Whale Safari: An epic encounter with the giants of the
Atlantic
The beaches of southern Santa Catarina offer an unforgettable journey along the Southern Right Whale Route, where nature, history, and conservation meet
Santa Catarina, with its wild beaches and cinematic landscapes, hosts one of Brazil’s most beautiful natural spectacles: the arrival of majestic Southern Right Whales to the southern coast of the state. Every year, from July to October, these sea giants travel thousands of kilometers from the icy waters of Antarctica to find shelter in the calm bays between Laguna, Imbituba, and Garopaba, where they give birth and nurse their calves. This region is known as the Southern Right Whale Route.
The southern coast of Santa Catarina is internationally recognized today as a nursery for the Southern Right Whale, and has been the stage for conservation initiatives praised by institutions such as the Instituto Baleia Franca and Projeto Baleia Franca. Florianópolis, the charming island capital, is the main base for adventurers wishing to explore this natural route. Along with its exuberant beauty, this territory also holds deep memories of a striking culture shaped by centuries.
The entire whale watching route is done on land, since boat activities have been suspended for environmental impact studies since 2013. The perfect season to experience this is from July to October, peaking in September, when the Southern Right Whales dominate the waters of the Santa Catarina coast. Along the Southern Right Whale Route, you will pass through different observation points to see these mammals in their natural habitat.
ATTENTION! Whale watching requires patience, as you may spend long periods observing them to catch the best movements!
A JOURNEY OF ENCOUNTERS AND EMOTIONS
Imagine starting your day expecting to find some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. The land-based safari along the Southern Right Whale Route begins with a personalized pickup from accommodations in Garopaba, Imbituba, and Praia do Rosa around 9 a.m. This 8-hour adventure immerses you in a world of discoveries.
Once the group is complete, a true outdoor class on the behavior of these magnificent animals begins. As the guide takes you to strategically positioned viewpoints, they share secrets and curiosities about the whales. You will receive a professional binocular to assist in observation, and it is thrilling to learn to identify the “V”-shaped blows that can reach up to 5 meters high, like an invitation to find them.
You may also witness spectacular breaches, when these giants leap out of the water in a ballet of strength and grace. Emotional interactions between mothers and calves in moments of pure tenderness in the ocean. And even the magical moment of nursing, when the calves feed under the watchful eyes of their mothers.
The trails are easy, ranging from 15 minutes to 1 hour of walking, and lead you along breathtaking rocky headlands and deserted beaches. Some stops at iconic spots like Santa Marta Lighthouse, with its panoramic ocean view, and Praia do Rosa, known as the “nursery” of the whales, where many give birth and care for their calves, are breathtaking.
After so much emotion, it’s time to recharge with the rich local seafood cuisine. Must-try dishes include mullet cooked in bamboo, with an irresistible smoky flavor; grilled snook with shrimp pirão, a melt-in-the-mouth combination; and vegetarian options prepared with fresh, regional ingredients. All meals include water and seasonal fruits, ensuring a relaxing moment before the next stage.
In the afternoon, the journey continues at the Instituto Australis, a research center dedicated to the protection of Southern Right Whales. There, you will discover incredible stories, meet “celebrity” whales cataloged and monitored over the years, learn about the threats they face, observe skeletons that tell stories of resilience and survival, and understand how photo-identification works, essential for species conservation.
The itinerary also takes you to the Whale Museum, where historical artifacts reveal the past of whale hunting, and to archaeological sites with sambaquis over 5,000 years old, showing the ancient connection between humans and whales.
WHAT IF YOU DON’T SEE A WHALE?
Don’t worry! The tour comes with the “Whale Guarantee.” If no sighting occurs, you can return on another Whale Safari or the Whale Search and Nursery Walk experiences at no additional cost. And there’s more! The guarantee is lifetime as long as the operator remains active.
ALL ABOUT THE WHALE SAFARI
This safari is unique for several reasons: exclusive access to environmental preservation areas; specialized guides, including biologists and oceanographers, who turn the observation into an educational experience. The tour has a low environmental impact, as observation is land-based only, respecting the whales’ space, and promotes cultural connection with local communities, enriching the experience.
The tour includes transportation, guide, binoculars, lunch, and entry fees to attractions. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and, of course, patience, since nature has its own rhythm. The difficulty is easy, with light walks accessible to almost everyone, and groups are small to ensure a personalized experience. Get ready to be moved, learn, and take home memories of an unforgettable day!
HOW TO GET THERE
Florianópolis International Airport – Hercílio Luz