Here’s everything you’ll want to pack for a whale watching trip:

Table of Contents:
What clothes should you pack for whale watching?
What shoes should you pack for whale watching?
Toiletries & Personal Care
Electronics & Photography
Other Travel Essentials

What clothes should you pack for whale watching?

Whales live in all of the world’s oceans, from the tropics to the polar seas. No two whale watching tours are the same because of the wide range of climates and species. However, one thing they have in common is exposure to the elements. You’ll want to pack suitable clothes for whale watching and be prepared for everything from sunshine and sea spray to chill winds.

• ✅ Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
• ✅ T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts
• ✅ Fleece or insulated mid-layer (sweater or light puffer jacket)
• ✅ Windproof/waterproof outer shell (a good raincoat or boat jacket)
• ✅ Comfortable pants/leggings
• ✅ Shorts (for warmer afternoons or relaxing at camp/lodge)
• ✅ Warm hat/beanie & gloves (optional, but useful on windy boat rides)
• ✅ Sun hat or cap (wide-brimmed recommended)
• ✅ Buff or neck gaiter (for sun and wind protection)
• ✅ Swimsuit (optional—some trips might offer beach time or snorkeling)
• ✅ Sleepwear and campwear (for multi-day excursions)
• ✅ Undergarments and socks (quick-dry options are best)

💡Top Tip: Layering clothing is key—mornings can be chilly, especially on the water, but it warms up during the day. Pack lightweight layers so you can respond to changing temperatures.

What shoes should you pack for whale watching?

Footwear can make or break your experience, especially if your trip includes beach landings or exploring coastal trails between whale watching sessions. Make sure you bring comfortable, good-quality options—closed-toe walking shoes or hiking sandals, a pair of flip-flops for relaxing or shower time, and water-resistant shoes or booties for getting in and out of the boats.

Toiletries & Personal Care

Pack everyday necessities, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, and any regular medications. Plus a few whale-watching essentials:

✅ Sunscreen (ideally reef-safe and SPF 30+)
✅ Lip balm with SPF
✅ Moisturizer because long days outdoors can be harsh on your skin
✅ Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
✅ Towel (quick-dry travel towel)
✅ Small first-aid kit with motion-sickness tablets, painkillers, and any personal medications in waterproof pouches.

For whale watching in cold climates, we recommend packing richer moisturizers, a nourishing hand cream, SPF (even on cloudy days), and a nasal saline spray to combat dry, cold air.

On the other hand, for tropical climates, we suggest aloe vera gel for sun exposure, anti-chafe balm, insect repellent, and stronger sweat-resistant SPF products.

💡Good to Know: We provide reef-friendly sunscreen to all Baja Expeditions guests (free of charge).

Electronics & Photography Equipment to Pack for Whale Watching

• ▪️Camera: Nowadays, some smartphones have pretty awesome cameras; however, a good DSLR or mirrorless camera is recommended for wildlife photography
• ▪️Zoom lens: You can experience incredible close-up interaction with the gray whales at San Ignacio Lagoon, but on most whale watching tours, you may be trying to capture images of whales from a distance. If you’ve got a good camera, you’ll also want a good zoom lens. We recommend at least 200mm for whale shots.
• ▪️Extra batteries and memory cards: so you never miss a shot…
• ▪️ Dry bag/ waterproof camera case: Keep rain and salty sea spray off your electronics!
• ▪️ Charging cables: pack the right cables for your devices (phone, laptop, smartwatch, electric toothbrush, etc.)
• ▪️Plug adapters/chargers/ power bank: Discover what travel adapters you need for your destination here → World Plugs)

Other Essentials for your Whale Watching Packing List

It’s easy to get caught up packing cameras and clothing, but don’t forget the other “obvious” things! Here are a few reminders of other travel essentials:

🔹 Check your documents. For international trips, make sure you have your passport and travel with an extra form of ID. Make sure you can access your travel insurance documents online, and suggest you carry a paper copy of them, too. You might also want your trip itinerary on hand, especially if there are set meeting times to follow.

🔹 Carry some cash. Some whale watching locations are remote without access to card machines or ATMs. We recommend bringing some cash, plus small bills for tips and souvenirs.

🔹 Food and water. Check if food and drinks are included in your tour. It could be a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to help you stay hydrated and be eco-friendly. Bring your own snacks if you’re prone to feeling ‘hangry’ or if you have dietary needs.

🔹 Sunglasses (with strap). Sunglasses are essential on a whale watching tour where the glare of the sun on the water can be blinding. Try polarized glasses for the best visual clarity.

Related Reading: ‘Whale Watching in Baja California: Up Close with Giants’

Top Tips For Booking Whale Watching Tours in Baja California

Baja’s whale watching season is limited, so booking in advance is a must. Aim to reserve your place at least 3-6 months ahead of the peak season. Some key questions to ask tour operators before booking include group size, safety protocols, cancellation policies, and which amenities are included. At Baja Expeditions, we specialize in creating memorable adventures with a blend of luxury, expertise, and a deep respect for wildlife. Let us help plan your whale watching adventure with Baja Expeditions today!

Have we missed any essentials for a whale watching packing list? We’d love to hear from you with your top tips.

The post Whale Watching Packing List appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

Does Sound Travel Differently Underwater?

Yes, sound travels much faster underwater compared to air. In fact, it travels over four times faster! Because water is denser than air, it transmits sound vibrations more efficiently. This means sound travels much further underwater, too. Whale calls, for example, can travel for hundreds of miles, carrying information across oceans.

Blue Whales: Infrasonic Sound

Blue whales communicate with some of the lowest-frequency sounds on Earth — infrasonic sound— which means less than 20 Hz. In comparison, human voice frequencies range from 90-255 Hz. We didn’t exactly evolve to hear sounds that low; they are inaudible to the human ear. Therefore, we rely on amplifiers to record and relay whale noises. Their long calls and moans can travel hundreds of kilometres, allowing individuals to maintain contact across vast ocean expanses.

Unfortunately, it’s the same frequency range as human-made sounds, such as ship engines, low-frequency sonar, and oil exploration activities. There is growing evidence that noise interference can disturb their vital life functions¹. Since blue whales are an endangered species, this is especially concerning and the subject of a number of research projects.

Research shows that whales make these calls at relatively shallow depths, typically above 30m. Additionally, the calls aren’t random but exhibit distinct behavioral and spatial patterns. Their low-frequency calls likely serve more than one purpose: from locating mates and rivals, to coordinating movements, and even signalling feeding opportunities. In regions like Baja California Sur, where blue whales migrate every year, their acoustics are like a secret theatre beneath the waves.

Humpback Whale Songs: The Ocean’s Songwriters

Humpback whales are perhaps the most famous for their vocalisations. Male humpback whales’ songs are long and complex; they can last for minutes or even hours. Their songs serve multiple roles — for attracting mates, for social bonding, and likely for navigation and group coordination.

What’s remarkable is their adaptability: studies have been made to show humpbacks can adjust the source level of their songs in response to environmental noise (wind or shipping vessels). A phenomenon known as the Lombard effect². This shows their communication is not static — but changes with conditions, reinforcing how sound is a vital part of their lives.

Besides their majestic singing, humpbacks are also a favorite for whale watchers because of their acrobatic breaches. Imagine seeing a 30+ ton whale propel itself clear of the water before landing with an almighty splash!

Gray Whales: Moans, Clicks, and Migration Messages

Gray whales, while perhaps less studied than humpback whale song, do have a rich and varied acoustic repertoire. Their calls have been described as rumbles, growls, chirps, clicks, and bubble blasts³. Noises vary according to behavioural context — such as migration, feeding, or breeding.

During migration, low-frequency moans dominate, suggesting a potential signalling of movement or location. Their use of sound in coastal and migratory habitats means they often communicate within human-noisy environments, which may influence their calling behavior.

Beyond Listening: Can We Talk to Whales?

According to an article from The New Yorker, scientists have pushed the boundaries of whale communication by exploring the possibility of two-way interaction⁴. In a project spanning marine biology, linguistics, and AI — Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative) — researchers are attempting to decode the “phonetic alphabet” of sperm whales, using machine learning and extensive acoustic recordings. While sperm whales differ from baleen whales (blue, humpback, gray) in many ways, the underlying idea — that whales have structured, meaningful vocal systems — is relevant across species. It opens the door to imagining a deeper connection: not just hearing whales, but understanding them.

Whale songs and calls are more than background noise — they’re the threads of an unseen network of communication that spans oceans. For travellers in places like Baja California Sur, every whale spout and tail-fluke might also carry a message. A signal. A purpose.

Whale Songs: Experience the Baja Ultimate Whales

Hearing about whale songs is one thing — but witnessing them in person is something else entirely. Join Baja Expeditions’ Baja Ultimate Whales adventure to experience these ocean giants up close. From haunting humpback songs to the friendly greetings of gray whales, every encounter tells a story.

…If you’re seeking an adventure that will leave you in utter awe, this is hands down the trip for you!”

Rebecca, Guest Testimony, March 2025

Find out when and where to see whales in Baja with our guide: ‘Species, Seasons, And The Best Spots’

Further Reading & Sources

1. www.hbkworld.com/en/knowledge/resource-center/articles/blue-whale-sounds? ↩︎
2. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6124089/ ↩︎
3. dosits.org/galleries/audio-gallery/marine-mammals/baleen-whales/gray-whale/ ↩︎
4. Talk to Me: Can artificial intelligence allow us to speak to another species, by E.Kolbert, The New Yorker ↩︎

The post Whale Songs: The Secret Language of Whales appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

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.

A Timeless Setting: San Ignacio Lagoon

At San Ignacio Lagoon, the desert meets the sea in a landscape that seems suspended in time. Here, beneath a canopy of countless stars, the air feels sharper, the silence deeper. Nights here are quiet except for a whisper of the wind or the soft exhale of a whale surfacing offshore.

In the vast wilderness, it’s easy to imagine ancient travelers or early fishermen standing on the shore, gazing up at the same constellations. They may not recognize the world around them today, but the stars above remain unchanged. For thousands of years, the same stars have guided humanity across oceans and deserts. And below, another age-old journey continues: the annual winter migration of the grey whales.

“The same sky has watched over these whales for millennia, guiding them along their migratory path. And for a moment, standing on the shore, you feel a part of something much bigger than yourself.”

Scarlett (Naturalist) – Feb 08, 2025

When and How to See the Total Lunar Eclipse in Mexico

In the early hours of March 3, 2026, these two cycles, celestial and oceanic, will briefly align during a spectacular Total Lunar Eclipse Mexico event. The total eclipse or Blood Moon will last for 58 minutes, from 4:04 am to 5:02 am, reaching its peak red glow at 4:33 am. Even after the total phase ends, a partial eclipse continues until 6:17 am, giving even late risers a chance to catch a glimpse of the lunar eclipse.

For those lucky enough to be at San Ignacio Lagoon, it’s worth setting an early alarm and stepping outside with a warm drink. Overhead, the Earth’s shadow will glide slowly across the lunar face, bathing the landscape in shades of crimson and rose-gold. Around you, the world will fall silent — just distant lapping waves and the occasional whale’s exhale. It’s a surreal, beautiful experience that words can scarcely capture.

View the eclipse map & times for Laguna San Ignacio »
Check the eclipse times for your exact location »

What Happens During a Total Lunar Eclipse

During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the surface of the Moon. But rather than disappearing completely, the Moon glows red — an effect caused by Earth’s atmosphere bending and filtering sunlight. The shorter blue wavelengths are scattered, while the longer red and orange tones slip through, bathing the Moon in the same warm hues that color our sunsets.

For just under an hour, the full Moon becomes a glowing ember suspended in the sky. A truly awe-inspiring sight against the dark desert backdrop.

Whale Watching in Mexico: Where Sky Meets Sea

Every winter, Pacific grey whales travel more than 10,000 miles from their Arctic feeding grounds to the warm, protected lagoons of Baja California Sur. Here, in one of the most pristine and remote corners of the world, whale watching in Mexico reaches its peak. 

San Ignacio Lagoon is one of their most treasured stops — a sanctuary for rest, birth, and play after one of the longest migrations on Earth. For thousands of years, this cycle has repeated itself: as the seasons change, the whales return to their ancestral breeding grounds. Under the same stars that have watched over them for generations. It’s hard not to feel a sense of awe watching a blood moon rise over this peaceful whale sanctuary.

To learn more about stargazing and other adventures in San Ignacio, see our related blog: Top Things to Do in San Ignacio, Mexico

Stargazing in the Desert: Baja’s Nighttime Magic

But you don’t need an eclipse to enjoy Baja’s night skies. Stargazing here is a nightly ritual — a moment to pause and take in the immensity of it all. After sunset, millions of stars ignite across the inky-black desert sky. So clear and bright that even the naked eye can trace constellations and spot distant planets. The crisp desert air sharpens every detail, and depending on the season, even planets like Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn glow like jeweled lanterns.

Desert nights can be surprisingly chilly, so bundle up with a blanket, lean back, and let your eyes adjust. Out here, far from city lights and cell signals, stargazing in Baja is a return to simplicity. There’s beauty in the stillness, to be completely present in the moment, to feel like you’re at the edge of the world.

Curious about the whales you’ll find beneath the desert sky? Explore whale-watching in Baja with our guide to species, seasons, and the best spots in the region: ‘Whale Watching In Baja’

A Rare Moment of Connection

Whether you’re watching the copper glow of the 2026 blood moon or simply the endless Baja stars, San Ignacio Lagoon offers a rare kind of peace — an authentic, off-grid experience with close-up whale encounters. It reminds us how vast, quiet, and timeless our world can be.

Not sure where San Ignacio Lagoon fits into your Baja adventure? Explore our Baja Mexico Map or contact the Baja Expeditions Team and let us plan your route beneath the stars.

The post Total Lunar Eclipse Mexico – March 3, 2026 appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

Baja California Map: The Peninsula’s Unique Geography

Baja California is the second-longest peninsula on Earth! A glance at the map of Baja California shows it stretches 760 miles (1220 km) south from the US border until it tapers off into turquoise waters around Cabo San Lucas. The peninsula is divided into two Mexican states: Baja California to the north, and Baja California Sur to the south.

Baja California Sur is the wild one. Here, visitors are spoiled by dramatic geography and scenic landscapes. Rugged mountains dotted with woodlands open up to desert plains, which melt into its contrasting coastlines. On the Pacific side, waves crash on remote beaches and pool in sheltered lagoons. To the east, the Sea of Cortez boasts calm, nutrient-rich waters that teem with life. Its diversity makes it so remarkable. On a Baja California map, you just see a stretch of land — but in reality, it’s a patchwork of ecosystems.

Diverse Habitats and Wildlife of Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur is a paradise for wildlife lovers. The star attraction is the gray whales, who return every year to birth and nurse their calves. Some of the world’s most important whale sanctuaries and gray whales are the star attraction. Every year, they migrate to give birth and nurse their calves in protected spots, such as San Ignacio Lagoon — one of the world’s most important whale sanctuaries. San Ignacio Lagoon is particularly unique because gray whales often swim close to the boats, seeking interaction with visitors.

Curious about gray whales? Here’s ’10 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know’.

Wildlife Hotspots on the Baja Mexico Map

The gray whales are just the beginning… On a habitat map for Baja Mexico, you’d see how rich and varied the region is:

Wetlands and Mangroves:
Epic Birdwatching

The Baja California Peninsula is a key place on the map for birds following the Pacific Flyway. The region’s wetlands and mangroves provide vital feeding and resting areas for many migratory and resident birds. Herons, egrets, ospreys, gulls, and terns, to name a few.

Trust us, there’s enough to keep even the most experienced birdwatchers entertained!

Remote Pacific Islands:
Dive Socorro

The Socorro Islands lie 400km (250 miles) off the southern tip of Baja California. The islands can only be visited by liveaboard and are so remote they almost fall off the Baja Mexico map. Socorro is a favorite among divers with giant mantas, dolphins, and sharks on almost every dive!

Dive into this wild adventure in our complete guide to ‘Scuba Diving Socorro’.

National Marine Parks:
Explore The Sea of Cortez

The Sea of Cortez is often called “The Aquarium of the World” because of its astonishingly diverse marine ecosystem. Nature can thrive here thanks to the peninsula’s nutrient-rich waters and strict marine park regulations. Many of which are also UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Did you know that 39% of all the world’s marine mammal species can be found here? It’s home to whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Plus, hundreds of fish species, some of which are endemic – meaning they’re totally unique to the area!

Baja California’s Deserts and
Mountainscapes

The desert and mountainous habitats of Baja California are strikingly diverse. These arid landscapes might look stark at first, but they support a surprising range of wildlife. Desert bighorn sheep and mule deer navigate steep rockfaces, and coyotes roam across the plains. In the mountains, pine-oak forests provide refuge for bobcats, pumas, and endemic birds like Xantus’s hummingbird.

Together, these desert and highland ecosystems form a dramatic backbone to the Baja Peninsula Map.

Top Activities to Pin on Your Baja Mexico Map

Any map of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is dotted with exciting destinations to suit every type of vacation, season, and budget. Here are some of the best adventures to be had in Baja California Sur — whether on land, sea, or lagoon.

San Ignacio Lagoon Map: Best Whale Encounters on Earth

This map of Baja Mexico and North America shows the whales annual migration route. Sure, there are a few places along the way for good whale watching but none truly compare to San Ignacio Lagoon.

What really puts San Ignacio Lagoon on the map is the chance of close-up encounters with its “friendly” gray whales…

Can you imagine a 40-ton whale mother introducing you to her new-born, car-sized baby? Incredible!

There’s also so much to discover beyond whale watching. Here are a few highlights to inspire you — but if you’d like the full scoop, we’ve put together a blog packed with “Top Things to Do in San Ignacio, Mexico”

• – For the nature lovers: kayak through mangroves, go birdwatching, or hike along desert trails.
• – For the cultured ones: explore San Ignacio Town, Mexico, enjoy its shaded plaza, historic mission, and traditional Baja cuisine.
• – For the history buffs: glimpse into Baja’s ancient past, on a guided trip to see prehistoric cave paintings in the Sierra de San Francisco mountains.

The Sea of Cortez Map: Incredible Ocean Safaris & More

The Sea of Cortez — perfect for snorkeling, diving, whale watching, and ocean safari excursions.

Sea lions lounge on rocky islands, pods of dolphins play, humpbacks breach, and the elusive blue whale glides through the water. This is just some of the spectacular wildlife you could see on an ocean safari here. Mark Loreto or La Paz on your travel map as ideal departure points.

(Top tip for families: one of the best ways to explore is by sailing the Sea of Cortez, combining tranquility and family fun!)

Baja California Sur Map: Magdalena Bay Sardine Run

Another place to add to your bucket-list map for Baja California is Magdalena Bay because of its epic annual sardine run. By road, it’s a 5-6 hour drive northbound from Cabo San Lucas to Magdalena Bay, and the journey is worth every moment.

Every fall, the waters off Baja California host one of the largest sardine gatherings on the planet! The enormous bait balls attract incredible marine predators such as marlin, dolphins, and whales.

It’s a thrilling showcase of predator vs. prey and some of the top snorkeling in Mexico.

Why Travel with Baja Expeditions: Experts & Eco-Camps

For over 35 years, Baja Expeditions has been a pioneer in eco-tourism and conservation in Baja California Sur. At San Ignacio Lagoon, our eco-camps provide low-impact stays right on the water, without compromising on luxuries and comfort! Guests can fall asleep to the sound of whale spouts in the distance and wake up to a desert sunrise.

Our local guides and naturalists share not only their knowledge of wildlife but also their deep connection to the land and sea. This upcoming season, there’s going to be more naturalist-guided activities than ever before. With Baja Expeditions, you don’t just see Baja California Sur — you experience it in a meaningful, sustainable way.

Plan Your Next Adventure

From desert peaks to whale-filled lagoons, Baja California Sur is a place where geography, culture, and wildlife come together in spectacular ways. A Baja Mexico Map may show roads and borders, but it can’t capture the stunning scenery or the thrill of close-up wildlife encounters.

Join Baja Expeditions for a journey to San Ignacio Lagoon and beyond, and discover why this remote corner of Mexico is such an extraordinary place!

👉 Contact us to bring the map to life and help plan your next adventure

The post Baja Mexico Map: Discover the Baja California Peninsula appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

We’re beyond excited, and hope you are too! To get you in the spirit, here’s a little something about gray whales.

Why Are Gray Whales at San Ignacio Lagoon So Friendly?

Every year, hundreds of gray whales return to their ancestral breeding grounds at San Ignacio Lagoon. For the whales, it’s the perfect place to mate, give birth, and nurse their young. For us, it’s a unique place where “friendly” gray whales actively approach boats and seem curious about people.

But why do these gentle giants behave this way?

The whales haven’t released an official statement just yet… so we don’t have a definite answer. But experts at “Gray Whale Research in Mexico” have some fascinating theories:

1. No fear of humans: Commercial hunting ended here in the late 1870s. With an average lifespan of 50–60 years, today’s whales have never been hunted and have no reason to fear us.
2. A safe, calm environment: San Ignacio Lagoon is protected within the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve. It’s free of orcas, and whale watching is done respectfully and on their terms, creating a safe haven for them.
3. Curiosity about sound: Whales rely on sound to explore their world. The low-frequency hum of panga (local boats) engines resembles their own calls, which may explain why they come closer to investigate.
4. Touch as a form of connection: Calves spend their early months rubbing and rolling around with their mothers. Touch is natural to them, so being gently petted by curious humans might actually feel familiar and comforting.

Not every gray whale shows curiosity, so encountering a “friendly” one is always a special treat. What truly makes San Ignacio unique is the sheer number of whales that gather here. At some places, you might wait all day to catch a glimpse of just one. More than 200 whales were counted in the lagoon last season!

San Ignacio Whale Etiquette 101

By respecting these simple rules, together we can protect the whales and their vital mission — to reproduce and raise the next generation.

1. Choose expert-led trips: Not all operators offer naturalist-guided tours, but we believe it’s essential. Why? Marine biologists understand whale behaviour and can interpret their movements and group dynamics. Their expertise helps ensure encounters remain safe, respectful, and do not interfere with their mating.
2. Giving whales space: Whales approach us on their own terms. There’s never any pressure—whales either swim closer or swim away. In the lagoons, their focus is on mating or nurturing their calves Waiting patiently allows them to behave naturally while giving us the privilege of witnessing their intimate moments.
3. Respect time limits: We schedule up to three whale watching sessions a day during your visit (except your arrival and departure days, which are limited to 1–2 sessions). Each session lasts 90 minutes, with breaks in between, giving the whales the space, rest, and privacy they need.
4. Avoiding no-observation zones: Whale watching is only permitted in a specific area near the ocean entrance. About two-thirds of the lagoon remains a protected sanctuary, completely free from disturbance.

Super Savings

Don’t Miss Out: 25% Off Trip Extensions!

Now’s the perfect time to add even more adventures to your trip. Choose from exciting day trips—like scuba diving, snorkelling with sea lions, or kayaking—to unforgettable multi-day Adventure Beach Camps on Isla Espíritu Santo and more.

Book this week and get a FREE day trip — choose one of the following:

• Snorkel with playful sea lions at Espiritu Santo Island
• Kayaking at Mogote and La Paz Bay

Solo Traveler Special

Traveling on your own? On selected dates, receive a free single occupancy upgrade, no extra charge!

Featured Trips

Spots are limited and the whales are only here for a short time… now is your chance!

Not sure which trip is right for you?

Our concierges are on standby to help you find the perfect adventure. Whether you choose a 4-day gray whale and glamping experience, an activity-packed combo trip sailing in the Sea of Cortez, or want to add blue whale watching to your itinerary, we can help you plan your ideal trip.

The post Our San Ignacio camp opens in just 104 days — but hey, who’s counting? 😛🐋 appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

Here’s why visiting San Ignacio Lagoon should be on your bucket list. Dive into our ultimate guide on ‘Whale Watching in Baja’

Getting to San Ignacio Lagoon

Private Fly-In: Guests of Baja Expeditions enjoy the most direct and most spectacular arrival—a private fly-in from Cabo.

Picture soaring over jagged desert mountains and endless turquoise coastline before touching down at the local airstrip just minutes from our luxurious campgrounds. 

Traveling independently? The journey is part of the adventure. From La Paz, it’s an 8-hour drive, while from Loreto it’s about 4 hours. Both routes follow Highway 1 to the Pacific side before turning off onto a remote dirt road that winds toward the lagoon for the final 45 minutes. You can also fly into Loreto or Guerrero Negro airports and arrange a transfer with a local eco-camp.

However you arrive, the remoteness is part of the magic—by the time you reach San Ignacio Lagoon, the rest of the world feels far away.

Outdoor Adventures and Things to Do in San Ignacio, Mexico

Explore San Ignacio Town

Just a short drive from the lagoon, the oasis town of San Ignacio feels like a step back in time. Among old stone walls and shady date palms, life moves at the pace of the desert sun. At its heart stands a stunning 18th-century Jesuit mission, surrounded by a lush plaza lined with palms and laid-back cafés serving locally grown coffee. After whale watching all morning, why not spend an afternoon exploring the many things to do in San Ignacio, Baja? Wander the square and soak in the history. Or, browse small shops selling handmade crafts, regional art, and local treats like date syrup and preserves—ideal souvenirs that support the local community.

Authentic Food of Mexico – Tasty Things to Do in San Ignacio

In San Ignacio, food is more than a meal—it’s a taste of local tradition. Sample everything from freshly grilled fish and handmade tortillas to decadent desserts made with dates harvested from the surrounding palms. Family-run restaurants and small roadside eateries welcome you with warm smiles and hearty portions, giving you an authentic taste of Baja hospitality. In camp, we offer a fusion of Mexican and West Coast North American food. Meals and snacks are cooked fresh every day by our on-site chefs, and there’s plenty of locally sourced seafood to choose from, too.

Kayak or Paddleboard Through the Mangroves

If you’d rather be on the water, slip onto a kayak or paddleboard and glide quietly through the mangrove channels. Keep an eye out for herons stalking the shallows and ospreys circling above. It’s a peaceful, immersive way to connect with the lagoon’s rich ecosystems—and to experience a side of Baja’s wild beauty that many visitors miss.

With Baja Expeditions, kayaking in the mangroves has been transformed into a fully naturalist-led adventure. It’s an activity that brings the mangroves and their wildlife to life in a whole new way. The experience now combines kayaking with a walk along one of the lagoon’s most beautiful beaches, plus a visit to the nearby salt flats.

Hiking & Birdwatching in San Ignacio

For those looking to stretch their legs between whale-watching excursions, the landscapes around San Ignacio Lagoon offer rewarding opportunities to explore on foot. Gentle hikes take you along quiet beaches and desert terrain with spectacular views of the lagoon and ocean. San Ignacio is a key rest point for migratory birds, which makes it a hotspot for birdwatching. See if you can spot nesting ospreys and stalking herons on the ground, plus flocks of gulls in the sky.

Alternatively, take a 45-minute drive along dusty tracks and you’ll find shimmering salt pans surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. It’s one of the top things to do in San Ignacio; it’s like an alien landscape not to be missed.

Wondering how the salt flats are formed? Check out this first-hand travel blog about the ‘Salt Flats of Mexico’.

Discover the Cave Paintings of the Sierra de San Francisco

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these prehistoric rock paintings are some of the oldest and best-preserved in North America. The cave paintings show human figures and many animal species, illustrating the relationship between humans and their environment. Local guides offer tours (some require hiking or mule rides), with trips ranging from a half-day to immersive 3-day excursions.

Stargazing: What to Do at Night in San Ignacio, Mexico

When the sun dips below the horizon, the desert sky comes alive. With almost no light pollution, millions of stars shine brilliantly against the inky-black night. In addition, the crisp desert air sharpens the view, so constellations and even planets like Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn stand out depending on the season.

Bring a blanket and settle in at camp, or join a guided astronomy talk if available, to learn the constellations and spot planets, meteor showers, and, if your timing is right, a spectacular lunar eclipse.

“As the day fades, the hush of twilight brings another kind of magic—the first stars twinkling above the still waters. The same sky has watched over these whales for millennia, guiding them along their migratory path. And for a moment, standing on the shore, you feel a part of something much bigger than yourself.”

Scarlett (Naturalist) Feb 08, 2025

Quick Tips for Stargazing

• – Take long exposure photos using a stable surface or a tripod (mobiles with night-sky modes work great too).
• – Pack extra layers because Baja desert nights can be surprisingly chilly post-sunset.
• – Bring binoculars or a small telescope to enhance moon details or catch Jupiter’s bands, Saturn’s rings, and bright star clusters with ease. (Note: each tent has a pair of binoculars at our luxurious gray whale watching camps.)
• – Pack a headlamp with a red filter because red light preserves your night vision, helping you see the stars in all their glory

Join A Turtle Conservation Session with EcoTortugas

San Ignacio Lagoon is best known for its migrating gray whales, but it’s also home to endangered sea turtles. Unfortunately, these ancient mariners face constant threats, including entanglement in fishing gear or even coyote attacks that can strand them on the beach. That’s where EcoTortugas steps in. This multigenerational fishing family has turned their deep connection to the lagoon into a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release turtles—and they invite you to be part of their work. Taking part in a conversation session is one of the most rewarding things to do in San Ignacio, Mexico.

During a half-day visit, you might help monitor and identify turtles and even take part in a release. Learn more about the challenges these creatures face through an engaging talk and reserve tour. Groups are kept small (max. 8 guests) with two sessions daily (7:00–11:00 am or after 4:00 pm). A $40 donation per person goes entirely toward conservation. Pre-booking is highly recommended for this unforgettable, meaningful addition to your San Ignacio Lagoon adventure.

Ready to experience the magic of San Ignacio Lagoon? Whether you’re drawn by incredible gray whale encounters or the rich tapestry of local culture, history, and nature. There’s no shortage of adventures waiting here. Book your whale watching tour with Baja Expeditions today and unlock the full range of experiences.

Related Reading: ‘Whale Watching in Baja California: Up Close with Giants’

Don’t just visit Baja California Sur—immerse yourself in it!

Your unforgettable San Ignacio Lagoon journey starts here…

The post Top Things to Do in San Ignacio, Mexico appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

The post Kayaking for Everyone – La Paz appeared first on Baja Expeditions.

The post Swim with Whale Sharks appeared first on Baja Expeditions.