Magdalena Bay
Your Gateway to Gray Whale Excursions
The Majestic Journey of the Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay
Every year, the majestic Californian Gray Whales embark on an extraordinary journey, leaving the frigid Arctic waters behind and heading south to the enchanting shores of Baja California, Mexico. Among their key destinations is Magdalena Bay, a renowned sanctuary where these incredible creatures gather. Along Baja’s Pacific coastline, including Magdalena Bay, the gray whales find an idyllic haven for breeding and calving, creating a spectacle of nature that’s second to none.
Magdalena Bay: A Sanctuary for Gray Whales
Baja’s coastline boasts sheltered lagoons, lovingly referred to as sanctuaries, where these magnificent creatures find refuge from the unpredictable Pacific Ocean and its array of predators. Magdalena Bay is one such sanctuary, offering warm, shallow waters—a safe haven for vulnerable whale calves as they grow and thrive, far from the dangers of the open sea.
Safe Haven for the Next Generation
These pristine waters host a diverse community of gray whales, drawing not only pregnant females seeking a safe place to give birth and nurture their newborns but also adult males and non-pregnant females on a quest for mating and forming courtship groups. This natural phenomenon provides unparalleled opportunities for witnessing some of the most extraordinary Gray Whale Excursions that Baja California Sur has to offer.
A Diverse Community of Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay
Gray whales in Magdalena Bay create a diverse and vibrant community, where the mating rituals of adult males and the care of newborns play out in these protected waters. This extraordinary gathering of whales creates a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their most intimate moments—whether it’s courting or the precious early days of the calves’ lives.
Up-Close with Giants: Gray Whale Encounters
Undoubtedly, one of the most breathtaking and unforgettable wildlife encounters on our planet can be experienced right here in Magdalena Bay, where you come face to face with these majestic gray whales. Gray whale mothers are renowned for their unique behavior—they not only tolerate but actively seek human interaction. If you’re fortunate, and only when she chooses, a mother may approach your boat, allowing you to touch, scratch, and even tickle her and her precious newborn calf!
A Whale-Watching Experience Like No Other
Meeting the gaze of a 40-ton ocean giant and witnessing its curiosity, playfulness, and more is an experience beyond compare. The fact that these magnificent deep-sea beings actively seek out this interaction with humans makes this one of the most remarkable whale-watching experiences on Earth. What’s even more astounding is that this phenomenon occurs exclusively in Baja California.
Magical Moments Await: Embark on a Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay Excursion
So, why wait? Embark on a Gray Whale Excursion in Magdalena Bay with our knowledgeable and experienced guides, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re witnessing their powerful breaching, gentle interactions, or the miraculous birth of a calf, these moments will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Gray Whale Adventure
Your Gateway to Gray Whale Excursions
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS:
• Small Groups with a Maximum of 8 Guests
• 2-Day Expedition
• Departure at 6 am from Salty Cabo Office
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• Transportation
• Two Three-Hour Gray Whale Excursions from Two Different Harbors
• Guided by a Marine Biologist
• Bottled Water
• Experienced Captain
• One Breakfast, Two Lunches & One Dinner
• Comfortable Accommodation
• Complimentary Tour Photos
*Please note that Gray Whale Excursions are suitable for ages 8 and older.
Our tours can be customized to match your preferences. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us; we’re here to assist you!
TOUR DESCRIPTION
DAY 1: THE ADVENTURE BEGINS
Our Gray Whale Excursion starts at 6 am from our San Jose del Cabo office. We drive for about 5 hours to Puerto San Carlos, a charming fishing town, arriving around 11:00. After checking in at the hotel, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, your guide and captain take you on a 3-hour private panga boat tour to observe and interact with Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay, along with dolphins and sea birds. Our knowledgeable guides share insights about the region’s history and its role in sustaining ecosystems.
After the tour, you have free time to explore Puerto San Carlos before a seafood dinner with the group.
DAY 2: A MEMORABLE EXPEDITION
We have a Mexican-style breakfast at 07:00 and then head to Puerto Chale for another Gray Whale excursion in Magdalena Bay at 10 am. Afterward, we enjoy a local lunch.
We leisurely return to San Jose del Cabo along the scenic Baja California coastline, making picturesque stops along the way. We typically arrive back in San Jose del Cabo around 18:00-19:00.
Join us for a two-day journey to witness the wonders of Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay and their natural habitat!
If the 2-day excursion feels a bit long for your liking, explore our one-day San Jose del Cabo to Puerto Chale Gray Whale Adventure.
OPTIMAL TIMING FOR GRAY WHALE EXCURSIONS
Based on our extensive experience, we recommend planning your Gray Whale Excursion for February and March, as these months offer the best opportunities for memorable encounters. In some cases, we may also offer excursions in January, depending on seasonal conditions.
CUSTOMIZED SCHEDULING
If our standard tour dates don’t align with your plans, don’t worry. We’re flexible and can arrange trips upon request with a minimum of 6 guests. Feel free to reach out to us for personalized scheduling options.
IMPORTANT TOUR RESTRICTIONS
For the safety and comfort of all participants, we have certain restrictions in place. Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for individuals who are pregnant or have limited mobility, recent surgery, or injuries. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information regarding these restrictions. Your safety is our top priority.
Brief Tour Itinerary
DAY 1
• 06:00 AM – Departure from Salty Cabo Office
• 11:00 AM – Arrival in Puerto San Carlos
• 12:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
• 13:00 PM – Hotel Check-in
• 13:30 PM – 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour
• 16:30 PM – Return to Hotel
• 19:00 PM – Dinner at a Restaurant
DAY 2
• 07:00 AM – Breakfast
• 08:00 AM – Hotel Check-out
• 08:30 AM – Drive to Puerto Chale
• 09:30 AM – 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour
• 12:30 PM – Return Drive to San Jose del Cabo with Lunch En Route
• 18:00 PM – Arrival in Puerto Los Cabos
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
• The prices listed are per participant and are based on double occupancy per room.
• Single rooms are available for reservation with a $50 USD surcharge.
• Our Gray Whale Excursion requires a minimum of 6 participants. If your group is smaller, please contact us to discuss availability.
• The tour schedule is subject to weather conditions. In the event of adverse weather, Gray Whale Excursions may be rescheduled, rearranged, or canceled. If no suitable option can be arranged, you will receive a full 100% refund.
• Cancellations made more than 30 days before the scheduled tour date will result in a refund of your deposit.
•The initial deposit is non-refundable for cancellations made within 30 days of the tour date or in the event of a ‘No-Show.’
BOOKING PROCEDURE
To reserve your spot for this tour, you can conveniently book directly through our online booking system. Upon booking, a deposit will be charged to secure your reservation. Please note that we require a minimum of 4 guests for this tour. Once the minimum guest count is reached, you will receive a confirmation email, and the remaining balance will be automatically charged to your card.
INSURANCE
• All of Salty Cabo Excursions’ land and water vehicles, as well as our third-party service provider companies, are fully insured in compliance with Mexican law.
• While our activities, such as whale watching, are categorized as “Easy” with a low risk factor, accidents can occur. Therefore, we strongly recommend purchasing additional travel insurance to ensure your specific needs are covered. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.
GRAY WHALE EXCURSION DATES (2024):
• January 24th
• January 31st
• February 7th
• February 14th
• February 21st
• February 28th
• March 6th
• March 13th
Feel free to book your excursion on any of these available dates. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask.
WHAT TO BRING
Travel Considerations:
- Distance: Puerto San Carlos is approximately a 5-hour drive from San Jose del Cabo.
- Packing Tips: For your comfort and convenience, we suggest traveling light as cargo space in the van is limited. Given the varying climate conditions, pack clothing suitable for different temperatures.
On the Water:
During our Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay excursion, you’ll be spending time on the water, so it’s important to be prepared for sun exposure. We recommend bringing the following:
- A hat or ball cap
- A lightweight, long-sleeve shirt
- Sunglasses with polarized lenses (if available)
- High SPF sunscreen
Additional Tips:
- Shade: Please note that there is no shade available on the boats in the lagoons.
- Weather: Some days may be windy or chilly on the water, so it’s advisable to bring a windbreaker and a fleece or a light padded jacket.
For those wanting to capture the special moments, we encourage you to bring your own camera. However, rest assured that our guide will also take pictures of the tour, provided free of charge. Please exercise caution with your valuables, as we cannot assume responsibility for any items you bring on the trip. Your comfort, safety, and enjoyment are our top priorities.
A REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATION
Over a century ago, Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay faced near-extinction due to relentless hunting, earning them the ominous moniker “Devil Fish.” In 1940, they were declared an endangered species. Today, they are known as the “Friendly Whales” for their interactions with whale-watching boats. Enjoy this glimpse of their incredible transformation through Adil Schindler’s emotionally touching videos.
