The Pacific waters off Cali, Colombia deliver some of the best whale watching in South America. Humpback whales make their annual migration through Bahia Málaga, putting on spectacular shows from July through October. The area’s most reliable outfitter, Viajes CHE, runs excellent 3-day excursions that maximize viewing opportunities – their guides know exactly where these magnificent creatures surface. For travelers short on time, half-day trips to Uramba National Park provide satisfying 15-30 minute encounters. I especially love the intimate private tours with hotel pickup, which avoid the crowds and allow flexible viewing times.
Smart travelers book through established operators charging around $150 per person, which typically includes meals and transport. These respected companies maintain consistently high satisfaction ratings above 90%.
Let’s explore the finest whale watching tours Cali has to offer.
Good To Know
- Bahia Málaga offers annual humpback whale migration sightings with tours that have a 93% traveler approval rating.
- Viajes CHE – Colombia Hiking Experience provides a 3-day whale watching experience along the Pacific coast with a 4.9/5 rating.
- Uramba National Park is an ideal destination during peak whale watching season from July to October, with expert guides and a personalized experience.
- The 3-Day Whale Watching Extravaganza offers an intimate experience with a 5.0 rating, including local guide, meals, accommodation, and various beach activities.
- Private whale watching tours in the Pacific Sea provide an exclusive group experience with breakfast, lunch, and all necessary activities included.
Humpback Whale Watching in Bahia Málaga Colombia
Bahía Málaga, located along Colombia’s Pacific coast, offers visitors a chance to witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration. The Bahía Málaga tour, based out of Cali, Colombia, is highly recommended with a 93% traveler approval rating from 44 reviews.
The tour includes speedboat transportation to maximize whale spotting opportunities, with a maximum group size of 15 for personalized attention.
The tour package includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, roundtrip transportation from Cali, a local bilingual guide, maritime transportation, insurance, and medical assistance. Participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early, as the tour starts at 4:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point, the Hotel Intercontinental Cali.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour price starts from $379.00 per person, varying by group size, and has an overall rating of 4.8 based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.
Read our full review: Humpback Whale Watching in Bahia Málaga Colombia Review
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Whale Watching 3 Days in Bahía Málaga, Valle Del Cauca Colombia
This 3-day whale watching experience in Bahía Málaga, Valle del Cauca, Colombia, is operated by Viajes CHE – Colombia Hiking Experience.
Priced from €416.18 per person, the private tour includes all meals and transportation. Travelers can expect to see humpback whales along the Pacific coast during this three-day excursion.
The tour meets at the Hotel Intercontinental Cali, with an option for pickup from other locations. It starts at 4:00 am and ends back at the meeting point.
Not recommended for pregnant travelers, the tour is accessible for most, though not wheelchair-friendly. The experience has received 28 reviews with a 4.9/5 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor.
Travelers can cancel up to 3 days in advance with no charge.
Read our full review: Whale Watching 3 Days in Bahía Málaga, Valle Del Cauca Colombia Review
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Day Trip – Whale Watching From Cali #Ecoliving
Travelers visiting Cali, Colombia can embark on a day trip to Uramba National Park for the chance to witness the captivating presence of humpback whales. This excursion is ideal during the peak whale watching season from July to October, with the best sightings typically in September and October.
The whale watching experience lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, providing ample time to observe these magnificent creatures.
The day trip includes departure from a local fishing village with an expert guide, along with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, meals, and bilingual/local guides. The maximum group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
While the activity isn’t recommended for those with certain health conditions, it does require a moderate level of physical fitness.
With a 4.9 overall rating based on 7 reviews, this day trip from Cali to Uramba National Park for whale watching is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers.
Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot.
Read our full review: Day Trip – Whale Watching From Cali #Ecoliving Review
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Whale Watching Extravaganza in Bahía Málaga
A 3-day, 2-night whale watching extravaganza takes travelers to the stunning Bahía Málaga, where they can witness the captivating presence of humpback whales up close.
This tour, with an overall 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews, includes a local guide, round-trip transportation from Cali, maritime transportation for whale watching, accommodation, meals, and various beach experiences.
Participants will be picked up from the Hotel Intercontinental Cali and returned to the same location. The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and it’s unsuitable for pregnant travelers.
With a maximum of 15 participants, this whale watching adventure offers an intimate experience. While additional services or products aren’t included, the tour provides comprehensive coverage, including insurance and medical assistance.
Confirmation is received upon booking, ensuring a seamless planning process for this unforgettable whale watching expedition in Bahía Málaga.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Extravaganza in Bahía Málaga Review
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Exciting Adventure: Whale Watching in Bahía Málaga
Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating whale watching adventure in the stunning Bahía Málaga? This 2-day, 1-night experience is the perfect opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour and a 5-star rating based on 5 reviews, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cali, maritime transportation for whale watching, accommodation, meals, insurance, and various beach experiences. You’ll have the chance to explore beaches, cliffs, hikes, and waterfalls, with a total of 7 beach experiences offered.
The tour is led by a local guide, ensuring you get the most out of your adventure.
The meeting point is at the Hotel Intercontinental Cali, and the tour ends back at the same location. Remember to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure punctuality.
This tour isn’t recommended for those with back issues, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, and additional services or products not specified in the plan may be available for an extra cost.
Read our full review: Exciting Adventure: Whale Watching in Bahía Málaga Review
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Whales Watching in Pacific Sea of Colombia
Whale watching in the Pacific Sea of Colombia offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and all activities, ensuring a complete and immersive experience. Priced at $147.68 per person, the tour provides a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
The private tour ensures that only your group participates, allowing for a personalized and exclusive adventure. Pickup is available from your hotel in Cali, with a 6:00 AM start time.
The tour includes all taxes, fees, and an Environmental Management Charge, as well as fuel surcharge and local taxes.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it does offer a vegetarian option. Appropriate dress is advised, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
With confirmation received at the time of booking, this whale watching experience in the Pacific Sea of Colombia provides a unique and memorable opportunity.
Read our full review: Whales Watching in Pacific Sea of Colombia Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year for Whale Watching in Colombia?
The best time for whale watching in Colombia is typically between July and October. During this period, humpback whales can be spotted along the Pacific coast, providing visitors with an opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Can I See Whales From the Shore in Bahía Málaga?
Yes, visitors can often spot whales from the shore in Bahía Málaga, Colombia. The best time to see these majestic creatures is typically between July and October when humpback whales migrate to the region’s warm waters.
Do I Need Prior Experience for Whale Watching Tours in Bahía Málaga?
No prior experience is required for whale watching tours in Bahía Málaga. The tours are suitable for all levels of experience, and professional guides provide the necessary equipment and instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
What Species of Whales Can I See in the Pacific Sea of Colombia?
Visitors to the Pacific Sea of Colombia can spot several whale species, including humpback, blue, and fin whales. The prime whale watching season runs from July to October when these majestic creatures migrate to the region’s warm, nutrient-rich waters.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Whale Watching Activities in Bahía Málaga?
There are no age restrictions for whale watching activities in Bahía Málaga. Families with children of all ages can enjoy these tours, which typically last several hours and provide opportunities to spot humpback whales migrating along the Pacific coast.
The Sum Up
Bahía Málaga in Colombia’s Valle del Cauca offers some of the best whale-watching experiences in the region. Visitors can spot humpback whales as they migrate along the Pacific coast, often accompanied by calves. These tours provide a chance to observe the whales in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation. For those seeking a unique nature-based adventure, the whale-watching experiences in Bahía Málaga are not to be missed.