Gray Whale Expedition: Magdalena Bay
Magdalena Bay
Description
Every winter, one of the world’s most extraordinary migrations takes place off the coast of Baja California Sur: thousands of gray whales travel over 15,000 km from the Arctic to the calm waters of Magdalena Bay.
This exclusive expedition offers the chance to observe them up close in their natural environment, as they interact with their calves, rest and socialize near the boats. This natural sanctuary is also home to sea lions, migratory birds and unique mangrove ecosystems.
With departures from January to March, we recommend visiting between February and mid-March for the best close encounters. Our local crew and expert guides ensure an intimate, educational, and respectful wildlife experience.
Key Points
Max: Up to 6 persons
Duration: 4 d
Guide language: Spanish, English
What's Included
- Round trip ground transportation from your hotel or airport in La Paz.
- 2 days of private whale watching tours (5–6 hours per day, weather permitting)
- Visit to mangroves, sand dunes, bird Island and a sea lion colony
- 3 nights in a local hotel in San Carlos (double room)
- Breakfasts and lunches in San Carlos
- Professional guide and local captain
- Water and soft drinks onboard
- Photos and videos of the expedition
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, transfer to San Carlos and welcome dinner
Our team will welcome you at the airport or your hotel in La Paz or Los Cabos and take you in private transport to San Carlos, the fishing village from which the boats depart to Magdalena Bay. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into the hotel, and in the evening you’ll share a relaxed dinner with your Gluup coordinator and the rest of the group. During this first meeting, we’ll review the expedition plan, answer any questions, and get ready for the whale encounters ahead.
Days 2 and 3: Whale encounters and bay exploration
For two full days, we’ll set out from San Carlos to explore the calm waters of Magdalena Bay. We’ll focus on watching gray whales, especially mother-and-calf pairs, in their natural interactions. We’ll also visit mangroves, a sea lion colony, bird Island, and the surrounding dunes. Your Gluup coordinator will be with you at all times to ensure a smooth, safe, and well-organized experience. After two intense days of whale watching and exploration, we include one last night in San Carlos so you can rest, pack at your own pace, and end your journey calmly.
Day 4: Farewell and return
After breakfast, we’ll take you back in private transport to your hotel or airport in La Paz. A calm ending to an unforgettable experience.
Where
What's Not Included
Recommendations
Requirements
Minimum 4 people to form a group
Maximum 6 people per departure (more allowed in private groups upon request)
No prior experience is needed, but you should be comfortable with 5–6 hour days outdoors
Activity is suitable for all ages; recommended for children aged 4 and up.
Cancellation Policy
To confirm your spot on this expedition, we require a 25% deposit within 7 days of booking confirmation.
A second payment of 25% is due 4 months before the departure date.
The remaining balance (50%) must be paid 60 days before the start of the expedition.
Cancellations received more than 6 months prior to the trip are fully refundable.
Cancellations received less than 6 months before the trip will incur the following charges based on the total price:
25% if canceled between 6 and 4 months before departure
50% if canceled between 4 and 2 months before departure
100% if canceled 60 days or less before departure
Swimming with the whale sharks was worth every penny! No sunscreen so wear a swim shirt or rent a wetsuit. Our Captain Solomon was fabulous and our guide Nano was fun, energetic and did everything he could to make this a magical experience for everyone on board. We were the first pick up and last drop off which meant for a super long day but highly recommend!!
Karen Knight
July 2025
We took the whale shark watching tour; we had a fantastic day with tons of sharks. Truly a dream. I would recommend it a thousand times over.
Sofía Mühlhausen
July 2025
This was an amazing excursion. The Captain knew right where to drop you in so you can swim along the whale shark. If you hesitate, you ok be behind. The captain’s mate did a wonderful job of orienting you once you jumped in the water and he took amazing photos and video. I definitely recommend Gluup for this trip.
Robert Johnson
July 2025