Begin your 8-day Baja California expedition in Loreto, boarding the National Geographic Venture to sail into the Gulf of California. Explore Bahia Concepcion by kayak, snorkel, or hike among desert landscapes. Visit remote islands for wildlife sightings, Zodiac cruises, and expert photography tips. In Boca de Soledad, encounter gray whales and calves up close with local guides. Snorkel Cabo Pulmo’s coral reefs, swim with sea lions at Los Islotes, and hike Isla San José’s rugged trails. End your journey in Loreto, either heading home or extending your trip to enjoy more whale watching and local history. With daily adventures and expert guides, this trip offers the perfect blend of excitement and education in one of the world’s richest marine environments.
Highlights
Observe the famous California gray whales up close
Hike across desert islands and spectacular sculpted sand dunes
Experience Baja California & see a variety of wildlife
Snorkel with sea lions and search for marine mammals
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Arrive in Loreto, a small town by the gulf with Spanish colonial buildings. Go to the harbor and board the National Geographic Venture. The ship departs at sunset.
Wake up in Bahia Concepcion, a large bay with over 50 miles of beaches. Enjoy your coffee on deck while watching the sunrise. Take a Zodiac to look for whales and other marine life, kayak through mangroves, and snorkel in clear waters. On land, you can hike among tall cacti or walk the beaches while learning about the local ecology from naturalists.
The Gulf of California is home to great biological diversity, and with some luck, sightings of whales, dolphins, and other sea life are among the highlights of your journey. The plan is flexible as you explore some of the uninhabited islands sprinkled across these waters. The Captain and Expedition Leader collaborate to choose the perfect combination of activities for the day. Conditions permitting, you may hike, kayak or paddleboard. Learn about this ecosystem from a naturalist and capture amazing photos with help from your certified photo instructor.
After breakfast, transfer by motorcoach from Puerto Escondido to Puerto López Mateos. Settle in for unforgettable experiences in this tranquil lagoon. Each winter, during their long migration, gray whales travel south from their Arctic feeding grounds to breed and give birth to their calves in these sheltered waters. Together with savvy local fishermen, you venture out in local pangas to view the numerous mother-calf pairs. With luck, enjoy up-close interactions with these curious creatures. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before returning to the ship in late afternoon.
Day 5-7: Cabo Pulmo | Los Islotes | Gulf of California
Venture south to discover the gems of the southern Gulf. These islands and surrounding waters are celebrated for their conservation stories, marine life, and the many thrilling experiences on offer. Some of the locations you may visit or enjoy by Zodiac include:
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
Set out to snorkel the pristine reefs of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, one of the most successful national marine parks in the world. Chat with locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place, including a cessation of fishing to protect the reef.
Isla Espíritu Santo
A national park as well as UNESCO World Heritage site with volcanic rock formations, scenic beaches, and coral reefs. This magical island offers excellent hiking opportunities and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. It’s a popular destination for researchers monitoring sea turtles.
Los Islotes
Located at the northern tip of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Los Islotes is largely inaccessible to people and home to a large colony of sea lions. Conditions permitting, anchor off the rocky island where you don flippers, a mask, and snorkel (which is provided) and swim with these curious inhabitants.
Isla San Jose
One of the larger islands in the Gulf of California, San José offers several landing possibilities depending on conditions and the whim of the moment. Photograph the ochre cliffs of the island’s eastern shore, hike an enchanted, cactus-laden arroyo, or visit the abandoned salt works to the west. Discover rare wildlife among desert islands.
Day 8: Loreto | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast, disembark the ship and transfer to the Loreto airport for flights home or to Loreto’s city center to begin a two-night history and whale-watching extension.
Departure Time: Depart after 12:00 p.m. local time.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$7,0282-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Located on the main deck. Approximately 136 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two portholes. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 2
Located on the main deck. Approximately 136 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two portholes. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 3
Located on the upper deck. Approximately 151 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and a large view window. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 4
Located on the upper deck. Approximately 151 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, sliding glass door and small, private balcony. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Category 5
Located on the observation deck. Approximately 185 sq. ft. Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, large view windows, an expanded bathroom, writing desk, ample storage space, and a convertible sofa bed to accommodate a third person. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Botanically-inspired toiletries and hair dryers are also available in each cabin.
Notes
Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available, but is subject to availability.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet)
Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Rubber Boots: Please bring your own.
Crew gratuities
Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
