San Ignacio Lagoon

We started our day earlier than usual, and it was possible to feel the anticipation running high among us. After a light breakfast shortly before sunrise we boarded our land vehicles and traveled down the legendary Mexico’s Highway No. 1 toward the no less legendary San Ignacio lagoon.

After having passed next to the impressive Tres Virgenes volcanoes we arrived to the town of San Ignacio, where we enjoyed the local hospitality, coffee and visited the mission founded in the 1700’s. We departed town and continued our journey across the desert plains towards the lagoon.

San Ignacio lagoon is the middle of the main three coastal lagoons of Baja California where the grey whales come to mate and give birth. It is also part of the huge El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve. Very strict regulations and an effective enforcement have made whale-watching in San Ignacio lagoon an excellent example of well-managed low-impact ecotourism.

Whales are abundant and only a small number of boats are allowed within the designated whale-watching area at the same time, and the whales seem to appreciate it. Many individuals, including mother and baby pairs, let us enjoy great views of them and many close and personal encounters of the unforgettable type.

San Ignacio lagoon and its cetacean ambassadors of good will gave us a great present. I believe that one becomes a better person after seeing such impressive creatures – they were nearly exterminated by whalers, and yet they approach us the way they do. Back on the road and bound for the National Geographic Sea Bird, we had the chance to admire once again the great variety of desert plant communities and some interesting birds, including a rare sighting of a golden eagle.

A magnificent day in Baja California!