More than a Dive Center
A link between ocean conservation & communities empowerment
At Te Ma’o, our mission is to create an engaged community around the marine ecosystem through meaningful tourism. We see tourism as a lever to contribute to ocean conservation and support the empowerment of local communities, two essential elements for ensuring the sustainable preservation of our environment.
Te Ma’o: "The Spirit of the Guardian Shark"
« Te Ma’o » means « the spirit of the guardian shark » in Maori (Ma’o = shark).
For Polynesians, ancestral souls reincarnate as sharks, watching over their descendants in the lagoons.
It was in Polynesia that Grégoire fell in love with sharks, deciding to dedicate his life to their protection.
In 2019, he moved to La Ventana, Mexico, captivated by the beauty of the area, the richness of marine life, and the warmth of its people. For two years, he explored the region and built strong ties with the local community. He named his dive center “Te Ma’o” to honor his connection with sharks.
Today, Te Ma’o is much more than just a dive center.
Te Ma’o is more than a dive center—it’s a community united by a love for the ocean and a commitment to its preservation. Fishermen, diving instructors, marine experts, and guides all share their passion while protecting the sea’s beauty and fragility.
Te Amo, Te Ma’o!
how our tourism makes a difference?
Aware of the current global challenges and the threats facing all living beings, we see tourism as a way to contribute to the preservation of the ecosystem on which we all depend, and which cannot be achieved without a strong local foundation.
01
We care about economic support for the local population
The conservation of an ecosystem requires the authentic and lasting commitment of the local population. Tourism offers local fishermen, especially shark fishermen, economic alternatives by becoming captains of our expeditions, with fair incomes. This highlights their experience and passion for the sea while supporting a non-extractive activity. By involving them in our approach, we reduce social conflicts and gentrification, while training them to become future conservationists.
We learn from them and, in return, offer them the opportunity to participate in the emerging tourism economy and in the preservation of their ecosystem.
02
We offer an educational, responsible, and respectful experience
Our sea trips are an invitation to better understand the ecology of the species we encounter, as well as their essential role in the balance of our ecosystems. You will also learn more about the environmental and social challenges of the region and its community.
We do everything possible to offer you unforgettable moments of wildlife observation while preserving the well-being of the animals and ensuring everyone’s safety. We prioritize small groups on board to encourage quality interactions and guarantee maximum wonder!
You’ll quickly realize for yourself that thoughtful and respectful encounters are far more enriching than forced interactions.
03
We care about the collective contribution to local science
Our sea trips are a valuable opportunity to collect essential data on the species observed, thanks to rigorous participatory science protocols in which everyone can participate.
Since marine studies are expensive and limited, each trip allows you to actively contribute to research.
The data collected is shared with our scientific partners and, in part, analyzed by our team, thus enriching our local knowledge. This allows, for example, to better understand the behavior of species in order to better protect them (catalogues, geospatial analyses, health, etc.) and to feed community discussions in favor of sustainable tourism. You can also join our scientific trips and expeditions!
Our actions to make the local population the guardians of tomorrow
The local community, thanks to its in-depth knowledge of the territory, plays a vital role in protecting the regional ecosystem. By raising awareness among younger and older generations and giving them access to the marine environment, we help them better understand their ecosystem and become aware of the economic and environmental benefits it brings. We strengthen their commitment to becoming the guardians of tomorrow.
01
Sharing our passion with the young local community
To raise awareness among future generations about their non-human marine and terrestrial neighbors and their crucial role in the ecosystem, in order to promote better coexistence in the long term. We organize field meetings to awaken their wonder and sensitivity, especially with primary schools in fishing or ranchero villages.
- Raising awareness of local wildlife among future generations
02
Training and mentoring local young enthusiasts toward maritime careers
In a highly competitive tourism sector and with a marine world that is difficult to access due to high costs for locals, we organize regular marine outings for around ten young enthusiasts, aged 14 to 23. Our program, focused on scuba diving, scientific monitoring, good tourism practices and awareness of the marine environment, aims to offer them the opportunity to realize their dreams and prepare for the future.
03
Share a new vision of the sea with our captains
For generations, fishermen have often had fears related to certain beliefs about marine species or shark retaliation. Offering them snorkeling opportunities or diving training helps them overcome these beliefs, evolve and become ambassadors of the marine world.
Oh! And we also work hand in hand with:
Do You want to help us in our community and scientific projects?
We are always looking for partners! We are overflowing with projects and ideas, feel free to contact us if you think we could team up!
Some words about...
our beautiful region Baja California & Cerralvo
La Ventana and El Sargento are two charming fishing villages located 40km south of La Paz, facing the enchanting Cerralvo Island. The Gulf of California, nicknamed “the world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, is home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals, including thousands of dolphins, various species of whales, sea lions, and the rare beaked whales (Ziphiidae). The Gulf is also home to one of the largest concentrations of mobula rays in the world and is a refuge for many species of fish and sharks.
In addition to its impressive marine life, the region offers breathtaking desert landscapes, where the desert meets the ocean, with majestic cacti diving into the bright blue of the Gulf. Enjoy white sand beaches, spectacular sunsets, vast desert spaces, and fascinating local flora and fauna. The desert, far from being barren, is a true haven of life for lovers of birds and terrestrial fauna.
Also meet the inhabitants of Baja California Sur: fishermen, rancheros and artisans, who, faithful to the Mexican tradition of hospitality, will be delighted to share their culture and their stories with you.
