Baja California: A Remarkable Journey

Day 1 : Loreto/San Carlos/Embark

Upon arrival in Loreto, transfer to San Carlos and embark the National Geographic Venture. (D)

Day 2 : Bahía Magdalena

Explore the ever-shifting sand dunes of Isla Magdalena, on a cross-island walk to one of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific. Bird watching here can be excellent—magnificent frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis, whimbrels, and willets are among the species we might see. It’s not unusual to see forty species of birds in just one day along these fertile shorelines where they refuel for their destinations ahead. (B,L,D)

Day 3 : Laguna San Ignacio

Laguna San Ignacio is a large bay and favored haunt of the gray whales in Baja. The ship will anchor at the mouth of this remote and important locale, while we observe the mother and calf pairs in our Zodiacs and local pangas. For some reason, the whales here seem to be friendlier than they are elsewhere. It’s not unusual for mothers and calves to approach our boats, the calves often playing hide and seek—sometimes even welcoming a touch or a friendly chin scratch. (B,L,D)

Day 4 : At Sea

As we travel south along the Pacific coast of the peninsula, there is a chance of seeing a wide variety of marine life, including the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale. (B,L,D)

Day 5 : Islands of the Sea of Cortez

Cruise past the spectacular Friars Rocks at Land’s End. For those who wish, we will arrange a visit to the historic town center of San José del Cabo. Isla San Pedro Mártir, Los Islotes, Isla San Francisco—these are some of the melodious names of islands scattered throughout this beautiful sea. After over 20 years of exploration here, we are still discovering new places and experiencing exciting events: bow-riding bottlenose dolphins, or sperm whales near our ship; a pod of fin whales feeding around a convergence zone. The best areas for whale watching remain consistent—the waters south of Isla Carmen, Canal de Ballenas up north, and near the mouth of Bahía Concepción. Whether on the bridge of the ship, on Zodiacs, or kayaks, we will be in prime position to observe them all. (B,L,D)

Day 6 : Loreto/Disembark

Disembark in Loreto after breakfast and transfer to the city center. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the first mission in Baja California, as well as the nearby museum to learn more about what makes this town so special. Enjoy free time to explore quaint shops and vibrant side streets. After lunch, transfer to Loreto Airport for flights home. (B,L)