Gray Whale Watching Base Camp, Mexico

Magdalena Bay is a series of lagoons sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by low barrier islands and is the world-renowned winter nursery grounds of the California Gray Whale.  January through March, hundreds of gray whales mate and bear their young in these protected waters after traveling over 5000 miles from the Bering Strait.

The gray whale lagoons in Baja enjoy strict federal protection, and one can only whale watch with a licensed tour operator.  You can watch the whales and their newly born calves up close from the safety of motorized skiffs.  Breaching, spy-hopping and fluking, the whales will captivate your attention with their behavior.

You can observe gray whales and discover Magdalena Bay's diverse, fascinating ecosystem of windswept sand dunes, vibrant desert flora and mangrove-lined estuaries. Only Sea Kayak Adventures has exclusive permission to camp on the island.

Our five-day Gray Whales of Magdalena Bay whale watching tours include three-days at our safari-style base camp situated on a secluded beach at the center of whale activity. It is the perfect place to see the gray whales as they surface and blow right in front of our camp!

The area around our camp boasts the highest concentration of whales in Baja.  Each day motorized skiffs take you out to the deeper waters of the bay, where "friendly whales" swim up to the skiffs for a head rub!. On shore your guides will take you dune hiking, beachcombing and birding in mangrove channels - a mecca for migratory shorebirds.

The camp provides all the gear and amenities you need for a comfortable wilderness experience. Your guides will give entertaining, informative presentations on whale natural history. There's also an extensive library with books on whales.  Ideal for families with children ages 8-18 and those wishing a shorter, more focused experience with whales.

Click here to view a slideshow of this trip.  The video above shows a close encounter with a mother gray whale and her calf.  Listen to the excitement from a happy customer interacting with a whale calf.

For more adventure, add a day of snorkeling around beautiful Isla Coronado in the Sea of Cortez to your Baja whale watching tour. Observe sea lions on rocks, snorkel, sunbathe, eat a picnic lunch and take a nature hike on this hat-shaped cinder cone island with sandy coves. Approx $110/person includes motorboat, driver, guide, snorkeling gear, wetsuit, lunch, guide, park fee.

Click here to view a video of kayaking in the Sea of Cortez and whale watching in Magdalena Bay.

"I’ve traveled widely, and this was one of my most sublime adventures to date. Nothing could exceed the experience of lightly touching a willing gray whale or seeing them spyhopping repeatedly right off our beach campsite."
--Stuart Howard

Call us with any travel questions and to check availability prior to booking flights: 1-800-616-1943 or 1-208-765-3116

Our Baja kayak tours operate out of Loreto, Baja. Travel to this supreme paddling and whale watching destination is surprisingly easy for a world class wilderness adventure. Like many national parks, the Loreto Bay National Marine Park and the islands in the Sea of Cortez UNESCO World Heritage Site remain pristine in part due to their geographic remoteness - and they are just as worthwhile to visit!  Fortunately for travelers, Loreto hosts its own small airport with several flights per week on a US carrier. Additionally, the international hubs of La Paz and Los Cabos ("Cabo") are just a short distance south down the Baja peninsula and offer easy transit to Loreto. The following travel options are well-tested and utilized by Sea Kayak Adventures guests every year.

Air Options:

Loreto (airport code LTO): The airport in Loreto is quite small, but Alaska Airlines still offers 4 flights per week on a 70 passenger prop plane via Los Angeles. Look up flights from LAX to LTO, which run only Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.  Within 3 months of the trip date flights are often full or expensive, so we recommend those who wish to use this direct flight plan well in advance of their tour. Call the carrier directly with any questions as the Alaska Air website has been confusing at times - (Alaska/Horizon Air: 1-800-252-7522)

La Paz (airport code LAP): La Paz is the capitol city of Baja California Sur, and just 4-5 hours south of Loreto. (Make sure you are using LAP as the airport code - you want to go to Baja California Sur, Mexico, not Bolivia!)  We can recommend the La Perla hotel if you will be staying overnight.  A number of airlines fly to La Paz, both American and Mexican, with direct flights from several major airports. Rent a car, taxi, or take a snooze on an easy, comfortable bus up to Loreto (bus stations are next to Hotel La Perla in La Paz and Hotel Hacienda Suites in Loreto - more about these options below).

Cabo (airport code SJD): Los Cabos or "Cabo" has become a prime tourist upscale resort destination for movie stars or just those looking for sunshine in the winter months. Many airlines offer inexpensive flights to this location from all over the world, and our Canadian and overseas guests often utilize this location. Folks in the US can also find great deals and direct flights from major airports. Los Cabos is 8-9 hours drive south of Loreto on the very tip of the Baja peninsula. Car or bus are frequent methods of transport, but there is also a short flight on Aereo Calafia up to the tiny Loreto airport several times per week (approx. $100 or so depending on the exchange rate, usually 4 days/week). Call the SKA office for details on this schedule.  Los Cabos is actually twin cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Taking the bus: The bus in Baja (Transportes Aquila) connects all of the major cities. This method of transportation is nicer than the Greyhound buses we are accustomed to in the US, and a well-established norm for the Mexican middle class. There is no stigma associated with riding the bus here. Most are air conditioned and usually play Hollywood movies (usually with Spanish subtitles). The bus from Cabo to Loreto runs nearly every hour starting at 6am or so, and takes approximately 8-9 hours (around $70). The bus from La Paz to Loreto runs 3-6 times per day, and is about 4-5 hours ($50 or so). The bus station in Loreto is right across the street from our main tour hotel, the Hacienda Suites.

Driving in Baja: Cars are easily rented in both Cabo and La Paz. This may be a more cost effective method if several people are traveling together. Check ahead to make sure you can drop it off in Loreto (to the best of our knowledge, Budget, Hertz and Europcar have Loreto branches). One main highway connects the cities in Baja. You will get a beautiful view of the peninsula on this peaceful country road. Watch for wandering cows at night.

Airport Notes: We highly recommend a 2 HOUR CONNECTION to and from all Mexican flights. Call the airline directly if you don't see flights for your desired travel dates. It has been our experience that seats are sometimes available even if they don't show up online. Sometimes it is as simple as finding the correct days of the week for the flight. Many people flying through Los Angeles find it easier to overnight there rather than traveling straight through - recommended especially if coming from stormy winter climes. We have contract rates ($89/night) with the Hacienda Hotel in Los Angeles. This hotel has a FREE, 24 hour airport shuttle (call upon arrival 800-421-5900). Just call 310-615-0015 and ask for the Sea Kayak Adventures rate (ask for Judith Miller if you have any problems).

Extra hotel nights: We can arrange extra nights at either of our tour hotels for you if you wish to extend your stay in Loreto for $85-95, including tax.  This may allow for cheaper airfare, as simply adjusting the days of your flights can lower rates. We have a number of day tour options as well for you to explore. Please note: all hotel rooms have two double beds.

A note on safety: In all of southern Baja California, we have never encountered any of the crime that makes the headlines for Mexican border towns.  The Baja peninsula is separated from mainland Mexico by the Sea of Cortez/Gulf of California and may as well be a separate country.  Loreto is a rural seaside fishing village a 2-hour drive from the next nearest village.  There is one Catholic Cathedral in Loreto (the "mission") and everyone there has known each other for generations (since the 1697 founding of Loreto).  We drive all our kayaks from Canada to Loreto and back every year (it is 20+ hours drive/700 miles south of the Tijuana border), we reside in Loreto for 7 months a year, and have operated tours and owned property in Loreto for 19 seasons without one incident. (We recommend exercising the same caution that one should practice in any foreign city, however, ie not leaving valuables unattended, etc).

While we cannot book your airfare, if you would like the assistance of a travel agent, we have recommended Robert at Kahala Travel (1-800-852-8338) for a number of years.  Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. We have helped thousands of happy guests find their way to charming Loreto for their kayak tour.

Entry into Mexico: Passports are required. No visa is necessary, but a tourist card will be issued during your flight (keep the stub and show upon your departure flight to avoid fee).

Health: No immunizations or vaccinations are required for Mexico, but we recommend you speak to your health department or doctor. The University of Washington recommends getting hepatitis A&B, tetanus, flu, typhoid shots. Water on the trip is distilled/filtered for your extra protection. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good and plentiful (peel before eating). The restaurant food in Loreto is good and bottled water is easily available. We recommend good hand washing.

Weather: The weather in Loreto is generally mild in the winter with day-time temperatures averaging 70 to 85 degrees and night-time temperatures averaging 40 to 55 degrees between December and mid-March. Spring day-time temperatures average 75 to 90 degrees and night-time temperatures average 50 to 65 degrees between mid-March and May. Loreto is in a desert where the possibility of rain is very small, but it can happen. Winds can occur anytime but are more frequent from December through February. Magdalena Bay air temperatures are a little cooler than on the Sea of Cortez side of the Baja Peninsula. Water temperatures in the Sea of Cortez range from 65 degrees in December to 73 degrees in May requiring the use of a shorty 3mm wet suit for extended snorkeling. In October and November, air temperatures range from 80 to 90 degrees and water temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees.

What are typical meals on the trip?
The source of many compliments, our legendary wilderness meals are prepared from fresh, healthy ingredients. Our specialty is Dutch oven cookery with savory main dishes like chicken mole, fresh fish vera cruz style, and chili rellenos; and delicious desserts from brownies to pineapple upside-down cake. We serve fresh ground coffee as well as an abundance of local fruits and vegetables. Vegetarians as well as special dietary requests can easily be accommodated. Each evening, we serve a cocktail and appetizer for "happy hour" so you can enjoy the spectacular Baja sunset while sipping a Margarita!

There's a special emphasis on our meals because we believe you are entitled to gourmet dining in the wilderness as you are at home.


What is the camping like?
Since 1993, we have created a category of travel we call "camping plus". The food served on our trips is on par with what you get in a first-rate restaurant; we provide all camping gear of the best quality: large tents, warm sleeping bags with clean linens, extra-thick self-inflating foam pads and comfortable camp chairs; you get the best beach sites and you don't have to worry about missing the wildlife. We're all about truly "getting away", but not quite "leaving it all behind". It's wilderness adventure with some worldly amenities. And best of all, you'll receive unbeatable support and camaraderie from each of our guides.

Because of the dry desert climate, we have few mosquitoes and gnats, no sand flies or ticks.  For bathing, we provide a solar shower.  We also have a portable toilet at camp.  We provide chairs and tables for dining as well as a cooler with ice for cold drinks.  There is a large community dome for inside dining and evening conversations or games.


Are there any physical requirements?
It is important to understand that this is a camping trip and we want to be sure that you are prepared, both mentally and physically, for the challenges it will present, and have clear expectations about the trip.

During the day, we'll spend two hours on the water in motorized skiffs (called pangas) whale watching.  While whale watching from a boat is not strenuous and the water is usually calm, the bay can be choppy when it is windy, so if you are susceptible to seasickness, bring medicine or whatever you need

The hiking could best be described as leisurely on our barrier island, as the terrain is composed of sand dunes and flat sandy beaches. Although most of our group hikes are no longer than one to two hours, there are literally miles of uninhabited, remote beaches to explore.  We do require that anyone over 70 or with any health or weight concerns consult us before signing up to make sure you are up to fully participating.


What is the minimum age limit?
Our Gray Whales of Magdalena Bay base camp trips are ideal for families with children as young as 8.


What if I'm by myself?
If this is your first adventure tour, and you are naturally a little apprehensive about going solo, we will support you each step of the way. We get a mixture of singles, couples, families and friends. Please call if you have any concerns.


What about safety?
Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are our priorities. Any concerns about risks and physical abilities are handled with the greatest care by our office staff and trip leaders. Your guides are always in close proximity, well equipped with First Aid kits and specially trained in Wilderness First Aid to handle emergency situations. Your trip leader will provide a comprehensive camp orientation and safety discussion at the start of the tour. We take your concerns or apprehensions to heart - to make whale watching a positive, fulfilling experience for you.


When is the best time to see whales?
We design our wilderness adventures to provide you with the best whale encounters imaginable. Magdalena Bay is a whale-watchers' paradise.  From late-January to mid-March is the best time to see gray whales.

Can I kayak with the gray whales?
No kayaks or private boats are allowed in the nursery lagoons of Baja’s Pacific Coast including Magdalena Bay.  Only licensed Mexican whale watching boats are allowed in the lagoons when the whales are present.


What should I bring?
We provide the camping equipment so you only need to bring your personal belongings and avoid having to check-in luggage on your flight. Upon signing up, you'll get an informative trip handbook that includes a detailed list of clothing and other recommended items for your whale watching trip.

Do I need a passport to enter Mexico?
Yes, passports are required to enter Mexico.  Click here for the U. S. Department of State’s Passport Requirement page.

What do the trip costs include?
Skilled professional guide services, airport transfer upon arrival, ground transportation, motorized whale watching skiffs, camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, liners, and sleeping pads. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day.


What is not included?
Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals, airfare, and gratuities.

**Fly in a day early for a skiff/snorkel tour in the Sea of Cortez! $110-$160 per person (depending on group size).

Five Day Itinerary Below

Five-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival date. You'll be greeted at the Loreto airport by our ground service and transported to the tour hotel. Check into pre-assigned rooms (included in trip cost). Pre-trip meeting at the hotel later in evening.

Day 2: Meet 8 AM in hotel, van transportation 2 hours to Magdalena Bay. From there we'll take a short boat ride across the bay to our base camp on a sandy barrier island located at the heart of whale watching activity. After settling in, we'll go whale watching for several hours in a skiff.

Day 3: In the morning we will take a motorized skiff into the bay for close encounters with gray whales. The rest of your day is filled with hiking along the sand dunes, beachcombing miles of untouched Pacific beaches, guided nature walks, watching whales frolic off shore.  Evenings are filled with games, nature talks, and happy hour for adults (or hot cocoa for the kids!)

Day 4: Several motorized skiffs will meet us at camp for 2 hours of whale watching in Boca Soledad before returning to Puerto Lopez Mateos and van ride to Loreto. Evening at hotel. No-host farewell dinner with guides.

Day 5: Departure date. Say good-bye to lovely Loreto and head back to the airport to fly home, or Sea Kayak Adventures can arrange to extend your vacation at the tour hotel in this charming village (at our preferred rates). Day tour and add-on options available.