Life in the lagoon:
The gray whale expedition
Life in the lagoon: the gray whale expedition
Experience an unforgettable expedition to meet the gray whales of Baja. Spend 3 incredible days surrounded by some of the friendliest whales on Earth — a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, fully guided and all-inclusive.
Duration: 5 days (3 days of whale-watching tours – 4 tours)
Location: Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur
Season: February and March
$1,650 USD
all-included
4 Reasons to Join the Adventure
Unforgettable Encounters
Get eye to eye with one of the ocean’s friendliest animals
Guided by Experts
Travel with experienced marine biologists and knowledgeable local guide
Ethical & Responsible Travel
We work with licensed local operators, follow strict regulations, and uphold the highest ethical wildlife guidelines.
Support Real Science
Every expedition contributes to research and conservation efforts.
About expedition
– Group size limit
Maximum of 8 participants
– Accommodation
Local hotel in Guerrero Negro and San Felipe, shared rooms (2 people per room)
– Transportation logistics
Road trip in a van from San Diego/Tijuana, approximately 10 hours with a USA–Mexico border crossing
– What to Bring
Prepare for cool weather, possible rain and wind. Bring closed-toe shoes, a warm jacket, and a hat.
This isn’t just an expedition-it’s hands-on conservation. You’ll actively contribute to real scientific research for PROCETUS’ long-term cetacean monitoring program. This includes collecting photo-ID images, recording location data to better understand cetacean distribution, and gathering information that will be shared with local stakeholders to improve regional knowledge and responsible wildlife tourism. Your participation directly supports and strengthens this vital research and conservation effort.
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup in San Diego (location TBD). Begin the scenic road trip down the Baja Peninsula—passing the Sea of Cortez, crossing into the desert landscapes of the main peninsula. We’ll make stops for restrooms, snacks, photos, and to stretch our legs. Arrive in Guerrero Negro by evening.
Day 2
Gray whale tour at 11:00 AM. Drive through the iconic salt flats, board a panga, and head out to meet the whales (2-3 hours on the water). Return to town for delicious local fish tacos from classic food trucks. Evening visit to the salt flats, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3
Two whale-watching trips at 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Spend the day surrounded by gray whales—witnessing different behaviors, collecting scientific data, and capturing amazing photos and videos. In the afternoon, return to town, explore nearby dunes, and enjoy dinner locally.
Day 4
Final whale-watching tour at 8:00 AM. Say goodbye to the whales, enjoy a quick lunch, then travel to San Felipe to rest at a local hotel.
Day 5
Travel day. After breakfast in San Felipe, we begin our return journey north. Enjoy one last drive along the stunning Baja coastline and desert landscapes, with stops for snacks, photos, and restrooms along the way. We’ll cross the border and arrive back in San Diego by the afternoon/evening, depending on road conditions and border wait times. End of trip.
Included
● Roundtrip transportation from San Diego/Tijuana to Guerrero Negro
● 4 boat tours (3 hours each)
● Accommodation (double occupancy)
● All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
● Marine biologist and guide
Not Included
● Breakfast and snacks on Day 1
● Tips
● Souvenirs
● Insurance
Included
Not Included
● Roundtrip transportation from San Diego/Tijuana to Guerrero Negro
● 4 boat tours (3 hours each)
● Accommodation (double occupancy)
● All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
● Marine biologist and guide
● Breakfast and snacks on Day 1
● Tips
● Souvenirs
● Insurance
Gallery
FAQs
How close do the whales get, and is petting them guaranteed?
Gray whales are wild animals, but the lagoons are their safe haven—and they often approach boats out of curiosity. They can come extremely close, sometimes even rubbing against the panga. While we can’t guarantee that you will touch a whale, it is very likely that they will come within arm’s reach—or even make contact themselves!
What behaviors or interactions can we expect to see?
Gray whales display unique behaviors in the lagoons: gentle spy-hopping, playful breaching, mom-and-calf pairs cruising by, and at times, dramatic mating interactions known as heat runs. Curious whales may approach the panga, surface right beside you, rub against the boat, and seek interaction from humans.
Are there any physical or fitness requirements?
No. Swimming with gray whales in the lagoons is strictly prohibited. All encounters are from the panga, which you board directly from shore. No special physical condition or swimming ability is required.
Do I need insurance for the trip?
Yes—travel and medical insurance is mandatory. The lagoon is in a remote area with limited access to medical services, so you must bring comprehensive coverage in case of emergencies.
Will we see other marine wildlife besides gray whales?
Possibly. Dolphins are occasionally seen, but gray whales are the main highlight of this expedition.
What is the weather like in the lagoon?
February is winter in Baja, so expect cold mornings, chilly nights, and mild to cool days. Wind is common, and rain is possible, so warm layers and windproof clothing are essent
Do I need insurance for the trip?
Yes—travel and medical insurance is mandatory. The lagoon is in a remote area with limited access to medical services, so you must bring comprehensive coverage in case of emergencies.
