Rest comfortably
Private rooms with bathroom, air conditioning and television.
Juanchaco · Colombian Pacific
Experience the whale season from Juanchaco
Stay at Acuarios Hostal and plan your whale-watching in Bahía Málaga from a comfortable, peaceful place connected to the essence of the Colombian Pacific.
Stay connected
Wi-Fi available on the different levels of the hostal during your trip.
Enjoy Juanchaco
A base close to local life to discover Bahía Málaga and the Pacific.
It all begins in Juanchaco
Drop your bags, breathe the Pacific air and get ready to sail.
From Acuarios Hostal begins an experience between jungle, sea and wildlife.
Chapter 02
July · Juanchaco Pier
The season begins.
From July the presence of humpback whales gradually increases. After traveling thousands of kilometers from cold areas of the southern hemisphere, they arrive at Bahía Málaga to mate, give birth and stay with their calves.
One of the great natural encounters of the Pacific begins at the pier.We set out toward the waters of Bahía Málaga.
Chapter 03
July · From the cold south to the tropics
An extraordinary migration.
During the austral summer, many humpbacks feed in cold, rich waters. Then they undertake a long migration to tropical waters, where an essential part of their reproductive cycle takes place.
Colombian PacificSouthern waters
One of the longest migrations carried out by a mammal.Chapter 04
July → August · Bahía Málaga
A bay turned into a refuge.
The warm, coastal and relatively calm waters offer important conditions for courtship, birth, nursing, rest and rearing.
Chapter 05
August · First signs
Before seeing them, learn to find them.
In the distance, the encounter begins with a sign that can last only a few seconds.
- BlowA brief column of vapor above the surface.
- FlipperA pectoral flipper that appears or slaps the water.
- TailThe fluke visible before a dive.
- BreachThe body emerges partially or completely from the water.
Look at the horizon. Nature decides the moment.
Chapter 06
August · The heart of the season
We are in humpback territory.
Their robust body, long pectoral fins and tail patterns make the humpback whale unmistakable.
Great wingsextraordinary pectoral fins
Unique tailindividual patterns
Each tail bears unique markings that serve as an identity fingerprint.
Chapter 07
August → September
Observe without chasing.
The best experience allows you to watch the whales without altering their behavior.
- Approach slowly.
- Do not block their movement.
- Do not chase mothers with calves.
- Keep noise low.
- Follow the guide and the captain.
Chapter 08
September · Mothers and calves
A natural nursery.
Calves rest, swim close to their mothers, feed and develop strength before undertaking the journey to southern waters.
11–12 months gestationWith its mother during learning1 calf usually
A mother and her calf need tranquility.
Chapter 09
October · The call of the south
The farewell begins.
As the end of the season approaches, some whales gradually begin the return to their feeding areas. Mothers travel with calves that have gained size, coordination and strength.
We carry the memories with us. We leave the ocean as we found it.
The whales continue their journey. Bahía Málaga remains.
Anatomy of the humpback
Get to know the humpback whale.
Explore the points to discover how this giant of the Pacific breathes, feeds and moves.
14–16 mLength
25–40 tWeight
80–90 yearsEstimated longevity
Back to the hostal
Accommodation in Juanchaco to rest by the Pacific
After sailing through Bahía Málaga, return to a comfortable space to rest, share your memories and keep discovering Juanchaco and Ladrilleros.
At Acuarios Hostal you will find private rooms, bathroom, air conditioning, television, Wi-Fi and common areas. The sea view is enjoyed from our terrace or rooftop.
Plan your visit in advance during the whale season.
July opens the encounter.
August fills the bay with movement.
September accompanies mothers and calves.
October begins the farewell.
Before you travel
A real, responsible experience that is different every day.
Nature decides
No sighting can be guaranteed. Sea conditions and animal behavior change.
Choose authorized operators
Always follow the guidance of the authorities, the guide and the captain during the tour.
Book in advance
Check dates, access and availability in advance to organize your stay in Juanchaco.
Frequently asked questions
The essentials to plan your visit.
When is the whale-watching season in Juanchaco?
The whale-watching season usually runs from July to October 2026. Dates and conditions can change every year.
Is a sighting guaranteed?
No. Whales are wild animals that move freely. Each outing depends on their movements and sea conditions.
Where are the whales seen?
In the waters of Bahía Málaga, following the guidance of operators, guides and authorities. The location of the animals changes constantly.
How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book at least one month in advance because spaces and tours can fill up during the high season.
Do the rooms have a sea view?
No. The sea view is enjoyed from the terrace or rooftop of the hostal.
What should I bring?
Light clothing, rain protection, reef-safe sunscreen, water, personal medication and protection for electronic equipment.