As of August 2026, in-water orca encounters in Baja California Sur are on hold following the end of Mexico's regulated pilot program. Here's what that means for Sea Safari Norte.
What Changed
In August 2025, Mexico's environmental authority (SEMARNAT) introduced the country's first formal management plan for orca encounters, permitting limited, closely regulated in-water swimming with orcas in a defined zone near La Ventana, Baja California Sur. That pilot program ran through July 31, 2026.
The trial period has now ended, and the activity is on hold while SEMARNAT determines next steps — whether that means renewed regulations, revised rules, or a longer-term pause. No timeline has been announced.
What This Means for Sea Safari Norte
Sea Safari Norte has never included orca swimming as a guaranteed or scheduled part of the tour. Orca sightings — and, when conditions, timing, and regulations allowed, in-water encounters — have always been an occasional, opportunistic bonus, never something we sell or promise. That hasn't changed. What has changed is that, for now, in-water orca encounters are not available anywhere in the region while this pause is in effect.
The Tour Continues As Normal
Sea Safari Norte continues to run with its regular wildlife encounters — Mobula rays, dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life — unaffected by this pause. If the opportunity for a responsible, regulated orca encounter returns, we'll be ready for it, but it has never been the reason to book this tour.
We'll update this page if SEMARNAT announces new regulations.
Common Questions
Sea Safari Norte Runs Year-Round
Mobula rays, dolphins, sea lions, and the open waters north of La Paz — with or without orcas.
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