Get ready for an unforgettable experience on the Southern Right Whale Route! Between July and November, you can witness the arrival of the majestic southern right whales, which come to breed in warmer waters after escaping the icy waters of Antarctica.
Right whales are known for their imposing size and beauty, being one of the most sought-after whale species for observation in the world. They can reach up to 16 meters in length and weigh more than 50 tons. Furthermore, right whales have a unique characteristic: callosities, a kind of white crust that covers their head and lower jaw, making them easily identifiable.
Located on the southern coast of Santa Catarina, the Southern Right Whale Route It is a fascinating tourist destination that integrates the municipalities of Garopaba, Imbituba and Laguna, offering stunning beaches, trails, history and culture.
Photo: Southern Right Whale spotted in the open sea.
Did you know that Brazil is one of the 10 best places in the world to spot whales?
Santa Catarina is one of the most favorable states for observing southern right whales, which were once hunted for their blubber and baleen. Fortunately, since 1989, whaling has been banned in Brazil, and the Southern Right Whale Environmental Protection Area It was created in 2000 to protect these animals and their habitat.
Where should I begin the sighting?
The best way to start your journey along the Southern Right Whale Route is to visit the Southern Right Whale Museum, located at R. Itagibá, s/n – Vila Alvorada, Imbituba – SC, 88780-000. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Located in southern Brazil, the region's last whaling station was designated a Municipal Historical Heritage site and, after closing its doors in 1973, underwent a complete restoration to house the Whale Museum. The museum tells the story of whaling and the fight for its protection, evoking this dark period through carefully preserved maps, illustrations, and artifacts.
With a spacious and welcoming interior, visitors are guided through interpretive panels that tell the story of the difficult coexistence of whales with humans. The museum is an important testament to the need to protect and preserve endangered marine species, and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about local history and the traditions that have shaped the region.
Another tip is to visit the Visitor Center, installed at the National Center for the Conservation of the Southern Right Whale, operational headquarters of the Australis Institute and the Southern Right Whale Project – ProFRANCA.
The site is located on Itapirubá Norte beach, in Imbituba, SC. Itapirubá beach is one of the coves with the highest frequency of southern right whale sightings in Brazil.
In 2020, the Visitor Center received a completely revitalized exhibition, with many new features for visitors. The Center also has a video room, an outdoor deck, an observatory for whale watching, a life-size replica of a southern right whale calf, and a shop with exclusive products whose purchase helps support ProFRANCA's activities.
Tips for whale watching
If you want to see southern right whales up close, follow the advice of local guides and visit the best whale watching spots.
In Garopaba:
In Imbituba:
- Ribanceira Cove
- Ibiraquera
- North Itapirubá
- Water Beach
- Porto Beach
- Praia do Rosa
- Vila Beach
In Laguna:
- Santa Marta Lighthouse
- Gi Beach Rocky Shore
- Iró Beach
- Sun Beach
Photo: View of Praia do Rosa (Imbituba)
Keep an eye out for the rocky shores and dunes, which are the best places to spot them, and take advantage of the morning period when the sea and wind are calmer. And don't forget to stay near the breaking waves, where mothers usually stay with their calves in shallower areas. Prepare to be amazed by the grandeur of these animals and to experience a unique and unforgettable adventure on the Southern Right Whale Route.
When visiting the Southern Right Whale Route, it's important to remember that whale watching should be done responsibly and respectfully. It's essential to follow the instructions of local guides and operators, who know the rules and precautions necessary to ensure the safety of both whales and tourists. Whale watching in Santa Catarina only takes place from land, to minimize the impact of human activities on the whales' natural environment.
Therefore, if you are a lover of nature and marine life, the Southern Right Whale Route This is a must-see destination for you! Take the opportunity to meet and be enchanted by the majestic southern right whales and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
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