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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sea of Cortez is one of the most diverse seas on the planet with the widest variety of whales and dolphins, and home to nearly 900 species of fish.

Separating the Baja California Peninsula from the Mexican mainland, this narrow sea (also known as The Gulf of California) is home to a unique and rich ecosystem and sustains a large number of marine mammals, many of which are rare and endangered. It hosts many migratory species including the blue whale.

Furthermore, its more than 900 islands are important nesting sites for thousands of seabirds, and its waters are primary breeding, feeding, and nursing grounds for a myriad of migratory and resident species.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: blue whale, fin whale, humpback whale, whale shark, Bryde’s whale
  • Where: West coast, Mexico

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

Great Whales of Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Join Wildlife Worldwide on a voyage to Baja California’s spectacular Pacific coast. We visit at the best time of year to see blue, fin and humpback whales which congregate in Baja’s waters each winter, and witness the thrilling spectacle of grey whales in one of their warm water calving lagoons. Find out more about Great Whales of Mexico’s Pacific Coast

  • Price (inc. flights): 12 days from £7,695
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • A

Baja’s Ultimate Whale Safari

Exclusive Voyage

Join us on the ultimate whale quest in Baja California, where Mexico’s stunning peninsula meets unparalleled marine adventures. This exclusive group tour offers the perfect blend of comfort and wildlife, featuring encounters with blue, grey, fin, and humpback whales, as well as whale sharks. Find out more about Baja’s Ultimate Whale Safari

  • Price (inc. flights): 11 days from £8,195
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M

Sea of Cortez Wildlife Voyage

There are few places quite like Mexico's Sea of Cortez, situated off the Baja Peninsula. The sheer abundance of marine life make it easy to see why these magical waters have been described as ‘the world’s aquarium’. Travel aboard Safari Voyager to see the very best wildlife the Sea of Cortez has to offer. Find out more about Sea of Cortez Wildlife Voyage

  • Price (exc. flights): 8 days from £5,650
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • D

Baja California with Mark Carwardine

Baja California is one of the finest locations in the world to observe a variety of whales and dolphins. Join world-renowned whale expert, Mark Carwardine, and visit both San Ignacio Lagoon and the Sea of Cortez for remarkable encounters with grey, blue and humpback whales as well as much more. Find out more about Z) Baja California with Mark Carwardine

  • Price (inc. flights): 15 days from £10,495
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M
    • A
Recommended cruise vessels:

Safari Voyager

Safari Voyager EXPEDITION VESSEL

Explore remote coastlines and vibrant marine habitats aboard the Safari Voyager, a vessel purpose-built for adventure. This small ship offers unparalleled access to nature, complete with kayaks, paddleboards, skiffs, and expert guides. Enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters in comfort and style. Find Out More about Safari Voyager

Searcher

Searcher EXPEDITION VESSEL

Operating in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, the Searcher is a 28-metre vessel, skippered by a captain with over 30 years experience of sailing these waters. She has 14 air-conditioned cabins and is an ideal choice for exceptional whale watching opportunities and a quality natural history experience. Find Out More about Searcher