Driving Baja

Part of the allure of this trip is the drive through the stunning landscapes of Baja California. Once we cross through Mexicali and head south, we’ll follow the eastern coastline along the Sea of Cortez, taking in rugged desert terrain and dramatic vistas on our way to the laid-back coastal town of San Felipe, where we’ll spend our first night.

The next leg of the journey takes us from San Felipe to the beautiful oasis town of San Ignacio. This scenic route hugs the coastline at times, offering spectacular ocean overlooks, before heading inland through Baja’s surreal boojum forest, a landscape like no other on Earth. It’s an experience of ever-changing beauty, perfect for those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Gray Whales: A Magical Encounter in San Ignacio Lagoon

Each winter, hundreds of Gray Whales return to the warm, sheltered lagoons along Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, completing the longest mammal migration on Earth — a 6,000-mile journey from Alaska’s Bering Sea. Once nearly hunted to extinction, these gentle giants have made a remarkable recovery and are now known for their friendly, curious nature.

San Ignacio Lagoon is one of the few places in the world where gray whales approach boats, often allowing for incredible close encounters. Mothers often bring their calves right up to our pangas, offering moments of wonder, connection, and unforgettable photo opportunities. You’ll witness spy-hopping, breaching, and perhaps even courtship behaviors in the calm waters of this protected sanctuary.

We’ll be staying at Antonio’s Camp, arriving late morning on February 23. After lunch and check-in, we’ll head out on our first of four whale-watching excursions. Each trip offers a chance to observe these whales in their element — from playful juveniles to nurturing mothers. Our schedule includes morning and afternoon outings. Lunch is provided between the whale watching excursions, and happy hour with dinner provided after our day’s adventure. Our final day at the camp will include breakfast, a morning boat tour, and lunch before heading back to San Ignacio.

Optional Pre-Trip Extension: Blue Whales of Loreto

For those craving even more adventure, join us before the main trip for a journey to the other side of Baja — the Sea of Cortez — in search of the largest animals on the planet: Blue Whales.

We’ll spend three days traveling to Loreto, with the first two days following the same route as the San Ignacio journey. On the third day, we continue south from San Ignacio, passing through the historic towns of Santa Rosalia and Mulegé, before arriving in the charming coastal town of Loreto.

Our four-night stay includes:

• One day on the water to search for blue whales (weather permitting)
• One day to explore Mission San Javier, a beautifully preserved 18th-century mission in the Sierra de la Giganta mountains
• One free day to enjoy Loreto’s scenic waterfront, shops, or nearby hikes

After our Loreto adventure, we’ll head back to San Ignacio to reunite with the main group and continue on to the Gray Whales of Laguna San Ignacio.