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The gray whale migration from Alaska's Bering Sea to the lagoons of the Baja Peninsula- the longest mammal migration in the world- has long attracted human attention. For years, these animals had been hunted... and just barely survived as a species. Now, dedicated visitors can journey to these whales and experience one of the world's most endearing wildlife adventures. This expedition brings us to the uniquely situated "Whale Cabanas," our exclusive accommodations set on the shores of the pristine and undisturbed San Ignacio Lagoon. From the comfort of these thatched bungalows, our group travels by small boats into the lagoon where hundreds of gray whales come to breed and give birth. Of all the natural experiences in the world, it is difficult to compete with a close encounter with a gentle, 30-ton animal!
Day 1: Arrive Loreto, Mexico
We will gather for our orientation dinner at Hotel Pasa de las Flores, a wonderful accommodation in Loreto. At one time the capital of California (both Baja and the current US state), Loreto was founded in 1697 and is the region's oldest permanent settlement, providing visitors with a quaint look into Mexico's past. Loreto is also home to some fine beaches, a snorkeling reef just off shore, and wonderful hiking in the nearby Sierra de la Giganta Mountains.
Day 2: Loreto to San Ignacio- Whale Watching
We will transfer you to the airport in Loreto, to catch our charter flight to San Ignacio Lagoon where vans will take you to our cabanas. The cabanas are situated in a secluded area on the beach, overlooking the crisp waters of the lagoon. From the cabanas, we will have plenty of opportunities to take intimate nature walks and to explore this desolate region. The cabanas consist of ten raised, well-built, thatched structures, each with two beds and windows overlooking the lagoon. There are shared showers and toilets which make for a comfortable wilderness experience. This afternoon, we will have the opportunity for our first close encounters with the magnificent gray whales of Baja.
Days 3 & 4: Whale Watching
These days will be spent primarily whale watching from skiffs-small motorized boats. Our journey to the whales takes from 10-45 minutes, depending on the animals' location. In general, we spend two hours whale watching per excursion and take two excursions per day (due to conservation regulations, these numbers may vary depending upon the total number of boats on the water at a given time). Our professional local skiff drivers are experts at positioning the boats to maximize whale-viewing opportunities and to provide the greatest number of close encounters without disturbing the animals. Numerous whales enter this particular lagoon and our small boat gives us unbelievably up-close encounters. Naturally, we always consider the will of the animals before approaching them. We may see males competing for females, young adults displaying playful behavior, and mothers carefully protecting their calves, perhaps the most endearing of all whale encounters. As many of these whales are as curious about us as we are about them, they often come within arm's length of our boats. Other activities available are hikes led by naturalists, bird watching, sea kayaking at high tide among the mangrove estuaries or relaxing in camp in one of Baja's most strikingly beautiful settings.
Day 5: San Ignacio to Loreto
Our departure from San Ignacio Lagoon is scheduled to arrive in Loreto at noon, although schedules often change in Mexico. We recommend considering an extra day in Loreto to ensure you make your flight connection.
Location of Adventure San Ignacio Lagoon, Mexico
Included R/T flight Loreto/San Ignacio (if weather or equipment conditions require, we may drive); accommodations; all meals (dinner on Day 1 - breakfast on Day 5); snacks and cocktail hour; use of kayaks for mangrove exploration (optional-if conditions allow); services of NHA's professional scientist/naturalist Program Leaders and assistants; all activities and entrance fees as described initinerary; airport transfers; evening presentations; all taxes and service charges.
Not Included Flights from your home to Loreto, some alcoholic beverages, gratuities; Mexican airport fees; items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, etc.).
Physical Requirements This trip is recommended for all fitness levels. Optional hikes are available.
Getting There & Getting Home Arrive for 7:00 pm welcome dinner on Day 1. You are free to depart after 1:00 pm on the final day. It is recommended that you spend an extra day in Loreto (a wonderful seaside village).
Contact us for availability and discounted air flights
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