Gray Whale Day Tour  

Magdalena Bay - Baja California Sur, Mexico

Come and experience the world of wild gray whales — a rare coastal sanctuary where humans are guests, and connection happens naturally

What’s Included

✔ 1 day tour (3h seafari)
✔ Transfer from La Ventana/La Paz to Mag Bay - both ways
✔ Boat lunch
✔ Marine Park entrance fees
✔ Videos and pictures of the experience
✔ Guide, Educational talk and Captain

Price $5,500 MXN/person (min 4 ppl)

50% non-refundable deposit required

Itinerary

 

  • Early departure from La Ventana/La Paz (4:00–5:00 am)

  • 3.5-hour drive to Puerto Chale

  • Educational introduction to the area, ecology, and gray whale behavior

  • Boarding a speedboat and heading out to sea

  • 3 hours on the water observing wild gray whales from the boat

  • Boat Lunch in Puerto Chale, followed by the drive back to La Ventana/La Paz (arriving around 17:00/18:00 pm)

Can we swim with the gray whales?

Swimming with gray whales is not permitted, and this is an essential part of how these animals are protected.

Gray whales are one of the most carefully protected marine species in the world. Not so long ago, they were severely endangered due to commercial whaling. Thanks to decades of conservation efforts — especially in Mexico — their populations have been able to recover and return each year to these coastal lagoons to mate, give birth, and nurse their calves.

Because this period is so sensitive, Mexico enforces strict regulations during the whale season. Entering the water can cause stress, disrupt natural behavior, and interfere with mothers and calves during a crucial stage of their lives.

For this reason, all encounters take place from the boat only. This allows the whales to remain in control of the interaction. Often, they choose to approach the boats out of curiosity — sometimes incredibly close — creating powerful moments without crossing ethical boundaries.

These guidelines aren’t about limiting the experience. They exist to ensure that gray whales continue to return to these bays year after year, and that humans can witness them in a way that is respectful, safe, and sustainable.

Reserve your trip today

 FAQs

  • No. Swimming with gray whales is strictly forbidden. They are a highly protected species, and all interactions take place from the boat only, in accordance with local regulations and ethical wildlife practices.

  • Yes, absolutely. Solo travelers are very welcome. Many of our guests join on their own, and we’ll always do our best to place you with a group that feels like a good fit.

    Sharing this experience with others who care about the ocean often turns a one-day trip into something unexpectedly meaningful.

  • Yes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions when notified in advance. Just let us know your needs when booking.

  • During our whale season (January, February, March) the weather around Puerto Chale is generally mild and dry, with daytime temperatures often ranging from the high teens to low 20s °C (around 65–70 °F) — warmer in the sun and cooler early and late in the day. Nights and early mornings can feel cool, especially on the water.

    Because of the open sea and breezes, it can feel colder on the speedboat than on land. It’s a good idea to bring:

    • Layers (long-sleeve shirt or light fleece/jacket) for early morning and boat time

    • Hat and sunglasses to protect from sun and wind

    • Sunscreen and water-resistant outer layer in case of spray or wind

    • Comfortable shoes and a sun shirt if you get chilly on deck

    Even though daytime feels warm in the sun, those windy mornings and the boat ride make layers really helpful.

  • Not at all. The whale area is very close to Puerto Chale, so the boat ride is short. We also navigate inside the bay, which is naturally protected and usually very calm.
    This makes the experience gentle and suitable for families, children, and older guests.