Our Philosophy
At Baja Ecotours, our key philosophies have driven us from the beginning:
- Hire and Train Locals:
We believe in empowering the local residents of the remote areas where we operate. They are our most precious resource. - Harness Alternative Energy:
Utilizing renewable energy from the sun and wind helps us minimize our environmental impact. - Utilize Local Building Materials:
We support the regional economy and reduce our footprint by using locally-sourced materials. - Minimal Impact:
We strive to keep our environmental impact to a minimum through eco-friendly practices. - Demonstrate Eco-Tourism:
We show eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative to commercial fishing, offering experiences that respect and protect the environment. - Sustainable Food Sourcing:
Our food is sourced from local ranches, farms, and the local oyster farm. We recycle all food scraps for the pigs at a local farm and compost everything else.
We see ourselves as ambassadors of eco-tourism, dedicated to educating and equipping local men and women with the necessary tools to thrive. Our staff teach us what it takes to live in complete remoteness, in harmony with nature.
Combining these efforts is key to the long-term sustainability of eco-tourism at San Ignacio Lagoon, ultimately aiding in the protection of the Gray Whales that visit these lagoons.
Our trips provide a fun and educational atmosphere. You'll experience unique, up-close encounters with marine wildlife while learning about these incredible beings and their ecosystem. Activities include tide pool exploration, whale census recording, plankton netting, and daily weather data collection. You’ll leave Baja with a deeper understanding and appreciation of its marine diversity and the people who call it home.
Above all, our trips focus on offering you the experience of a lifetime in the company of whales.
Our Location and Wildlife
Our year round Ecolodge is located at the heart of the Vizcaino Reserve on the shores of San Ignacio Lagoon. Given protection as a wildlife refuge in 1988 it’s the largest and one of the most diverse protected areas in all of Latin America. Most notable of the protected animals are the Pacific Gray Whales, which migrate annually to mate and give birth in these shallow water lagoons. Our Ecolodge and solar powered cabins offer our guests spectacular access and views of the lagoon at a very remote and private location away from the daily traffic and day tour activity closer to the main entrance to the lagoon. Guests also have access to a large mangrove estuary that is a short paddle by kayak where nesting and migrating birds by the thousands take refuge.
What Makes Us Different
Maldo and Catalina with their sons Paco and Roberto, and granddaughters
At Baja Ecotours, being locally owned and operated is central to our success. Our staff are primarily locals who have grown up and spent their lives here, many transitioning from commercial fishing to eco-tourism. This deep connection to the area and its traditions makes our crew the cornerstone of our success. For them, this isn't just a job; it's a lifestyle that sustains them throughout the year from our three-month season.
Here are the key features that set us apart:
- Local Ownership and Operation:
Our deep roots in the community ensure a genuine and authentic experience, driven by staff who are passionate about their home. - Prime Location:
Our well-placed, remote setting offers privacy and a unique view of San Ignacio Lagoon and the whales. You can enjoy birdwatching in our private mangrove estuary and tide pool excursions right from your cabin. - Comfortable Accommodations:
At Campo Cortez, we believe that comfort should never come at the expense of the environment. So we designed our cabins to be simple yet cozy, equipped with beds, electric outlets, and protection from the wind and elements. You’ll have all you need to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. - Sustainable Energy:
Our modern wind turbine and solar system provide electricity for refrigeration and basic charging needs in each cabin, ensuring a comfortable stay while minimizing our environmental impact. - Personalized Attention:
As our guest, you’ll benefit from the personalized attention of our friendly and knowledgeable staff. We pride ourselves on offering an unhurried and uncrowded atmosphere, whether you’re on the water or on land.
Experience the unique blend of tradition and modern eco-tourism with us at San Ignacio Lagoon and see why our approach makes all the difference.
Thank You for Your Visit and Support
By participating in our eco-adventures and whale watching trips, you are directly contributing to the development of eco-tourism-based economies at San Ignacio Lagoon and other areas where we operate. This support creates a positive ripple effect, bringing jobs to locals at our camp and benefiting businesses like fishing and local ranching that supply much of our food.
We are also dedicated to supporting our community at San Ignacio Lagoon. We provide donations to the local school, offering both financial assistance and much-needed school supplies. Additionally, we extend our support to outlying schools in nearby towns by inviting children to our camp to experience whale watching for the first time. Each season, we welcome up to 300 children to the lagoon, helping them connect with their natural environment and inspiring the next generation to value and protect these precious resources.
We sincerely thank you for considering travelling with us in Baja. We look forward to welcoming you as our guest on one of our eco-adventures.
