Explore Mazatlán’s New National Whale Museum

Take a unique journey into marine conservation and culture at the brand-new Museo Nacional de la Ballena (MUNBA), Mazatlán’s tribute to the various whale species that live in the Pacific waters off Mexico’s western coast. Officially opened in late August at the top of the mountain ´Cerro del Vigía´ as part the touristic park Observatorio 1873, the new attraction has quickly become one of the city’s must-do activities.

Upon entering the whale museum, visitors are greeted by an enormous humpback skeleton, a striking visual that sets the tone for the experience. Through interactive exhibits, immersive multimedia presentations, and hands-on learning activities, visitors can explore the life cycles, communication patterns, and traditional migration routes whales and dolphins follow.

The museum offers guests an immersive look into the world these majestic creatures inhabit, weaving together education with a message of conservation and a nod to Mazatlán’s maritime heritage. It was conceived as a tribute to the critical role whales play in the health of our oceans. Permanent and special exhibits promote an overarching message of environmental stewardship and serve as a reminder of our responsibility to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Whales play a vital role in marine ecosystems, helping fertilize ocean waters and promoting phytoplankton growth, which captures carbon and produces more than half of the oxygen we breathe. As “engineers of the sea,” whales are key figures in combating climate change, and MUNBA seeks to raise awareness about this essential connection.

In addition to its educational focus, the museum works to connect visitors with its subject on an emotional level. MUNBA’s Director, Óscar Guzón Zataráin, described it as a space to learn about whales and their importance to the planet’s health. The building’s architectural ingenuity and innovative design — constructed from repurposed shipping containers — reflects the commitment to both sustainability and promoting awareness about the role humans play. The use of containers directly connects the museum with Mazatlán’s bustling port while touching upon both the effects of pollution and the conservation efforts the museum aims to inspire. Mexican architect Alejandro D’Acosta led the team that crafted the distinctive structure that easily invokes the impact human activity has on marine life.

Amado Guzmán Reynaud, President and General Director of the Petroil Group – the organization behind most of the financing for the museum’s creation — acknowledged the challenges of constructing with containers but understood the symbolic meaning behind their use was at once attractive and timely. 

MUNBA adds value to Mazatlán’s tourist and cultural landscape, elevating its standing as a hub for natural heritage, historic significance, and broader education.

With its breathtaking views of the Pacific, interactive exhibits, and thought-provoking architectural design, MUNBA serves as a beacon of hope for marine conservation that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The entrance fee for MUNBA is 500 pesos for adults and 350 pesos for children. Plan your stay in Mazatlán and make sure you add the new whale museum to your list of things to do while in town. It’s an eye-opening experience that’s just a short ride from Pueblo Bonito Resorts.