San Ignacio Lagoon, Coastal lagoon and whale sanctuary in Baja California Sur, Mexico
San Ignacio Lagoon is a coastal bay in Baja California Sur that extends from the Pacific Ocean into the desert and contains three distinct zones. The waters combine deeper channels with shallow bays, providing whales with suitable conditions for different activities.
The lagoon was discovered by European whalers in the 19th century, leading to intensive hunting that nearly wiped out the whale populations. Today it serves as a protected refuge dedicated to the recovery of these species.
The small local community has adapted to living alongside the whales and offers visitors controlled viewing experiences conducted respectfully from a distance. This form of tourism allows residents to sustain their presence while protecting the animals.
Visitors should come between December and April when the whale migration is active and most animals are in the lagoon. Access is easiest by boat from nearby piers, and warm, water-resistant clothing is recommended.
The lagoon also hosts four species of endangered sea turtles that lay their eggs here alongside the whales. This rare combination makes it one of the most important places for multiple marine species to coexist.
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