Baja Ultimate Whale Expedition

Eye to Eye with Giants: Baja’s Most Intimate Whale Adventure

Trip Dates: March 5 – March 12, 2027*
(Highly recommended to fly in March 4, 2027)

whale shark snorkel, sea of cortez

whale shark snorkel

Land-based baja

This is not your average whale-watching tour—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime marine safari across Baja’s most wildlife-rich waters. Over the course of 8 days, you’ll encounter multiple whale species in three distinct regions: humpbacks off Cabo, the elusive blue whales near Loreto, and the famously friendly gray whales of San Ignacio Lagoon.

You’ll travel in comfort and style—swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling with sea lions, and staying in a luxury tented camp and aboard a private 116-ft expedition yacht. From the calm lagoons to the open Sea of Cortez, every day is filled with breathtaking encounters, warm hospitality, and moments that connect you deeply with nature. It’s remote, it’s wild—and yes, it’s fancy.

Join US!

If you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, our 8-day Baja whale watching tour is designed for those who want to witness the majesty of blue whales, humpback whales, and gray whale mothers with their calves up close in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. This trip offers the perfect mix of whale watching, snorkeling, and luxury adventure in Baja’s Sea of Cortez—no scuba gear required.

swim with blue whales
swim with whales

Part 1: The Sea of Cortez Snorkeling Expedition

swim with blue whales

The exact itinerary will depend on the weather, but our primary objective is to take you out to observe mama and baby blue whales. We’ll also keep an eye out for large pods of dolphins, finback whales, mobula rays, and whatever other whales might be in the area which might include orcas, sperm whales, false killer whales, and more. The Sea of Cortez is teeming with animals at this time of year, and our crew will be vigilant in maximizing your experience.

The Gallant Lady

Imagine a 116-foot expedition yacht designed for intimate, high-end adventures with just 12 guests across 6 spacious suites. The Gallant Lady blends the rugged capabilities of an expedition vessel with the comforts of luxury. This beautifully appointed yacht features a main lounge and dining area with wrap-around views, a large water-level platform for easy access to the water, a sky lounge for panoramic vistas, and a sun deck perfect for relaxing.

For added relaxation, the yacht includes a hot tub, a crow’s nest for a unique lookout, and powerful 1700 horsepower Caterpillar engines with hydraulic stabilizers, ensuring a smooth ride no matter the conditions. Whether you’re exploring remote coastal regions or enjoying wildlife encounters, the Gallant Lady delivers comfort, adventure, and style in equal measure.

Part 2: San Ignacio Lagoon: Glamping and whale encounters

San Ignacio Lagoon: Meet the World’s Friendliest Whales

San Ignacio Lagoon is a sanctuary for one of the ocean’s most remarkable migrations. Each winter, hundreds of gray whales—often 300 to 400—gather in the calm, protected waters of the lagoon to mate, give birth, and raise their young. These whales are famously curious, often approaching boats and interacting gently with visitors. Early in the season, you’ll witness newborn calves and mating behaviors, while later in the season, the growing calves become especially friendly and playful as they prepare for their 3,000-mile journey north to Alaska. It’s one of the rarest and most heartwarming wildlife encounters on the planet.

Remote, Peaceful, and Surprisingly Fancy

The luxury camp sits right on the edge of San Ignacio Lagoon, surrounded by the vast stillness of the Vizcaíno Desert and Biosphere Reserve. Mornings begin with golden sunrises over the Sierra mountains; evenings close with desert sunsets that soothe the soul and stretch endlessly across the horizon.

Each tent is spacious and beautifully decorated. Inside, you’ll find a cozy sitting area with couches and chairs, a dresser, and a large ensuite bathroom featuring twin vanities and a hot shower. And yes—there’s even a chandelier over the bed. It’s remote, it’s wild… and it’s fancy.

When you’re not on the water with the whales, you can explore the quiet magic of the desert with kayaking or paddleboarding on the lagoon, stargazing beneath Baja’s famously clear night sky, or unwinding with a game of billiards or volleyball in camp. The setting may be peaceful—but there’s plenty to do.

Trip Highlights

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a chance to connect deeply with nature and experience the adventure of a lifetime, all without the need for scuba gear. If you’ve ever dreamed of being surrounded by whales in the wild, this is the journey for you.

Sea of Cortez
Snorkeling Expedition

  • Possible sightings include: Large pods of dolphins, Fin whales, Mobula rays, Orcas, sperm whales, false killer whales, whale sharks and more!

  • Seasonal abundance of marine life in the Sea of Cortez

  • Flexible itinerary based on weather and wildlife activity

  • Experienced crew focused on maximizing your sightings and encounters

San Iganico Glamping 

  • Luxury safari-style tents with king or adjustable twin beds

  • Twin vanities, hot showers, hot and cold running water, and private bathrooms in every tent

  • 24-hour power for A/C, heat, lighting, and internet access

  • Kayaking and paddleboarding on the lagoon

  • Stargazing under the brilliant Baja night sky

  • On-site games, including billiards and volleyball

Whale Encounters!

  • Humpback Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas

  • Blue Whale Snorkling Encounters

  • Possible sightings of fin whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and—if you’re lucky—orcas, sperm whales, or false killer whales

  • Gray Whale Interactions at San Ignacio Lagoon

  • Multiple whale species, multiple regions—this is one of the most whale-rich expeditions on Earth

Trip Price and Inclusions

Starting at $5,403 per person

  • 8 days in a cabin suite / luxury tent combo
    • 3 nights on Gallant Lady snorkeling Sea of Cortez in search of blue whales, humpback whales, fin whales, pods of dolphins, whale sharks, and more!
    • 4 days / 3 nights of San Ignacio Lagoon Luxury Camp
    • unlimited whale watching encounters with Grey whales
  • Photography workshop (starts morning of March 5)
  • Full aboard accommodation for the entire trip (meals, snacks, & non alcoholic beverages)
  • Transportation: Flights from La Paz to the Lagoon and the Lagoon to SJD
  • On-site naturalist
  • All taxes (for this package)
  • Upgrade to premium suite on Gallant Lady / Luxury tent combo for $5,7070pp.
  • No Single Supplement
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Payment Schedule 

  • Deposit: $500 non-refundable deposit to reserve your space
  • $1,000 due August 1, 2025
  • $1,000 due February 1, 2026
  • $1,500 due August 1, 2026
  • Balance due November 1, 2026

Exclusions and Other Information

  • Airfare to Cabo San Lucas
  • Extra night hotel Stay and transportation on March 4th
  • Rental Gear
  • Gratuities
  • Marine Park fee ($35)
  • Internet – $50 per device per trip
  • Trip Incidentals – including but not limited to beverages and bar bill, telephone, internet usage, sightseeing, souvenirs, equipment rental of any sort, spa appointments, special day trips, etc.

Other Important Notes:

  •  Trip starts midday of March 5, so it is highly recommended to fly in March 4. We’ll have hotel recommendations for you!
  • This trip is SNORKELING – no diving experience is necessary
  • You need a valid passport for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay.
  • We encourage trip insurance.
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FAQ’s 

When should I fly in?

We highly recommend you fly in at least one day early. Please note that there is a complimentary photo workshop at 9:30 AM in the morning the day before being transferred to La Paz as well as a 11 AM ocean safari with humpback whale watching.

Is there a baggage allowance on the airplane to San Ignacio?

Yes, 22 pounds (10kg) per person. We ask that you please use soft-sided bags. We understand that you’ll likely be travelling with more luggage on this trip. Our recommendation is to pack a smaller kit to take with you to the lagoon and leave your larger luggage with us for safekeeping in La Paz. We will move your luggage back to Cabo San Lucas to meet your return flight.

What kind of airplane is used for flights to the lagoon?
Late model Cessna 208B Grand Caravan. These are 13 passenger airplanes with a jetprop engines, air con, leather seats, good soundproofing and a large cargo pod.

What will the weather be like?

It will likely be nice hot weather in Cabo San Lucas with temperatures in the low 80s°F (27°C) during the day and generally sunny. La Paz and the Sea of Cortez will be a little bit cooler and there’s often a gentle breeze. Rain is very unlikely. San Ignacio Lagoon is in the desert, which means it can be cold at night, dropping to low 40s°F (4°C). Low temperatures in the morning and then the clouds burn off by early afternoon, making it warmer. Some days are calm, while some days can be quite windy.

Why are we trying to touch the whales? Is this bad for them?

Enounters and interactions with them are entirely on the whales’ terms. We only interact with the whales in a small designated area and are very careful to stay away from them in the rest of the lagoon. The whales who are interested in humans swim over to this area and approach the pangas. The encounters are not forced in any way. The local captains are very careful not to approach or harass the gray whales. One of the extraordinary things about this interaction is that the whales only approach humans in Baja lagoons. During the rest of the year they are quite shy and reclusive and maintain the normal distance that you would expect between whales and nearby boats.