Killer whales, or orcas, are one of the world’s coolest animals. These excellent hunters, who are also one of the most intelligent animal species, are fascinating to watch in their natural habitat. Find them in the cold waters of Antarctica, Norway or Alaska, or catch them moving from one place to the next through the warmer waters of California or Australia. Regardless of what destination you chose, you are certain to find a killer whale watching expedition one of the most exciting experiences of your life.
What makes seeing these animals out in the wild even more amazing is the fact that there are few places in the world where you can do so. We have put together this list of 9 places where you can be lucky enough to see killer whales in the wild, so you can get right to work booking your whale watching excursion!
1. Antarctica
Antartica
Our list starts with the trip of a lifetime, to Antarctica! Watch orcas glide across the water with the pristine backdrop of protruding glaciers. From December to April, but particularly in February and March, you can see killer whales at their happiest.
2. Peninsula Valdes
Argentina
Situated in incredible Patagonia, the Peninsula Valdes offers one of the highest concentrations of orca whales from June to December. Just a two-hour flight from Buenos Aires, this area is one of the most beautiful on our list.
3. Grundarfjordor
Iceland
Iceland has some of the best scenery in the world. The Grundarfjordor is one of the most strikingly beautiful places in this already stunning country. From November to March, this area gets even better, with the presence of tons of killer whales.
4. Andenes
Norway
As with Iceland, Norway is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The Norweigan fjords are a must visit, at least once in life. Head there from the end of December to March, particularly in January, when there is enough light and you will also be able to check out orcas.
5. Bremer Bay
Australia
If you want the best chance to see baby killer whales, Bremer Bay is where you should head. Go from July to October and you stand the best chance of seeing mamas nursing their babies. An added benefit to heading to this part of the world? Awesome, pristine, white sand beaches!
6. Glacier Bay National Park
Alaska, United States
Alaska is one of the best places in North America to spot wildlife and definitely one of the top spots to see killer whales. Cruise along the rugged coast, in deep fjords and see killer whales swimming in the waters of the Icy Straight.
7. San Juan Islands
Washington, United States
The San Juan Islands offer a selection of different killer whale viewing options. You can check out the three permanent pods that are found mid-May to mid-October, or a number of transient orcas that come and go throughout the year.
8. Vancouver Island
Canada
As with the San Juan Islands, Vancouver Island offers the option of checking out permanent resident orcas, with 80 permanent orcas that call the southern shores home or the 250 that call the northeast home year round.
9. Monterey Bay
California, United States
Monterey Bay in April is the perfect place to find transient killer whales enjoying themselves as they move from one place to the other. Monterey has an excellent food supply, which attracts whales loing for a great meal.
So there you have it, 9 places to check out one of the world’s best species in the wild. Skip Seaworld and head out into the wild! If you think there are other spots we should add, please let us know in the comments section below.
Meghan Waters Mbaye