GRAY WHALES, MAGDALENA BAY
Join Nomad Diving in Baja California Sur for one of the most intimate wildlife encounters: the gray whale season in Magdalena Bay.
Every winter, thousands of gray whales migrate more than 10,000 km from the Arctic to the protected lagoons of Baja California Sur to mate, give birth, and raise their calves. Magdalena Bay is one of the best places in the world to observe this behavior up close, From the comfort of our boats, without entering the water.
Our expeditions are designed for small groups and include experienced captains, guides, comfortable pangas, and a remote desert-coastal glamping camp. We focus on respectful, low-impact whale watching that prioritizes the animals’ natural behavior while offering unforgettable topside encounters.
About the Gray Whale Season
From January through March, Magdalena Bay becomes a sanctuary for gray whales. During these months, adults and newborn calves spend their time resting, nursing, socializing, and sometimes approaching boats with curiosity.
This area is world-renowned for its “friendly whales”, individuals who may choose to approach the boats voluntarily, often allowing guests to observe them at incredibly close distances.
What You Can Expect on This Trip
Small group sizes for comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention
Comfortable panga boats with shade, safety gear, radios, and experienced captains
Knowledgeable guides
Remote glamping accommodation close to the action
Ethical whale-watching practices that respect distance, speed, and whale choice
Best Season to See Gray Whales in Baja
The peak gray whale season in Magdalena Bay runs January through March, when mothers and calves are most active in the lagoons. This is the ideal window to witness social behavior, nursing pairs, and potentially the famous “friendly” interactions that make Baja one of the top whale-watching destinations in the world.
Our Boats & Guides
Our fleet of panga-style boats is equipped with shade, comfortable seating, radios, safety equipment, and coolers. With experienced captains who know the area, we maintain slow, respectful approaches that prioritize whale wellbeing.
Our guides provide daily briefings and a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests. Their knowledge of whale behavior helps you understand what you’re seeing, whether it’s a calf learning to dive or a mother resting at the surface.
Trip Details
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5 days/4 nights of accommodation on double occupancy in Magdalena Island
3 boat days (weather permitting).
Boat and experienced dive guides
Meals
Transportation to/from Puerto San Carlos
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Airfare
Any extra meals (unless specified)
Alcoholic Beverages
Airport transfers
Insurance
Hotel nights in La Paz
Captain and guide gratuities
Camp staff gratuities
Non-listed items
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Every participant must be in good health to be on the boat.
Topside activity. Divers and non-divers alike
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Surface temperature:
Daytime high - 77 °F (25 °C)
Nighttime low - 48 °F (9 °C)