Every winter, the breathtaking blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, graces the waters of Loreto, transforming this marine sanctuary into its temporary haven. Here, these gentle giants feed and socialize; some observations even suggest they may give birth to calves, adding another layer of wonder to their seasonal visit.
Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is nothing short of enchanting. Their colossal size challenges the imagination, while their serene presence evokes a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature. As they glide gracefully through the water, we are reminded of the incredible privilege it is to share our planet with such extraordinary beings. The experience is nothing less than awe inspiring, leaving us with a profound sense of connection to the diverse life that thrives in our oceans.
Loreto is a treasure trove for marine life and a privileged place to witness one of the ocean’s greatest spectacles.
Baja Adventures is run by professionals and certified leaders. Regina Domingo and Leopoldo Sanmiguel have been creating ecotourism adventures and conservation projects for over 15 years, fearlessly exploring every corner of the Baja peninsula.
During whale-watching trips, they travel up to 100 miles offshore in search of these ocean giants. However, the blue whale isn’t alone. Fin whales, hybrid whales, humpbacks, and dolphins also inhabit these waters. Together, they create a mosaic of marine life that amazes everyone who witnesses it.
“Loreto is regarded as one of the best places in the world to see blue whales. It’s incredible to have them literally right in front of our town. From this vantage point, you can observe them feeding, socializing, and even giving birth without travelling far. You can witness not just their migrations but also their daily lives in their natural habitat,” Leopoldo explains.
These journeys not only amaze the participants but also contribute to conservation. During the expeditions, scientific data is collected on the behaviour and distribution of various species, which enhances our understanding of their life patterns and the threats they face. Regina Domingo explains, “The boat must be in neutral or turned off in certain situations, as we practice passive whale watching to avoid disrupting the whales’ feeding cycles or causing them distress.”
Baja Adventures is committed to sustainability through responsible practices in every expedition. Each trip features a single boat and operates once daily, with small groups typically consisting of seven to eight participants. For the company, responsible tourism means avoiding large crowds and minimizing environmental impact while enhancing knowledge about blue whales and promoting awareness for their conservation.
“In many parts of the world, including Portugal, natural protected areas do not permit cruise ships, which poses a significant threat. Before reaching Loreto, whales experience changes in their feeding patterns and migratory routes due to global warming and climate change,” says Regina. She notes that food scarcity impacts the whales’ nutrition, reproductive capacity, and evolutionary success.
Regina and Leopoldo, the visionary founders of Baja Adventures, are fueled by their passion for conservation. Their commitment to regenerative tourism is a powerful expression of their dedication. They engage with various species, communities, and participants through ecotourism to achieve positive outcomes and preserve this extraordinary ecosystem for a brighter future.
