Humpback whales in Brazil — Abrolhos, season and where to see them

Published on November 28, 2012 · Updated on July 31, 2026

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The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is one of the most charismatic marine species, known for its spectacular breaches, long songs and migratory routes between cold feeding grounds and tropical breeding grounds.

In Brazil, the breeding and sighting season typically runs from June to November, with the highest concentration of sightings between July and November in southern Bahia and Espírito Santo.

Video about the Humpback Whale and the 5 largest whales in the world

Baleia Jubarte - Caracteristicas04:24

5 maiores Baleias do Mundo04:38

Abrolhos Marine National Park — the main nursery in the western South Atlantic

The Abrolhos Marine National Park (Decree No. 88,218/1983) is the main breeding ground for humpback whales in the western South Atlantic. Located in the far south of Bahia, off the coast of Caravelas, Abrolhos comprises volcanic islands and coral reefs that serve as a breeding and nursing ground between June and November.

See the map of the Whale Coast

Season and best months for whale watching

In Brazil, humpback whales arrive between June and November; many research centres and whale-watching programmes indicate that July to November is the period with the highest level of breeding activity and the widest range of tours on offer. For the best chance of a sighting, opt for trips between July and October.

Where to see humpback whales along the Brazilian coast

Bahia: Abrolhos Bank (Caravelas) — the main nursery.
Espírito Santo: areas near Vitória and Regência.
São Paulo: Ilhabela, Cananéia and Ubatuba.
Rio de Janeiro: Arraial do Cabo and the northern coast of Rio de Janeiro state.

Local tour operators and the Humpback Whale Project offer whale-watching tours with protocols designed to minimise impact.

Anatomia da baleia Jubarte — Anatomy of the Humpback Whale

Estrutura corporal da baleia jubarte — Body structure of the humpback whale

Reproduction, birth and longevity

Gestation period of ~11 months; calves are born measuring ~4–5 m and remain close to their mother for 6–12 months. Average interval between births ~2 years. Life expectancy generally >40 years.

Behaviour and song

Humpback whales exhibit (breaching), fin slaps and tail slaps, and frequently approach boats out of curiosity. The males’ song is complex and repetitive, varying between populations and changing over the years.

Feeding

They feed on krill, copepods and small fish in cold waters. Some populations use cooperative strategies, such as bubble-net feeding, to concentrate prey.

Alimentação da baleia jubarte — Feeding behaviour of the humpback whale

Natural predators and threats

Occasional predators include orcas and false orcas; sharks may pose a local threat. The main anthropogenic threats are entanglement in fishing nets, collisions with vessels, marine pollution, habitat degradation, the impacts of oil and gas activities, and poorly managed whale-watching tourism.

Individual identification and monitoring

Photographs of the tail fins (flukes) and markings on the dorsal fin act as ‘fingerprints’ to identify individuals and monitor movements, reproduction and survival.

Best practices for whale-watching (responsible whale-watching)

Choose accredited operators who follow local protocols.
Maintain a safe distance (observe local regulations and limits — e.g. ≈100 m where applicable).
Avoid repeated manoeuvres and sudden changes in speed.
Do not feed or touch the animals.

Avistamento da Baleia Jubarte — Humpback whale sightings

Important correction regarding population estimates

Population estimates vary by study; older figures (~12,000 in the Southern Hemisphere) may be out of date. Recent studies indicate higher estimates depending on the stock and method used. It is recommended to cite up-to-date sources when publishing numerical data.

Conclusion

The humpback whale is a symbol of marine recovery and conservation, but it depends on protected areas such as Abrolhos and on sustainable tourism and fishing practices. Updated content, optimised images and the author’s credentials increase the potential for higher search engine rankings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the best time to see humpback whales in Brazil?

The season runs from June to November; sightings peak between July and November, with the widest range of tours available between July and October.

Is the Abrolhos Bank really the main breeding ground for humpback whales in the South Atlantic?

Yes. Abrolhos is recognised as the main breeding area for the species in the Western South Atlantic.

How long and how heavy is an adult humpback whale?

Generally 12–16 m and up to ~40 tonnes, with variations between individuals and populations.

How long is the gestation period and how big is the calf at birth?

Gestation lasts ~11 months; the calf is born measuring ~4–5 m.

Does whale watching harm humpback whales?

It can, if carried out improperly. Seek out certified tour operators and respect local rules on distance and behaviour.

What is the main diet of humpback whales?

Krill, copepods and small fish; they use techniques such as lunge feeding and bubble nets in some populations.

What should you do if you come across an injured or entangled animal?

Notify the local authorities (IBAMA/ICMBio) and do not attempt to intervene on your own; qualified teams will carry out the rescue.

Source/summary of references used: NOAA Fisheries, IWC, the Humpback Whale Project, ICMBio and scientific literature on behaviour and feeding.

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Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →