Life in the lagoon:
The gray whale expedition
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)
Dates: February 26 to March 2nd 2026
$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
What should I pack for my adventure?
Sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, rash guards, sun shirts, sunglasses, etc.
Camera and underwater camera/GoPro
Comfy clothes for travel days Jacket, windbreaker, warm clothes, waterproof clothes.
Clothes for late afternoon and evenings after excursions
The weather in Guerrero Negro will be temperate with the chance for light rain in the high 60s to low 70s F. The evenings will be low 60s F.
What should I expect for the travel days?
The travel days will be long, but it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up on your Podcasts, music, or book reading so dress comfortably and sit back while we take care of the driving! We will be making pit stops along the way as needed.
What’s included in the total price?
The total price for each trip includes travel to and from either Bahía de los Ángeles or Guerrero Negro from one of our pickup locations (San Diego or Tijuana), hotel stay for 4 nights, & 3 days of wildlife excursions. Food, snacks, and beverages are NOT included.
Can I bring my own food?
The total price for each trip includes travel to and from either Bahía de los Ángeles or Guerrero Negro from one of our pickup locations (San Diego or Tijuana), hotel stay for 4 nights, & 3 days of wildlife excursions. Food, snacks, and beverages are NOT included.
Do I need a passport for your adventures?
Yes, all citizens are required to have passports when crossing the U.S./Mexico border.
Do I need to exchange money before the trip?
We will be making a stop at an exchange center after crossing the U.S./Mexico border. Please bring cash in U.S. dollars that you would like converted to the Mexican peso.
How much cash will I need?
It depends. You will need cash for food, beverages, souvenirs, and gratuities. Meals are usually 5-10 dollars.
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.● 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
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
