Mexico

Mexico: The Great Gray Whale Migration and Baja’s Natural Wonders

Program No. 12315RJ
Witness the gray whale migration, one of nature’s most phenomenal events, and see these gentle giants up-close in the heart of their breeding grounds.

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Protecting the Environment

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At a Glance

Observe one of the most miraculous natural phenomena on the planet: the 5,000-mile winter migration of gray whales to the Baja Peninsula to mate and deliver their calves. Journey from San Diego into Mexico to trace the migration and lifecycle of the gray whale.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking short distances on varied terrain. Boarding small fishing boats from pier and beach, possibly wading into water knee high. Driving time on bus from 1.5 - 6 hours daily, half hour on a graded road. Elevations up to 3,500 feet (900 m.). For border crossings: must carry all belongings across the border including luggage and carry-ons and walk up to 300 feet (90 m) on a smooth sidewalk. Possibility of standing in line. Bathroom facilities on-route range from modern to rustic.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Get within an arm’s length of a pod of gray whales aboard a 12-person fishing boat.
  • Visit the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to learn about whales with marine biologists.
  • Examine the bizarre boojum tree, towering cardon cactus and contorted elephant tree in Baja deserts.

General Notes

Road Scholar cannot offer air for this program. Participants have to arrange their own flights as well as transportation to the first hotel in San Diego. The program ends at the Courtyard Marriott with a drop-off at the San Diego Airport on the way.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Veronica (Luka) Rangel
Born in Mexico City, Veronica Luka Rangel adopted Ensenada as her home in 1994 when she settled there to study Oceanography at the State University. Her passion to protect the environment inspired her to continue in university studies as an environmental education teacher. Her enthusiasm has helped fuel the development of remote villages in Baja California, organizing cultural and environmental events, as well as participating in summer programs with the Kumeyaay and Paipai native communities.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Veronica (Luka) Rangel
Veronica (Luka) Rangel View biography
Born in Mexico City, Veronica Luka Rangel adopted Ensenada as her home in 1994 when she settled there to study Oceanography at the State University. Her passion to protect the environment inspired her to continue in university studies as an environmental education teacher. Her enthusiasm has helped fuel the development of remote villages in Baja California, organizing cultural and environmental events, as well as participating in summer programs with the Kumeyaay and Paipai native communities.
Profile Image of Cristina Vannucci
Cristina Vannucci View biography
Cristina Vannucci was born and raised in Italy. After graduating from college she worked in England and the United States, then spent several years traveling and working between Italy and France. Cristina arrived in Mexico by chance in 1992 and made it her home working as a group leader ever since. For over 20 years, her love for this country has taken her to hidden places, allowing her to meet different people and to learn about the vast array of culture and nature within.
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