The main international gateway to Baja California Sur is Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in San José del Cabo. It is frequently served by direct flights from major hubs across the United States, Canada, and Mexico City.
Upon arrival in San José del Cabo, we will coordinate your private transfer to the coastal town of La Ventana. All local transfers between the airport and your accommodation are included, ensuring a smooth transition from the desert landscape to the heart of the Sea of Cortez.

Accommodation & Meals

• 6 nights of accommodation in the heart of La Ventana beach
• Local meals, snacks, and water provided on board during expedition days (Day 2 to Day 6)
• Rooms equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi

On the Water

• 5 days of ocean safaris, navigating 6–8 hours daily in search of marine life
• Dedicated time searching for orcas, schools of mobula rays, dolphins, and whales
• Led by a certified guide to ensure professional wildlife interactions
• Full snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, and fins) provided for all participants

Transfers

• Private transportation from the airport to your accommodation in La Ventana
• All transfers between the arrival point and the meeting dock are included
• Return private transfer to the airport on your final day

Extra Activities

• Opportunities to spot sperm whales, whale sharks, and sea turtles
• Experience the natural beauty and coastal culture of Baja California Sur

• International or domestic flights
• Mandatory snorkeling, travel, or cancellation insurance
• Additional cost for a single room
• Any extra activities or excursions not explicitly described in the itinerary
• Souvenirs, laundry, and other personal costs
• Any other concept or expense not specifically mentioned as included

Easy to Moderate

You must be a confident swimmer in open ocean conditions. No scuba / freediving experience needed, but you’ll be entering and exiting the boat multiple times and may need to react quickly to whale sightings.

Baja California Sur offers a desert climate with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. During the expedition season, daytime temperatures typically range from 24–28°C (75–82°F), while evenings cool down to a comfortable 20–22°C (68–72°F).
The waters of the Sea of Cortez generally range from 22–26°C (72–79°F) during this period. While the surface is often calm in the mornings, the wind can pick up during the afternoon. We recommend bringing a windbreaker or a light fleece for the boat journeys, as the breeze can feel cool when moving at speed on the water.

In-Water Gear

• 3 mm full wetsuit recommended. Long hours on the water can lead to chill; while a shorty or rashguard may work for some, a 3 mm full suit is the safest default.
• Mask, snorkel, fins are provided on-site, but bringing your own is recommended for the best fit.
• Boat jacket or windbreaker, essential for protection against wind chill between swims and during fast boat transits.
• Waterproof drybag to protect valuables, electronics, and spare clothes from salt spray.

Sun & Weather Protection

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Hat & sunglasses
• Light long-sleeve shirt for sun protection

Travel Essentials

• Travel insurance. Must cover swimming in open water, snorkeling, and boat excursions. Medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended.
• Power adapters: Mexico uses Type A and Type B plugs (standard North American two-pin/three-pin). Voltage is 127V.
• Reusable water bottle

Optional but Useful

• Underwater camera or GoPro
• Seasickness tablets: recommended if you are prone to motion sickness, as we will be on the water for extended periods.
• Lightweight towel or poncho
• Personal snacks: while meals are provided on boat days, you may want specific energy bars or nuts for a quick boost.

Wildlife Encounters

Q: Will I definitely swim with Orcas?
A: While sightings are frequent during the March–June season, we cannot guarantee an in-water encounter. Orcas are highly mobile nomadic predators; whether we enter the water depends entirely on their behavior, the type of activity they are engaged in (such as hunting), and sea conditions. We follow strict ethical guidelines to ensure the safety of both guests and animals.

Q: What other species might we see?
A: The Sea of Cortez is known as "the world’s aquarium." Beyond Orcas and the massive schools of Mobula rays, there are excellent chances of encountering Humpback whales, Sperm whales, vast pods of dolphins, Whale sharks, and sea turtles.

Q: How close will I get to the animals?
A: We prioritize the comfort and natural behavior of the wildlife. Interactions happen on the animals' terms. We use "soft entry" techniques, quietly sliding into the water from our panga boat to minimize disturbance. No touching or chasing is permitted.

Logistics

Q: How do I get to La Ventana?
A: Fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). From there, we handle your private transfer (approximately 2–2.5 hours) directly to your accommodation in La Ventana.

Q: Do I need a visa for México?
A: Many nationalities (including US, Canada, UK, and EU citizens) do not require a visa for stays under 180 days for tourism. However, you must have a valid passport and may need to complete a FMM (Tourist Card) upon arrival. Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality.

Q: How big is the group?
A: To ensure an intimate experience and maximize boat space for photography and movement, we keep our groups small. Please check the specific departure dates for the maximum guest count.

Gear & Preparation

Q: Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
A: While we provide all necessary snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins), we recommend bringing your own for the best personal fit and comfort during long days on the water.

Q: Do I need a wetsuit?
A: Water temperatures range from 22–26°C (72–79°F). We recommend a 3mm full wetsuit. This provides thermal protection for repeated entries and serves as an excellent shield against the sun and occasional stings.

Q: Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
A: Yes. This trip involves spending 6–8 hours a day on the water. You must be comfortable swimming in the open ocean with potential swell and be able to climb back into a panga boat multiple times throughout the day.

Practicalities

Q: Is travel insurance required?
A: Yes, it is mandatory. Your policy must cover open-ocean swimming/snorkeling and emergency medical evacuation. We also highly recommend coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions.

Q: Are meals included?
A: We provide local meals, snacks, and drinking water on board the boat during the five expedition days (Day 2 to Day 6). Breakfasts and dinners are typically enjoyed at local spots near your accommodation, allowing you to experience the local culinary scene of La Ventana.

Q: Is there internet?
A: Yes, our accommodations in La Ventana provide free Wi-Fi. While generally reliable for basic use, the speed may vary compared to urban standards.

Other Experiences

Q: What is the boat like?
A: We use traditional "pangas"—sturdy, open-air boats favored by local experts for their versatility and speed. They are the best platform for quickly reaching wildlife sightings in the Sea of Cortez.

Q: Can I extend my trip?
A: Absolutely. Baja California Sur offers incredible diversity. We can help you extend your stay to explore the whale watching in Magdalena Bay (depending on the month), the sea lion colonies of Espiritu Santo Island, or the rugged mountains of the Sierra de la Laguna.