socorro giant manta liveaboard trips, photography workshops and much more.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?

A stay at the Marea beachfront hotel in La Paz.

Onboard our 116-ft expedition yacht, the Gallant Lady.

Luxury accommodation at San Ignacio Lagoon:

Luxury Camp

Enormous thought has gone into every detail, from fire pits to a wide selection of wine, craft beer, single malt scotches, and fine dining. We even have a bar, lounge tent, and Wi-Fi access throughout the camp.

Think of our luxury camp as one of the world’s best pop-up hotels.

LUXURY TENT VIRTUAL TOUR

What’s included in the trip?

Transportation includes flights from La Paz to the lagoon and from the Lagoon to SJD. Accommodation, activities, meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages plus unlimited whale watching sessions (subject to capacity control and weather). On-site naturalist.

Park fees, gift shop, bar, gratuities and camera rentals are NOT included.

What airport do I fly into?

SJD Los Cabos International for both commercial airlines and private aircraft.

Operated For Safety

> Discover Gallant Lady

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Loreto – Blue Whales

Staff — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 21:18:17 +0000

Loreto
Blue Whales

SEASONS

January – March

TYPES OF ADVENTURES

Liveaboard, Private Charter

PRICING

Destination Overview

The entire Mechudo Corridor is alive with whales including blue, fin, humpback and dolphins and if we are lucky, orcas or sperm.

Enjoy unique whale watching and exploration opportunities from Loreto south through the Mechudo Corridor towards La Paz. Blue and fin whales are not just around Loreto but all the way south to Bahía de La Paz. Plus mangrove exploration, snorkelling and watching sea lions at Los Islotes, Espirito Santo Island UNESCO world heritage site, beach walks, hikes, kayaking and, weather permitting, snorkelling with whale sharks.

About the Whales

Blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) are the largest animals to have ever lived on our planet. Including dinosaurs. Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) are almost as big. Blues are loners, extremely endangered and spend most of their time in open ocean hunting for food where they consume 5 to 8 tons every day. Their tongue weighs as much as an elephant! Every winter they gather south of Loreto in the Mechudo Corridor to mate and calve which gives an extraordinary whale watching opportunity whether it’s from our kayaks, sailboat, 55-ft Westerly or 116-ft expedition yacht.

Baja Ultimate Whales

Try our Baja Ultimate Whale Adventure!

Start in San José del Cabo. Afternoon Humpback whale watching out of San José. Transfer from boat directly to La Paz. Dinner and overnight stay at Marea hotel.

Morning activities, snorkelling with sea lions and whale sharks in La Paz. Afternoon sailing north towards Loreto.

Two full days out at sea. Looking out for blue and finback whales. Visiting Espiritu Santo, Loreto, Isla San Jose and the Mechudo Corridor. You will have a chance for snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, cocktails on the beach, airplane support and more! Finishing back at La Paz.

Air transfer from La Paz to San Ignacio Lagoon camp site. Out on the water in the afternoon for two whale watching sessions.

Two days at camp with amazing gray whale encounters. Finially, one last morning whale watch and then flight back to SJD.

This is an awesome trip. Whale watching does not get any better than this!

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Whale Songs: The Secret Language of Whales

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Best Place to See Blue Whales: The Baja Blues

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Operated For Safety

Loreto – Blue Whales

LoretoBlue Whales

Destination Overview

The entire Mechudo Corridor is alive with whales including blue, fin, humpback and dolphins and if we are lucky, orcas or sperm.

About the Whales

Baja Ultimate Whales

Try our Baja Ultimate Whale Adventure!

Get Inspired!

Get Inspired

Watch our inspirational videos

Whale Watching Packing List

Whale Songs: The Secret Language of Whales

Best Place to See Blue Whales: The Baja Blues

Book Your Adventure!

Sailing in Baja California
Our Push into Sustainability

Loreto
Blue Whales