Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay

Lindblad Expeditions

Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay

March 03 - 08, 2026

Length: 6 days

Region(s): Caribbean & Central America

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Cruise

SPECIAL 10% GROUP SAVINGS: Save 10% on cabin fare when traveling with the California Alumni Association/Cal Discoveries Travel on this departure (conditions apply.)

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Baja California and the whales of Magdalena Bay. We will anchor among the gray whale mothers and calves―playful and friendly, they occasionally approach us in our pangas for close-up views.

Operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

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Tour Highlights

Spend several extraordinary days in the company of majestic gray whales in Mexico’s Bahía Magdalena, one of the best places in the world to witness interactions between gray whale mothers and their curious calves, who often approach our small boats.
Learn about desert ecosystems, seabird migrations, and whale behavior from experienced naturalist guides.
Kayak and paddleboard in stunning mangrove forests or beachcomb along endless stretches of sand.
Scan the skies for bird species, from diving pelicans to magnificent frigatebirds.
Opt to go hiking and fat-tire biking across diverse desert landscapes, from windswept dunes to cactus forests.
Extend your expedition with a fascinating history and whale-watching extension in Loreto, or a cultural and culinary extension in La Paz and San José del Cabo.
If you would like to receive a PDF copy of this trip’s brochure, please click on the words “Brochure Request Form” under Additional Resources on this webpage.

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 / Embark
DAYS 2-5: Explore in and around Magdalena Bay. Some of the locales you may visit include:
- Bahía Almejas
- Isla Magdalena / Sand Dollar Beach
- Puerto Magdalena
- Hull Canal
- Boca de Soledad
DAY 6: San Carlos / Disembark / Loreto
NOTE: Itinerary may change due to local conditions.