Baja California's Bay of Giants: Magdalena Bay

Baja California’s Bay of Giants: Magdalena Bay

February 05 - 10, 2027

Length: 6 days

Region(s): Caribbean & Central America

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Ocean Cruise

Spend several incredible days in the company of gray whales in Baja California’s Magdalena Bay, one of the best places on Earth to observe mothers and calves in a sheltered nursery. Aboard the only expedition ship in the region small and nimble enough to anchor inside the bay, enjoy unparalleled proximity to these remarkable animals. Head out in local pangas for close, respectful encounters, then return to kayak through mangrove forests, hike on desert islands, and watch pelicans, ospreys, and other seabirds wheeling over pristine Pacific beaches.

Operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Tour Highlights

Venture into the nursery waters of Magdalena Bay to look for gigantic gray whale mothers and their calves, with opportunities for remarkably close encounters from local pangas.
Kayak and paddleboard through serene mangrove forests or wander long, empty stretches of sand while beachcombing along the outer coast.
Hike and fat-tire bike across varied landscapes, from windswept dunes to cactus forests, keeping an eye out for coyotes, shorebirds, and birds of prey.
Scan the skies for a rich variety of birdlife, including diving pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, ospreys, and other coastal and marine species.
Enjoy the advantages of a small expedition vessel able to anchor within Magdalena Bay’s protected waters, maximizing time in this busy whale nursery.
Extend your journey with additional whale watching and history in Loreto, or opt for more cultural and culinary exploration in Todos Santos and La Paz.

Activity Level 2

What to expect: These trips often travel by motor coach, ship, or train. Touring days may include full-day motor coach excursions or extended periods of standing and walking during city tours, museum visits, and/or outdoor activities. Travelers should be able to board transportation, walk over sometimes-uneven terrain, and climb a few flights of stairs, occasionally without handrails or assistance. Elevators are not always available. Outings last 2–4 hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk two to four miles, or 4,600–6,900 steps, each day.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Loreto | San Carlos, Mexico | Embark ship
Days 2–5: Magdalena Bay (Bahía Almejas | Isla Magdalena / Sand Dollar Beach | Puerto Magdalena | Hull Canal | Boca de Soledad), Mexico
Day 6: San Carlos | Loreto, Mexico | Disembark ship | Depart for home