Baja Escape: Exploring the Sea of Cortez

Itinerary

Day 1: Los Angeles / La Paz / Embark

Fly from Los Angeles to La Paz and embark the National Geographic Sea Lion in the heart of old La Paz.

Day 2: Islas Los Islotes and Espirtu Santo

At Isla Los Islotes, experience the delight of snorkeling with curious sea lions – one of life’s great pleasures. With a deeply indented shoreline and dramatically eroded cliff faces, Isla Espiritu Santo is perhaps the most beautiful island in the Sea of Cortez. Spend a leisurely afternoon here, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking or relaxing on deck. In the evening head ashore for a beach barbecue under the desert sky.

Day 3: Isla Santa Catalina

This morning search the waters south of Isla Carmen, an area that has proven to be one of the best for finding whales, and often bottlenose and common dolphins. In the afternoon visit Isla Santa Catalina, famous for its giant barrel cactus and cardon forest. The protected bay of the anchorage is also an excellent site for snorkeling. With a full afternoon here there is time for swimming, snorkeling, hiking and kayaking.

Day 4: Exploring the Sea of Cortez

Let nature be your guide during your last full day in the Sea of Cortez and travel on a flexible itinerary. There are numerous islands to explore in the Bahia Loreto Marine Reserve, and it is also a rich area for whales and dolphins. Spend part of the morning searching for marine life, and then anchor at an island such as Carmen, where there is a mountainous shoreline to explore by kayak, arroyos that beckon you to explore inland, and bays of turquoise waters for snorkeling.

Day 5: La Paz/Disembark / Los Angeles

This morning disembark at La Paz and transfer to the airport for the flight to Los Angeles.