Sea Kayaking - Coast and Island Route

Day 1 - Arrival. For personal service we greet you at the airport and arrange transfers to your waterfront hotel in Loreto. Then, join a group orientation meeting with Paddling South's owner, Trudi Angell, or one of the trip leaders. We'll answer questions and discuss the next day's plan to help you get ready for a great adventure. This evening there's time to explore the quaint cobbled streets of Loreto, and we'll offer some local restaurant recommendations. Ground transfers, route and town maps, a Bienvenidos! drink and hotel are included.

Day 2 - A breakfast buffet is served at the hotel patio or at the beach put-in, and, hosted by your guides. Town luggage or items not needed on tour will be stored for you. Then off to a great adventure. Enjoy views of the five marine park islands and dramatic volcanic ridges on your way to the heart of Baja's paddling paradise. On the beach, guides will teach the basics of kayak touring, safety and ecological camping techniques.

Today's destination - Isla Danzante or Isla del Carmen for our first night's camp. The islands offer pristine camping at an easy paddling distance. After setting up camp there is plenty of time for exploring by foot or fin, or paddle, depending on the afternoon weather. Snorkel gear is included and a complete natural history library is packed in the hatches. We provide quality tents, but most folks prefer to sleep out. Rain and bugs are few; starry skies and the sound of the sea will lull you to sleep at night.

On our tours we spend a day or two exploring the islands - then, to be safe from the possibility of high winds changing our route, we cross back to the coast. Like a floating backpack we load the boats with our gear and travel 3 or 4 hours each day. While paddling south of the islands in a self-sufficient pod we'll find even more of the peninsula's hidden treasures.

Day 3 - Calm water, a colorful sunrise and a great breakfast start the day. Early morning is the best time to kayak. Gliding along in a silent craft, dolphins, whales and pelicans provide a natural history show. In camp, for a wonderful week you'll be at home in turquoise coves surrounded by majestic red-rock cliffs. Relax on warm sand beaches, hike winding canyons and discover swirling schools of rainbow wrasse. For a time live a simpler life in a simpler place.

Day 4 - Learn about Baja's weather, geography, and natural history from our experienced, local guides.To avoid disturbing wildlife we'll paddle at a safe distance past craggy islotes (small bird-nesting islands). See if you can spot the brilliant blue of a booby's feet on its cliffside perch, or the distinctive red eyes and beak of an oyster catcher as it hunts along a reef. Ospreys winter in Mexico; they have the right idea.

Isla Danzante

Day 5 - A popular highlight on the kayak route south of Loreto is a visit to a small island hot spring. At low tide wade across a sand spit and soak in the warm mineral water. It's a short walk from camp, and it's halfway along the trail to a friend's ranch where we arrange for a meal at the family's outdoor restaurant. Traditional beans, rice, fish or stew is complimented by homemade tortillas hot off the comal.

Day 6 - A layover day is scheduled to take advantage of our favorite camp. Enjoy a slow morning, or do an early birding walk; ride canyon trails on sturdy mules or horses, or hike over desert garden hills to a hidden oasis. If weather permits, grab your paddle and cruise across the channel to snorkel on a nearby island. Or, simply relax on the beach.

Day 7- The final paddle day takes us down the coast to the remote fishing village of Agua Verde. A towering spire of rock marks the entrance to beautiful "green water bay". Our last camp is close enough to the village to wander and watch as local fishermen bring in their catch or to visit the rural school. Yachts anchor in the bay protected from seasonal winds. Reefs and points provide a final bit of snorkeling. Mañana we head back to town.

Day 8 - Paddle into the sunrise as pelicans skim the water's surface. Last chance to slip away for an hour and catch a kaleidoscope of dawn colors on the cliffs. Mid morning we load up and climb aboard our van at the take-out. In a few hours we'll be back in Loreto for a taco lunch and hot showers at the hotel, while in the afternoon there's still time to do some last-minute shopping before our farewell dinner at a favorite restaurant. Dinner is hosted by Paddling South and the hotel night is included.

Day 9 - Breakfast is on your own this morning. For early departures the hotel restaurant can accommodate your schedule, or head downtown to Café Olé for a leisurely brunch at the locals' favorite. Your guides will help you with transportation info. for departure Paradise lost... but come back soon for another great adventure on sea or sierra and discover more of the treasures of Baja.

note: As everywhere in the outdoors, weather conditions might alter a trip itinerary. On the 8 day trips usually one of the coastal camps is omitted. From mid November to mid February we often add a 9th day for wind possibilities.

Our trips are planned to satisfy both active adventurers and those looking for a relaxing vacation. We think you'll agree, we've found the right combination!

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