Citizen Science and Voluntourism

Here is your chance to experience gray whales and whale sharks and other awesome wildlife!

Trip overview

Experience two of the Earth’s most charismatic marine species, gray whales, and whale sharks. From the majestic setting of RED’s gray whale eco camp in Magdalena Bay, you will observe up close the magnificent gray whales that come to these protected waters to mate and calve. Magdalena Bay is home to a staggering number of marine mammals, aviary species, lush mangrove canals and towering sand dunes. Across the narrow peninsula on the Gulf of California, named the “world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, you’ll visit Espíritu Santo island, teeming with sea life and home to resident sea lions that you can observe up close from the water. You’ll also have the chance to snorkel with the mystical whale sharks, the gentle giants that gather just outside the Bay of La Paz. You will experience regional cuisine with gourmet flair, and You’ll be accompanied along the way by expert naturalist guides that will give you a local’s eye into the region’s culture and natural history.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival and Transfer to La Paz

Your driver will be waiting for you at Los Cabos International Airport to take you on the scenic drive from San Jose del Cabo to your hotel in La Paz (2.5 hours). RED staff AND TAM FROM TRAVELS WITH TAM, will be waiting to assist with your hotel check-in and to answer any questions you might have. You will meet the rest of your group and your naturalist guide at dinner, and receive a signed copy of ALL FISH FACES by Tam Warner Minton.  Rest up for tomorrow because your adventure begins!

Meals included today: Dinner

Lodging: Hotel Catedral

Day 2 – Whale Sharks and Hidden Beaches of Balandra Bay

Your driver will pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and transport you to the marina to try on your snorkeling gear and wetsuit. We will then head out on the water for the short trip to the whale shark observation zone. On the way out of the bay, your guide will brief you on whale shark ecology and regulations for snorkeling. You’ll have the chance to get in the water accompanied by your guide to snorkel alongside these marvelous creatures. During peak holidays when observation activity increases, we will explore the surrounding area by boat as we wait for our turn to see these incredible animals.

The trip continues to Balandra Bay, a natural protected area and home to pristine beaches, mangroves, and stunning scenery. Here we’ll have a tasty lunch (dietary restrictions taken into account), explore the nature trails, snorkel in the crystal water and relax and unwind before heading back to La Paz.

La Paz is unique as a whale shark destination for its proximity to the observation zone and efforts undertaken by tour operators, regulatory agencies and civil society to responsibly manage this extraordinary experience. During peak holidays when boat activity increases, we may flip the itinerary and explore Balandra Bay and the surrounding area before entering into the whale shark observation zone.

Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch

Lodging: Hotel Catedral

Day 3 – La Paz to Magdalena Bay

Depart from La Paz early in the morning en route to Magdalena Bay, jewel of the Pacific and home to a staggering number of migratory and marine birds, sea turtles, and marine mammals including the migratory gray whales. We will stop at one of our favorite local ranchos for a snack and a hearty cup of cowboy coffee. Arriving to Magdalena Bay we will head out on the water for the short trip to our secluded island camp, searching for whales along the way. After happy hour, chat with your guide to learn about the natural history of the region.

Day 4 – Gray Whale Observation and Exploration of Magdalena Bay

After a good night’s rest wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast at camp. Wake up early to watch the fishermen conservationists prepare their sea turtle monitoring nets. Today we will learn more about the gray whales, their incredible migration, and the importance of Magdalena Bay for breeding and calving to these magnificent creatures. We will head out in pangas (outboard skiffs) to look for gray whales. Friendly whales often approach the boats, and the mothers are known to push the young calves closer, which can make for an incredible interaction between two species.

Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lodging: RED Basecamp

Day 5 – Gray whales, Magdalena to La Paz

In the morning wake up to take in the spectacular sunrise one more time. After breakfast we will bid farewell to our hosts and head out in the search for whales. Make sure your camera is handy to capture images of these magnificent giants. After a picnic lunch on a secluded barrier island, we start back for La Paz where the journey concludes. B/L

Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch

Lodging: Hotel Catedral

Day 6 – Espíritu Santo Island

After breakfast we will head to RED´s office for the boat ride to

and a natural paradise that will amaze you with breathtaking island scenery and rich marine life. Jump in the water to snorkel with the sea lions and observe tropical fish. Afterwards, your captain will seek out a secluded beach for a tasty lunch and time to relax or explore this unique place before heading back to La Paz in time for dinner.

Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch

Lodging: Hotel Catedral

Day 7 –Departure

After breakfast, your driver will be waiting outside the hotel lobby to transport you to the Los Cabos International Airport.

Meals included today: Breakfast

Cost per person $2,200.00 and Includes: round trip ground transportation between SJD airport and La Paz;  round trip ground transportation between RED camp and La Paz; all meals and beverages as specified in itinerary; bilingual naturalist guide with WFR certification; double occupancy lodging in hotel (La Paz) and RED tent camp; 3 whale watching excursions; all park entrance fees; whale shark and Espíritu Santo activities as described in the itinerary; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; all taxes. This is a custom trip designed by Red Travel Mexico and Travels with Tam.

Please contact me at [email protected] if interested!

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Excludes: airline flights and any transportation not described in the itinerary; any meals and activities not described in the itinerary; gratuities.

Notes on itinerary: We make all efforts to adhere to the itinerary described above, but we may modify the itinerary due to wind, weather, and other factors. The safety and enjoyment of our travelers are our top priorities. Please see our terms and conditions for more information. We do not guarantee wildlife sightings, interaction or behavior. All travelers must comply with communicated protocols and regulations regarding activities within natural protected areas and interactions with wildlife.