Updated on April 6, 2018

Every year grey whales carry out the longest migration ever know in the animal world. From the cold waters of the Bering Strait, these cetaceans travel more than 11,000 kms (6,835 miles) to the warm waters of the Baja Penninsula in Mexico to give birth. There are 3 places where the whales concentrate, La Laguna Ojo de Liebre is the one that receives the greatest number, about 2,000 whales each year.

There are two ways to see these marine giants. First is by booking a tour in Guerrero Negro (the closest town to the laguna) or you can drive to the Laguna and book your tour there with the locals. We prefer the second option because you support the local business and community while saving a few bucks.

One of the peculiarities of the Grey Whales is they have the ability to feel affection. Therefore, it’s very common for the whales to come close to the boats looking to be touched.

 

WHAT WE LIKED THE MOST

  • The whales! Interacting with these gentle giants is an incredible experience. They come so close that you can even touch them. If you are lucky they will turn their heads to look at you. Just amazing.
  • The lancheros (the people that drive the boats and give the tour). Great people, all of them.

 

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE THAT MUCH

  • Nothing! It was hard to say goodbye.

 

The tours take between 1.5 and 2 hours.

The whale season goes from late December to early April.

Having your own wheels is the best way to get to the Laguna.

Go early in the morning, when the water is calmer and it´s more pleasant to see the whales.

 

 

VIDEO: OUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE GREY WHALES

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

Interacting with Grey Whales in the way you can at Laguna Ojo de Liebre is a one in a lifetime experience. We even think it can be the main reason to visit the Baja Peninsula.

Although you can see Grey Whales at other places in Baja, the Laguna Ojo de Liebre is the cheapest of all of them and you will get the welcoming of the Mexican lancheros. No big tour operators here. Only local Mexicans from the Ejido Benito Juarez (a community cooperative), where the Laguna is located.