Loreto to La Paz Expedition | Adventure Unbound

Sea Kayaking Baja California Sur

Our Loreto to La Paz Expedition offers a classic Baja sea kayaking experience--the perfect trip for the adventurous paddler longing to experience the remote Baja few travelers see. Paddle along the surreally stunning coastling stretching between Loreto and La Paz on this 10-day journey. Note: Pangas support our travels, carrying heavier gear to various campsites and making it more accessible to a range of paddlers. Any extra luggage may be left at our Tour Hotel and will be transfered to our final destination for pick-up. 

Encompassing 65 miles of road-less coastline and offshore islands between Loreto and La Paz on the peninsula's eastern coast, this is Baja's classic sea kayak expedition. This coastline is one of the most remote and sparsely populated areas in all of Baja. There are no villages or towns, and the only access to the occasional fish camp is by sea.

The Sierra Giganta Range plunges into the Sea of Cortez, effectively isolating the area from the rest of the peninsula and creating a stunningly beautiful backdrop the entire trip. We'll make camps on beaches that dot the base of these magnificent mountains. Canyon hikes take us into the desert interior, while kayaking allows an intimate exploration of the many coves and sea caves.

The clear waters of the Sea of Cortez teem with colorful life, and the snorkeling around the shallow reefs and vertical ledges is excellent. We see pods of dolphins, as well as massive whales. You'll paddle past towering volcanic peaks, miles of unexplored beaches and forests of giant cardon cactus. Prehistoric-looking frigate birds circle high above while squadrons of pelicans glide across the glassy water.  

The expedition begins with your arrival in Loreto and after 10 days of paddling you'll arrive at the take-out site near La Paz. We now offer a paddle back from La Paz to Loreto, as well.

Images & Videos

Group of kayakers form behind paddling towards Danzante Island in Loreto Bay, Mexico
Two sea kayakers paddling into the sunrise in Baja California Sur
Beach sunset overlooking sea kayaks on the shore off the Sea of Cortezon Carmen Island in Baja California Sur
A group of sea kayakers paddling around an island bend in the middle of the Sea of Cortez
Sea kayakers admiring a large sandstone cliff behind them off the coast of La Paz in Baja California Sur
Sea kayaker paddling towards the camera on the Sea of Cortez
A row of kayaks on the beach while someone walks along the shore of the Sea of Cortez in Baja California Sur
Manta rays flying out of the Sea of Cortez on a sunny day
Group of tents on a white sand beach overlooking the Sea of Cortez at sunset
Group of snorkelers swimming around a small cove looking for marine life off the coast of La Paz
Group of kayakers form behind paddling towards Danzante Island in Loreto Bay, Mexico
Two sea kayakers paddling into the sunrise in Baja California Sur
Beach sunset overlooking sea kayaks on the shore off the Sea of Cortezon Carmen Island in Baja California Sur
A group of sea kayakers paddling around an island bend in the middle of the Sea of Cortez
Sea kayakers admiring a large sandstone cliff behind them off the coast of La Paz in Baja California Sur
Sea kayaker paddling towards the camera on the Sea of Cortez
A row of kayaks on the beach while someone walks along the shore of the Sea of Cortez in Baja California Sur
Manta rays flying out of the Sea of Cortez on a sunny day
Group of tents on a white sand beach overlooking the Sea of Cortez at sunset
Group of snorkelers swimming around a small cove looking for marine life off the coast of La Paz

Itinerary

Collapse all days

Day 1

Kayaking in the Sea of Cortez

Enjoy an independent breakfast before meeting with the group to transfer to our launch point outside Agua Verde. Once we've arrived, our guides lead you through a comprehensive sea kayaking briefing. Then dip your paddle into Baja's waters and set off down the coast toward our campsite for the evening. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Lunch, Dinner

Day 2-9

Kayaking in the Sea of Cortez

We paddle around 7-12 miles each day (about 5-6 hours) with rest stops every 2 hours. When we're not cruising the Sea of Cortez's turquoise waters, you have plenty of time to take a dip and do some snorkeling, comb the beaches, look for wildlife, and do some hiking. We also visit a historic Jesuit Mission as well as a small fishing village, giving us authentic insight into the everyday lives of Baja's people. 

ACCOMMODATION : Beach camping
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

Arrive in La Paz

Rise early and enjoy a hearty breakfast before breaking camp. Then we begin our paddle to our next take-out location by Punta Coyote, where we're met with vans which transport you back to La Paz. Settle into your hotel before setting out to explore the sights La Paz has to offer. Rejoin the group for a no-host farewell dinner at a favorite local restaurant overlooking the harbor. 

ACCOMMODATION : not included
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11

Departure Day

Fit in any more exploration before catching some transport to the airport for your return flight home. While the closest airport is La Paz Airport (LPD), you may also fly out of CAbo (SJD). 

MEALS INCLUDED : None

Dates & Rates

DatesAdult (USD)Child (USD)
Mar 31, 2024 to Apr 09, 2024
Lowest Tier price
$2,960£0€0$0$0$2,960£0€0$0$0

Supplementary Information

2022/2023 Season Pricing

5-7 Guests - $3190

8-10 Guests - $2960

Single Supplement: Solo travelers will always have their own tent during kayaking tours, at no additional cost. Single kayaks are available to reserve and use throughout the trip for an additional cost of $100. Please note, you must have previous ocean paddling experience to reserve a single kayak.

Tour Includes:

  • Full services of our Adventure Consultants
  • Professional naturalist and bi-lingual guides
  • All meals and beverages as indicated on the itinerary
  • All transportation while on tour
  • All kayaking, camping and snorkeling equipment
  • Panga supported kayaking tour
  • Taxes

Tour Does Not Include:

  • Airfare

  • Transportation to and from the airport

  • Hotels before and after the tour 

  • All National Parks & Biosphere Reserve access fees required by itinerary

  • Gratuities

  • Items of a personal nature

WEATHER-CAUSED TRIP ALTERATIONS

Strong winds and/or rough water conditions sometimes prevent our trips from going as scheduled. We are at the mercy of nature, as well as the local Port Captains who determine if ports are open or closed.  In particular, on our La Paz-based trips, winds may prevent us from crossing from the Port to Espiritu Santo Island which may also be reason for the Port Captain to close the port or prohibit crossing.  In these cases there are different solutions.  Sometimes we have to delay the crossing by a day or two, or have to leave Espiritu Santo Island a day or two early.  In these cases we provide a substitute activity for the day(s) we cannot kayak.  If the weather forecast predicts a series of days with strong winds, we also reserve the right to transfer the trip to Magdalena Bay on the Pacific Coast, which is almost always in calm, protected waters.  We recognize this isn't ideal, however we have no control over nature.  Most people prefer to still have a trip going, versus no kayak trip at all.  Decisions to alter trips are not made until the last minute*, since we are basing our decisions on wind and weather forecasts that can change.  Your guides will inform you at the evening orientation meeting if the trip location has changed or the itinerary has been altered. We use apps like Windy or Windfinder Pro to monitor winds and forecasts.  The safety and security of our trips is the primary focus of our decisions.

 If you purchase Trip Insurance and wish to cancel on the day of the trip, the "Trip Interruption" coverage may apply if Mexican authorities have closed the Port.  If you have questions about your coverage, call the toll-free number on your Travel Insurance policy to ask.  Neither our guides nor our office staff can determine if coverage will apply. Sea Kayak Adventures does reserve the right to modify and alter trip itineraries and in these circumstances will not provide any refund of trip monies paid.  

  *Last-minute means no sooner than noon the day prior.  Final information will be provided at the evening orientation meeting.

ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.

FAQ & More

Is previous kayaking experience necessary?

Our tours are suitable for novices. However, this is our longest tour and is a bit more-kayak focused than our standard Baja tours. Therefore, the Loreto to La Paz route is best suited to those with some prior kayaking experience or a regular fitness program. Call us with any questions! 1-800-616-1943.

How do I get to Loreto?

Please check out our Transportation Guide for our recommendations on how to get to Loreto.

Are your tour prices in USD?

Yes, all of our tour pricing is in US Dollars.

What’s included in this kayak package? What’s not included?

Included: Skilled professional guide services, ground transportation, motorboat-support to carry gear, snorkeling equipment, camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, liners, and sleeping pads. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day. 

Not Included: Airfare, transportation to and from airport, hotel nights as indicated on itinerary, National Park fees, gratuities, and items of a personal nature.

What kind of kayaks do you use?

For all of our Baja tours we use high quality, fiberglass kayaks, made by Seward. The majority of our fleet is comprised of tandems, as these boats offer the greatest stability, speed, and ease of paddling. There are typically a small number of single kayaks present on the tour, which will be utilized by the guides. Depending on weather conditions, and interest, they may allow guests to rotate into singles; however this will be at the guide's' discretion based on safety and the paddling objectives for the day. We also have a limited number of solo kayaks available to reserve and use throughout the trip (for an additional cost) for paddlers who have ocean kayaking experience.

Are your kayak trips motorboat supported?

Yes, if at any time a guest does not want to paddle they are welcome to ride in the panga instead.

Can I paddle a single kayak?

We have single kayaks available to reserve and use throughout the trip (for an additional cost of $100) for paddlers who have previous ocean paddling experience. If you would like to reserve a single kayak for your trip you will need to contact our Adventure Consultants to add this to your reservation and provide a summary of your ocean paddling experience.

What are the physical requirements for this trip?

When stopping at shore, you should be able to climb in and out of the kayaks on your own. They will be floating in calf-deep water. Your guides are happy to assist, but balance and limberness are required. When you get to your evening campsite, all group members must to be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line, in teams of 6-8, before the group disperses. You will change camp sites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Camp sites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour.

What’s camp like? Are there toilets and showers at camp?

When you get to your evening campsite all group members must be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line. You will change campsites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Campsites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour. We endeavor to secure the very best campsites for the natural beauty and amenities of the area. Your guides will give a demonstration of how to set up and take down your provided dome tent. We also will provide you with a sleeping bag, liner sheet, pillow and an inflatable thermarest sleeping pad. There will be a kitchen/dining area and shade tarps where you can sit back and relax.

While kayaking, we can only carry enough fresh water for drinking and cooking. There are no fresh water sources on most of the coastline and islands we visit. You can clean up with saltwater and soap off above the high tide line, or bring disposable shower wipes. A porta potty will fit into a hatch of the kayak or on the panga support boat, and will be transported to each campsite and set into a sheltered area for solid waste. Liquid waste can be expelled below the high tide line, or in a separate porta-potty bucket.

Is it safe to be around whales in sea kayaks?

As with all adventure travel, there is certainly an inherent risk that comes along with this sort of travel, as well as multiple external factors and variables that are outside of our control.  However, we do take every measure to ensure that you and your family are in a safe situation while paddling. We paddle large, expedition style Sea Kayaks. Their size, girth, and weight make them very stable to paddle. We have never experienced a situation in which a whale has harmed a kayaker in the water. The whales are very aware of their surrounding, and we maintain a safe distance at all times.

What happens if it’s too windy to paddle?

If it’s too windy to paddle your guides will have alternative activities for guests to enjoy. There are opportunities to snorkel, hike or just relax on the beach with a margarita. We plan our itineraries to minimize risks posed by weather, but there is always an element of unpredictability in nature. The risk capsizing is reduced by our stable boats, but exists. All of our kayak guides are certified in kayak rescue.

When is the best time to go to see whales in the Sea of Cortez?

The islands of Loreto National Marine Park, located in the Sea of Cortez, are home for 6 different species of whales including Blue, Fin, Sei, Humpback, Bryde's and Pilot whales. From January through April look for spectacular sightings of Blue, Fin and Humpback whales in the warm, calm waters near Loreto on our Sea of Cortez Islands tours.

Magdalena Bay and San Ignacio Lagoon, on the opposite side of the peninsula, are both world-renowned winter nursery grounds of the Gray whales. From late-January to mid-March is the best time to see gray whales. We operate both Gray Whale Base Camps and Kayak/Whale Watching Combos during this short season.

Can I fish?

In general, fishing in allowed in Loreto/La Paz. You would need to obtain a fishing license either before arriving or upon arrival. Our guides will not allow fishing if you are unable to produce a valid license. You will also need to bring all of your own fishing equipment. Along our kayaking routes there are areas where fishing is allowed, the guides will let you know where fishing is prohibited. Also, fishing is only allowed at the guide's discretion, as we have an itinerary, schedule and other group members that we have to take into consideration.

What gear do I need?

Sea Kayak Adventures will provide you with a detailed packing list prior to your trip. We provide all of the necessary camping, paddling and snorkeling equipment, which you will need to fully enjoy your adventure. If you are interested in more specific information, check out our general Baja packing list here! If you have any questions, or need help deciding what to bring, you can call or e-mail one of our friendly Adventure Consultants at any time for some extra advice!

What kind of food will I eat? Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Our renowned wilderness meals are prepared daily by our guides using local, fresh, healthy ingredients. In Baja you can expect an authentic dining experience, with savory dishes like chiles rellenos, tostadas, ceviche, and chicken mole. We even serve delicious desserts like brownies and pineapple upside-down cake! Each morning, we serve up freshly brewed coffee or tea. Throughout the day we provide an abundance of local fruits, vegetables, and other snacks. Wine and mixed drinks are served with hors d’oeuvres each evening for happy hour. We do our best to accommodate special dietary requests, working within the parameters of the destinations in which we operate. If you have a very strict diet, we recommend packing extra snacks that you know you can eat.

How many guests per tour?

To keep our group size small and our impact minimal, we typically limit our tours to 14 people or less. Our standard minimum to confirm a departure is 4 guests for our Loreto to La Paz kayak tour.

What’s the weather like in Baja?

Please check out this great website Weather Underground for temperature averages in Baja.

Will I have cell phone reception?

Contact your service provider for the best options for taking your cell phone to a different country. You are unlikely to receive cell service while paddling, but WiFi is available in many coffee shops in town. Your guides will be equipped with radios during the tour in case of emergency.

Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?

 Solo travelers will always have their own tent during kayaking tours, at no additional cost. 

Where can I store my luggage while I’m on your tour?

You can leave your luggage at your hotel while you are on tour. We recommend getting a luggage lock if you are leaving any electronics in the bags. We’ve never had any issues with guests leaving their bags at the hotel but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. We will transport your luggage from your hotel in Loreto to your hotel in La Paz for you to pick up upon check in in La Paz.

Is there a deposit required? Is my deposit refundable?

A deposit of $500 per person is required within 10 days of your reservation to hold your spaces. If the tour you are signing up for is a confirmed departure your deposit is non-refundable. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance to protect your vacation investment. US residents may purchase travel insurance directly through ROW Sea Kayak Adventures offered by Travel Insured International.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you find it necessary to cancel your trip, you should notify ROW Sea Kayak Adventures in writing, by e-mail or fax immediately. If written cancellation is received (call to verify) before the final balance is due, you will be given a refund less the amount of deposit. Deposits are not refundable. If cancellations are made on or after the final due date, no money will be refunded. If you are unable to go on the trip, you are welcome to find a replacement for yourself. Please understand that once you've signed up, we are unable to sell your reserved space to other individuals or groups. Therefore, we regret that we cannot make exceptions for personal emergencies. For this reason we strongly recommend you consider purchasing a Travel Protection Plan to protect your vacation investment.

When is payment in full due?

Full payment is due 60 days prior to the launch date, as indicated on your invoice. Due to the high demand for these trips, please be sure to pay your balance on time so as to not jeopardize your reservation. Your final payment must be paid by check or bank draft in US funds.  Alternatively, you may pay your final balance with a credit card, but a 3% administrative fee will be added.

Custom or Private

You love this itinerary but want to change it a bit to make it perfect for you?  Or, are you wanting to simply make it private?  Either way, we can do it!

Fill out this quick form to begin a custom or private adventure of a lifetime:

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