Explore with giants:
the whale shark expedition
Expedition
Explore with giants: the whale shark expedition
Each year, dozens of whale sharks gather in the nutrient-rich waters of Bahía de los Ángeles, Baja California, creating a rare opportunity to observe the world’s largest fish up close. This expedition includes guided snorkeling with certified operators, allowing participants to safely experience them in their natural habitat.
Duration: 5 days (3 ocean days)
Location: Bahia de los Angeles, BC
Season: September
$1,550 USD
all-included
4 Reasons to Join the Adventure
Unforgettable Encounters
Witness the largest fish on Earth and search for iconic marine wildlife like whales and dolphins.
Guided by Experts
Explore the Sea of Cortes with marine biologists, local guides and and expert captains who know these waters better than anyone.
Ethical & Responsible Travel
We collaborate with licensed local operators, follow strict wildlife guidelines, and ensure every interaction respects marine life and their habitat
Support Real Science
Every expedition contributes to research and conservation efforts.
About expedition
– Group size limit
Maximum of 8 participants
– Accommodation
Local hotel with A/C (2 people per room)
– Transportation logistics
Roundtrip from San Diego/Tijuana in an air-conditioned van to Bahia de los Angeles in Baja California
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: Pick up and drive
This will be our travel day. Bahia de los Angeles is located 10 hours south of San Diego along the Pacific Coast and the Sea of Cortes. While driving down Baja California, we will pass through sweeping desert and ocean views before arriving at our destination.
Days 2–4: Whale shark tours
Every day we’ll head out on the water aboard a panga for approximately 5 hours, during which we will search for whale sharks and have the opportunity to swim alongside them. We’ll also explore the area’s stunning natural beauty, look for whales, swim with sea lions, and observe other marine life.
After the tour on day 4, we will drive to San Felipe and stay the night at a local hotel to make the next day more comfortable.
Day 5: Travel day
End of the expedition. Travel back to San Diego/Tijuana
Included
Not Included
● Roundtrip transportation from San Diego/Tijuana
● Boat tours (5 hours each)
● Accommodation (double occupancy)
● All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
● Marine biologist as your guide
● Tips
● Souvenirs
● Insurance
● Snorkeling gear
Included
● Roundtrip transportation from San Diego/Tijuana
● Boat tours (5 hours each)
● Accommodation (double occupancy)
● All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
● Marine biologist as your guide
Not
Included
● Tips
● Souvenirs
● Insurance
● Snorkeling gear
Available Dates
2026
September 10-14 '2026
2027
September 9-13 '2027
Gallery
FAQs
Are orcas guaranteed?
No. Orcas are highly mobile, social animals that travel long distances, so sightings can never be guaranteed. While La Ventana is a known hotspot for orca activity, these are wild animals in an open ocean environment. That said, we operate in areas where they are most frequently seen and work closely with local captains and fishermen to maximize our chances of finding them.
What other marine wildlife can we encounter?
The Sea of Cortez is known as the “Aquarium of the World,” and La Ventana is one of its most biodiverse regions. Besides mobula rays, you may encounter:
- Common and bottlenose dolphins
- Blue, humpback, fin and Bryde’s whales
- Pilot and false killer whales
- Sperm whales
- Sea lions
- Mobile and spotted eagle rays
- Killer whales
Are there any physical or fitness requirements?
Yes. While most of the expedition takes place on a panga (boat), we will also be entering the water to snorkel with mobula rays when conditions allow. Basic swimming skills and the ability to snorkel comfortably in open water are required. You should be comfortable getting in and out of a small boat and swimming with a mask, snorkel, and fins.
Do I need insurance for the trip?
Yes. Travel and medical insurance are mandatory. Although La Ventana is accessible, we will be spending full days on the ocean, where medical services are limited. Comprehensive coverage is essential in case of emergencies.
Do I need a passport for your adventures?
Yes, all citizens are required to have passports.
Is swimming with orcas legal?
Yes. As of 2025, swimming with orcas in Mexico is legal and regulated by the Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (SEMARNAT). We only work with local operators who hold the proper permits to conduct this activity. All interactions are carried out under strict guidelines and recommendations to ensure the safety of both participants and the animals. We follow these regulations closely to promote responsible and ethical wildlife encounters.
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.● Common and bottlenose dolphins
● Blue, humpback, fin and Bryde’s whales
● Pilot and false killer whales
● Sperm whales
● Sea lions
● Mobile and spotted eagle rays
● Killer whales
