San Ignacio Lagoon
Laguna San Ignacio
Part of the El Vizcaíno Whale Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where grey whales breed. The whales often approach boats so visitors can touch them.
The lagoon is one of the most important breeding grounds for North Pacific grey whales and is part of the El Vizcaíno Whale Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In winter, mother whales rest with their calves in the shallows. Small boats piloted by local fishermen head out for about 1.5-2 hours, and whales often approach the boats, earning them the name 'friendly grey whales'. From the town, a dirt road runs south for about 60 km (roughly 1.5-2 hours' drive). There is an eco-camp by the lake for overnight stays. Whale watching must be done with licensed boat operators, and fees are charged per trip.
Opening hours
Daytime departures during whale-watching season
Nearby sights
- Mission San Ignacio Kadakaamán
- Museo de las Pinturas Rupestres de San Ignacio
- San Ignacio Oasis
- Cueva del Ratón
- Rock Paintings of the Sierra de San Francisco
- Las Tres Vírgenes