Gray Whale Watching in Puerto Chale
Meet Baja’s Gray Whales Up Close
WHEN AND WHERE
From January to March, Puerto Chale in Baja California Sur becomes one of the most remarkable places to see gray whales, found in Mexico only along Baja’s Pacific lagoons. In Bahía Almejas, the bay of Puerto Chale, it’s possible to witness well over a hundred in a single day: dozens of simultaneous spouts, broad flukes on the horizon, and mother-calf pairs gliding through calm water make this corner of the Baja coast a standout.
FROM CABO TO PUERTO CHALE
We depart very early from Cabo San Lucas, tracing Baja’s Pacific coast at first light toward Puerto Chale. On arrival, we meet our local captain, give a brief safety and whale-watching briefing, and head into Bahía Almejas. Among mangroves and seabirds, we check tides, wind, and recent sighting reports to plan our route with local insight. As the shoreline falls away, the horizon opens and we begin a steady search. Whaling once brought gray whales to the brink of extinction, but thanks to protection efforts they return each winter to their breeding lagoons in Baja California Sur—a recovery you’ll witness in person.
SPYHOPPING AND CLOSE ENCOUNTERS
This is where Puerto Chale shines. Gray whales are famously curious — they may lift their heads in spyhops, roll to one side to look at you, or surface quietly beside the panga at a calm pace. It’s a moment beyond imagination: eye to eye with a whale, close enough to see the markings on its skin and the mist of its breath. Our trusted captains handle every approach with absolute respect — engines in neutral as soon as a whale shows interest, gentle drifts instead of pursuits, and side positioning that keeps space open and the animal in control. We prioritize natural behavior so each encounter feels genuine and unforgettable.
WHY PUERTO CHALE?
Puerto Chale sits at the gateway to Bahía Almejas, where gray whales concentrate in protected, shallow waters—ideal for extended viewing. Because the launch is close to the observation zone, more time goes to whales and less to transit, and morning conditions often deliver clear sightlines across a naturally dispersed area. Home to about 400 residents (2025), the town relies heavily on the January–March whale-watching season, so we work with local captains and services to ensure your visit directly supports the community while keeping operations low-impact and respectful.
It's important to remember that at Breathe Out Baja, guest safety and whale welfare guide every decision. We operate under Mexican Official Standard NOM-131-SEMARNAT-2010 with licensed crews, regulated approach distances, and seasonal speed limits in the observation zone. Our briefings are clear and concise, and we keep groups small by design.
$430 USD
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Price p/p
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Minimum 4 people to run the tour (private option available)
Details of interest
Season and duration
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Full day experience
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Early departure from Cabo
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From January to March
What to expect
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Respectfull and ethical whale watching
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Cold mornings
What’s included
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Certified guides EN/SP/FR
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Round trip transportation to Cabo
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Sunscreen
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Water, sodas, light snacks
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Lunch
Not included
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Professional photo service (optional add-on)
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Personal travel/medical insurance
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Gratuities
What to bring
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Sunglasses, hat or cap
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Sweater or jacket
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Camera and/or underwater camera
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If you’re prone to seasickness on boats, take your medication at least one hour before we board
Requirements
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No experience needed
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+7 years old (minors accompanied by an adult)
