Highlights
- Cruise to Espiritu Santo Island via boat and see dolphins, turtles, and more
- Relax on the tranquil white sand beaches and blue waters of Balandra Beach
- Stroll the lively waterfront Malecon in the evening and watch the locals at play
- Feed your inner adventurer with a wild sandboarding ride down Mogote Dunes
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in La Paz, Free Afternoon to Explore | La Paz |
| Day 2 | Boating Excursion to Espiritu Santo Island | La Paz |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Balandra via San Rafaelito Island | La Paz |
| Day 4 | Sandboarding at the Mogote Dunes, Dinner in La Paz | La Paz |
| Day 5 | Depart La Paz |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in La Paz, Free Afternoon to Explore
Welcome to Mexico! Your flight lands in La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur, a Mexican state on the Baja California Peninsula. Known for its seafront promenade, beautiful beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and local artistry, this quiet beach town, whose name translates to "The Peace," offers outdoor adventures and a relaxing atmosphere. Arrive and take your private transfer to your hotel, then the rest of your day is free to explore.
If you'd like to dive into the region's local history and art, there are several museums and cultural centers worth perusing. Start at La Paz Cultural Center, which features works by local artists. Then, visit the Regional Museum of Anthropology and History of Baja California Sur, where you'll find artifacts and exhibits that take you from ancient times to the start of the 20th century. End your self-guided tour at the Baja California Sur Art Museum (MUABCS), home to interactive exhibits and local and national art. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and other local cuisine.
Day 2: Boating Excursion to Espiritu Santo Island
The day starts early as you meet your guide at the docks and hop onboard a boat to cruise to Espiritu Santo Island. Located approximately 1.5 hours from La Paz, Espiritu is part of a chain of rocky islands that extend southward along the western edge of the Gulf of California.
The landscapes here are incredible, with rock formations created by layers of volcanic lava and ash and steep cliffs rising above turquoise waters. What makes this region truly a must-see, however, is the marine life that inhabits these waters. Your captain will make a few stops along the way, allowing you to see more of the islands and learn about their geography and history.
Upon arrival at Espiritu, you'll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel, taking in the colorful tropical fish and possibly catching glimpses of dolphins, turtles, and various seabirds. Underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau, who became an honorary resident of the city, often referred to the seas of La Paz as the "world's aquarium," and your encounters with the wildlife here will quickly show you why! Enjoy a delicious lunch on a local beach, then, after more swimming and sunbathing, return to La Paz, where the rest of your evening is free.
Day 3: Day Trip to Balandra via San Rafaelito Island
Today, you'll spend quality time at Playa Balandra in Balandra Bay. This unspoiled paradise, declared a natural protected area in 2008, features clear, shallow waters and tons of marine life and is considered one of Mexico's most photogenic beaches. In the morning, depart from the dock with your guides, traveling about 25 minutes north of the city by boat. Along the way, you'll stop at San Rafaelito Island, where there's a small colony of sea lions. You'll have a chance to view the sea lions up close, even getting in the water for a snorkeling excursion with them if you'd like!
Continue to Balandra, where your boat will drop anchor, and you can spend the afternoon enjoying the beach. The water here is very shallow, allowing you to walk all the way out and across the bay. There are also hikeable areas around the bay, and if you trek all the way up the nearby hills, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the bay and beach area. Head back to town in the afternoon, where you can relax at your hotel or set out for a scenic stroll along the lively Malecon, a popular spot for families and friends to gather each evening and a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.
Day 4: Sandboarding at the Mogote Dunes, Dinner in La Paz
Step out of your comfort zone today with a sandboarding excursion to Mogote Dunes. Located just 30 minutes outside the city, the Mogote Peninsula offers desert landscapes that are truly otherworldly, with rolling dunes that meet the sea, black and red mangroves, and possible sightings of whale sharks in the distance.
Meet your guide in the morning for the drive, and upon arrival, you'll get a safety and equipment briefing before donning your equipment. Your experienced guide will provide instructions on the best way to conquer the dunes, but even the most inexperienced riders will likely pick it up quickly. Cruise down the sandy hills, choosing smaller ones if you want to play it safe, or try bigger dunes that are sure to please any adrenaline junkie!
Return to La Paz in time for a final dinner out on the town and perhaps some last-minute shopping—there are many locally owned shops in town that offer handmade arts and crafts. You can also stroll up to the town square, where you'll often find live music, and see the church there, Our Lady of Peace Cathedral, which features neoclassic architecture and has 18th-century Baroque altarpieces inside.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Depart La Paz
Sadly, your adventure in Mexico ends today. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your journey home or to your next destination. Safe travels!
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