San Ignacio Gray Whales
The San Ignacio Lagoon Gray Whale Experience offers a unique opportunity to have up-close and personal interactions with Pacific gray whales in their breeding and birthing lagoon. These gray whales are known to be the friendliest on the planet and exhibit behaviors such as swimming over to the boats (pangas) to be caressed, stroked, and even kissed. They may also roll onto their backs to allow visitors to scratch their bellies.
Bluewater Travel San Ignacio Gray Whale Experience
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Average flight time from LAX
4 hours
Scuba Dive Level
All Levels
Visibility
20 to 60 feet (6 to 18 meters)
60°F / 16°C
Average Water Temperature
Whale Encounters
Pelagic Encounters
Bluewater Travel San Ignacio Gray Whale Experience
Upclose Gray Whale Interactions | Perfect for Non-divers | Suitable for Ages 5+
The experience is entirely on the whales' terms, and even mother whales may push their babies up against the boats for human interaction. The first whale interaction at San Ignacio Lagoon occurred in 1972, and since then, the experience just continues to get more magical each year. You can also expect to see not only gray whales but also a variety of bird species, including nesting ospreys and egrets, during your visit to the San Ignacio Lagoon.
We prioritize responsible tourism and work exclusively with partners who strictly adhere to park regulations. Our knowledgeable guides are dedicated conservationists and ecological advocates, deeply committed to protecting Mexico's gray whale population. Our experienced boat captains have been safely navigating the lagoon for many years. Above all, we emphasize respect for the whales, never engaging in pursuits or disturbances. Any interaction with the whales occurs solely when they voluntarily approach our boats, seeking to engage with us.
The San Ignacio Lagoon is home to the last significant remaining gray whale population in the world, with a small population near Japan as well. San Ignacio offers guests of all ages a chance to experience a deeply personal connection with these majestic creatures that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Read about our 2023 trip to San Ignacio here.
Bluewater San ignacio Gray Whale Experience
Only Place in the World to Touch a Whale
Only Place Where Whales Request Affection From You
4 Days, 3 Nights of gray whales + bonus day of humpback whales = 5 days
Every day, gray whales and their calves will approach your boat sometimes "ask" to be kissed,
hugged, rubbed, or scratched. It will be the best trip you ever do in your life.
In 2025 Trips run from January through April,departing almost every day.
Glamping Tent:US$2,495per person
Luxury Tent:US$3,045per person
Kids are 50% off!!!!
*** Includes private flight from Cabo to San Ignacio Lagoon and back
Flight leaves early the 1st date listed for the trip, and return between 11:30AM and 12:30PM on the last date listed for the trip
*** Includes free humpback whale watching trip out of Cabo the day *before* the trip
Inclusions
- Return chartered flight from San Jos del Cabo
- Accommodation
- Activities
- Meals, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Unlimited whale watching subject to capacity control and weather
- On-site naturalist.
Exclusions
- Park fees
- Gift shop
- Bar
- Gratuities
- Camera rentals
- Mandatory evacuation insurance
Accommodations
In terms of accommodations, there are two options available: glamping tents and luxury tents. The Glamping Tents are windproof, insulated, and heated for maximum comfort. They feature ensuite bathrooms and showers with hot and cold running water, real beds with fine linen, and 24-hour power. There is also a fire pit, a selection of wine, craft beer, single malt scotches, fine dining options, a bar and lounge tent, and Wi-Fi access throughout the camp.
The Luxury Tentsfeature all the amenities of the Glamping Tents but also offer additional privacy and larger living spaces, with separate sitting areas for relaxation. The 12 Luxury Tents also feauture an ensuite bathroom and a dresser in the bedroom.
When To Go
The peak season for whale watching trips at San Ignacio Lagoon is from January through April when large numbers of whales are present.
How To Get There
The recommended airport to fly into is SJD Los Cabos International, which serves both commercial airlines and private aircraft. San Jos del Cabo is easily accessible with service from 15 different US cities, most of Mexico, and even direct flights from overseas. Additionally, there are various other activities available from the San Jos del Cabo base, such as swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving, photography workshops, and more. If you are traveling with a large group, the camp can accommodate arrivals from different locations.
The trip includes a chartered flight from San Jos del Cabo, accommodation, activities, meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. An on-site naturalist will be available to provide information and guidance. However, park fees, gift shop purchases, bar expenses, gratuities, and camera rentals are not included.
Sample Itinerary
- Fly into SJD. Cabo.
- Join us for a complimentary morning photo and video workshop at SeeCreatures Cabo, followed by an afternoon ocean safari searching for humpback whales and sea lions.
- Day 1: Meet the Gray Whales!
- Our staff will open SeeCreatures at 6:30 am with coffee and a light continental breakfast to help you wake up and prepare for the 7:00 am coach transfer to the executive airport terminal at SJD. Boarding your Cessna Caravan for a 1 hour 50-minute flight to camp, where youll be welcomed by trays of champagne and more of our wonderful staff. Enjoy brunch and a welcome briefing at camp, followed by two afternoon whale watching excursions.
- Days 2 3: San Ignacio Lagoon
- Its your vacation, and its your schedule. Many of our guests choose an early breakfast and a 7:30 a.m. panga ride to get an early start on the days whale watching, which we recommend so that we are in the reserve before other boats start showing up.
- Alternatively, you can sleep in with a late breakfast and enjoy a more leisurely pace. Lunch. Relax. One more afternoon whale watching encounter or perhaps a walk along a hiking path, a visit to the incredible, blindingly white Salinas salt flat, mountain biking, or a game of billiards in the desert! Cocktail hour around the fire pit watching the sunset. Fine dining and then relax with a drink and an evening presentation by one of our naturalists. Please note that the number of actual whale encounters varies depending on Mother Nature. If its too windy, it might not be safe to be out on the water, in which case we will provide an alternate activity.
- Day 4: Return to Cabo
- Early breakfast and one more whale watching encounter before your flight back to Cabo. You should be on the ground between 12:30 and 1 pm and able to connect to airline flights at SDJ leaving at 2:30 pm or later.
Photo Gallery
Fellow traveler's reviews
Overall Value Marine Life
Accommodations Food
timyeo
1 Reviews
Overall ValueConditionsMarine Life Top SideThe San Ignacio Whale Trip was truly unforgettable. It was an incredible mix of adventure, comfort, and amazing wildlife encounters. From the very scenic private charter flight over the stunning Baja Peninsula to the intimate, respectful interactions with gray whales and their calves, every moment felt magical. The en-suite glamping accommodations were both luxurious and cozy, with hot showers, real beds, and gourmet dining that made the experience even more special. The guides’ passion for conservation and their deep knowledge added a meaningful layer to the trip, helping me appreciate the whales and their environment even more. It’s an extraordinary journey that perfectly blends nature, education, and relaxation. This is a perfect trip for all ocean and animal lovers. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
timyeo
1164 Reviews
Overall ValueConditionsMarine Life Top SideThe San Ignacio Whale Trip was truly unforgettable. It was an incredible mix of adventure, comfort, and amazing wildlife encounters. From the very scenic private charter flight over the stunning Baja Peninsula to the intimate, respectful interactions with gray whales and their calves, every moment felt magical.The en-suite glamping accommodations were both luxurious and cozy, with hot showers, real beds, and gourmet dining that made the experience even more special.The guides’ passion for conservation and their deep knowledge added a meaningful layer to the trip, helping me appreciate the whales and their environment even more. It’s an extraordinary journey that perfectly blends nature, education, and relaxation.This is a perfect trip for all ocean and animal lovers. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
David Watson
1164 Reviews
Overall ValueConditionsMarine Life Top SideExperience of a life time. Tents luxurious and ideal for unwinding after a full day on the water. Food great and staff excellent and extremely knowledgeable. Getting so close to gray whales in their own environment was a moving and memorable experience. Very much 'once in a lifetime'. Boat captains walking a fine line though between giving guests the best experience and avoiding intruding on the animals.
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