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Cabo San Lucas – La Paz – Magdalena Bay – Loreto
Discover the marvels of Baja California Sur, a region where the arid desert meets the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. This extraordinary landscape sets the stage for a journey filled with celestial wonders and diverse wildlife. Rancho Cacachilas, located in Los Cabos, is a captivating oasis for nature enthusiasts. Explore scenic trails by foot, gaze at the mesmerizing night sky during stargazing sessions, embark on horseback riding adventures, or conquer thrilling mountain biking trails for a remarkable outdoor experience in this pristine Baja California desert sanctuary. Swim alongside gentle giants during thrilling encounters with both whale sharks and gray whales with their calves, marveling at their majestic presence. Explore Espiritu Santo Island’s protected coves, adorned with stunning colors and geological formations. Visit Balandra Beach, a splendid natural sanctuary and one of Mexico’s most exquisite beaches. Prepare to be captivated by playful sea lions and vibrant marine life during idyllic snorkeling experiences. As you venture to Loreto, its rich heritage provides a glimpse into a bygone era, enveloping you into a lovely small oasis in the mountains with a timeless ambiance.
B Breakfast | L Lunch | D Dinner | BL Box Lunch | OV Overnight
Day & Location | Transportation, Highlights & Accommodation | Meals |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive to Los Cabos, Sierra de las Cacachilas | Arrive at Los Cabos airport (around 2p.m.) and land transfer to Sierra de las Cacachilas. Walking tour, stargazing, welcome dinner OV: Glamping Rancho Cacachilas |
D |
Day 2 | Sierra de las Cacachilas | Choose activities: hiking, mule riding or mountain biking OV: Glamping Rancho Cacachilas |
B, L, D |
Day 3 | La Paz | Land transfer to La Paz (45 min), boat transfer to Espiritu Santo Island (1.5 hr) Snorkeling with Sea Lion colony, La Paz Walking tour OV: Hotel Catedral |
B, L, D |
Day 4 | La Paz | Boat transfer (30 min), swimming with Whale Sharks, Espiritu Santo and Balandra beach with picnic lunch OV: Hotel Catedral |
B, D, BL |
Day 5 | Magdalena Bay | Land transfer (4 hrs) to San Carlos, Boat transfer. Gray Whale Watching Tour, beachcombing OV: Magdalena Bay Camp |
B, L |
Day 6 | Magdalena Bay | Sunrise Walk over Magdalena Bay, Gray whale watching, kayaking or beachcombing/relax or birdwatch OV: Magdalena Bay Camp |
B, L, D |
Day 7 | Loreto | Gray Whale watching, boat transfer (45 min) and land transfer (2 hrs) to Loreto. Afternoon walking tour Overnight at Hotel La Mision |
B, L, D |
Day 8 | Loreto | San Javier Mission cultural trip with culinary experience, 1 hour transfer each way, farewell dinner Overnight at Hotel La Mision |
B, L |
Day 9 | Loreto – Departure | Land transfer to the Loreto International airport (15 min) to connect with your flight back home. |
B |
Welcome to Mexico! Upon arrival at Los Cabos International Airport, clear customs and meet your private guide who will transfer you to the hospitality area. From there, embark on a 45-minute overland journey to Sierra de las Cacachilas, offering stunning Baja landscape views and an introduction to the upcoming adventure. Rancho Cacachilas, nestled in this remote mountain range, is a sanctuary for unique desert flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Your Tour Leader provides an informative orientation, followed by settling into your comfortable glamping tent and a nature walk. The day concludes with a delightful dinner and captivating stargazing under the exceptionally clear skies. Overnight at Rancho Cacachilas Glamping.
The day begins with a delightful breakfast, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. The adventure truly begins as you choose from three fun activity options: hiking, mule riding, or mountain biking. For biking enthusiasts, it’s important to note that mountain biking is recommended for intermediate and advanced bikers. Whichever activity you choose, rest assured that breathtaking views of the mountain range and the enchanting desert landscape of Baja California Sur await you. A delightful ranch-to-table meal is served and the afternoon offers another opportunity for adventure, allowing you to select one of the three exciting activities or simply unwind by the pool with a captivating book. As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing sunsets characteristic of the Sierra de las Cacachilas. Engage in friendly games with your knowledgeable local guides, creating cherished memories with your fellow travelers. As the night sky unfolds with dazzling stars, relish a delectable regional dinner. Overnight at Rancho Cacachilas Glamping.
Following breakfast, embark on a 45-minute scenic road journey to La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, offering a unique blend of tourism and local culture, serving as the gateway to the Sea of Cortez. Upon arrival in La Paz, board a 1.5-hour boat ride to Espiritu Santo Island National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its remarkable ecosystem. Upon reaching Los Islotes, a rugged seamount north of Espíritu Santo Island National Park, you have the opportunity to snorkel with a colony of sea lions. These agile marine mammals, known for their chocolate-colored fur, are swift swimmers and divers, some weighing up to 600 pounds. Witness their playful interactions and explore the island’s protected coves featuring stunning geological formations. Enjoy a beach picnic lunch amidst picturesque surroundings, followed by leisure time. Return to La Paz and opt for rest or a stroll along the La Paz Malecon, a four-mile waterfront boardwalk on the Sea of Cortez, adorned with sculptures and offering a glimpse of local Mexican life. Dinner awaits at a culinary gem nestled within an iconic historic mansion in La Paz, Casamarte Oyster Bar & Grill. Your dining experience celebrates fresh, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, complemented by artisanal mixology. The daily catch of seafood inspires the kitchen to craft simple, local recipes perfect for sharing. Overnight at Hotel Catedral.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, followed by a boat excursion for an exhilarating snorkeling adventure with whale sharks (conditions permitting). These gentle giants, the largest fish species, are often spotted near the island. Keep an eye out for their distinct underwater ‘footprints.’ After the incredible whale shark encounter, a 30-minute boat transfer brings you to the stunning Balandra Beach, celebrated for its turquoise waters and natural beauty. This protected area ranks among Mexico and the world’s most beautiful beaches. Have a picnic lunch, explore the bay with your naturalist guide, and learn about the local geology and species. Return to La Paz via a short boat ride, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. Stroll along the town adorned with vibrant murals and the Malecon, known for its mesmerizing Sea of Cortez sunsets. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. Delight in Mexican haute cuisine at 3 Virgenes Restaurant, featuring exquisite steak cuts like the New York strip with risotto, and an enticing butcher’s board with sumptuous seafood options, including the standout mezquite-grilled octopus. Overnight at Hotel Catedral.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel and soon after start your 4-hour journey, with two stops, to the picturesque San Carlos town on Baja’s Pacific Coast. Upon reaching the charming dock, relish a mouthwatering lunch of Baja-style fish tacos, enjoying the seaside ambiance. Mother Nature is your guide today. A boat transfer takes us to the renowned Magdalena Bay, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a place that offers a surreal encounter with gentle giants—the gray whales. This tranquil bay serves as their seasonal sanctuary, a birthing and breeding ground that showcases nature’s marvel on an epic scale (mid-January – early March). Have your first encounter with magnificent gray whales on an approx 2-hour whale-watching tour, be awe-struck by these extraordinary mammals that have migrated over 12,000 miles to Baja’s west coast for the incredible purpose of calving in these waters. An experience of pure luck and wonderment! In the late afternoon, return to the camp for a delightful happy hour followed by a delectable dinner at the camp’s local restaurant. Don’t miss the opportunity to go stargazing with your guide. Far from urban light pollution, the unpolluted skies of Baja treat stargazers to mesmerizing celestial spectacles, connecting us to the vastness of the universe. Overnight at the Magdalena Bay Camp.
Start your day with a sunrise walk along the remote coastline, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over Magdalena Bay and immersing yourself in its pristine beauty. Amidst a captivating landscape of steep red bluffs and expansive desert beaches, your weeklong adventure continues with a day of play. After another 2-hour whale-watching tour, return to the glamping site for lunch. In the afternoon, you have the freedom to engage in various activities at the luxurious whale camp. Choose from an afternoon whale-watching tour, sea kayaking through intricate rock formations, exploring hidden coves, or beachcombing along the remote island’s coastline. Bahía Magdalena is a haven for bird enthusiasts, hosting over 100 diverse bird species, including pelicans, frigate birds, red-billed tropicbirds, blue-footed and masked boobies, roadrunners, and elf owls. Alternatively, equip yourself with binoculars and embark on a remarkable journey, exploring the island and dunes through hiking while spotting this myriad of avian wonders. Savor an evening cocktail and a delectable meal thoughtfully prepared by our dedicated crew using fresh ingredients. Overnight at the Magdalena Bay Camp.
After a hearty breakfast, prepare your luggage for check-out and gear up for another whale-watching session. Following the session, return to San Carlos dock via a 45-minute boat ride, then board a van for a scenic 2-hour journey to Loreto. Arriving in Loreto midafternoon, check in, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the charming town of Loreto. Overnight at Hotel Mision Loreto.
Begin your day with an early breakfast and embark on a historical expedition to Baja’s most significant mission, the San Javier Mission. Journey for three hours through the breathtaking natural landscapes of the Sierra Giganta Mountain range. Explore the remnants of the ancient Jesuit mission, stroll through cobblestone streets, visit fruit orchards, and discover Baja’s oldest olive gardens. Savor authentic Mexican cuisine, highlighting a culinary experience that caters to food enthusiasts. On the return journey to Loreto, time your drive to capture the region’s best panoramic views. In the late afternoon, return to Loreto and prepare for a farewell dinner with your tour leader at one of the town’s fine restaurants. Overnight at Hotel Mision Loreto.
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Baja. A brief 15-minute land transfer brings you to Loreto International Airport for your departure
Best time for:
Gray Whale Watching: Mid January to Mid March
Whale Sharks:
Warmer water conditions:
Please be aware that the provided routes, activities, and schedules may be subject to potential changes. Weather conditions could require adjustments to the itinerary or the sequencing of days to ensure the best possible and enjoyable experience. Moreover, the local trip coordinators maintain the authority to replace accommodations with alternatives of comparable quality if necessary. Please be assured that every endeavor will be undertaken to enhance your overall experience.
2025 | Price per person | |
---|---|---|
Based on 4-6 adults traveling together | $5,645 | |
Based on 7-9 adults traveling together | $5,425 |
This is a preliminary costing; hotels may vary according to availability at time of booking.
At Green Planet Expeditions, we craft strategically curated journeys that immerse travelers in the finest of nature, culture, and local traditions, always seeking out opportunities for exceptional dining experiences. Our expertise lies in tailor-made trips to destinations where we maintain close relationships with local partners, ensuring flawless execution with the assistance of passionate guides deeply connected to their heritage and committed to its preservation.
We believe that tourism, when harnessed thoughtfully, becomes a powerful catalyst for conservation and community upliftment in the destinations we visit.
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