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Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure Tour

Kayak, Snorkel & Camp on Isla Espiritu Santo

 

Considered the jewel of the Sea of Cortez, Isla Espiritu Santo is an unspoiled island paradise, home only to an abundance of spectacular wildlife. Discover this UNESCO-protected idyll on our multi-sport adventure, with two half-days of kayaking through sparkling water rich with marine life along the island's beautiful coastline, plus time to snorkel, swim, hike and unwind. Camp evenings feature delicious meals and stargazing. Bookend the island adventure with time to enjoy the pristine beaches and world-class surf breaks in the Pacific beach town of Todos Santos. Topped off with the unparalleled experience of swimming with whale sharks, this trip showcases Baja at its very best.

  • Fill 31 Copy Paddle to pristine beaches and hidden coves on this blissful kayaking adventure-a favorite winter escape!

  • Fill 31 Copy Get up close to a variety of marine life including playful sea lions and whale sharks

  • Fill 31 Copy Camp comfortably on mattresses in dome tents, be dazzled by azure waters and starry night skies, and bookend your adventure in a stylish boutique hotel

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

San José del Cabo, Mexico

Depart:

San José del Cabo, Mexico

Price: from $2,795

Duration:

6 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

4-10

Min Age:

14 yrs

Activity:

Level 3

This trip includes a moderate amount of sea kayaking with 2 to 3 hours of easy paddling. Optional surfing, snorkeling, and easy hiking.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Arrive in San Jose del Cabo

    Day 1


    Arrive in San Jose del Cabo. Meet your guides and transfer to the Pacific coast beach town of Todos Santos. Get settled into your room at a lovely boutique hotel with ocean views, then join your guide for a welcome dinner, followed by a trip briefing, outlining the adventures to come.

    Accommodation: Los Colibris Casitas-Todos Santos, Mexico

    Tucked away just a 10-minute walk from Todos Santos' pristine beaches, Los Colibris Casitas is a secluded boutique hideaway that features casitas with magnificent views of the ocean, a freshwater estuary, a palm grove oasis, and the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. The delightful restaurants, art galleries and shops of Todos Santos are a 5-minute drive away.

    Transportation: 90-minute private van transfer

    Meals: Dinner

  • Cruise to Isla Espiritu Santo and Paddle in a National Marine Park

    Day 2


    Start the day with a delicious Mexican breakfast, then transfer from Todos Santos to the Sea of Cortez port of La Paz to gear up with snorkeling equipment and wet suits at the bodega. Then it's into a private "panga" (a small motorized boat with seats and shade) and out into the Sea of Cortez! Arrive at Isla Espiritu Santo where the guides will lead a kayaking demonstration and safety class. After a quick picnic lunch, set off for your first paddle!

    Isla Espiritu Santo is in a National Marine Park, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of the best marine life viewing destinations in the world. Whales, dolphins, whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays and plenty of beautiful tropical fish call the surrounding waters home, while a terrific range of bird species including Blue-footed Boobies, Reddish Egrets, Great Blue Herons and Magnificent Frigatebirds frequent the island's skies and shores. The island itself is stunning, with magnificent towering cliffs, spectacular sandy bays, amazing lava rock formations, and rock art left by the now-extinct Guaycura and Pericu Indians. There's even an endemic ring-tailed cat, the babisuri. Plan to explore both above and below the ocean's surface and see some of the many marvels of land and sea.

    In the afternoon, arrive at camp and enjoy a happy hour and wonderful dinner prepared by our camp chef.

    Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Isla Espiritu Santo

    In 2005 Espiritu Santo was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Because of its protected status, no permanent structures of any sort are allowed in Isla Espiritu Santo, aside from the camps of the local fishermen. We'll sleep in high quality REI dome tents with mattresses, linens, pillows, comforters and rugs for your comfort.

    Activity: Estimated 3 hours / 4 miles kayaking (actual distances vary)

    Transportation: 90-minute private van transfer, 1-hour motorized boat ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Paddle at Los Islotes

    Day 3

    Today will be a great day! Cruise by private panga to Los Islotes, the permanent sea lion colony, and then set out on active explorations. Los Islotes is a very successful colony of about 600 individuals. Playing with the sea lion pups is truly one of life's great joys. Los Islotes doubles as a Blue-footed Booby colony as well. Paddle to many of the beautiful bays and inlets of the island, look for a Magnificent Frigatebird colony, and/or hike up from one of the beautiful beaches to get some spectacular views. Close out the day with another joyful happy hour and fantastic dinner by our camp chef.

    Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Isla Espiritu Santo

    In 2005 Espiritu Santo was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Because of its protected status, no permanent structures of any sort are allowed in Isla Espiritu Santo, aside from the camps of the local fishermen. We'll sleep in high quality REI dome tents with mattresses, linens, pillows, comforters and rugs for your comfort.

    Activity: Estimated 4 hours / 6 miles kayaking (actual distances vary)

    Transportation: 30-minute motorized boat ride each way

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Swim with Whale Sharks and Journey Back to Todos Santos

    Day 4

    Depart from Isla Espiritu Santo this morning and head for one of the most amazing experiences yet - swimming with the largest fish in the world - the whale shark! Of course, you may be asking yourself: is it a whale or is it a shark? Hint: whales are mammals and sharks are fish. These gentle giants feed on plankton in the Bay of La Paz (so all human flesh is safe), and it is here that you'll have the remarkable experience of observing and swimming with them. Then head back to shore and on to Todos Santos. Get settled back into your room at your boutique hotel, rest up, then head out for a terrific dinner in town.

    Accommodation: Los Colibris Casitas-Todos Santos, Mexico

    Tucked away just a 10-minute walk from Todos Santos' pristine beaches, Los Colibris Casitas is a secluded boutique hideaway that features casitas with magnificent views of the ocean, a freshwater estuary, a palm grove oasis, and the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. The delightful restaurants, art galleries and shops of Todos Santos are a 5-minute drive away.

    Transportation: Half-day motorized boat ride, 90-minute private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Catch a Wave at Todos Santos

    Day 5

    Enjoy a terrific Mexican breakfast then head to Los Cerritos, widely considered one of the best surf breaks in Baja. No experience? No problem! Our instructors guarantee that you'll ride the waves - at least for a moment - during your first hour of instruction. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the balance of the day simply enjoying the beach. There will be time in the afternoon to walk into town to check out the shops and art galleries of Todos Santos.

    This evening local lawyer turned chef Iker Algorri, author of Cooking Adventures in Baja California Sur and chef-in-residence at Los Colibris Casitas, will lead a wonderful Mexican Survival Cooking Class. The emphasis is on having as much fun as possible, learning to make the perfect margarita, and gaining the skill to make some truly delicious Mexican dishes following Chef Iker's cooking philosophy, the Magnificence of Simplicity. Listen to and learn about some great Latin music you may never have heard before. Be warned - dancing is often known to follow this class!

    Accommodation: Los Colibris Casitas-Todos Santos, Mexico

    Tucked away just a 10-minute walk from Todos Santos' pristine beaches, Los Colibris Casitas is a secluded boutique hideaway that features casitas with magnificent views of the ocean, a freshwater estuary, a palm grove oasis, and the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. The delightful restaurants, art galleries and shops of Todos Santos are a 5-minute drive away.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart San Jose del Cabo

    Day 6

    Transfer from Todos Santos to San Jose del Cabo for departure.

    Transportation: 90-minute private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast

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Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

MT Sobek has been leading active adventures in Baja since 1997, always working closely with local experts on Isla Espiritu Santo to tread carefully and maintain the pristine environment.

Reason #02

This expertly crafted 6-day adventure blends kayaking and island exploration with ample opportunities for rest and relaxation. It's perfect for the short-on-time traveler.

Reason #03

You can join a variety of activities on Isla Espiritu Santo, a national marine park and part of a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site.

Meet your guides

Sergio Mariscal

Sergio Mariscal

Sergio was born and raised in Baja California Sur, and has a lifetime of experience exploring the region's beautiful land and seascape. He is a Wilderness First Responder, Level 3 Sea Kayaker, and is currently working on a dive master's certification. Sergio has worked in tourism since his time at Universidad in La Paz, where he earned a degree in Alternative Tourism. When he isn't leading trips, Sergio loves spending time outdoors with his son. 

Activities

Kayaking in an island paradise, swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling, optional surf lesson, and plenty of opportunities to unplug and recharge.

Lodging

Two nights beach camping on Isla Espiritu Santo in the Sea of Cortez, and three comfy nights at a boutique hotel in the Pacific Coast beach town of Todos Santos.

Climate

Baja experiences hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures in Mexico surpass 120°F in summer, but cool to the 80°s in late autumn.

FAQ

Is Sea Kayaking safe in Baja?

We will kayak in calm waters, close to shore. We will not kayak if conditions are unsafe.

Do I need to get in shape for the kayaking trip?

Our pace will be easy, but strong headwinds will require more upper body strength. We recommend that you prepare physically for this adventure.

Will we see wildlife?

Yes! You are likely to see sea lions, sea turtles, reef fish, and other marine wildlife, plus whale sharks on Day 4. And if you're lucky, octopuses and whales!

What is the weather like in Baja?

The weather from November through April is generally perfect, with highs during the day in the mid to upper 70s and lows at night in the upper 50s to mid-60s.

What do U.S. citizens need to enter Mexico?

All United States citizens and permanent residents visiting Mexico must have a valid US passport and/or permanent residency card to enter the country.

Will there be Wi-Fi during the trip?

Our hotel in Todos Santos has Wi-Fi. There is no internet or phone service available at our beach camp on Isla Espiritu Santo.

dolphins - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
getting ready - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
paddler view - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
hikers - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
ocean view - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
snorkeling with whale shark - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
pelicans - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
beach walk - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
sea lions - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
sunset - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
surfing - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
fish - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure
camping - Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez Multi-Adventure

Testimonials

"I've taken six MTS trips and they have all exceeded my expectations. The staff, the food, the logistics and the communications have always been exceptional. Thank you for being my "go to" adventure travel company!"

Margaret I.
MT Sobek Guest

"I have traveled extensively around the world. The experience with MTS was by far the best I have ever had. Thank you for such excellence."

Marianne W.
MT Sobek Guest

Trustpilot
  • 2022
  • 2023
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

2022

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Dec 02 - 07, 2022
    $2,795 price per person dbl occ
    +$900 single supplement
    Waitlist
    Contact us

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

2023

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Jan 21 - 26, 2023
    $2,795 price per person dbl occ
    +$900 single supplement
    Available
    Book Online
  • Mar 10 - 15, 2023
    $2,795 price per person dbl occ
    +$900 single supplement
    AvailableConfirmed
    Book Online
  • Apr 10 - 15, 2023
    $2,795 price per person dbl occ
    +$900 single supplement
    Available
    Book Online

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $2,995 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $2,895 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Take Over One of These Dates

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

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