Swim with gentle whale sharks in Bahía de las Animas from Las Animas Ecolodge—just 380 miles from San Diego—and enjoy a 6-day soft eco-adventure at the only boat-in ecolodge in Baja California, led by experienced Baja naturalist since 1989.

The optimal season for whale shark encounters at Bahía de las Animas in the Midriff Islands region of the Sea of Cortez near Bahía de los Ángeles is September through November, with peak activity from September to October. During these months, water temperatures range from 78–82°F, creating ideal conditions for seasonal plankton blooms that attract feeding whale sharks to the Sea of Cortez.

We don't offer whale shark trips outside this window because sightings become unreliable. Unlike some operators who run trips year-round with low success rates, we only schedule departures during optimal season to maximize your chances of encounters.

• Best booking strategy: Mid-September to early October dates fill up first (12+ months in advance) because they coincide with optimal water temperature and plankton density. Late September and October dates offer excellent sightings and optimal weather in our region.
• How many whale sharks will I see on the 6-day trip? Guests typically encounter 4 to over 12 individual whale sharks across 4 mid-morning dedicated snorkeling outings during the 6-day trip. The wide range depends on factors we can't control: ocean conditions, plankton density (their food source), weather, moon phase, and the migratory patterns of wild animals.
• What makes our success rate high: Our 35+ years operating in Bahía de las Animas gives us exceptional knowledge of where and when to find whale sharks. Our experienced boat captains and naturalist guides know the feeding grounds, current patterns, and seasonal hotspots better than anyone.
• Important reality check: We cannot guarantee specific numbers — these are wild animals in their natural habitat, not an aquarium. However, in 35 years, we've had only a handful of trips with zero whale shark sightings (less than 2% of trips). Most trips see 4–6 encounters or more.
• Your advantage over La Paz: While La Paz's whale shark zones often have 10–20 boats competing for the same animals, Bahía de las Animas averages only 1–3 boats total in the area. This means when you DO find a whale shark, you'll often have it all to yourself — an intimate, unhurried encounter rather than a rushed experience with crowds.

Mexican government regulations require swimmers to maintain a minimum 6-foot (2-meter) distance from whale sharks at all times. Touching, chasing, or blocking their path is strictly prohibited and can result in fines for the operator and harm to the animals.

We take these rules seriously because whale sharks are Endangered species, and responsible tourism is critical for their conservation. All our guides are certified Baja naturalists trained in marine mammal protection protocols.

• The magic happens naturally: While you must maintain distance, whale sharks are naturally curious and may swim closer to you on their own. When a 20-foot whale shark glides past you just a few feet away — entirely by its choice — it's an unforgettable, respectful encounter that honors the animal's autonomy.

• Maximum 2–4 swimmers in the water at a time per whale shark (to avoid overwhelming the animal)
• 10–30 minute swimming sessions depending on the whale shark's behavior
• Guides stay close to help position you safely
• Brief coaching session before your first encounter on proper approach and behavior

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer or snorkeler to swim with whale sharks?

• Basic swimming ability and comfort in open water are required. If you're nervous in water deeper than you can stand, or if you panic when you can't touch the bottom, this activity may be challenging for you.
• Good news for nervous-but-capable swimmers:
  • Whale shark snorkeling usually takes place in calm bay waters (not open ocean)
  • Visibility is typically 20–40 feet (sometimes you can see the bottom and the whale sharks clearly)
  • Guests can wear a flotation vest and be alongside our guides holding hands for extra security
  • Our guides stay within reach at all times
  • We conduct a practice snorkel session before the whale shark outing, so you can build confidence
  • This is a soft eco-adventure with easy to moderate activity levels
• Snorkeling experience not required: If you're comfortable swimming but have never snorkeled, our guides will teach you. The technique is simple: breathe through the snorkel tube, keep your face in the water, and let the vest keep you floating. Most people master it within 10 minutes.
• Physical fitness: You don't need to be an athlete, but you should be able to swim 20–50 yards without exhaustion. The boat stays nearby, so you're never far from help.
• Good news for non-swimmers or water-phobic guests: Some of the best viewing is from the boat as the whale sharks glide right under the boat in clear waters for excellent visibility. Non-swimmers can also enjoy the ecolodge, beach walks, bird watching, fishing, star gazing, and experiencing the whale sharks from the boat.

What's the difference between swimming with whale sharks at Bahía de las Animas vs. La Paz?

This is the #1 question we get, and the answer highlights why we're not competing with La Paz operators — we're offering a completely different experience.

Bottom line: If you want a half-day whale shark experience while staying in a city with restaurants and nightlife, La Paz is perfect. If you want a transformative multi-day soft eco-adventure where whale sharks are part of a larger journey into pristine Baja nature, Las Animas Ecolodge in Bahía de las Animas is unmatched.

Roundtrip ground transportation from San Diego is included in your trip package — you don't arrange anything separately. Here's the detailed Day 1 and Day 6 itinerary:

• DAY 1: San Diego to Las Animas Ecolodge (Approximately 380 miles, 7.5 hours with rest stops)
  • 6:30 AM: Meet at Brown Field Municipal Airport (San Diego) or get picked up for free in our van from several local hotels in south San Diego. Park your car for free in the safe lot.
  • 7:00–10:30 AM: Drive to Mexicali, Mexico border crossing. Clear Mexican customs (bring passport!). This usually takes 15 minutes. Followed by scenic drive across mountains, into San Felipe on the Sea of Cortez with a break en route. Muffins, juices and water provided.
  • 11:00 AM–2:00 PM: Scenic drive through Baja California following the stunning Sea of Cortez coastline and crossing the dramatic Sonoran Desert and through the Valle de Los Cirrios. One stop for restrooms and to stretch. Deluxe bag lunches provided.
  • Landscape you'll see: Cardon cacti (world's tallest), volcanic mountains, turquoise bays, remote fishing villages, desert wilderness. Many guests say this drive itself is worth the trip.
  • 2:00–2:30 PM: Arrive at Bahía de los Ángeles, a small fishing village (population ~800).
  • 2:30–3:15 PM: Transfer to boats at the harbor. 45-minute scenic boat ride along the coast to Las Animas Ecolodge (12 miles along the shore). Keep your eyes open for dolphins, whales, whale sharks, sea turtles, and abundant sea birds!

• DAY 6: Return to San Diego
  • 6:00–7:00 AM: Final breakfast at Las Animas Ecolodge. Pack up your gear.
  • 7:00–7:45 AM: Boat ride back to Bahía de los Ángeles harbor (45 minutes).
  • 8:45 AM–2:00 PM: Scenic return drive through the desert and along the coast. 3–4 rest stops and bathroom breaks. Delicious homemade burritos included.
  • 2:00–3:30 PM: Cross back into California at Mexicali. US Customs (have passport ready).
  • 3:30–5:30 PM: Arrive back at Brown Field, 20 minutes south of San Diego (exact time depends on border wait and traffic).

• Valid passport (REQUIRED for Mexico entry)
• Light jacket or sweatshirt (air conditioning on van)
• Neck pillow if you want to nap during the drive
• Entertainment (book, music, podcast — Starlink mini with WiFi on the drive)
• Cash for any personal snacks at stops ($20–40 USD)

Can I drive myself? Technically yes, but we strongly discourage it. If you are on a road trip, you can join our trip with lots of advance notice at the same rate. Our all-inclusive package includes private round-trip transportation.

Included in Your Trip Price:

Transportation:

• Roundtrip ground shuttle from San Diego to Bahía de los Ángeles (380 miles, 7.5 hours with rest stops)
• Roundtrip boat transfer from harbor to ecolodge (45 minutes each way, 12 miles along the shore)
• All boat transportation during the trip (whale shark outings, sea lion snorkeling, island exploration)

Accommodations:

• 5 nights in private beachside yurt with California King pillow-top memory foam and a twin bed, and ensuite bathroom
• Fresh linens, towels, and pillows provided
• Solar-powered lighting, WiFi available, fans, A/C during September trips, and covered deck with hammock

Meals & Beverages (ALL):

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner and fresh-caught seafood Happy Hour every day
• Snacks (fresh fruit, chips, salsa, guacamole)
• Unlimited purified drinking water, coffee, tea, soft drinks
• Beer and margaritas at happy hour and with meals (yes, alcohol is included!)

Activities & Equipment:

• 4 whale shark snorkeling outings (weather permitting)
• Sea lion snorkeling adventure
• All snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel, flotation vest, wetsuits if needed)
• Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (unlimited use)
• Fishing gear and fishing (license required)
• Wind surfing equipment
• Light hiking and island exploration
• Bird watching and dark sky viewing
• Evening campfires and stargazing

Expert Guides:

• Experienced Baja field naturalist guides on all excursions
• 2 local Mexican boat captains (experts on marine life and navigation)
• Chef Liz and 2 assistants prepare all meals

Permits & Fees:

• National Marine Park entry permits
• Whale shark encounter permits (regulated by Mexican government)

Not Included (budget separately):

Taxes & Fees (added to trip price at booking):

• 13% Mexican sales tax
• 3% National Park conservation tax
• Total taxes: 16% added to base price
• Example: If trip price is $3,895, expect to pay approximately $4,517 total ($3,895 + $623 in taxes)

Tips for Local Staff (recommended but not required):

• Suggested guideline: $150–200 per guest for the 6-day trip
• Goes directly to boat captains, chefs, cleaning staff, and guides
• Cash only (USD accepted). Tip at the end of the trip (we provide envelopes)

Travel Insurance (highly recommended):

• Allianz or World Nomads for trip cancellation/interruption coverage are some choices
• Cost: typically $100–200 depending on your age and trip price
• Covers emergency medical evacuation from remote areas

Personal Items: Reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof camera or GoPro (optional), medications and personal toiletries, gifts or souvenirs, personal snacks for travel day ($10–20)

💰 Total Budget Example:

• Trip price + taxes: $4,517
• Staff tips: $200
• Travel insurance: $150
• Personal items: $50
• Total budget: ~$4,917

Yes! Families with children ages 5+ are welcome. We've hosted countless family trips — grandparent-grandchild adventures, parent-teen bonding, and multi-generational reunions. However, this is NOT a resort with kids' clubs and pools — it's a remote wilderness ecolodge that requires kids to embrace adventure, nature, and rustic living.

Age Requirements & Considerations:

• Minimum age: 5 years old (strictly enforced for safety)
  • Children must be comfortable swimming in open water with a flotation vest
  • They must be able to follow instructions from guides during wildlife encounters
  • Snorkeling with whale sharks requires maturity to stay calm and follow safety protocols
  • Viewing from the boat (without entering the water) is always an option
    
• Best ages: 8–17 years old
  • Kids in this range LOVE the adventure, wildlife, and freedom to explore
  • Teens especially appreciate the digital detox (WiFi available but encouraged to disconnect)
  • Many families report this trip as a "once-in-a-lifetime bonding experience"

Sleeping arrangements:

• Each yurt has 1 California King pillow-top memory foam mattress and 1 twin bed. Extra twin beds added as needed.
• Families with 2+ kids can request our deluxe yurts with 2 extra twin beds, a loft, and a queen foam bed
• Kids 16+ are often comfortable sharing a yurt with a sibling

Activities are flexible: If kids tire of snorkeling, they can kayak, fish, explore tide pools, beachcomb, or rest at camp. Not every family member needs to do every activity.

What kids LOVE:

• Swimming with whale sharks and sea lions (highlight of their lives!)
• Catching fish and eating it for lunch or dinner (hunter-gatherer experience)
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Campfires and s'mores under the stars
• Seeing dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles
• Freedom to explore the beach and nature (safe environment)
• Occasional ocean and beach phosphorescence

What frustrates some kids:

• Limited screen time (WiFi available but encouraged to disconnect and enjoy nature)
• Rustic bathrooms (eco-toilets are waterless, which some kids find weird)
• Early mornings (activities often start at 6:00–8:00 AM)

Pro tip: Show your kids videos and photos of whale sharks, sea lions, and the ecolodge before the trip. Get them excited about the adventure. Frame it as a special wilderness experience, not a typical vacation.

• A doctor and clinic in Bahía de los Ángeles, 45 minutes away by boat
• Nearest hospital is 2+ hours away in Guerrero Negro
• Bring all medications your child needs (EpiPens, inhalers, etc.)
• We have a first aid kit and satellite phone for emergencies

Las Animas Ecolodge features 8 private beachside yurts — think "glamping" (glamorous camping) rather than a traditional hotel. It's rustic luxury: comfortable, clean, and thoughtfully designed, but firmly rooted in wilderness living.

Each Yurt Includes:

• Sleeping:
  • 1 California King-sized pillow-top memory foam mattress and 1 Twin-sized bed
  • Fresh linens, pillows, and lightweight blankets (nights are 68–78°F)
  • Nightstands and a small shelf for personal items
• Bathroom (attached to yurt):
  • Private ensuite bathroom — you don't share with other guests
  • Pressurized shower with heated water (on-demand, truly hot!)
  • Sink with fresh water
  • Flush toilets or Sun-Mar eco-toilet (odorless, waterless composting toilet — sounds weird but works great!)
  • Towels and basic toiletries provided
• Outdoor Space:
  • Covered deck with Adirondack chairs and a hammock
  • Unobstructed views of the Sea of Cortez and beach
  • Each yurt is positioned for privacy — you're not on top of your neighbors
• Lighting & Power:
  • Solar-powered LED lights (bright enough to read)
  • 110-volt plugs for lights, CPAP machine, charging camera batteries and phones
  • WiFi available (though we encourage digital detox)
  • Fans and limited A/C for warmer days
• Skylight Roof: Clear skylight at the top of the yurt for stargazing from bed. At night, you'll see the Milky Way, shooting stars, and constellations. Many guests say falling asleep while stargazing is the highlight of the ecolodge.
• Intimate and peaceful: With only 8 yurts and a maximum 10 guests (average 8), the ecolodge is a private retreat. You won't see crowds, lines, or chaos.

What Guests Say:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The yurts were more comfortable than I expected. Falling asleep with the skylight open and stars overhead was magical."

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This is NOT a luxury resort — and that's exactly why it's special. You're immersed in nature without sacrificing comfort."

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I was nervous about the eco-toilets, but they were totally fine — no smell, no issues. Honestly, the bathroom was better than some hotels I've stayed at!"

Bottom Line: If you're looking for a Four Seasons with whale sharks, this isn't it. If you want genuine wilderness immersion with comfortable beds, hot showers, private bathrooms, and excellent food and service, Las Animas is perfect.

Food is consistently rated the #1 or #2 highlight of our trips. Our local chef Liz and her assistants have perfected the art of fresh seafood and Mexican cooking over decades, and they pour love into every meal.

Sample Menu:

• Breakfast: Fresh fruit platters, eggs cooked to order, bacon, sausage, homemade flour tortillas, chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, fresh-brewed coffee, tea, orange juice
• Lunch: Ceviche made from fish you caught that morning, fish/chicken/veggie tacos, tostadas and pozole, fresh salads, homemade bread or tortillas, fruit and dessert
• Dinner (the main event): Grilled fresh fish (dorado, yellowtail, or triggerfish) with lime and cilantro, Liz's legendary mole, Mexican rice, refried beans, grilled vegetables, chicken, and desserts like flan, churros, or tres leches cake
• Happy Hour (4:00–6:00 PM): Ceviche, clams, oysters, fresh salsas, guacamole, chips, pico de gallo, deluxe margaritas, beer — with sunset views from the main lodge deck

Dietary Accommodations:

• We CAN accommodate (with advance notice):
  • Vegetarian: Easy — beans, rice, grilled veggies, salads, eggs, cheese
  • Vegan: Doable but more limited. Expect simpler meals; you'll be well-fed but won't have the same variety as omnivores
  • Gluten-free: Manageable (corn tortillas, rice-based dishes). Not celiac-safe — risk of cross-contamination in our small kitchen
  • Food allergies (nuts, shellfish, dairy): Yes, with advance notice. Tell us at booking so we can plan accordingly

Important: Tell us about dietary restrictions when you book — not the week before the trip. Our chefs need time to plan and shop. Last-minute requests are difficult because we're remote.

What Guests Say:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Liz's mole was the best I've ever had. I dream about it months later. The food alone is worth the trip."

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The ceviche made from fish we caught that morning was a highlight. Fresh doesn't even describe it — it was incredible."

September–November is the most pleasant season in Baja California — warm but not scorching, with calm seas and sunny skies.

• Air Temperature:
  • Daytime: 75–90°F (pleasant warmth, not oppressive heat)
  • Nighttime: 68–78°F (cool enough for a light jacket or fleece)
  • Early morning: 65–70°F (chilly on boat rides — bring layers!)
• Water Temperature:
  • September: 80–82°F (warm, like a bathtub — most people snorkel without wetsuits)
  • October: 78–80°F (comfortable, though some guests prefer our 2–4 mm full wetsuit)
  • November: 76–78°F (still comfortable; wetsuit recommended for longer snorkel sessions)

We provide wetsuits for all guests. Most people use them in late October and November, especially during early morning outings.

• Ocean Conditions:
  • Waves: Calm to small (1–3 feet). The bay is protected, so it's not rough like the open ocean.
  • Visibility: Excellent for snorkeling (20–40 feet), though plankton blooms (whale shark food!) can reduce visibility to 15–20 feet
  • Current: Mild — strong enough to carry plankton but not dangerous for swimmers
• Tropical Storms (Chubascos):
  • Risk is low but possible in September and early October (5–10% chance). Brief, intense rainstorms lasting a few hours, followed by clear skies. In 35 years, we've only canceled 2–3 trips due to tropical storms.
  • Sunrises over the Sea of Cortez are spectacular. For sunsets, plan to be on the beach with a margarita!

📋 Essential Documents:

• ✅ Valid passport (REQUIRED for Mexico entry — must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date)
• ✅ Travel insurance policy (highly recommended)
• ✅ Emergency contact info and medical information

🩱 Swimming & Snorkeling Gear:

• ✅ Swimsuits (bring 2 — one is always wet!)
• ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen (CRITICAL — look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide; avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate)
• ✅ Rashguard or UV sun shirt (long-sleeve, tight-fitting for snorkeling)
• ✅ Prescription swim goggles (if needed — we provide standard masks)
• Optional: personal snorkel mask, GoPro or waterproof camera

👕 Clothing:

• ✅ Light, quick-dry clothes: shorts (2 pairs), T-shirts (4–5), sun dresses (1–2), lightweight long pants (1 pair)
• ✅ Light jacket or fleece (mornings can be 60–65°F on boat rides)
• ✅ Protective waterproof outer shell for boat rides
• ✅ Water shoes (Teva-style, Keen, or similar — REQUIRED for rocky beach entry)
• ✅ Tennis shoes or sandals with heel straps (for camp, yurt, and beach)
• ✅ Hat with chin strap (CRITICAL — regular baseball caps blow off on boats!)
• ✅ Sunglasses with strap (polarized recommended — will blow off without a strap!)

🧴 Personal Items:

• ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30–50 — bring extra!)
• ✅ Lip balm with SPF
• ✅ Reusable water bottle
• ✅ Personal medications (enough for 6 days plus 2 extra)
• ✅ Headlamp or flashlight
• Optional: aloe vera gel, seasickness medication (Dramamine or ginger tablets), small day pack, binoculars

📱 Electronics (Keep It Minimal!):

• ✅ Camera or smartphone (WiFi available)
• ✅ Portable charger (USB charging in yurt)
• ✅ Headphones for travel day
• ❌ Leave at home: laptop, hair dryer, curling iron

💵 Money & Misc:

• ✅ Cash (USD): $200–250 for staff tips; $10–20 for personal snacks; $20–50 for optional souvenirs
• ✅ Ziploc bags (keep phone, wallet, documents dry on boat rides)
• ✅ Books, journal, playing cards
• ✅ Earplugs (if you're a light sleeper — yurts are canvas)

🚫 Leave at Home:

• Expensive jewelry
• Fancy clothes
• More than 2 pairs of shoes (you'll live in sandals and water shoes)