Mexico
Whales, Seas & Desert: Stunning Baja California Peninsula
Program No. 24399RJ
Get a local’s look at Mexico’s incredible Baja Peninsula, known for its pristine desert landscapes and idyllic lagoons, whale migrations, artist communities and fascinating culture.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
9 days
Program Begins
San Jose del Cabo, Los Cabos, Baja California Sur
Program Concludes
San Diego, California
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
21 (
8B, 7L, 6D
)
Activity Level
The biodiversity and diverse landscapes of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula are some of the most impressive in the world, while its warm artist communities and historic towns just wait to be explored. Discover the very best of Baja on a learning adventure that begins in San Jose del Cabo and leads through the towns of Loreto, San Ignacio, Catavina and Ensenada. Thrill in the animal life that inhabits the Sea of Cortez — the “aquarium of the world” — and board small boats to explore lagoons where gray whales migrate and give birth to their young. Contrast these regions with explorations of desert and volcanic landscapes that were once home to historic mining towns and ranches. Embrace these warm, friendly communities as you explore art galleries, sample local cuisine and take in the rich history that can only be found in Baja.
Best of all, you'll...
- Board a panga — a small outboard motor boat — for an exploration of the lagoons where gray whales migrate and give birth to their young.
- Visit El Triunfo, a historic colonial mining village, where silver and gold were discovered in 1862, and walk along the well know boardwalk of La Paz.
- Search for blue-footed boobies, sea lions and dolphins as you explore Loreto Bay Marine Park Reserve, and marvel in the desert landscapes of the Tres Virgenes volcanic region.
General Notes
Nature always comes first in our wildlife experiences. This is a whale-watching program, and whale behavior is unpredictable. While close encounters are common, consider personal interactions with these magnificent creatures a special bonus. Road Scholar cannot offer air for this program. Participants have to arrange their own flights as well as transportation to the first hotel in San Jose del Cabo. All participants will be transported to the San Diego Airport at the end of the program. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Fermin Reygadas
Fermin Reygadas is a professor and researcher at the social sciences division at the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, at La Paz, Mexico. He is widely acknowledged as an authority on Baja California, with over 30 years of experience in the field. He has written extensively on subjects ranging from Cape Region archaeology to settlement patterns and diet among Pericue Native Indians. In recent years he has dedicated his efforts to experimental archeology.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Cristina Vannucci
Cristina Vannucci was born and raised in Italy. After graduating from college she worked in England and the United States, then spent several years traveling and working between Italy and France. Cristina arrived in Mexico by chance in 1992 and made it her home working as a group leader ever since. For over 20 years, her love for this country has taken her to hidden places, allowing her to meet different people and to learn about the vast array of culture and nature within.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking short distances on varied terrain with an optional steep hike. Boarding small fishing boats from the beach. May encounter rough seas on boats. Driving time on bus from 1.0 - 5.5 hours most days. Elevations up to 3,500 feet (900 m.).
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(12 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Enroll with Confidence
Peace of Mind
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.
Assurance Plan
Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.
Want to Protect Your Investment?
Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.
Sustainable Travel
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.
- Peace of Mind
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.