WHALES OF LORETO
5 -DAY ADVENTURE
Included: 4 expeditions, 4 nights accommodation, 1 ecology and conservation workshop, transportation during all expeditions, 2 expert bilingual guides, 1 local certified captain, light breakfasts & lunches, expedition gear, bow spotting platform and WC, citizen science activities and national park entrance fees.
The maximum group size per itinerary is 7 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience that prioritizes personalized attention, safety, and low environmental impact.
Duration:
5 days - 4 nights
Location:
Loreto and Pacific lagoon,
Baja California Sur
Season:
January to March
Price per person with accomodation:
$38,500 MXN / $2060 USD
Price per person without accomodation :
$31,700 MXN / $1835 USD
Available 2027 itineraries
February 2 to 6 - 5 spots left
February 10 to 14 - FULLY BOOKED
February 24 to 28 - FULLY BOOKED
March 3 to 7 - FULLY BOOKED
***(Shorter itinerary 3 days/ 3 nights)***
Price per person with accomodation : 24 500 MXN- $1,361 USD
Price per person without accomodation : 19 500 MXN -$1,083 USD
February 18 to 20 - FULLY BOOKED
March 9 to 11 - 8 spots left
Whale watching experience
BLUE WHALE WATCHING IN LORETO & SEASONAL WHALES
During winter and early spring, the Baja California Peninsula transforms into a thrilling haven for migratory whales and nature adventurers alike. Nearly the entire global population of gray whales, along with blue whales, humpbacks, and fin whales, migrate here to socialize, mate, feed and give birth.
Loreto stands out as the best place to witness these giants, especially the majestic blue whales, drawn to its nutrient-rich waters teeming with krill. It’s a powerful reminder of the delicate balance of marine life and the wild beauty that makes this stretch of ocean truly unforgettable.
More than a typical tour, this is a carefully crafted expedition—aboard the right boat, with expert guides and skilled captains dedicated to immersing you in this extraordinary cycle of life. Over five days, you’ll learn to identify, track, and observe whale aggregations in their most dynamic behaviors. In Loreto, we may also witness the intense moments when orcas, the ocean’s apex predators, hunt these majestic creatures.
Our team carefully tracks weather conditions, recognizing that finding the right climate windows is essential to a successful and ethical whale-watching expedition. By taking advantage of optimal weather and location, we navigate to prime spots for respectful and authentic encounters with whales and other marine life.
While out on the water, we also collect valuable citizen science data to help monitor species presence and ocean health — and you’ll be an active part of this effort. Together, we contribute to a deeper understanding of the marine ecosystem while ensuring everyone’s safety and the well-being of the animals remain our top priority.
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Expert Guidance: 2 certified bilingual wildlife guides; Small-group collective adventures: maximum 7 participants. Private adventures: up to 8 participants.
Premium Transport: 4x4 Van "La Cachalote" & super panga "La Puma" with WC and comfortable seats.
Whale Watching: Gray, humpback, fin, and blue whales plus cetaceans in premier Baja waters.
Unique Ecosystems: Coasts, mangroves, and endemic-rich islands.
Cultural Insights: Local history, culture, and conservation.
Accommodation: Loreto80 suite-style apartments in downtown Loreto.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and lunch included; adaptable to special diets.
Expedition gear: Educational materials, safety kit with satellite phone, binoculars, hydrophone, fins, snorkel, and mask, along with an ultralight towel, a personal box lunch, and a water mug and blankets.
Citizen Science: Collect cetacean distribution data for marine conservation strategies and management plans.
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Day 1: Welcome to Loreto
- Noon: Pick up all participants in Loreto & check in at your accommodation
- Lunch: Enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant.
-Expedition brief: Conservation workshop, wildlife interaction, local ecosystems and identification of wildlife.
Day 2: Loreto and Islands
- Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a 6 to 7-hour marine expedition around the Islands of Loreto, focusing on blue whales and searching for other migratory and resident wildlife.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local beach lunch during the expedition.
Day 3: Pacific Coast Lagoon
- Morning: Depart for a half-day marine safari focused on gray whale watching in the Pacific coast lagoon.
- Afternoon: Return to Loreto and relax at your accommodation or explore the town.
Day 4: Loreto and Islands
- Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a 6 to 7-hour marine expedition around the Islands of Loreto, focusing on blue whales and searching for other migratory and resident wildlife.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local beach lunch during the expedition.
Day 5: Loreto and Islands
- Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a 6 to 7-hour marine expedition around the Islands of Loreto, focusing on blue whales and searching for other migratory and resident wildlife.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local beach lunch during the expedition.
NOTE: We rely on accurate weather forecasts to conduct our whale expeditions in both Loreto and the Pacific lagoons. Our team will closely monitor these forecasts and select the best dates to ensure that each activity fits within the 5-day trip itinerary. Please know that the agenda of activities may vary based on weather conditions and sightings. However, we cannot guarantee specific timings, schedules, or the necessity to cancel an activity. If needed, we may offer a land expedition as an alternative.
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Dolphins: Common and bottlenose.
Migrating whales: Blue whales, humpback whales, gray whale, fin whale, Bryde's whale, Sei whales, hybrid whales, pilot whales.
Sea-lions
Top predators: Orcas, Sperm whales, mako sharks
Sea birds
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Professional Expedition Team:
Two experienced bilingual naturalist guides, Regina Domingo and Leopoldo Sanmiguel, accompanied by a local captain with extensive knowledge of the region, its marine ecosystems, and wildlife.
4 Whales of Loreto Adventure (7 Hours Each):
Explore Loreto National Park’s marine ecosystems through responsible whale watching and wildlife observation, with a focus on cetacean behavior, ecology, and conservation. Each expedition follows a flexible route adapted to sea conditions and whale activity, with lunch included during the adventure.
Expedition Boat – La Puma:
La Puma, our dedicated expedition vessel, has been specifically designed for marine wildlife observation, snorkeling, and freediving. Its features provide comfort, safety, and functionality during extended expeditions at sea.
* Individual Ergonomic Seats: Comfortable, cushioned seating for each guest, with no shared benches.
* Onboard Restroom: Fully enclosed private restroom (WC).
* Full Shade Coverage: Shaded passenger areas for protection from direct sunlight.
* Cetacean Observation Platform: Purpose-built bow structure designed to enhance marine wildlife observation.
* Dry Storage Areas: Designated spaces to protect personal belongings and equipment from water exposure.
National Park Entrance Fees:
Official National Park visitor wristbands for both Mexican and international guests.
Safety & Emergency Equipment:
Our expeditions are led by Wilderness First Responder–certified guides and equipped with marine safety and emergency equipment, including:
* Comprehensive first-aid kit.
* Satellite communication equipment.
* Offshore automatic/manual inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs).
* Type III personal flotation devices (PFDs).
* Electronic emergency flares (e-flares) and handheld signal flares.
* Octahedral marine radar reflector.
* Emergency navigation and signaling lights.
Hydrophone:
Specialized underwater acoustic equipment used to listen to and record marine mammal vocalizations, including whale and dolphin communication and echolocation signals.
Binoculars:
Steiner Military Marine 7×50 binoculars for enhanced marine wildlife observation.
Natural History Guides & Educational Materials:
Printed natural history guides, scientific illustrations, infographics, and research papers support the educational experience. During wildlife encounters, our naturalist guides provide scientific interpretation of species behavior, population dynamics, distribution, migration patterns, and ecological roles, using visual references to enrich your understanding of the marine environment.
Small Groups:
Our shared expeditions are limited to a maximum of seven participants, ensuring a more personalized, attentive, and carefully curated experience for every guest.
Meals & Beverages:
Freshly prepared meals featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Our menu varies daily depending on ingredient availability, departure times, weather conditions, and expedition logistics.
* Light Breakfast: Fresh fruit, homemade cookies, dried fruit, and nuts.
* Lunch & Snacks: Depending on the day's itinerary, options may include burritos, ceviche, sashimi, aguachile, focaccia sandwiches, baguettes, pasta, and other freshly prepared dishes.
* Beverages: Coffee, hot tea, coconut water, and drinking water.
Our Commitment to Reducing Single-Use Plastics: We strive to minimize single-use plastics during our expeditions. Guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles or mugs, which we will gladly refill throughout the adventure.
Menus are subject to change based on seasonal availability and operational conditions. For departures between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, breakfast will not be provided. Instead, a more substantial lunch will be served.
Dietary Requirements & Food Allergies
Once your reservation is confirmed and your deposit has been received, our reservations team will provide a Pre-Expedition Form where you can specify dietary preferences, restrictions, and allergies, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free requirements.
We will make every reasonable effort to accommodate your dietary needs, subject to the availability of local ingredients and expedition logistics.
Ground Transportation:
Round-trip transportation from your accommodation in our 4x4 van is included as part of the itinerary. Airport transfers are not included.
Accommodation – 5 Nights:
One night in a cozy, fully equipped suite located in downtown Loreto. Following reservation confirmation and receipt of your deposit, our reservations team will provide a Pre-Expedition Form where you can indicate your preferred bed configuration. Suites are available with one or two queen-size beds, subject to availability.
Suite Amenities & Features:
* Self Check-In: Convenient and flexible arrival.
* Central Location: Within walking distance of supermarkets, the beach, restaurants, coffee shops, and major local attractions.
* High-Speed Wi-Fi: Fiber-optic internet connection.
* Comfortable Bedding: Queen-size beds.
* Shared Patio: Outdoor common area.
* Kitchenette: Small kitchen for basic meal preparation.
* Housekeeping: Weekly cleaning service.
* Check-In: From 3:00 PM.
* Check-Out: By 11:00 AM. Late check-out may be available for an additional fee.
* Parking: On-site and street parking available. No designated parking for trailers, buses, RVs, or large vans.
Biodiversity Workshop:
An educational session conducted in an indoor classroom, offering an in-depth exploration of Loreto’s marine ecosystems, biodiversity, iconic species, migration patterns, ecological productivity, and ongoing conservation and scientific monitoring efforts.
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Airfare
Airport transfers
Wetsuit
Dinners
Crew gratuity
For without accomodation price: transportation is only included when staying at properties within Loreto Center. Otherwise, you will need to arrive at a designated Loreto Center meeting point for departures.
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Punctuality is essential. Our expeditions depart on schedule, and we operate with small groups of up to seven participants to ensure a personalized experience. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late to any meeting point or departure, we will unfortunately not be able to wait, as this would affect the experience for the rest of the group
Swimming skills: Not required for our whale watching expeditions.
Local law compliance: Local law (NOM 131) prohibits snorkeling or freediving with whales, but we offer opportunities to interact with other species if conditions and laws allow.
Whale watching focus: About 75% of the expedition is dedicated to whale watching for those who prefer to stay on the boat.
Recommended swimming skills: Good swimming skills in the open ocean are recommended if you wish to snorkel or free-dive when the option is available.
Comfort on the boat: Participants should be comfortable spending long days on a boat.
Remote locations: Comfort in remote locations is essential for an enjoyable experience.
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Hat & sunglasses
Rash-guard / windbraker / jacket
Warm clothes
Biodegradable sunscreen
Cameras
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Loreto: Cold mornings and evenings, warm in the middle of the day on sunny days. high 53-70°F / 12-21°C
Pacific lagoons: Cold mornings and evenings, warm in warm in the middle of the day on sunny days. 53-70°F / 12-21°C
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By Plane: Loreto Airport (LTO)
Alaska Airlines
Route
: Los Angeles - Loreto
Frequency
: 4 Flights/Week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
Route
: San Francisco - Loreto
Frequency
: 1 Flight/Week (Saturday)
American Airlines
Route
: Phoenix - Loreto
Frequency
: 3 Flights/Week (Monday, Thursday, Saturday)
Route
: Dallas - Loreto
Frequency
: 1 Flight/Week (Saturday)
WestJet
Route
: Calgary - Loreto
Frequency
: 1 Flight/Week (Tuesday)
Aerocalafia
Route
: Tijuana - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week (Monday & Friday)
Route
: La Paz - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week (Monday & Friday)
Volaris
Route
: Tijuana - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week (Sunday & Thursday)
Route
: Guadalajara - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week
By Bus
Two main bus lines operate from Tijuana to Los Cabos:
By Car
Los Cabos to Loreto
: 5 hours 30 minutes (333.6 miles)
La Paz to Loreto
: 4 hours 15 minutes (221.2 miles)
Tijuana to Loreto
: 12 hours 30 minutes (693.4 miles)
Other Options
You can also consider flying into La Paz or Cabo San Lucas airports, which are relatively close to Loreto.
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Shared airport shuttles operate regularly from Loreto International Airport to downtown Loreto, usually every 20–30 minutes. This is generally the most affordable option, and you can simply provide the driver with the address of your accommodation.
The accommodation included in our itineraries is conveniently located in downtown Loreto, and you will receive the exact address and arrival information during your booking process.
If you prefer a private airport transfer, our team can also coordinate one for you at an additional cost. Simply share your flight details with us in advance, and we’ll arrange a private driver for your arrival.
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Reduced Whale 3 day Expedition Itinerary
PRICE WITH ACCOMMODATION: 24,500 MXN per person
PRICE WITHOUT ACCOMMODATION: 19,500 MXN per personExpedition Overview
Our Reduced Whale Expedition Itinerary includes three carefully planned expeditions, scheduled according to weather, sea conditions, and seasonal wildlife activity.
Under favorable conditions, the itinerary includes:
Two whale-watching expeditions in Loreto Bay National Park, primarily focused on blue whales and other seasonal marine wildlife.
One gray whale expedition to a Pacific coastal breeding lagoon (south ones) subject to the seasonal presence of gray whales.
If gray whales have already departed the lagoons, the third expedition will take place in Loreto Bay National Park, exploring different islands and marine habitats in search of blue whales and other seasonal cetaceans and wildlife.
How It Differs From Our Full Whale Itinerary
Our full Whale Expedition Itinerary includes three whale-watching expeditions in Loreto Bay National Park, one Pacific lagoon expedition to observe gray whales, and an educational workshop.
The reduced version removes one expedition day and the educational workshop, while preserving three expedition experiences and multiple opportunities to encounter blue whales and, when seasonal conditions permit, gray whales.
Wildlife, Weather & Itinerary Flexibility
As a wildlife-focused experience, all expeditions are flexible and adapted to actual field conditions.
Wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed, and gray whale departures from Pacific breeding lagoons vary from year to year. If gray whales are no longer present, the corresponding expedition will focus on blue whales and other seasonal marine wildlife within Loreto Bay National Park.
If weather or sea conditions prevent a marine expedition from operating safely, it may be replaced with an 8-hour Sierra de la Giganta expedition, including a historic mission and oasis visit, a mule ride, and an exploration of the region's cultural and natural heritage.
What's Included
Transportation to and from all scheduled expeditions.
Breakfast, healthy snacks, and lunch during expeditions.
All necessary expedition equipment.
Professional guidance and expedition logistics.
Daily Park fee
Accommodation: 3 nights in a shared double room, included only when the accommodation option is selected during the booking and payment process.
All other services and inclusions remain consistent with our full Whale Expedition Itinerary, except for the removed expedition day and educational workshop.
Our priority is to provide a safe, responsible, and meaningful wildlife experience, guided by natural conditions rather than a fixed schedule.
YOUR WHALE WATCHING VESSEL IN LORETO
5 DAYS OF EXTRAORDINARY WHALE WATCHING
Our 5-day itinerary is the best option for those who want to ensure enough flexibility with climate conditions. Our team is adaptable, and the order of the expeditions can be adjusted depending on the weather to guarantee that each location and activity operates under the best possible conditions.
The land-based workshop day also works as a buffer, allowing us to place it on the windiest day. Wind is part of the reason why life thrives here, and true explorers know that you cannot rush nature or expect perfect conditions in a single day. With 5 days, you and our team have plenty of time to work with the wind and choose the ideal moments for each expedition.
Accomodation
Our itineraries include accommodation in cozy, beautifully decorated studios and suites located in the heart of downtown Loreto. Just a short walk from the beach and the historic first mission of Baja California Sur, these units offer comfort, safety, and easy access to shops and restaurants, perfect for relaxing after your adventures.
WHALE CONSERVATION, REGENERATIVE TOURISM & CITIZEN SCIENCE
Guided by Regina Domingo and Leopoldo Sanmiguel, our bilingual, certified guides and wildlife experts based in Loreto year-round, your adventure will be both enriching and unforgettable. With years of experience in the region and extensive work monitoring cetaceans, they are actively involved in conservation initiatives. Their deep knowledge of the area, combined with ongoing seasonal monitoring of its marine life, ensures a meaningful and respectful interaction with nature.
Alongside respectful, passive whale observation (engines off), the expedition features ecology workshops, Leave No Trace practices, and locally sourced, seasonal meals prepared by regional experts—always with zero plastic waste.
We’re proud to collaborate with researcher Mario A. Pardo from CICESE/CONAHCYT, collecting valuable cetacean distribution data in Bahía de Loreto National Park. Our participants can actively contribute to citizen science through structured data collection and photo identification, helping build important catalogs of individual whales.
Additionally, we use a hydrophone on board to listen to the mesmerizing whale vocalizations, deepening our connection to these magnificent creatures and their underwater world.
All encounters are conducted with the utmost respect and ethical responsibility, strictly adhering to national laws and guidelines to ensure the protection and well-being of the whales and their habitat.
Sightings of specific species are never guaranteed — we work with truly wild animals in their natural environment. Our team spends the entire year observing and learning from the rhythms of the park, deepening our understanding of these dynamic marine ecosystems. Still, it’s important to remember that the open ocean is not a zoo; nature reveals itself on its own terms.
What we can promise is genuine presence and dedication: being in the right place, at the right time, with the right spotters and an ethical, experienced crew gives you the best chance to witness these incredible creatures when they choose to appear.
Meet the whales of Loreto
Watch what happens on our whale watching expeditions during winter time!
Your expedition leaders
Leopoldo A. Sanmiguel
Founder
Expedition leader
Regina Domingo
Director
Wildlife expedition leader
At Baja Adventures, we don’t have tour guides — we have expedition experts and certified leaders.
Regi and Leo are both locally based in Baja, they have been developing ecotourism adventures for 15+ years, and know intimately the Peninsula and its migrations by the backs of their hands.
We’re here to take the hassle out of your itinerary, keep you safe, and help create lifelong memories.
Elite 4x4 Transportation in Baja California
On our land expeditions, we provide premium 4x4 transportation led by experienced drivers. Our foremost focus is on ensuring your safety and comfort, be it conquering challenging terrain, averting overloading, or immersing yourself in a safari-style journey during your transfers.
La Puma, our expedition boat
La Puma is our 27-foot super panga, designed for marine exploration and adventure. This vessel comfortably accommodates 10 passengers and 2 crew members, making it perfect for expeditions, scientific research, photography, and production work. Operating in the National Park of Loreto Bay, La Puma is equipped for long-distance journeys, featuring ample shaded areas and an onboard restroom for your convenience.
Price per person with accomodation:
$38,500 MXN / $2060 USD
Price per person without accomodation (transportation included, only within Loreto center) :
31,700 / 1835 USD
Photography package
This itinerary can be booked privately for families or friends, or shared with solo travelers.
Contact our team for availability, or click below to explore shared calendar options!
The price is quoted per person in USD and is subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations, which may cause variations.
*50% deposit required to secure booking*
Private options available.
All rates listed are valid for 2027 season.
Rates for 2028 and future seasons are available upon request and may be subject to our standard annual price adjustment, reflecting changes in operating costs and services.