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Mexico Safaris

Mexico is of course renowned for its incredible food, vibrant festivals and ancient temples. We want to take you beyond the powdery beaches of the Baja Peninsula and into the Sea of Cortez, dubbed the ‘Aquarium of the World’ by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. Not only the feeding and breeding ground for blue, humpback, grey, sperm, pilot and bryde’s whales but also super-pods of dolphins, orcas, leaping mobula rays and colonies of sea lions.

Mexico also provides the chance to see one of the planet’s most extraordinary migrations as millions of Monarch butterflies traverse the continent, to reach the biosphere reserve in Michoacán. The greenery of the trees fades into the background as orange and black wings fill forest and sky.

The Mexico Safari Experience

Set sail on a liveaboard yacht where you’ll take a small rib boat out to for whale watching.
Snorkel amongst whale sharks, mobula rays and acrobatic seal lions in the Sea of Cortez.
Stroll the forest floors of the UNESCO World Heritage biospheres to witness the millions of Monarch butterflies as they winter in Central Mexico.
Take a small panga onto San Ignacio Lagoon for a chance to observe the grey whales as rear their calves until they are strong enough to swim the open ocean.

Why NWS for your Mexico safari?

As a leading specialist operation, we have a wealth of experience planning wildlife expeditions. We work closely with Marine Biologists in-country to ensure incredible wildlife encounters that maintain the highest respect for wildlife and their natural environment. Our liveaboard trips are supported by spotter planes to provide you with the best possible chance for incredible sightings.

Talk to a Mexico Destination Specialist

How Much Does Mexico Cost?

Mexico offers excellent value for wildlife experiences. You can expect more rustic accommodation in this destination, but with warm hospitality and crews who are dedicated to providing you with incredible encounters. Mexico trips start from $3,095/£2,535 per person sharing

When to Go to Mexico?

The best time to visit Mexico for wildlife is Mid-January to April, this is breeding and calving season for three of the most iconic whale species that are found in these waters the blue, grey and humpback whales. In addition to these you can find ten species of whales off the Mexican coast including fins, sperm, minke, bryde’s and pilot whales. The Monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico for winter from December to March. In addition, April to July is the peak season for the large aggregations of mobula rays with higher chances of seeing the orcas hunting.

Where to stay in Mexico?

Both San Ignacio Luxury Camp and the Gallant Lady Liveaboard offer the prime position for optimal whale watching. In addition, we have specially curated a portfolio of properties in key locations throughout Mexico so please speak to your Destination Specialist about extending your adventure, perhaps some downtime in a luxury beach resort, or maybe even explore the metropolitan Mexico City.

Mexico Safaris FAQs

What language do they speak in Mexico?

The principal language spoken in Mexico is Spanish. Around 10% of the population speaks English so outside of the tourist areas a little Spanish will go a long way! In tourist areas, resorts and camps the staff will usually be able to speak fundamental English.

How safe is Mexico?

Mexico is generally safe for tourism with the Mexican government having made efforts to protect the major tourist areas. However, it is important to exercise caution and be mindful of local conditions and protect your belongings, especially after dark. It is advised to use the regulated ‘Sitio’ taxis and avoid public demonstrations.

How do I get around Mexico?

Los Cabos Airport’s official taxi company is Transportistas Josefinos, we recommend using just the official taxi company. You can walk around central Cabo during the day, we recommend being vigilant of your belongings, as pickpockets do operate. In Mexico City just use the regulated ‘Sitio’ cabs here.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

As a rule, you should not drink tap water in Mexico. Mexico's water is purified at the source in some locations, but the distribution system may allow the water to be contaminated en route to the tap, so we recommend sticking to bottled water.

Is Mexico good for families?

Please note our set departures have a minimum age of 15 years. Please enquire with your Destination Specialist for family options for those travelling with younger children.

What wildlife can I see in Mexico?

Mexico is a premier whale-watching destination with the nutrient-rich seas off the Baja Peninsula attracting an impressive ten species of whales. Blue, grey and humpbacks come to these waters seasonally for breeding and calving. You can also see whale sharks, silky sharks, sea lions, sea turtles, mobula rays and mega pods of dolphins. It’s home to 900 species of fish, including 77 endemic species. Another key wildlife spectacle is the dazzling migration of the Monarch butterfly that takes place each Autumn, after travelling an epic 2,500 miles from North America.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Citizens from countries like China, India, Russia, and South Africa typically require a visa to travel to Mexico, while citizens from countries like the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, and most European Union nations do not need a visa to enter Mexico for tourism purposes. However, it is your responsibility to check the government websites ahead of travel in case of any changes. Obtaining the correct visas is your responsibility.