Whale Watching Holidays

Introduction

Sighting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat is one of the most exciting things a nature lover can witness, and these beautiful mammals offer inspiration to adventurers of all ages. The range of whale species across the world are too many to mention all of them. The biggest highlights for whale watchers include Orcas (Killer Whales), Humpback, Sperm, Minke and Pilot whales, not forgetting the liveliest creature of the sea - the Dolphin. The most frequent sightings of dolphin are the Bottlenose and Common Dolphin.

We offer a variety of holidays worldwide that focus on offering fantastic whale and/or dolphin watching opportunities. As they are wild animals, whale and dolphin sightings can never be guaranteed. However, we can offer you a hand-selected holiday to provide you with the best possible experience and to maximise the number of sea giants you will witness whilst away.

Images courtesy of Canadian Tourism Commission

Overview

Where are the Whales and When?

December to January

Humpback and Sperm Whales can be seen now along the coastline of the Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica, along with Leatherback Turtles.

January to April

The whale-watching season begins in Baja, Mexico and runs until the end of April. You may see Fin, Minke, Bryde's, Orca, Pilot, and Humpback Whales, as well as Blue Whales - the largest mammal on the planet. There are few places in the world where these large mammals can be viewed so easily, and so close up.

The months of February and March are the best for sighting Minke and Orca whales in Antarctica.

April to October

The waters around the Azores islands during these months are perfect spots to catch sightings of whales and dolphins. Whales usually spotted are: Sperm, Northern Bottlenose, Pilot, Sowerby’s Beaked and occasionally Orca’s.

June to August

Humpback Whales frequent the coastline from Ecuador to the Galapagos. These months are also exception for sightings of Orcas and Humpback Whales around Princess Royal Island, Telegraph Cove and Quandra Island, off the coast of British Columbia.

Pacific Grey Whales spend their summer off of the plankton-rich shores of Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island.

In the Azores, you can search for Sperm Whales and short-finned Pilot Whales, along with several different species of Dolphin.

Eastern Canada's Bay of Fundy is home to Northern Right, Minke, Humpback and Fin Whales between August and the end of September.

In Arctic Norway, you can head out from tiny fishing villages during July and August in a search for sperm and minke whales in their natural habitat.

July to December

Southern Right Whales begin arriving at the coastline off of Argentina where they will stay until December whilst they mate and calve. Additionally, South Africa has become a popular Whale watching destination, as the Southern Right sightings are excellent here off the Atlantic coast in Hermanus between July and November. The gentle giants cruise along the coastline as they play close to the shore. It is not essential to take to the water to view them, as an official "whale cryer" will let you know when the whales arrive. The Hermanus area is a great visit for travellers to Cape Town, and those driving along the Garden Route.

 

Holidays

Whale watching holidays combine perfectly with plenty of other wildlife viewing opportunties, such as land safaris in Africa, bear viewing in the Great Bear Rainforest in Western Canada, polar bear spotting in Arctic Norway, rainforest trekking amongst monkeys and prolific birdlife in Costa Rica, and interacting with Giant Tortoises in the Galapagos Islands.

Naturally, whale watching comes hand in hand with a vast array of other activity and adventures, including diving, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, white water rafting, jungle trekking and canyoning, to name a few.

You may also like to include a city stay as part of your holiday. Whatever your wishes, please Contact Us to discuss your ideas and thoughts, and our experienced travel consultants will be delighted to advise you on the best options to suit your requirements.

Destination Information

The following information will provide you with an insight into each location where the whales of the world can be found. The destinations are referred to in the same sequence as in the "Overview" tab. 

 

Corcovado National Park and Osa Peninsular, Costa Rica

The Osa Peninsula, where the Corcovado National Park is located, is one of Costa Rica's most remote and unique areas - it is hidden in the south-west of the country and a lot less accessible than other areas, which adds to its appeal.

Visitors to this area are rewarded with beautiful beaches, winding rivers, and miles of mangroves, swamps and lush, dense rainforest.

Much of the park has been protected since 1975, and wildlife to be found includes rare tropical mammals such as margays, ocelots, tapirs, and sometimes even jaguars. Birdlife is extensive too, most easily found on early morning walks.

Asides from the vast array of wildlife, there is an abundance of pristine coral reef to explore, with schools of tropical fish as well as turtles, sharks and rays. Hiking trails leading to rivers and waterfalls are another popular attraction, along with relaxing on beautiful desert beaches and horseriding.

Accommodation in Corcovado is offered in the form of small eco-lodges and tented camps, which are inkeeping with the surrounding environment.

Image credit to Costa Rica Tourist Board 

 

Baja, Mexico

Baja California is one of the world's premier whale-watching destinations, found on the Mexican peninsula between the Pacific Ocean on the west, the Sea of Cortez on the east, and the United States of America on the north. Due to its close proximity to the US, its beautiful natural wonders, its rich local culture and its hospitable citizens, Baja California is constantly frequented by holiday makers all year round.

Located between two major bodies of water, it comes as no surprise that water activities of all sorts are available in Baja California. La Paz, Los Cabos, Loreto, Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos, and even Tijuana are known and visited because of their beautiful beaches, fresh sea breezes, swaying palm trees, clear blue waters and breathtaking sunsets. 

However, Baja California's recreational activities are not just limited to the sea and shores. Its series of coastal mountain ranges that run along the entire length of the peninsula are also great destinations for those who love hiking, mountain biking, camping, trekking, and sight-seeing. Baja California's impressive golden deserts dotted with palm trees, desert blooms, and the occasional desert oases are visited by nature lovers and campers. Golfing is another Baja activity that is popular among tourists and vacationers, and Baja California has several world-class golf courses and driving ranges.

Even in the heart of Baja's cities, recreational activities also abound. Visitors can go shopping along boutiques, malls, kiosks, shops, markets and curio stands for souvenirs, leather goods, silver jewelry, local art, native products and more. Dining out will reward food enthusiasts with local and international menus, dishes and cuisines that range from the ordinary to the exotic. At night, Baja California's nightclubs, bars, casinos, sport coliseums, and racing tracks are alive with revelers and fun-loving party-goers.

Baja Mexico has endless accommodation to delight any type of traveller - visitors can choose from romantic bed and breakfasts, affordable motels, exciting resorts, rustic villas, and everything from one-star to five-star luxury hotels.

 

Antarctica

For those who fancy swapping the sun, sea and sand for ice, thermals and glaciers, Antarctica provides a true once in a lifetime opportunity to witness this magical and surreal part of our earth.

Tourist expeditions have ventured to Antarctica every year since 1966. In recent years, these expeditions largely are conducted aboard some 40 vessels, each carrying from six to 500 passengers. The ships sail primarily to the Antarctic Peninsula region. Some itineraries also include South Georgia and the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). These voyages generally depart from Ushuaia (Argentina), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands) or to a lesser extent from Punta Arenas (Chile), Buenos Aires (Argentina) or Puerto  Madryn (Argentina).

Antarctic visits are mainly concentrated at ice-free coastal zones over the five-month period from November to March. Visits ashore are generally of short duration (+/- 3 hours), of moderate intensity (<100 people), and of variable frequency. Typically there are 1-3 landings per day. Landings are made using Zodiacs (rubber inflatable crafts) or, in the case of Russian icebreakers, also by helicopter. Other activities by visitors to Antarctica include mountain climbing, camping, kayaking and scuba diving from tourist vessels.

Before travelling to the British Antarctic Territory, and the wider continent of Antarctica, you will need a valid permit which your tour organiser may obtain from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London.

Image credit to IAATO

 

Azores

The Azores form an enchanting archipelago of nine emerald green islands set in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal (1,500km) and North America (3,900km). At one time thought to be part of the legendary lost continent of Atlantis, the islands belong to Portugal and are part of Europe.

The volcanic formation of the islands has granted them a spectacular natural beauty - glistening blue lakes, sheer blacj cliffs, lush rolling valleys, rugged mountains and hot mineral springs and geysers combine to create a truly diverse scenery. Due to their remote location, the traditional lifestyle of the Azores has remained virtually unchaged. Agriculture and fishing are the main industries here, and tourism is in its infancy.

Portuguese cuisine consists of delicious soups, excellent seafood and meats (mainly local beef, spicy sausage or pork) accommpanied by potatoes and vegetables. Desserts are mainly fruit, tasty cheese and sweet cakes.

The Azores is a nature lover’s paradise. Each of the nine islands offer a wealth of activities to suit all interests and abilities. Asides from whale and dolphin watching, there are innumerable walking trails to explore on every island - both guided and independently. Whilst the Azores is not a traditional beach destination, with most beaches made of volcanic black sand and shinggle, they provide the ideal place to relax and watch the world go by. All of the islands have natural rock pools, filled with ocean water and heated by the sun, and taking a dip is a delight. Visitors can also take a trip to the Gorreana Tea Factory on Sao Miguel and learn how tea is harvested, processed and packaged to produce the perfect cuppa.

Guests to the Azores can choose to stay at quaint quintas. traditional manor houses, rustic cottages, independent Bed and Breakfasts and modern hotels - there is something for everyone.

Image credit to DestinAzores 

 

Ecuador and the Galapagos

Ecuador, as its name implies, straddles the equator. It is a land of startling contrasts and, when combined with the unique islands of the Galapagos, offers the wildlife enthusiast perhaps the ultimate holiday with a simply staggering number of species, many of which are endemic. These range from the high Andes and desertlike mountain plateaus to the lush green jungles of the Amazon Basin; and from the rocky marine paradise of the Galapagos Archipelago to the steamy mangrove swamps of the southern coast.

Quito, the capital city of Ecuador and one of South America's most spectacular and best preserved colonial centers is a "must-do" for all visitors, boasting a huge collection of churches, monastries and convents.  For adrenaline junkees, the trekking in Ecuador is world-class. Other activities include horseback riding, scuba diving and climbing.

Within a day's drive from Quito is Ecuador's share in the Amazon Rainforest, one of the richest places in the world for species diversity.

The Devil's Nose Train is one of the world's most famous train rides, which zig-zags down volcanic mountains passing through small indigenous villages on the way. Also to be seen on the way down the mountain are the lakes of the Andean Sierras.

No trip to Ecurado would be complete without a visit to the World Heritage site of the Galapagos Islands, which are made up of 13 major volcanic islands (and over 40 smaller ones). Found 500 miles off the west coast of Ecuador, these wonderful islands are located exactly on the equator and are home to a collection of the rarest and most spectacular wildlife in the world. For water lovers, sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving are all available here.

Accommodation options across Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands include Bed and Breakfasts, inns, resorts, haciendas and eco-lodges and hotels of all grades.

 

British Columbia and Vancouver Island

Set between the province of Alberta and the Pacific Ocean, British Columbia is a land renowned for its remarkable diversity and mild climate, giving rise to an endless array of places to see and things to do across the province. Mountains to marvel at and climb; history to discover; art to adore; endless beaches to comb; sensual spas to luxuriate in; cosmopolitan cities to explore; moss-carpeted rainforests to hike through; tantalising gastronomic delights to indulge in; animals to observe; warm-water lakes to play in; rivers to ride; snow to ski; and so much more.

The Vancouver Island region is a large area encompassing Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and a portion of the mainland. Home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, including rainforest, marshland, meadows, beaches, mountains, oceans, rivers and lakes, this is a premier location for whale watching, bear spotting, bird watching and salmon and trout fishing.

Visitors to British Columbia are spoilt for choice for things to do and see across the province.  Vancouver is the largest city, and was recently named the Most Liveable City in the world. Here is one of the only places in the world where it is possible to ski, snowboard, hike and golf in the same day.  The city also hosted the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Highlights of the city include Stanley Park - the place to go for an afternoon walk, cycle or rollerblade; Granville Island which is famous for its year-round indoor farmer's market, boutique micro-brewery, street buskers, artisan studios and live theatre; The Grouse Grind™, which is a famous trek up the face of Grouse Mountain, a 25-minute drive from downtown, and Calipano Suspension Bridge - it is shaky, but well worth the walk across the swaying suspension bridge, located in the middle of lush rainforest,  for thrilling canyon views 70 metres below.

The accommodation possibilities are endless in British Columbia - hotels, motels, inns, resorts and lodges, B+B's, luxury vacation homes and condos, cottages, cabins, chalets, ski lodges, and guest farms and ranches.

Image credit to Tourism BC/Tom Ryan 

 

Argentina

This vast South American country, second in size only to Brazil, offers visitors some of the greatest wildlife and natural history sights to be found in the region. For many people the main draw will be towards the south of the country and to the windswept plains of Patagonia. The mighty Andes form a perfect backdrop to the deep blue glacier-fed lakes, whilst in the foreground there are Guanacos, Huemuel and Mara roaming the grasslands. Travel north-west and you reach the highest point in South America, the peak of Aconcagua, the region around here is one of enormous cacti, dusty towns and occasional condors. To the north-east are the mighty Iguazu Falls, to the west there is a wonderful Lake District and finally to the east is Peninsula Valdez which is home to a myriad of marine life including Magellanic Penguins and Southern Right Whales.

South America's greatest spectacle, Iguazu Falls, is a must see sight on any visit to Argentina. The falls themselves sit on the Iguazu River and rest on the border between Brazil and Argentina, stretch for more than one and a half miles, and are made up of 270 separate waterfalls. The most famous of them all is known as The Devil's Throat, which reaches 230 feet in height - one and a half times that of Niagara Falls.

Other top attractions include Buenos Aires - a vibrant city reknowned for its tango, soccer, food, fashion and fanastically frenzied nightlife; Glaciar Perito Moreno, one of earth's most dynamic and accessible ice fields; Mendoza which is a bustling city of wide, leafy avenues, atmospheric plazas and cosmopolitan cafes, and is also the place to be if you fancy a tour of the vineyards.

The accommodation options in Argentina comprise of hotels, apartments, campsites and B+B's. Along the Atlantic Coast, a range of holiday villas can also be found. 

 

Hermanus, Cape Town

Famous for its champagne air, long stretches of beach, mild climate, rich floral kingdom and friendly environment, Hermanus is within easy reach of Cape Town International Airport. With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder that Hermanus has grown in size and popularity during the last decade. 

Visitors from near and far flock to the town to enjoy its many charms while local residents and homeowners savour the privilege of living in this unique region.

Hermanus has the status of being the best land-based whale watching destination in the world. Southern right whales visit Walker Bay from June through to December and can be viewed from aboard a boat, an airplane or the shore. Hermanus is home to the world’s only Whale Crier who blows his kelp horn when whales are spotted along the central sea route.

Shark cage diving provides an adrenaline fix for adventure lovers and kayaking trips on the sea or lagoon can be booked. Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers a range of spectacular walks among the fynbos. Whether you choose to spend a day on one of the spectacular beaches or playing a round of golf, Hermanus has something for everyone. Many of the shops and amenities are also wheelchair friendly.

Hermanus may no longer be a village, but the character and atmosphere of this vibrant town offers a lifestyle few places can match.

B+B's, guest houses, hotels and self catering apartments are amongst the range of accommodations available to visitors to Hermanus.

Image credits to Hermanus.co.za 

Testimonials

Rachel and I had a great time thank you; you’ll be pleased to hear that everything worked perfectly.  The hotels were lovely (I particularly enjoyed the spa one where I had a massage after the kayaking!).  The ones in Vancouver and Victoria were particularly well located for everything we wanted to do.  The seaplane was a little bit on the hairy side, but fortunately, they allowed us to take all of our luggage on the flight, rather than it arriving later. 

We saw so much wildlife on our kayaking trip, just not any orcas until the last hour we had at the campsite and they were a bit far away.  That said, we heard them on the hydrophone (which was just spine tingling!) that was set up on camp and we decided to go on a boat trip off Victoria when we saw some very close up!  The cities of Victoria and Vancouver are fantastic and I would recommend anyone to visit them.

Thanks so much for your help in arranging this holiday, we had a great time.

Kind regards

Sarah