Baja California Sur — where the desert meets the sea
From whales in winter to mobulas in spring, Baja California Sur, Mexico, is a perfect destination for ocean lovers.
Flying into Baja California Sur (BCS) is a surreal experience as a Brit — the vast alien desert landscape right on the oceanfront. The Sea of Cortez is one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the world, but unfortunately, many places lack official government protection, and illegal fishing remains rampant. We actually witnessed fishermen from outside the region coming to fish, taking everything along its path: the corals and the fish.
Most of Mexico’s marine conservation efforts rely on community-led patrols. Besides over-fishing, sport fishing, popular among some travellers, causes significant damage to the marine ecosystem, as many such activities target vulnerable and protected species, including Marlin.
Our time in Mexico was limited, so we only visited two places in BCS: Los Cabos and La Paz. Cabo San Lucas is a highly gentrified city. Property speculations have not only significantly driven up living prices and housing costs, but have also led to severe water shortages. It is ironic that in a desert climate, where many locals have limited water access, golf courses and swimming pools are built for tourists.
The whales in La Paz start migrating north to Canadian waters in late April and early May, whilst the Mobula Rays arrive in their thousands. We were lucky to see orcas and mobulas leaping in the distance during our marine safari. Thanks to the presence of many international environmental organisations, La Paz has not been overdeveloped.
La Paz is also a diving paradise, offering a variety of diving options, from tropical corals to sea lions and wreck dives. Most dives are relatively shallow, not exceeding 20 meters. These warm waters are home to blue whales, gray whales, humpbacks, and whale sharks, making it an excellent place for whale watching in winter. Diving in May can still be a bit chilly, and a 7mm wetsuit is recommended.
Kodama Travel works with local ecotour providers, offering watersport activities such as kayaking and surfing in Los Cabos, hiking in Cabo Pulmo, and whale watching in La Paz. We have a wide range of eco-travel experiences beyond BCS, so do check them out if Mexico is your next travel destination!