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THE 10 BEST Dolphin & Whale Watching in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

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Insider's Guide: Galapagos Whale Watching Tips for Success

Ever felt the rush of standing on a ship's deck, salt air in your hair, eyes scanning the endless ocean for that breathtaking sight? That thrill is what a Galapagos whale watching tour offers. But like any wild encounter, it's unpredictable.

The deep blue might remain just that - an empty canvas with no stroke of marine majesty to grace it. Or you could be lucky enough to witness a humpback breaching into sunlight or catch a pod of dolphins riding your wake.

'What makes this game of chance worth playing?'  you ask. Well friends, stick around and I'll let you in on how choosing the right season can skyrocket your odds. We'll dive into why picking an itinerary known for its whale activity is crucial and why Darwin and Wolf Islands are 'whale hotspots'.

Get ready, because we're gearing up for an exciting journey. Buckle in and prepare yourself to explore the unknown with us. Learn to pick the best Galapagos tour for whale watching.

The Vagaries Of Nature And Migration Patterns

Different species show up at different times, whale spotting is not an exact science, the importance of whale season in galapagos, choosing a cruise itinerary for optimal whale sightings, the yacht captain and naturalist guide's role in spotting whales, viewing whales from the deck or via dinghy ride, the channel between isabela and fernandina islands, punta vicente roca: northern coast of isabela island, darwin and wolf islands, nutrient-rich waters attracting diverse marine life, mind-blowing marine diversity, the 'oh wow' moments on land too., the specialist scuba experience: dive into a world less explored, diving deep into whale territory, what is the etiquette for whale watching, what are the odds of seeing a whale on a whale watch, how do you prepare for whale watching, what time of day is best to go whale watching, unpredictability of galapagos whale watching.

The allure of whale watching in the Galapagos Islands is intensified by its unpredictability . The Galapagos Islands , located a thousand kilometers off Ecuador's coast , offer an unparalleled opportunity to witness nature's grandeur.

A mix of anticipation and patience defines this experience. While you're on board your Galapagos yacht cruise or standing at an observation point, every splash might signal the presence of these majestic creatures. But why is it so unpredictable?

To begin with, whales are not residents but visitors to Galapagos waters; they migrate thousands of miles annually between their feeding grounds in cold waters and breeding grounds in warmer climes.

This grand journey means that timing is everything when it comes to catching sight of them. Typically speaking, July through November , coinciding with the cool season (also known as Garua), sees a surge in sightings due to nutrient-rich currents attracting marine life .

In addition to seasonal variability, different species show up at different times. For instance, the Blue Whales, Earth's largest animal, tend towards early summer arrivals while Humpbacks usually grace us later around August-September.

No matter what time you choose though there's no guarantee – such is their free-spirited lifestyle. One day may be full spectacle; breaching bodies and tail slaps, the next might be a no-show.

Moreover, spotting whales is not an exact science. Despite advancements in technology and our understanding of these marine mammals' behavior, their sightings can't be accurately predicted.

Sometimes they stay underwater for up to 90 minutes; other times they come up every few minutes. It's all part of what makes whale watching such an exciting adventure – you never know exactly when or where they will surface.

Key Takeaway: 

Galapagos Whale Watching: A Blend of Anticipation and Unpredictability

Despite our best efforts, we can't always predict when these majestic creatures will show up. But that's what makes the experience so exciting. Each whale watching trip in Galapagos is a unique adventure filled with anticipation and surprise.

Maximizing Your Chances for a Successful Whale Watch

For a successful whale watch in the Galapagos, it's wise to plan ahead. You need to plan strategically.

Planning your trip to the Galapagos should start with scheduling it for the right time of year. Just like migratory birds , whales have their own patterns too. Most whale species in the Galapagos Marine Reserve , including humpbacks and orcas, migrate through its waters from June to September - a period often referred to as 'whale season' - offering increased chances of sighting them.

This period is often referred to as 'whale season'. It's when the majority of these magnificent creatures migrate through the archipelago's waters, giving us humans more opportunities for sightings. So make sure you mark your calendars.

You could be visiting during peak whale season but still miss out if you're not cruising around their hotspots. That’s why picking an expedition cruise itinerary that takes you along routes known for whale activity can give your chances a significant boost.

An ideal choice would be an itinerary that includes Fernandina Island - one of National Geographic’s top-rated areas for seeing marine life such as dolphins, sea lions ...and yes – WHALES. The Bolivar channel between Isabela and Fernandina Islands specifically has earned quite a reputation among seasoned sailors due its high frequency of encounters with these majestic creatures.

But that's not all. To increase your chances even more, consider a cruise itinerary that also visits the far-flung Darwin and Wolf Islands . These distant isles are found in the north-western region of Galapagos Archipelago and boast nutrient-rich waters that draw a multitude of aquatic creatures - including whales.

The Role of a Galapagos Yacht Cruise in Whale Watching

Choosing to embark on your adventure via a yacht cruise isn't just about style (though it doesn’t hurt.). There's practicality involved too.

With every step you take, your odds of spotting something truly amazing are improving. So keep going and enjoy the journey.

Spotting whales in the Galapagos takes more than just a boat ride; it requires strategic planning. Time your visit for 'whale season' between June and September, when sightings are most frequent. Boost your chances by choosing an itinerary that includes known whale hotspots like Fernandina Island, Isabela's channel, Darwin and Wolf Islands. Make sure to consider taking a well-planned trip with experienced guides who know these areas inside out.

A Galapagos yacht cruise plays an integral part in the whale watching experience. The vast expanse of open ocean is made accessible by these sturdy vessels, letting you get closer to the action than ever before.

Every great adventure needs its leaders, and on a Galapagos yacht cruise , it’s the captain and naturalist guide who fill this role perfectly. Their combined expertise can significantly enhance your chances of spotting whales during your voyage.

Captains are seasoned mariners with intimate knowledge of local waters. They know where whales like to gather or pass through based on years at sea observing their patterns. It's not uncommon for them to alter course slightly if they spot signs of nearby whale activity—making sure passengers don't miss out on any surprise encounters.

Naturalist guides complement captains' navigational skills with extensive understanding about marine life behavior—a critical factor when looking for elusive creatures like whales ( Stat 5: A knowledgeable guide increases sighting chances by up to 60%). These experts constantly scan horizon lines and wave patterns, interpreting subtle clues that might suggest whale presence nearby.

Your viewing platform matters when you're trying to spot something as grand as a humpback breaching water surface. There are two main ways you can observe these majestic creatures during a Galapagos yacht cruise : from the deck or onboard dinghy rides ( Stat 6: Deck viewings account for 70% of sightings, while dinghy rides make up the remaining 30%).

The deck offers a panoramic view and ample space to relax. Plus, there's nothing quite like sipping on your morning coffee as you watch a pod of dolphins playfully race alongside the yacht or witnessing a blue whale gracefully arch its back before diving deep into azure waters.

For those of you who crave a bit more adventure, dinghy rides are the real deal. These compact boats give you up-close-and-personal encounters with marine life. Just imagine, being only a few feet away from some of the ocean's most captivating creatures.

Jumping on a Galapagos yacht cruise is your golden ticket to see whales in their natural environment. The captain's local sea knowledge, paired with the guide's understanding of marine life behavior, boosts your chances of spotting these awe-inspiring creatures. And guess what? You can choose how you want to experience it all – lounging and watching from the deck or getting up close and personal during exciting dinghy rides.

Best Regions for Whale Activity in Galapagos Marine Reserve

The Galapagos marine reserve is a whale watcher's paradise, offering ample opportunities to observe these majestic creatures. With the vast ocean as their playground, it can sometimes be tricky pinpointing exactly where you're likely to spot them.

Yet, there are certain regions within this diverse archipelago that serve as hotspots for whale activity. Let's explore some of these areas and why they've become such magnets for our finned friends.

Situated between two of the largest islands in the Galapagos, Isabela and Fernandina, lies a channel bustling with marine life. The nutrient-rich waters here make it an attractive feeding ground not just for whales but also other sea animals like dolphins and sharks .

Bolivar Channel has earned its reputation among travelers as one of the best places to see whales on any given day during your voyage through the enchanting world of Galapagos.

If lady luck is by your side while sailing across this narrow strait aboard a luxury yacht cruise from Voyagers Travel Company , you might get to witness humpback whales breaching or killer whales surfacing before your very eyes.

Moving along towards Punta Vicente Roca located on Isabela island’s northern coast – another area that’s often frequented by whales. This region is known for its colder waters due to the Cromwell Current , which brings an upwelling of nutrient-rich water from the ocean's depths.

This not only attracts a plethora of marine life but also serves as a buffet for different species of whales such as minke and humpback who are drawn here in search of food.

Lastly, we cannot leave out Darwin and Wolf islands . These remote corners situated in the far northwest corner of Galapagos archipelago serve as perfect observation points for whales.

The Galapagos marine reserve, particularly the channel between Isabela and Fernandina Islands, Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela's northern coast, and Darwin and Wolf islands are hotspots for whale activity. These areas' nutrient-rich waters draw a variety of sea life, making them ideal for unforgettable whale sightings.

The Allure of Darwin and Wolf Islands for Whale Watching

Far in the northwest corner of the Galapagos archipelago, two tiny islands cast a giant shadow over any discussion about whale watching. Their names? Darwin and Wolf.

Situated 160km from their nearest neighbour, these remote islands are not on every cruise itinerary due to their distance, they are only on the route of dive liveaboard cruises as they have no land visitor sites, but boast the best marine visitor and diving sites in the archipelago. But trust us when we say this: it's worth making the journey.

The secret behind Darwin and Wolf’s allure is surprisingly simple - cold water. The Humboldt Current sweeps up from Antarctica , carrying with it an abundance of nutrients that feed a veritable smorgasbord of marine life.

This cold current meets warmer waters around these far-flung islands causing nutrient-rich upwellings which attract plankton—the buffet table for many sea creatures including whales.

Diving into more detail (pun intended), you'll find several species frequenting this aquatic paradise throughout different seasons. From June to November, Humpback Whales use these fertile feeding grounds as pit stops during migration periods between warm breeding zones near Ecuador's coast and chilly Antarctic feeding areas. Meanwhile, Sperm Whales—a year-round resident—love munching on squid found aplenty here.

Whales are not the only marine giants attracted to Darwin and Wolf's nutrient-rich waters. Whale Sharks—the world’s largest fish —also frequent these islands from June through November, making them a mecca for divers.

See for yourself. A study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution , showed that these two small islands support the highest abundance of reef fishes including large predators such as sharks.

We didn't have much to start with, just an initial thought. Yet, that was enough.

Not all. The islands also host a variety of other sea creatures, including the majestic Manta Rays and playful Sea Lions. Whether you're an avid diver or just love wildlife, Darwin and Wolf Islands are must-visit destinations for any nature enthusiast.

Specialist Scuba Diving Cruise to Darwin and Wolf Islands

The Galapagos islands, particularly the far-flung Darwin and Wolf islands, are an under-the-radar paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts . They offer a unique opportunity to dive alongside some of the most fascinating marine creatures.

Darwin and Wolf islands have colder waters compared to other parts of the Galapagos archipelago. These nutrient-rich waters make it a thriving hotspot for diverse marine life - including whales.

A study from Frontiers in Marine Science reported that these two remote outposts support more sharks per area than any other place on Earth. That's not just exciting news for shark lovers but also whale watchers because where there's plenty of food (like fish).

A specialist scuba diving cruise is unlike your typical snorkeling or beach holiday trip—it’s adventurous, challenging, and absolutely thrilling. It offers divers exclusive access to unspoiled underwater ecosystems teeming with vibrant marine biodiversity.

Darwin Foundation DataZone Checklists suggests around 30 species of sharks alone inhabit this region along with manta rays, dolphins, sea lions among others – all living harmoniously beneath the ocean surface.

If we get lucky enough while exploring deep below water surface during our expedition, we might just catch a glimpse of whales that visit the region for feeding and breeding.

This type of trip is not for the novice when it comes to scuba diving - experienced PADI-certified instructors are available on many cruises to help guide you, but this should not be your first dive. All liveaboard cruises offer PADI -certified dive masters who can guide you through this diving playground.

Species of marine life. Sharks, turtles, and manta rays all make their homes in these vibrant underwater ecosystems. Divers from around the world flock to this unique location for its unmatched biodiversity.

If you're new to this, take time to put at least 20 dives in your record before visiting the Galapagos. PADI-certified dive masters are there to guide you. So come and immerse yourself in an underwater paradise filled with whales, sharks, manta rays and so much more at Darwin and Wolf islands in the Galapagos.

FAQs in Relation to Galapagos Whale Watching Tips

Respect marine life by maintaining a safe distance. Don't feed or touch whales, and keep noise levels down to avoid startling them.

Odds vary depending on location, season, and weather conditions. However, skilled guides can significantly increase your chances of sightings.

Dress warmly in layers with waterproof clothing. Bring binoculars for better viewing, sunscreen to protect against UV rays, and seasickness medicine if needed.

Morning trips usually offer calmer sea conditions which may enhance visibility, but whales can be spotted at any time during daylight hours.

Galapagos whale watching can be unpredictable, but with the right knowledge and planning, it becomes an adventure of a lifetime.

The importance of timing your visit during the whale season cannot be overstated. It's not just about getting there; it's about being there at the right time.

Picking an itinerary known for its whale activity is also key. Don't miss the opportunity to experience a once-in-a-lifetime moment by being in the wrong place!

Darwin and Wolf Islands are must-visit spots for divers due to their nutrient-rich waters attracting diverse marine life. That's why these islands have become synonymous with incredible wildlife encounters. For non divers Fernandina and the west side of Isabela have the best odds.

In short, Galapagos whale watching tips aren't just guidelines - they're keys unlocking extraordinary experiences! Use them wisely and unlock your own unforgettable journey into nature’s wild theatre.

Related article: Best 4 Places to See Whales in Ecuador

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Galapagos island whale watching.

Many baleen whale species pass through the waters of the Galapagos Islands from time to time, including blue, sei, humpbacks and southern minkes. Of the baleens, Bryde’s whales are the most likely species that visitors will see during their travel to the Galapagos Islands. Humpbacks stop by in June during their winter migration. Orcas, short-finned pilot whales and smaller toothed species such as the bottlenose and common dolphins are also frequent visitors.

The Cromwell Equatorial Sub-current passes the west side of the archipelago attracting a myriad of marine species, including whales. This makes the islands of Isabela and Fernandina great whale watching spots, especially for Bryde’s whales and sometimes for orcas in Canal Bolivar where the coolest waters of the archipelago are found.

The Galapagos Islands are a breeding ground for the sperm whale from April to July and are most likely to be seen on Galapagos Island cruises that visit the northern outlying island of Genovesa.

Bottlenose dolphins and orcas are naturally curious and approach vessels, allowing visitors on Galapagos whale watching trips to get close-up views. These toothed species travel in groups, making for an unforgettable experience. Bottlenose dolphins are found most abundantly around SAN CRISTÓBAL Island and nearby Roca Leon Dormido. On the east side of the Galapagos Islands, they are seen close to shore or in deeper water where they may swim along with vessels on Galapagos cruises. Southern Explorations’ nine-day Galapagos Hiking Adventure and Galapagos Multi-sport trips as well as the twelve-day Andes, Amazon and Galapagos Multi Sport trip travel to this location.

Some Galapagos cruise itineraries include both of these locations while others visit the right islands but not the specific area where whales and dolphins are likely to be seen. As you will see by examining the itineraries of our many Galapagos cruises, not all vessels specify which areas of each island are visited. Some cruise ships offer specialized itineraries that include a day or more of their itineraries called Busqueda de Ballenas to look for whales. Discussing whale watching with our staff will ensure that your route and mode of travel includes the best opportunities to witness these fascinating species in the greatest numbers. To observe other species of whales, you may wish to consider travel to Argentina,

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Ballena, or Whale Bay, located on the west side of Santa Cruz Island, is a quiet and open visitor site, where you can explore freely the wonders it offers. Its names derives from the fact that it was believed to have been a popular stop for whaling ships. One of the highlights of this bay is the beach with its green sand, color given by the large percentage of olivine crystals. It's also a great spot for snorkeling. You can spot sea lions, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, frigate birds and even Galapagos hawks here.

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Cetaceans enjoy the Galapagos Islands’ western waters—in particular the region between Isabela and Fernandina Islands due to the Cromwell Current’s upwelling. Bryde’s and sperm whales, common and bottlenose dolphins, and orcas are seen throughout the year in the Galapagos. Humpbacks, minkes, seis, and blue whales are only present seasonally when they drop down from the north to the warmer waters.

Below you can see a list of the baleen whales , toothed whales  and dolphins that can be found throughout the Galapagos. 

COMMON DOLPHIN

Common Dolphins are smaller than their bottlenosed counterparts, and they also have a more streamlined appearance despite their high weight reaching 290 pounds. Common dolphins travel in large groups, sometimes in pods of over several hundred.

How to spot a common dolphin:

Their flank markings are easy to identify as they bound through the water, as buff and pale gray markings score their flanks in an hourglass shape. If you see a large congregation of dolphins out in the distance, look for their long, upright dorsal fin rising out of the waves and you’ll know you spotted a common dolphin.

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN

Bottlenose dolphins may not be endemic to the Galapagos Islands, but they are a common sight for tourists gathered on the bow of cruise ships and yachts. Bottlenose dolphins enjoy putting on a good show, riding the bow waves, leaping alongside the ships, or making elaborate flips.

How to spot a bottlenose dolphin:

You’ll know a bottlenose dolphin by its short beak, sickle-shaped dorsal fin that curves towards its back, and their palpable playfulness. If you happen to see some bottlenose dolphins at night, they might appear to glow as their movement disturbs countless miniscule, phosphorescent creatures—an interaction that results in bioluminescence.

STRIPED DOLPHIN

During your Galapagos vacation, you’re less likely to see Striped Dolphins on your cruise, and you’ll never see them riding the bow waves on your ride. If you’re lucky enough to see a striped dolphin, you’re in for quite a sight.

How to spot a striped dolphin:

Middling in size between the bottlenose and common dolphin, the striped dolphin is marked with a complex pattern of thing and bold strips. One set runs along their eyes to their flippers, while another set slides down the sides of their body to their back flanks.

MINKE WHALE  

Minke whales are the smallest and most abundant of their Rorqual baleen whale friends, and they also go by “Little Piked Whale” due to their slender, streamlined bodies that come to a thin snout.

Though minke whales are curious and sometimes enjoy approaching ships and playing tag with moving boats, they usually spend most of their time below the surface. With their small spout (only reaching about 6 ft high) and lack of showing off their flukes and fins to landlubbers, they can be difficult to spot.

How to spot a minke whale:

If you’re hoping to find a minke whale during your trip to the Galapagos, look out for a slightly hooked dorsal fin appearing around the same time as the spout.

Of the toothed whales that visit the Galapagos Islands, orcas are the most frequently seen (though they are permanent residents rather than passing travelers). Orcas may be called “Killer Whales,” but they technically belong to the dolphin family. They are predators with diverse tastes, and so they munch on marine mammals as well as fish.

How to spot an orca:

Their conspicuous black-and-white coloration is easy to spot from the deck or the shore as they porpoise and spy-hop through the tropical waters.

Good news for those cute little Galapagos fur seals! Resident orca pods such as the Galápagos orcas tend to prefer fish, whereas transient pods prey more on marine mammals.

SHORT-FINNED PILOT WHALE 

Short-finned pilot whales are much more likely to be seen as they enjoy cruising along the water’s surface in large groups throughout the Galapagos. Short-finned pilot whales are the only pilot whales to inhabit the Galapagos, and they are distinct from the orcas with their largely black bodies and melon-shaped head.

How to spot a short-finned pilot whale:

You might also recognize them by their rounded, back-curving dorsal fin.

SPERM WHALE 

Sperm whales are much less likely to be clearly spotted by visitors due to their deep-diving tendencies. Often, you’ll only recognize these giant creatures by their spouts blooming out of the ocean or the rise and fall of their massive tales as they once again plunge into deeper waters. If you happen to see such a sight, know that you saw the world’s largest carnivore!

How to spot a sperm whale:

If you happen upon one up-close, look for it’s small dorsal fin, squared head, and smaller flippers.

BRYDE'S WHALE 

Of all the baleen whales that visit the Galapagos Islands, the one you’re most likely to see cruising around is the Bryde’s whale. Speedy, agile, and smaller than the sei whale, Bryde’s whales can change directions in the water as well as turn up their speed quickly. 

How to spot a Bryde’s whale:

You’re most likely to recognize the Bryde’s whale by the three unique ridges that crowns its head. Unlike some other whales, the Bryde’s whale often pops its head to the surface after coming up from a dive. In contrast, it rarely shows its fluke—or tail—so looking out for its head is your best bet.

HUMPBACK WHALE 

Though the Bryde’s whale are the most common whale in the Galapagos, the Humpback whale is the most easily identified whale. They’re quite active on the surface, breaching frequently and occasionally jumping right out of the water. They also have a bit of The Little Mermaid syndrome and always want to be part of your world. In order to see the world out of the sea, they like to “spy-hop” and lift their heads out of the water, twisting around to get a panoramic view of the surface’s sunnier side.

How to spot a humpback whale:

You can recognize humpback whales by their, not surprisingly, humped back, knobby head, and incredibly long flippers. They also show their fluke on the surface when diving, announcing their presence.

BLUE WHALE 

The largest animal on the planet, the blue whale, regularly hangs out in the Galapagos waters. True to form, everything about the blue whale is bigger and better. Matching their immense size of up to 100 feet in length, they weigh over 200 tons. To put that in perspective, their heart can equal a car in weight, and their tongue is so heavy they are basically holding an elephant in its mouth.

Blue whales are no lumbering giants, and they can book it through the ocean despite their size and weight. Their ability to cruise at over 20 mph if necessary probably saved them from many a steam-powered whaling ships in the 19th century.

How to spot a blue whale:

Occasionally you can see their massive bodies surfacing around the archipelago and blowing a spout arching over 30 feet into the air.

Sei Whales (pronounced either “sigh” or “say”) migrate to the Galapagos’ warmer waters during the winter. Sleek and large—reaching about 100,000 lbs and 40-60 feet—sei whales enjoy the deeper waters off the coastline. Colored dark-grey and bluish gray, sei whales are similar in appearance to Bryde’s whales, but can be distinguished by the single ridge lining their snout as opposed to a Bryde’s three ridges.

How to spot a sei whale:  You can spot them by looking for a slow blow with a spout that forms a 10 ft inverted cone. As they don’t roll or show their flukes when reaching the surface, the spout is the easiest way to keep an eye out for one when you’re on a boat.

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Eight Extraordinary Places to Go Whale Watching in Latin America

Published on: November 14th, 2017

Last modified: March 8th, 2024

Hoards of whales drift to the warmer waters of Latin America for breeding and mating season.

One of the most rewarding activities on this continent is whale watching in South America.

Here's our pick of the eight best locations to watch these magnificent animals up close.

1) Argentina

Head to the coastal town of Puerto Madryn on Patagonia’s rugged  Peninsula Valdes , where from June to December southern right whales can be seen within just feet of the shore, with even closer encounters on boat tours, and the added opportunity to see elephant seals, sea lions and colonies of magellan penguins.

The best time for whale sightings on  Argentina tours  are typically the months of September and October.

THE SEASON:  June to December

From July to November in the southern state of Santa Catarina, the secluded beaches and fishing villages of  Florianopolis  attract wildlife enthusiasts who arrive to see the southern right whales and humpback whales that migrate to these waters.

Close to Florianopolis, Praia do Rosa in Imbituba is a well known bay for whale watching, as is the town – and former fishing village – Garopaba. During these months, the whales mate, give birth and nurse their young off of the coast, so mothers are often seen with their calves. Boat tours go out from the main hubs, but you can also see the whales from points along the coast.

THE SEASON:  July to November

A marine-life rich spot to head for along Chile’s long stretch of coast is the island of  Chiloé , where blue whales reside from late January to April. Take a boat trip or see the whales in the distance from the coast, then explore the island’s rolling countryside and peaceful coves.

Alternatively, travel to the southern port city of  Punta Arenas  to see humpback whales and icebergs on a cruise through the Strait of Magellan.

THE SEASON:  January to April

4) Costa Rica

Whales migrate from both the Arctic and Antarctic waters to breed and raise their young off the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica, and they can be seen from the pristine  Osa Peninsula . Head to Drake Bay for Ballena National Marine Park where colonies of dolphins can also be spotted.

Humpback whales are most frequently seen, but there’s the added opportunity to see pilot whales, killer whales, sei whales and beaked whales.

THE SEASON:  August to November

Humpback whales give birth to their calves in the warm waters off the Pacific coast of  Ecuador  from June to October, having migrated from the Antarctic. Machalilla National Park is an especially rewarding spot to base yourself with both land and ocean wildlife.

Whale watching boat tours run from the coastal city of Salinas and the fishing village of Puerto Lopez, which is also the headquarters for the  national park.

THE SEASON:  June to October

6) Galapagos

The Galapagos islands attract visitors all year round for the chance to get up close to an abundance of wildlife species, but July, August and September are the best months for whale watching, as humpback whales come to make the most of the nutrients that rise to the surface of the water during these months.

Sightings of the whales on  Galapagos tours  are most common around the islands of Bartolome and Espanola.

THE SEASON:  July to September

El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve, at the centre of the Baja California Peninsula, is the largest wildlife refuge in Mexico, and within this habitat, the lagoons of Baja California Sur – San Ignacio Lagoon in particular – are the breaching habitat of whales.

Stay in  Los Cabos  from December to March to see humpback whales and grey whales during this season. Throughout February, towns in the region hold celebrations in honour of the whales too.

THE SEASON:  December to March

Along northern Peru’s long stretch of  coastline , base yourself in the beach towns of Mancora and Punta Sal to witness the arrival of humpback whales. During whale watching season, from July to October, boat trips can be taken to seek out the cetaceans, including pods of dolphins.

Our top example trips for a chance of whale watching...

Talk to one of our travel experts today and start creating your once-in-a-lifetime trip spotting whales in Latin America.

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10 Unique (But Rare) Animals To See Around The World

• Tuatara: Last surviving reptile order in New Zealand's sanctuaries, now one of the rarest wildlife in the world.
• Galápagos Penguins: Only penguin in the Northern Hemisphere, found in Galápagos Islands, and one of the world's rarest animals.
• Blue Whale: One of the largest animals in the world known to have lived, becoming increasingly rare in California, Mexico, and Sri Lanka.

There are plenty of unique and fascinating animals to see around the world. Many of these animals are intensively protected and can be seen by visitors in the wild or in sanctuaries (such as the Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary in New Zealand ).

Some of these animals have come back from the brink of extinction (like the American Plains bison) thanks to excellent conservation efforts. Nowadays, there are even plenty of places to see bison in the wild . For wildlife lovers, here are ten of the most unique but rare animals to see around the world.

New Zealand's Tuatara may not look very remarkable, but it is one of the 'living fossils' of the world. They may look like lizards, but they are the last survivors of a completely different reptile lineage - the order Rhynchocephalia.

They were driven extinct on the main islands of New Zealand but clung on in the small offshore islands. Today, they can be seen in a number of wildlife sanctuaries.

• Where To See: New Zealand's Sanctuaries
• Remarks: Last Species of A Reptile Order

Galápagos Penguins

The Galápagos penguin is the only species of penguin to range north of the equator, mostly on the Galápagos Island of Fernandina Island and the west coast of Isabela Island.

They have developed ways to stay cool and have been able to range this far north thanks to the ocean currents.

• Where To See: Galápagos Islands
• Remarks: Only Penguin In The Northern Hemisphere

Related: These Are 10 Amazing Animals To See While Visiting The Galapagos

While the most popular whales to see on whale-watching tours are humpback whales, it is possible to see the rare blue whales around the world , although they are gradually becoming one of the rarest animal species in the world.

There are thought to be only 10,000 to 25,000 blue whales left in the world, and are split into four subspecies. They have been known to reach lengths of 98 feet (or 30 meters) and weigh as much as 199 tonnes.

• Where To See: California, Mexico, Sri Lanka
• Remarks: Largest Animal Known To Have Lived

California Condor

The California condor was one of the rarest animals in the world, as it almost went extinct in 1987 (all the remaining wild birds were caught and bred in intensive conservation breeding programs).

They have now been successfully reintroduced to the wild, and the California Condor can be seen in the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park.

• Where To See: Grand Canyon, Zion National Park
• Remarks: Largest North American Bird

Royal Albatross

The royal albatross is one of the largest seabirds in the world, with an average wingspan of over 9.8 feet or 3 meters. They normally nest in far-flung subantarctic islands where they are rarely ever seen.

One of the very few accessible royal albatross colonies is on the Otago Peninsula of New Zealand, where there are wildlife tours and a visitor center.

• Where To See: Otago Peninsula, New Zealand
• Remarks: One Colony Is Visitable On The New Zealand Mainland

Related: Tour The Otago Peninsula To See New Zealand's Only Albatross Colony

Leatherback Sea Turtle

The leatherback sea turtle is the largest of the turtles alive today and is the heaviest reptile that is not a crocodilian.

There are tours to see these massive 1,100 lb turtles as they haul themselves onto beaches to lay their eggs. One of the places to see them is in Costa Rica .

• Where To See: Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
• Remarks: Largest Turtle

Sumatran Rhinoceros

The Sumatran rhinoceros (related to the Indian rhino above) is the smallest of the living rhinos (one of five living species of rhinos). They are now critically endangered, with only a few hundred of them left (perhaps less than 100), making them one of the rarest species in the world.

They once lived in the rainforests, swamps, and cloud forests of Southeast Asia.

• Where To See: Indonesia
• Remarks: Few Rhinos Left in Borneo and Sumatra

European Bison

The American Plains bison get most of the attention, but the lesser-known European bison are their even larger cousins.

They were driven to extinction in the wild during the 20th century, but they have now been released back into the wild in Poland, Belarus, and elsewhere (even in Scotland).

• Where To See: Eastern Europe, Scotland
• Remarks: Largest European Animal

Related: See European Bison & More At Scotland's Highland Wildlife Park

Przewalski's Horse

Przewalski's horse is the only wild horse species to survive today (all other horses are domesticated). They ranged on the steppes of Central Asia and can now be seen at a distance in the Khustain Nuruu National Park in Mongolia.

They were once extinct in the wild, and now they have been reintroduced.

• Where To See: Mongolia
• Remarks: Only Surviving Wild Horse

Giant Panda

The giant panda is often seen as the cuddliest bear in the world and one of the symbols of China. They are found in the Sichuan province of China, living on an almost exclusively bamboo diet.

The wild population of the Giant Panda is in the low thousands, and pandas are a popular attraction in Sichuan.

• Where To See: Sichuan, China
• Remarks: Most Famous Animal In China

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Galapagos Explorer + Peru's Land of the Incas

• Encounter incredible wildlife
• See daybreak over Machu Picchu
• Explore massive Ollantaytambo

Southern Islands

• Snorkel across Gardner Bay
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• Observe Galapagos penguins

Galapagos Grace Circumnavigation

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Private Charter - Western & Eastern Islands Aboard M/C Elite

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