Wildlife Expeditions in La Ventana, Cerralvo Island & The Sea of Cortez
Swim with Mobula Rays, Dolphins, Whales & Orcas in the wild
At Mexico Travel Adventure, we offer you the most thrilling marine wildlife safari in the Sea of Cortez, far beyond conventional routes. Our Ocean Safari is an active, open-water search for the ocean's most spectacular events, navigating the vast pelagic corridor stretching between La Paz, La Ventana, and Cerralvo Island.
Follow the synchronized migration of mobula rays, swim alongside large pods of dolphins, and for the most adventurous and fortunate, experience astonishing encounters with wild orcas. Choose between our 1-Day Ocean Safari or fully immerse yourself in our All-Inclusive Multi-Day Expedition for the ultimate marine wildlife tracking experience.
Ocean Safari in La Ventana and La Paz
The adventure begins in La Paz, La Ventana, or Bahía de Muertos. The meeting point is confirmed the day before, as we always choose the best departure area based on recent sightings and sea conditions to maximize the chances of encountering marine wildlife. The experience lasts approximately 5 hours and takes place aboard a traditional panga boat as we cruise in search of the incredible marine life the ocean has to offer. With a bit of luck, you may have the chance to swim with huge schools of mobulas, snorkel with dolphins or killer whales, and spot whales as well!
This activity is suitable for anyone wishing to enjoy marine wildlife watching from the boat. For those who want to swim with the animals, it is necessary to be in good physical condition, agile enough to get in and out of the water from the panga, and able to move independently in the ocean without direct assistance from the guide. You don't need to be an expert swimmer, but you must feel comfortable in the water.
It is important to understand that we cannot guarantee any wildlife sightings. We also avoid disturbing or harassing wild animals, and all of our activities are carried out with the utmost respect for marine wildlife.
The itinerary
Expertly Planned. Driven by the Ocean. To maximize your chances of an unforgettable encounter, we employ a dynamic routing system.
The Dynamic Route (5 Hours): Departing at 9:00 AM from the Muelle Fiscal in La Paz and returning around 2:00 PM. We do not sail blindly. Every morning, your captain and guide determine the exact route based on real-time weather, currents, and our extensive local radio network of wildlife sightings.
Exclusive La Ventana Departure: Prefer to skip the drive and depart directly from the heart of the action? We offer departures from La Ventana (Playa Central, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM) exclusively for guests booking the “Private Tour” option.
Duration: 5 hours.
Requirements: Good physical condition and experience in snorkeling.
Difficulty: It does not require much technical knowledge but it is physically demanding. Not recommended for children, or people who do not exercise regularly.
Minimum number of participants: 3 people.
The Pelagic Corridor: Ocean Safari Zone
No fixed routes. We will explore the vastness of the open sea, interpreting ocean conditions and actively tracking marine wildlife in real-time.
Ocean Safari Sighting Zone
Navigation polygon in the Sea of Cortez where our captains and marine biologists actively track mobula rays, orcas, whales, dolphins, and sea lions depending on weather and daily reports.
Cerralvo Island and La Reina
A privileged location in the open sea famous for huge schools of mobula rays, dolphins, and seasonal sightings of orcas.
San Juan de la Costa (La Paz Bay)
During the winter months, we often sail to this area within the bay in search of majestic whales seeking shelter in calmer waters.
La Paz: Fiscal Pier (Standard Departure)
Our regular safari departs from here at 9:00 AM on boats equipped with powerful Suzuki motors and Starlink satellite connection for 7-hour tours.
La Ventana: Playa Central (Private Tours)
Exclusive departure point for Private Safari bookings. We sail directly from the beach at 8:00 AM towards the Cerralvo channel.
Included
Captain and guide.
Soft Drinks and Lunch.
All fees.
Snorkel Equipment.
Not Included
Alcoholic beverages.
Ground transportation. It can be hired.
You must bring
Ecofriendly sunscreen.
Water bottle.
Long sleeved shirt (for the sun, and the jellyfish).
Swimsuit, beach clothes, jacket or windbreaker (especially in winter and spring).
Hat, sunglasses, and towel.
Your safety in the open ocean is our priority.
Navigating the deep blue demands elite equipment. The open ocean requires speed, stability, and absolute safety. Our fleet consists of fully optimized panga-style vessels: from the agile 24-foot Kalal to our 30-foot flagships, Black Fin and Bacari. Powered by robust Suzuki engines (175 to 280 hp), they allow us to cover massive distances rapidly the second a sighting is reported.
We never sacrifice your comfort. Every vessel features full T-top shade and plush, cushioned seating, with our 30-foot units offering onboard bathrooms.
The Ultimate Safety Differentiator: On our extended 7-hour oceanic expeditions, we carry STARLINK satellite internet onboard. Combined with marine VHF radios and professional first-aid kits, we guarantee uninterrupted communication with the mainland. Absolute safety, even in the deepest blue.
Reserve Your Place
Don't leave your bucket-list expedition to chance. A true Sea of Cortez safari requires more than just a boat. It demands eagle-eyed local captains, the safest logistical network in Baja California Sur, and certified marine biologists onboard to interpret the wildlife.
Book your Ocean Safari with Mexico Travel Adventure today and answer the call of the wild blue.
Price per person: MXN 3.000
- 7 Hours Open Water Navigation
- Authentic Wildlife Safari Experience
Orca and Mobula Ray Expedition
The expeditions focus on finding orcas and mobula rays, however, we cannot guarantee their appearance as they are wild animals that do not have a fixed location and are constantly on the move, so it is not always possible to see them. Nevertheless, encounters with them are becoming more common in this area. In addition to orcas and schools of mobula rays, we are likely to see large pods of dolphins, whales, and even whale sharks.
Lastly, it is worth mentioning that the activity is performed with respect for all wildlife, and we avoid any kind of harassment towards any species.
The itinerary
We take care of the entire experience, including accommodation and all transfers from your airport pickup to your departure, so you can simply focus on enjoying it.
During the activity days, we will meet each morning at the dock in front of the “Playa Central” building, from where we will head out for six to eight hours aboard our pangas, exploring the Sea of Cortez and actively pursuing wild and unpredictable encounters with its marine life, from massive mobula ray schools to dolphins, whales, and the ultimate highlight: orcas in the wild.
Minimum number of participants: 2 persons.
Double occupancy rooms.
Orca & Mobula Expedition Logistics
All-inclusive multi-day expedition with 6 nights lodging in La Paz, airport transfers, and daily 6 to 8-hour ocean safaris.
La Paz Base & Departure Dock
Includes 6 nights of double-occupancy lodging in a 4-star downtown La Paz hotel and round-trip airport transfers. On activity days, we meet each morning at the Muelle Fiscal to set sail.
Extended Pelagic Expedition Zone
We navigate 6 to 8 hours per day across this open-water polygon in the Sea of Cortez, actively tracking large mobula ray schools, orcas, whales, and super pods of dolphins.
Cerralvo Island Channel
The deep-water passage between La Ventana and Cerralvo Island, a vital transit corridor for pelagic species, whales, dolphins, mobula rays, and hunting orcas.
Included
All the necessary equipment for the activity.
Marine Biologist Guide.
Specified meals.
Round Transportation.
6 nights lodging.
Not Included
Travel Insurance.
You must bring
Windbreaker, swimsuit, sandals.
Biodegradable sunscreen and sun protection.
The lodging
We partner with one of the best 4-star hotels in the heart of downtown La Paz, located just a 5-minute walk from the famous Malecon. After a long 6-to-8-hour day tracking wildlife in the open ocean, you can relax in their swimming pool or enjoy the wonderful rooftop terrace. All rooms are double occupancy (with either one double bed or two twin beds) and feature air conditioning, breakfast included, a flat-screen TV, complimentary WiFi, and a private bathroom with free amenities to ensure a comfortable and restful 6-night stay.
LA VENTANA & CERRALVO ISLAND WILDLIFE GALLERY
Recognized as the world's natural aquarium, the Sea of Cortez offers an unparalleled marine biodiversity. The pelagic corridor between La Ventana, La Paz, and Cerralvo Island becomes the ultimate stage for nature's most thrilling spectacles. The vastness of the ocean provides a unique experience to witness huge schools of mobula rays taking flight, navigate alongside large pods of dolphins, and search for apex predators like orcas and majestic whales in their natural habitat.
It is through our expertly guided open-water excursions that you can experience the breathtaking beauty of Baja California's marine life in a way you could have never dreamed of. Whether on our 1-Day Ocean Safari or an immersive 7-Day pelagic expedition. Please contact us and we will organize a customized itinerary for you.
Seasonal Wildlife Matrix (Honest Expectations)
Nature doesn't run on a schedule, but it does follow a rhythm. As ethical operators and marine biologists, we believe in radical transparency: we work with wild animals in the open ocean, meaning sightings are never guaranteed. However, our extensive experience reveals clear seasonal patterns. (See our Seasonal Sighting Table below).
From January to April, the Sea of Cortez is the undisputed realm of the Whales.
From May to July, the ocean literally boils with the explosive arrival of the Mobula rays, dramatically increasing your chances of spotting the apex predators hunting them: Orcas in La Ventana.
| Month | Mobulas | Orcas | Whales | Dolphins | Sea Lions |
| January | Unlikely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| February | Unlikely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| March | Unlikely | Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| April | Likely | Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| May | Very Likely | Very Likely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| June | Very Likely | Likely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| July | Very Likely | Likely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| August | Unlikely | Unlikely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| September | Unlikely | Unlikely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| October | Likely | Likely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| November | Likely | Likely | Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
| December | Unlikely | Unlikely | Very Likely | Very Likely | Very Likely |
our team
Andrea Adame
Dive instructor
Matéo Pérez
Naturalist Guide
Fersan
Marine Biologist
Luís Felipe
Biologist
Lorenza Espinoza
Marine Biologist
Daleth Carlos
Marine Biologist
José Pfeiffer
Captain
María Trujillo
Marine Biologist
Christian González
Captain
Álvaro Rivas
Chef
Román Rivas
Chef
Karen Adame
Sales Manager
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit La Ventana, La Paz, Cerralvo and Espiritu Santo Island?
Any time is a good time to embark on a safari in the Sea of Cortez. For observing mobula rays and orcas, the best period is from May to June, while the winter months are ideal for spotting large whales. From July to December, the conditions are perfect for enjoying the clear and warm waters.
What is the difference between the 1-Day Ocean Safari and the Multi-Day Expedition?
The 1-Day Ocean Safari is a 5-hour adventure departing from La Paz (or La Ventana on private tours) to track marine life. The Multi-Day Expedition is an immersive 7-day / 6-night all-inclusive experience based in La Paz, offering daily 6-to-8-hour safaris departing from the Muelle Fiscal, 4-star downtown accommodation, airport transfers, and meals.
How do you locate orcas and wildlife? Are sightings guaranteed?
Our primary method for locating orcas and wildlife in open water is through a solid radio and mobile phone communication network among experienced captains. We do not use drones, as they are strictly prohibited to protect the wildlife.
Because we track wild animals in the open, in their natural habitat, we cannot guarantee specific sightings. Every trip is unique: some days we encounter an incredible diversity of marine life, while on others nature decides to be more discreet.
Is it legal to swim with orcas and whales in Mexico?
Yes, in Mexico it is legal to swim with certain wildlife species like orcas and mobulas, as long as it is done respectfully and without harassing them. You must be an experienced, independent swimmer and feel comfortable in the open ocean.
What is the booking and cancellation policy?
For 1-Day Tours: A 40% deposit of the total payment is required if you book more than 7 days in advance. If you book with less than 7 days' notice, full payment is required.
For Multi-Day Expeditions: A 40% deposit is required if you book more than 60 days in advance. If you book with less than 60 days' notice, full payment is required.
If we cancel the activity due to "unforeseen circumstances" such as weather, mechanical difficulties, or lack of minimum participants, you will receive a 100% refund. For all cancellations requested by the client, advance payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover personal emergencies.