The Great Gray Whales of Baja

Encounter friendly gray whales up close in Baja, Mexico’s San Ignacio Lagoon from Nat Hab’s exclusive eco-camp nestled on the shoreline.

How is climate change reshaping life on Earth, and how are species responding? In Part 1 of her polar series, Expedition Leader Maru Marcias explores the relationship between climate and biodiversity, using examples from both polar and temperate ecosystems. From gray whales and monarch butterflies to macroalgae and krill, she shares what we’re learning from species that are adapting to a warming world—and those that aren't. Discover why polar regions are especially vulnerable to climate change and how they offer insights into its global effects.

In times of ecological uncertainty, the gray whale offers a remarkable lesson in resilience and connection. Mexico Expedition Leader Maru Marcias offers an eye-opening look at the gray whales of San Ignacio Lagoon, which we meet on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure. Learn about their annual migration (the longest of any mammal), recent population declines, and how ecotourism plays a vital role in their conservation. This experience goes beyond whale watching—it’s an invitation to reflect on our relationship with nature and the future of travel.

Discover the fascinating history of Baja's gray whales, which we meet each winter on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure as they migrate from Alaska to Mexico's warm Pacific waters. Expedition Leader Maru Marcias talks about how many species were hunted nearly to extinction during the whale-hunting era and reveals why gray whales are the only species that have recovered to their pre-whaling numbers. Find out why this friendly mammal was once called "devil fish," how they've come to trust humans in recent decades, and why ecotourism is vital to their continued survival.