San Ignacio: A Sanctuary Protected by Its People
2025-02-17
Not all whale-watching destinations are created equal. Around the world, I’ve seen places where boats crowd around whales, engines roaring, each one eager for a closer look. But here, in San Ignacio Lagoon, things are different. The people who call this place home—the captains, the guides, the families—have chosen a different path. One that puts the whales first.
Beyond Mexico’s federal regulations, the local community has set its own standards to ensure that whale watching remains sustainable and respectful. No more than 16 local pangas are allowed on the water at any time. Each tour lasts 90 minutes, with mandatory breaks between double sessions to give both whales and guides time to rest. The lagoon follows a strict schedule—boats leave at 8 a.m. and return by 5 p.m., ensuring that whales have the evening and night undisturbed. A local sheriff watches over these rules, a quiet but firm reminder that in San Ignacio, conservation isn’t just a policy—it’s a commitment.
What makes this place even more special is the willingness to pass down this knowledge. New captains and guides are learning the way things are done here, understanding that true whale watching isn’t about chasing encounters but about patience and respect. The lagoon is not just a sanctuary for whales—it’s a school for those who wish to protect them. San Ignacio stands as a shining example that when a community works together to safeguard its natural treasures, there is hope—not just for the whales, but for the future of responsible ecotourism.
– Scarlett, Naturalist/Guide
