Mexico Sardine Run
The Experience
About This Expedition
Experience one of nature's most spectacular events in the waters of Baja California Sur. Each fall, massive schools of sardines gather in these nutrient-rich waters, attracting an incredible array of predators. Join us as we drift alongside striped marlin, sea lions, dolphins, mahi-mahi and even the occasional whale as they feast on these swirling baitballs. This is blue water action at its finest.
What’s possible?
Target Species (our primary focus during the Sardine Run—nothing is guaranteed, but these are the encounters we’re most confident in):
Sardine bait balls – the core spectacle of the migration
Striped marlin – fast, agile hunters chasing sardines
Dolphins – including bottlenose, common, and spotted species
Seabirds – frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, and gulls signaling active feeding frenzies
Sea lions – often hunting alongside marlin and dolphins
Secondary Species (wildlife we may encounter depending on timing, luck, and conditions):
Humpback, Fin, Bryde’s, pilot & false killer whales
Mahi Mahi & other pelagic predators
Mobula rays
Turtles
Sharks – including smooth hammerheads and occasional makos
Other seabirds – shearwaters, boobies, and terns
Sunfish (Mola Mola) – rare but possible in deep waters
Orcas – an infrequent but unforgettable sighting; this trip is not designed for orca encounters
What's Included
Package Details
Included
- 6 nights oceanfront accommodation
- All meals and refreshments
- 4 full days of boat time
- Expert guides in-water
- Airport transfers
- High-res trip photos, delivered in client gallery hosted by WildTide Crew
Not Included
- Flights to/from La Paz, B.C.S.
- Wetsuit rental ($50)
- Travel insurance (required)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for Captains
Target Species
Wildlife You Can Encounter
Striped Marlin
The main attraction during baitball season
Sea Lions
Playful hunters in the feeding frenzy
Dolphins
Dinner
Whales
Humpback, brydes whales,
Day by Day
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival
Arrive at La Paz airport where you'll be met and transferred to our oceanfront lodge in Magdalena Bay. Evening welcome dinner and trip briefing with your guides.
Day 2 - First Encounters
Early morning departure to search for baitball activity. Full day on the water with multiple opportunities to slip in alongside feeding predators.
Day 3 - Peak Action
Another full day targeting the best conditions. Expect marlin, sea lions, and dolphins in coordinated feeding frenzies. We end the day with a visit to the sea lion colony and searching the coast for mobulas ray.
Day 4 - Deep Blue
We head further offshore searching for pelagic encounters. False killers whales, orcas, blue whales, and other charismatic species are known to inhabit these waters. We'll end the day by exploring the epic mangroves and sand dunes of Isla Magdalena.
Final day on the water!
Your Vessel
On the Water
We use custom-designed panga boats made for open-ocean encounters. These are not retrofitted fishing boats but large comfortable vessels crafted to maximize your experience and comfort on every ocean safari.
Available Dates
Choose Your Dates
Nov 5, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
AvailableGallery
Moments From the Field
Support
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm already freediving certified?
if you are already a certified freediver, you won’t be repeating a beginner course unless you want to.
If you’re already certified, we build on your current level with more advanced coaching, technique refinement, and deeper or more efficient diving. You’ll still participate in guided training sessions, but they’re tailored to where you are.
The focus shifts toward progression and refinement, comfort in open water, and applying your skills during real wildlife encounters.
There is always a progress to be made that will open doors for your.
What exactly is a freediving retreat?
A freediving retreat is a tailored experience that combines freediving training, ocean exploration, and a travel-style group trip.
It typically includes guided instruction (like breathwork, equalization, and depth training), in-water sessions with safety support, and time spent exploring marine environments.
Our freediving retreats blend skill development with adventure so you’re not just learning to dive deeper, you’re applying those skills in real ocean settings.
Our freediving retreats also include accommodation, meals, and a curated itinerary, creating a focused environment where you can improve your diving while being immersed in the ocean for several days.
What other marine life might I see during the mobula migration?
In addition to mobula rays, you may encounter a wide range of marine life depending on conditions. Common sightings include dolphins, sea lions, whales, sharks.
The sea of cortez is incredibly dynamic, so each day on the water can bring something different.
Am I going to see only mobula rays? What other types of rays are possible to see?
The Sea of Cortez is magic. While the munk's munkiana mobulas are the main highlight during the migration, it's absolutely possible to see other species of rays, such as mobula mobular, oceanic manta rays, spinetail devil rays, and cownose rays, depending on conditions.
Can I freedive with mobulas during the mobula migration?
This is very situation dependent. Mobula rays are creatures that are easily startled.... even a passing turtle can make them scatter! We want to make sure they dont use too much energy.
It’s very common for mobulas to swim to deeper water and disappear if they feel threatened. our expert guide will always assess their behavior before allowing any freediving.
if the mobulas appear comfortable and the guide determines it’s appropriate, you’ll be briefed on the correct practices before entering the water. if those guidelines aren’t followed and the mobulas show signs of stress, we’ll stop freediving and continue with snorkeling only.
How long do mobula ray ocean expeditions last?
Our ocean expeditions / sea safari days last 6–8 hours on the water. we use comfortable, well-equipped boats and provide snacks and water so you stay energized throughout the day.
Can I swim with mobula rays?
Absolutely! When conditions allow.
We often have the opportunity to enter the water with mobula rays during their migration. Encounters are done in small, controlled groups with a strong focus on safety and minimizing disturbance to the animals.
That said, it’s not guaranteed every day. Mobula behavior, weather, and ocean conditions all determine whether in-water interactions are appropriate. When it is possible, we prioritize calm, respectful entries so you can experience them on their terms.
What wildlife sighting are guaratneed?
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Mobula rays are highly likely during peak season, but conditions, migration patterns, and ocean variability always play a role. Every trip is planned to maximize opportunities, but no specific species or behavior can be promised. This same principle applies to other charismatic species such as orcas or manta rays.
When is the best time to experience the mobula migration?
The best time to experience the Mobula Migration in Baja is from late April to early July, with peak numbers from mid-May to early June. During this period, mobulas are often seen leaping in large groups. Water visibility tends to improve starting in June. June is when oceanic mantas start to arrive in La Ventan
What experience level is required?
This trip is suited for people comfortable swimming in open ocean. You do NOT have to be a freediver to join as we will give you the skills to improve your water confidence and ability to enjoy the oceans.
What if conditions aren't ideal?
Our experienced guides will adapt plans to give you the best possible encounters based on conditions.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation and emergency evacuation is required.