Baja
Explore the most wildlife rich areas of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula from the UNESCO Espiritu Santo Archipelago to the country’s most important coastal habitats on the western coast.
Overview:
From the Pacific coastline and the Sea of Cortez, considered by Jacques Cousteau as the “world’s aquarium,” you’ll have the opportunity for close encounters with grey whales, sea lions, whale sharks, and more. Baja’s geographic isolation has produced endemics in 25% of its plants. There are seven endemic bird species, and the peninsula is home to 5 of the world’s 7 turtle species. The Sea of Cortez hosts 1/3 of the world’s cetaceans and 39% of the world’s marine mammals with over 430 bird species. Surf, horseback ride, hike, search for birdlife with a local naturalist, and experience the local flavors from private cooking classes. From the comfort of boutique glamping, this will be a full sensory experience immersed in nature.
Itinerary Summary:
Day 1: Todos Santos
Days 2 – 3: Sierra de la Laguna
Days 4 – 5: Magdalena Bay
Day 6: La Paz
Days 7 – 8: Isla Espiritu Santo
Day 9: Todos Santos
Day 10: Depart
The Essentials:
Seasonality: Best in January through March for gray whales. Humpbacks and whale sharks October through March
From $3,685 per person (based on two travelers)
Includes accommodation, meals, guided tours with local naturalists, and transfers
Iconic landscapes without the problematic over tourism density
Itinerary:
Todos Santos – 2 nights (beginning and end)
The magical pueblo of Todos Santos, meaning “all saints,” is a charming, artsy surf town that serves as a perfect base to immerse in nature and explore the coastal town.
Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve – 2 nights
The Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, reflecting its long history of geographical isolation. Species new to science have been recently discovered, and the reserve is a critical habitat for fauna such as mountain lion, deer, badgers, and an array of birdlife including endemics. Spend your days hiking, birding, and learning traditional cooking techniques from the ranch family. Enjoy clear nights of starry skies. Swim in watering holes and picnic by waterfalls.
Magdalena Bay – 2 nights
Magdalena Bay is the prime calving ground for the gray whales from January to March including mothers and calves. Magdalena Bay also has mangrove forests, barrier beaches and sand dune islands, all of which contribute to the incredible scenery and biological diversity of the area. On small boats low to the water, you’ll have an unbeatable close encounter experience with these giants.
La Paz – 1 night
Feeding on plankton in the Bay of La Paz, experience your next gentle giant as you spend the day swimming with whale sharks.
Isla Espiritu Santo – 2 nights
One of 900 islands in the Espiritu Santo Archipelago, Isla Espiritu Santo is among the 244 islands designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Marine Zone of Espiritu Santo Archipelago National Park, which covers 48,000 hectares. Because of its protected status, your accommodations are designed for zero impact and can be disassembled seasonally, meaning the island will be nearly private. Depending on your time of year, you can snorkel with sea lions, whale watch, and enjoy fantastic birding.
Please call us on +1 720 494 1530 or email us at the link below to discuss this trip further with a travel expert. We would be happy to discuss ways to tailor this itinerary to your personal preferences.
