Marlins and Cetaceans Expedition in Magdalena Bay
Magdalena Bay
Description
Every autumn, the offshore waters of Bahía Magdalena host a breathtaking hunting spectacle. Massive bait balls of sardines and mackerel attract striped marlins, sea lions, mahi-mahi, dolphins, sharks, and seabirds in a synchronized dance of survival rarely seen by humans.
Based in Puerto San Carlos, you’ll spend five days with three full Ocean Safari days, plus magical moments like visiting wild dunes, sea lion colonies, and Isla de Patos at sunrise, where thousands of birds welcome the first light. You’ll be guided by a Gluup coordinator, expert guides, and local captains throughout the journey.
On day one, you’ll join the group for a welcome dinner and briefing with your coordinator to prepare for the experience. This expedition gives you front-row access to one of the Pacific’s most spectacular marine events while promoting respectful and sustainable tourism.
Key Points
Max: Up to 7 persons
Duration: 5 d
Guide language: Spanish, English
What's Included
- Roundtrip ground transportation from hotel or airport in La Paz or Cabo San Lucas
- All ground transport throughout the expedition
- 3 full Ocean Safari days (approx. 8 hrs/day, weather dependent)
- Exploration of dunes, sea lion colonies, and Isla de Patos at sunrise (within safari days)
- 4 nights in Puerto San Carlos
- Daily breakfast and lunch in San Carlos
- Snacks, water, and soft drinks onboard
- Local captain and professional guide
- Full-time Gluup coordinator during the expedition
- Welcome dinner + trip briefing on day one
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome and transfer to San Carlos
Your Gluup coordinator will meet you at your hotel or airport in La Paz or Cabo San Lucas. Together we’ll head to Puerto San Carlos. That evening, we’ll have a welcome dinner and full trip briefing to get to know your group and answer any questions.
Days 2, 3, and 4: Ocean Safari and coastal exploration
Each morning, we’ll set out for a full day on the ocean—searching for bait balls, striped marlins, sea lions, dolphins, mahi-mahi, and more. On one of the days, we’ll visit the towering dunes of Bahía Magdalena for photos and rest. We’ll also explore sea lion colonies and visit Isla de Patos at sunrise, a magical show of thousands of birds welcoming the sun. Activities last about 6–8 hours per day. Afternoons are free to rest.
Day 5: Return to your departure city
After breakfast, we’ll return to La Paz or Cabo San Lucas by land. If flying out the same day, plan your flight for the afternoon.
Where
What's Not Included
Recommendations
Requirements
- Previous snorkeling or freediving experience
- Good physical condition and confidence in open water
- This expedition may involve long days at sea, sometimes with constant movement in the panga. We recommend it for ocean-experienced guests who feel comfortable on small boats
- Adventurous spirit and respect for marine life
- Expeditions guaranteed with a minimum of 4 participants
- Maximum group size: 7 guests (larger private groups available upon request)
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations received more than six months before the trip are fully refundable.
Any cancellation less than six months before the trip will lose a percentage of the total price:
15% if 6 - 4 months before the trip;
25% if 4 - 2 months before the trip;
50% if 2 - 1 months before the trip; and
100% if 30 days or less before departure.
My tour - Snorkeling with the whale shark with Gluup was absolutely fantastic! Right from the pickup to drop off was smooth and hassle-free. A special mention for Ricky, our guide who was one of the best tour guides I have ever seen. He ensured everyone was feeling okay when a few on board got sea sick. He ensured I had the closest and the safest encounter with the Whale Shark! Thank you for an Incredible experience. Keep it up, Ricardo! Mucho Gracias 🙏
Varsha Karanth
July 2025
We had a great time diving it was our first experience scuba diving and our guide Luis was awesome. Strongly suggest booking this if you are looking to try out scuba diving.
Aaron Schoppe
July 2025
Everything went amazingly, everyone was very friendly. A great experience.
Mateo Fernandez
July 2025