LORETO WHALES EXPEDITION
LORETO AND PACIFIC LAGOON, BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR
Included: 4 expeditions, 4 nights of accommodation, 1 workshop, transportation, two expert guides, light breakfasts and lunches, expedition gear, and high-quality photography.
DURATION:
5 days - 4 nights
LOCATION:
Loreto, and Pacific lagoon, Baja California Sur
SEASON:
January to April
Price per person: $28,000 MXN / $1,555 USD
ABOUT THE EXPEDITION
During winter and early spring, the Baja California Peninsula offers an extraordinary experience. During this time, nearly the entire global population of gray whales, along with the North Pacific population of humpback whales and majestic blue whales, migrates to the coasts of Baja California to socialize, mate, and give birth.
Known for hosting the largest concentration of migratory marine mammals in the world, the Baja California Peninsula provides a unique opportunity to observe the largest marine mammals on our planet up close. This 5 day expedition is designed learn how to identify and track and observe whale aggregations in their most dynamic behaviors—feeding, mating, socializing, and nursing their calves. In this remote marine environment, we may also encounter the intense moments when orcas, the ocean's apex predators, hunt these majestic creatures. Leveraging the optimal weather conditions, we'll navigate to prime locations for the most impactful wildlife encounters. Our journey will be expertly guided by two seasoned naturalists and a skilled captain, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience in the heart of the ocean’s untamed wilderness.
BIODIVERSITY + LANDSCAPE
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1. Expert Guidance
Experience the expedition with two knowledgeable and certified wildlife bilingual guides who ensure your safety and provide insights into the region's unique ecosystems and marine life.
2. 4x4 Transportation
Travel in comfort and style with 4x4 vehicles that allow you to access remote areas and stunning landscapes, enhancing your exploration of Baja California's diverse environments.
3. Whale Watching Opportunities
Witness the migration of gray, humpback, fin whales and blue whales, as well as other marine mammals, in one of the world's premier locations for whale watching.
4. Exploration of Unique Ecosystems
Discover the stunning coasts, mangroves, and islands of the Baja Peninsula, characterized by it endemisms and rich diversity of wildlife.
5. Snorkeling and Marine Encounters
Enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, where you may encounter vibrant fish, playful sea lions, and dolphins, making for unforgettable underwater experiences.
6. Cultural Insights
Learn about the local culture, history, and conservation efforts while exploring the region's natural beauty, enhancing your understanding of this remarkable area.
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Day 1: Welcome to Loreto
- Noon: Pick up all participants in Loreto & check in at your accommodation
- Lunch: Enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant.
-Expedition brief: Conservation workshop, wildlife interaction, local ecosystems and identification of wildlife.
Day 2: Loreto and Islands
- Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a 7 to 8-hour marine expedition around the Islands of Loreto, focusing on blue whales and searching for other migratory and resident wildlife.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local beach lunch during the expedition.
Day 3: Pacific Coast Lagoon
- Morning: Depart for a half-day marine safari focused on gray whale watching in the Pacific coast lagoon.
- Afternoon: Return to Loreto and relax at your accommodation or explore the town.
Day 4: Loreto and Islands
- Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a 7 to 8-hour marine expedition around the Islands of Loreto, focusing on blue whales and searching for other migratory and resident wildlife.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local beach lunch during the expedition.
Day 5: Loreto and Islands
- Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a 7 to 8-hour marine expedition around the Islands of Loreto, focusing on blue whales and searching for other migratory and resident wildlife.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local beach lunch during the expedition.
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Dolphins: Common and bottlenose.
Migrating whales: Humpback, Fin whale, Bryde's, Blue whale, Hybrid whales, and sperm whales.
Sealions
Top predators: Orcas, false killer whales, pilot whales.
Sea birds
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4x4 transportation.
4 nights double occupancy accommodation ( available solo for an extra fee).
4 marine expeditions
Light breakfast, snacks & lunches.
Experienced certified guides.
Emergency kit & satelite phone.
Courtesy photos of the expedition.
Expedition gear : Hydrophone, binoculars, ultra, light towel, personal aluminum water mug and snorkel gear.
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Airfare
Airport transfers
Wetsuit
Dinners
Crew gratuity
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Swimming Skills: Not required for our whale watching expeditions.
Local Law Compliance: Local law (NOM 131) prohibits snorkeling or freediving with whales, but we offer opportunities to interact with other species if conditions and laws allow.
Whale Watching Focus: About 75% of the expedition is dedicated to whale watching for those who prefer to stay on the boat.
Recommended Swimming Skills: Good swimming skills in the open ocean are recommended if you wish to snorkel or freedive when the option is available.
Comfort on the Boat: Participants should be comfortable spending long days on a boat.
Remote Locations: Comfort in remote locations is essential for an enjoyable experience.
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Hat & sunglasses
Rash-guard / windbraker / jacket
Warm clothes
Biodegradable sunscreen
Cameras
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By Plane: Loreto Airport (LTO)
Alaska Airlines
Route
: Los Angeles - Loreto
Frequency
: 4 Flights/Week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
Route
: San Francisco - Loreto
Frequency
: 1 Flight/Week (Saturday)
American Airlines
Route
: Phoenix - Loreto
Frequency
: 3 Flights/Week (Monday, Thursday, Saturday)
Route
: Dallas - Loreto
Frequency
: 1 Flight/Week (Saturday)
WestJet
Route
: Calgary - Loreto
Frequency
: 1 Flight/Week (Tuesday)
Aerocalafia
Route
: Tijuana - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week (Monday & Friday)
Route
: La Paz - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week (Monday & Friday)
Volaris
Route
: Tijuana - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week (Sunday & Thursday)
Route
: Guadalajara - Loreto
Frequency
: 2 Flights/Week
By Bus
Two main bus lines operate from Tijuana to Los Cabos:
By Car
Los Cabos to Loreto
: 5 hours 30 minutes (333.6 miles)
La Paz to Loreto
: 3 hours 30 minutes (221.2 miles)
Tijuana to Loreto
: 12 hours 30 minutes (693.4 miles)
Other Options
You can also consider flying into La Paz or Cabo San Lucas airports, which are relatively close to Loreto.
ACCOMODATIONS
YOUR EXPEDITION LEADERS
Leopoldo A. Sanmiguel
Founder
Expedition Leader
Regina Domingo
Director
Wildlife Expedition Leader
At Baja Adventures, we don’t have tour guides — we have expedition experts and certified leaders.
Regi and Leo are both locally based in Baja, and have been developing ecotourism adventures for 15+ years, and know intimately the Peninsula by the backs of their hands.
“We’re here to take the hassle out of your itinerary, keep you safe, and help create lifelong memories.
Elite 4x4 Transportation in Baja California
On our land expeditions, we provide premium 4x4 transportation led by experienced drivers. Our foremost focus is on ensuring your safety and comfort, be it conquering challenging terrain, averting overloading, or immersing yourself in a safari-style journey during your transfers.
La Puma, our expedition boat
La Puma is our 27-foot super panga, designed for marine exploration and adventure. This vessel comfortably accommodates 10 passengers and 2 crew members, making it perfect for expeditions, scientific research, photography, and production work. Operating in the National Park of Loreto Bay, La Puma is equipped for long-distance journeys, featuring ample shaded areas and an onboard restroom for your convenience.
PRICE:
$28,000 MXN
$1,555 USD
The price is quoted per person in USD and is subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations, which may cause variations.
*25% deposit required to secure booking*
Private expeditions available.
