Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2015 17:24:34 -0800
Reply-To: mark drillock <mdrillock@COX.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: mark drillock <mdrillock@COX.NET>
Subject: Baja Whales 2016 trip planning
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We are once again planning a VW van camping trip to see the annual whale
birthing and mating rendezvous in the whale calving lagoons of Baja.
People travel from all over the world to experience this phenomenon. The
whales are friendly and on previous trips a few proud mothers brought
their babies right up to our small boats close enough for us to pet both
the babies and moms. This will be the fifth year for us to enjoy this
amazing spectacle.
Each winter thousands of Grey whales make the long trip from waters near
Alaska to the Pacific coast of Baja. They begin arriving in January and
their numbers peak in Feb/Mar. The pregnant females enter the large
shallow lagoons of Baja to give birth in the safe waters. The males hang
nearby strutting their stuff and hoping for a chance to be the dads next
time. This congregation of whales is simply amazing to see, even from
shore. These waters are highly protected during this season and only
licensed guides are permitted by the government to take small boats of
tourists and scientists into the lagoons for up close and personal
observations. The boats must stay in certain areas so any whales that
prefer it can be left in peace. Many whales seem to be as interested in
us as we are in them and thus close encounters are numerous.
For us the most interesting times in Baja revolve around the sea and we
tend to beach camp along the shore when we can. We will bring a tandem
kayak to share and have a second one that may find a ride on another
van. These aren't allowed in the whale lagoons during the protected
season but we will camp other places where they will come in handy for a
scenic paddle or a bit of fishing.
While we take our Syncro, any VW van in roadworthy condition can travel
the route and handle the roads. Most of the time the road will be paved
and the few dirt sections are easy enough if done slowly. We will camp
most nights at actual campgrounds where fees are charged and some
amenities provided. The camping fees are per night per van, roughly
$10-15. We mostly make our own meals but will eat out from time to time
when appropriate. We will stop at food markets at least every other day.
Gas is above current US prices and fuel quality is not an issue. We will
cover perhaps 1500 miles within Mexico. You must have a passport to
re-enter the US. Everyone will be responsible for their own expenses as
we go.
People have joined our whale trips from various states and provinces.
Last time we had 10 vans and camped 8 nights at several locations in
Baja. I'm aiming for a smaller group this trip but who knows. At this
point the schedule is still tentative and may be extended or shortened
by some participants as suits them. We usually cross the border early on
a Sat or Sun morning. We don't drive in Baja at night so early starts
are the norm on travel days down there.
If you are interested in taking part in this trip please contact us to
be put on the list for further info and requirements.
Please, no guns, no drugs, no generators, and no dogs.
Mark and Anne Drillock
North San Diego County
