San Ignacio Gray Whale Experience

Bluewater Travel SAN IGNACIO Gray Whale Experience

✓  UPCLOSE GRAY WHALE INTERACTIONS  |  ✓ PERFECT FOR NON-DIVERS  | ✓ SUITABLE FOR AGES 5+

The San Ignacio Lagoon Gray Whale Experience offers a unique opportunity to have up-close and personal interactions with Pacific gray whales in their breeding and birthing lagoon. These gray whales are known to be the friendliest on the planet and exhibit behaviors such as swimming over to the boats (pangas) to be caressed, stroked, and even kissed. They may also roll onto their backs to allow visitors to scratch their bellies. 

The experience is entirely on the whales' terms, and even mother whales may push their babies up against the boats for human interaction. The first whale interaction at San Ignacio Lagoon occurred in 1972, and since then, the experience just continues to get more magical each year. You can also expect to see not only gray whales but also a variety of bird species, including nesting ospreys and egrets, during your visit to the San Ignacio Lagoon.

We prioritize responsible tourism and work exclusively with partners who strictly adhere to park regulations. Our knowledgeable guides are dedicated conservationists and ecological advocates, deeply committed to protecting Mexico's gray whale population. Our experienced boat captains have been safely navigating the lagoon for many years. Above all, we emphasize respect for the whales, never engaging in pursuits or disturbances. Any interaction with the whales occurs solely when they voluntarily approach our boats, seeking to engage with us.

The San Ignacio Lagoon is home to the last significant remaining gray whale population in the world, with a small population near Japan as well. San Ignacio offers guests of all ages a chance to experience a deeply personal connection with these majestic creatures that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Read about our 2023 trip to San Ignacio here.

inclusions

• Return chartered flight from San José del Cabo
• Hotel transfers in San José del Cabo
• Accommodation
• Activities
• Meals, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
• Unlimited whale watching subject to capacity control and weather
• On-site naturalist. 

exclusions

• Park fees
• Gift shop
• Bar
• Gratuities
• Camera rentals

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accommodations

In terms of accommodations, there are two options available: glamping tents and luxury tents. The Glamping Tents are windproof, insulated, and heated for maximum comfort. They feature ensuite bathrooms and showers with hot and cold running water, real beds with fine linen, and 24-hour power. There is also a fire pit, a selection of wine, craft beer, single malt scotches, fine dining options, a bar and lounge tent, and Wi-Fi access throughout the camp.

The Luxury Tents feature all the amenities of the Glamping Tents but also offer additional privacy and larger living spaces, with separate sitting areas for relaxation. The 12 Luxury Tents also feauture an ensuite bathroom and a dresser in the bedroom.

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when to go

The peak season for whale watching trips at San Ignacio Lagoon is from January through April when large numbers of whales are present. 

how to get there

The recommended airport to fly into is SJD Los Cabos International, which serves both commercial airlines and private aircraft. San José del Cabo is easily accessible with service from 15 different US cities, most of Mexico, and even direct flights from overseas. Additionally, there are various other activities available from the San José del Cabo base, such as swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving, photography workshops, and more. If you are traveling with a large group, the camp can accommodate arrivals from different locations. 

The trip includes a chartered flight from San José del Cabo, hotel transfers in San José del Cabo, accommodation, activities, meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. An on-site naturalist will be available to provide information and guidance. However, park fees, gift shop purchases, bar expenses, gratuities, and camera rentals are not included.

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sample itinerary

• Fly into SJD. Cabo.
• Day before boarding. Complimentary photo and video workshop at SeeCreatures San Jose. Afternoon ocean safari searching out humpback whales.
• Day 1: Meet the Gray Whales!
• 07:00 – 07:15 pickup to FBO executive airport terminal. 1 Hour 50 minute flight to the airstrip at camp. Greeted by camp manager and hosties with champagne on silver trays. Brunch at camp and then out for your first whale encounters on the lagoon.
• Days 2 – 3: San Ignacio Lagoon
• Your choice of an early breakfast and 07:30 panga ride to get an early start on 2 whale watching encounters. Or sleep in for late breakfast and one leisurely encounter. Lunch. Relax. One more afternoon whale watching encounter. Go for a kayak or paddle board or walk in the desert. Cocktail hour around the fire pit as the sun goes down. Dinner (fine dining of course) and an evening presentation by one of our naturalists.
• Day 4: Return to Cabo
• Early breakfast and one more whale watching encounter before your 1 hour 40 minute flight back to Cabo (we should have a tailwind). 12:30 arrival at the SJD FBO.

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photo gallery

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