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We’ve all been there. Sometimes, all you need is a little bit of time in nature to reset the soul. If there is one place I always recommend to friends for a lil immersion in nature, it’s Baja California. Named California but actually located in Mexico, this peninsula between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific is wild, rugged, and adventurous all in one.
Every time you visit, you’ll be blown away by how much there is to do, see, and explore. It’s pretty much an unpopulated peninsula of epic beaches, desert landscapes, and stargazing so good you’ll feel like you’re in a planetarium.
A road trip is always a good idea, but it’s not always for the faint-hearted. That’s not to mention that planning and timing your stops perfectly can be a real headache.
So what’s the best call of action? Booking one of the best tours in Baja California, of course. This way, you’ll follow an expert guide and get the insider scoop on whatever you’re most interested in without having to coordinate, organize, and orchestrate anything yourself. Here are my top reccs of the best multi-day and day tours in Baja.
Photo: Audy Scala
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Best Multi-Day Tours in Baja California
If you really want to experience the heart and soul of Baja California, a multi-day tour is 100% the way to go. Trust me on this one. Trying to do this place justice in a few days is just not possible. The best tours usually include everything from transport to accommodation to meals and guided activities. So, all you have to do is show up with your camera and sun hat and take it all in. Honestly, the tours here were some of the best experiences of my time backpacking in Mexico.
Plus, local guides add so much depth to the experience with their insider knowledge, especially if you’re joining a shark diving or whale watching tour in Baja California.
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1. Baja’s Cultural Odyssey & La Paz Seashore Elegance – Overall Best Multi-Day Tour in Baja California
- Days: 6
- Price: $992
- Group Size: Private
- Fitness Required: Average
- Accommodation Type: Standard hotel
- Meals Included: Five breakfasts, four lunches
- Service Level: Basic
Over six unforgettable days and five nights, Bamba Travel has curated a tour that whisks you from the streets of La Paz to the coastline of Cabo San Lucas, traveling to the best parts of Baja California Sur along the way. It’s a tour with the perfect blend of history and nature. One day, you’ll be exploring the colorful colonial streets; the next, you’ll be snorkeling with sea lions at Isla Espiritu Santo. There is also a fair share of relaxation included here – things like relaxing on La Paz’s beaches and strolling the La Ventana beachfront.
This tour is exclusively for private travel groups. Whether visiting with your family or a group of friends, the transfers and hotels are all booked just for you and your crew. They recommend keeping the age group between 10 and 99, so no great-grandparents and newborns, please. Just keep in mind that this is a self-guided tour. While it might not be the most educational route to take, it certainly gives you a lot of freedom to explore what interests you most.
Cons to consider:
- Meals beyond breakfast aren’t included, so expect to spend a bit more on food.
- The drive between La Paz and Cabo can be long. Expect to spend a fair share of time in the car.
- Physical activity is light. If you need more adventure, you can do extra activities along the way.
2. Active La Paz Tour – Best Multi-Day Tour in Baja California for Culture Seekers
- Days: 5
- Price: $954
- Group Size: 1-25
- Fitness Required: Average
- Accommodation Type: Standard three-star hotel
- Meals Included: Four breakfasts, three midday snacks
- Service Level: Standard
Destination Services Mexico is a Baja California tour company that is known for its exceptional level of service. This is a group tour that caps out at 25 people. It’s recommended for older children and adults. If you’re a social butterfly, you’ll no doubt leave with a few new travel pals. The tour begins and ends in La Paz and explores the city in a deep dive. There will be one long travel day that’ll expose you to Todos Santos, Los Cabos, and San Jose.
This tour takes place over five days and four nights and is mostly curated for those with a special interest in culture and anthropology. It’s an in-depth cultural experience designed to immerse you in the rich history and traditions of Baja. The tour is only partially guided, which means you’ll get a good introduction to the places you visit, but also have time to explore and learn on your own terms.
Cons to consider:
- One super long driving day between La Paz and Los Cabos, and then back again.
- The tour is focused primarily on La Paz, with just a shallow look at the other cities.
- Three-star hotels might not be to everyone’s standards.
3. Baja’s Beach Serenity & La Paz Cultural Insights: La Paz and Cabo – Best Summer Multi-Day Tour in Baja California
- Days: 6
- Price: $1178
- Group Size: 1-20
- Fitness Required: Average
- Accommodation Type: Hotel and all-inclusive resort
- Meals Included: Five breakfasts, four lunches, one dinner
- Service Level: Standard
There is no denying that the beach and the sea are the main event on any of the top tours in Baja California. This tour is special because it gives an overall introduction to the most famous places in Baja California Sur. Think exploring the colorful streets of La Paz, snorkeling with sea lions at Espiritu Santo, traveling to the Arch by boat, and finally ending with an all-inclusive resort experience on the iconic beaches of Los Cabos.
If you’re interested in a good mix of lounging about on some of the best beaches in Baja and soaking up as much culture and history as possible, this might be the tour for you. You’ll spend as much time learning about the incredible region as you will be sipping margaritas on the beach at an all-inclusive resort. Because of this unique combination, I rate this a top tour for couples or small groups.
Cons to consider:
- Summer crowds mean beaches around Cabo and La Paz might feel busy and inauthentic.
- Group tours mean a bit less flexibility on timing.
- There isn’t too much physical activity involved here. Hiking fans might need to add in some private activities to hit that craving.
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Get Yours Here Read Our Review4. Baja Marine Wildlife Adventure – Best Multi-Day Tour in Baja California for Ocean Adventure Lovers
- Days: 6
- Price: $4365
- Group Size: 4-16
- Fitness Required: (Average, Medium, Strenuous)
- Accommodation Type: Four-star boutique hotels and island camp
- Meals Included: All-inclusive
- Service Level: Luxury
The most popular attractions around Baja are no doubt ocean-based. Over six action-packed days and nights, Discover Corps takes you from San Jose del Cabo to La Paz, Isla Espiritu Santo, and Todos Santos, showing you the ins and outs of the region’s marine life along the way. This is a real immersive coastal experience. I’m talking snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, and even swimming with whale sharks – a real once-in-a-lifetime experience if you ask me. Of course, there is a splattering of cultural activities included too, including a traditional cooking class.
Accommodation on this tour is well above average. You’ll be spending your nights in a four-star boutique Baja hotel and a unique island camp on the beach. There’s a reason this tour is so pricey. But with that, it’s the perfect Baja California tour for couples and luxury seekers looking for an intimate and up-levelled experience.
Cons to consider:
- A hefty price tag. If you’re traveling solo, there is an option to supplement a single room for an extra $795.
- Weather can be fickle and disrupt some water and boat-based activities.
- Tips, international airfare, and personal experiences are not included.
5. Great White Shark Diving in Mexico – Best Multi-Day Tour in Baja California for Great White Shark Diving
- Days: 6
- Price: $3379
- Group Size: Varies
- Fitness Required: Medium
- Accommodation Type: Boat called the Nautilus vessels
- Meals Included: All-inclusive
- Service Level: Standard
This might be one of the most unique tours on the list. Instead of stuffy hotels and air-conditioned bus journeys, you’ll be living on a liveaboard boat traveling around Guadalupe Island. Guadalupe Island is known to be one of the best places in the world to view the great white shark in its natural environment. On this tour, you’ll spend five nights on a boat and experience three days of cage diving in submersible cages. No certification is needed.
Diving in Baja is one of the coolest experiences you can have—and there is a LOT of shark cage diving on this tour. You’ll spend three full days between 8 am and dusk between the water and the boat. You’ll learn about the sharks and their identification techniques. Clearly, this one is for really passionate shark fans.
Cons to consider:
- Only offered between July and November during shark season.
- Very little is going on other than shark cage diving. This tour is geared towards one thing and one thing only.
- Living on a boat for three days can get boring. There is not much opportunity to move the body on a small vessel.
6. Baja Whale Shark Tour Experience – Best Multi-Day Tour in Baja California for Whale Shark Sightings
- Days: 6
- Price: Call to enquire with dates
- Group Size: max 12
- Fitness Required: Medium
- Accommodation Type: Beachside yurts with private bathrooms
- Meals Included: All-inclusive with alcohol
- Service Level: Standard
Whale sharks are magical creatures, and spotting one in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth every penny. On this Baja California holiday, you’ll be put up in private beachside yurts with hammocks and gorgeous views. Your days will be spent exploring the area and learning about the rare wildlife with an experienced biologist, eating freshly prepared meals, and hanging out on beaches that you’ll often have completely to yourself.
This is one of the closest whale shark tours starting from the USA. Not only is it convenient for American travelers, but traveling in season means you’re pretty much guaranteed an average of three to eight whale shark sightings on a six-day trip. The beach yurts are on a remote beach that can only be accessed by boat. This means being absolutely off the beaten track—a dream for those with a greater interest in the natural landscape than in the culture and history of Baja.
Cons to consider:
- No culture or history involved in this tour, just pure, untouched beaches and nature.
- Pricey—all-inclusive and unique accommodation means this tour comes at a premium price.
- The tour departs from San Diego. If you want to travel from within Mexico, coordination can be complicated.
7. Baja Spirit Gray Whale Expedition – Best Multi-Day Tour in Baja California for Whale Watching
- Days: 6
- Price: Call to enquire with dates
- Group Size: max 10
- Fitness Required: Advanced
- Accommodation Type: On board a boat and beachside yurts with private bathrooms
- Meals Included: All-inclusive with alcohol
- Service Level: Standard
Whale watching easily ranks among the standout experiences in this region. Between the months of February and April, gray whales, blue whales, and humpback whales make their way around the Pacific and some even into the warm Sea of Cortez.
If you’ve ever dreamt of making eye contact with a gray whale, this six-day eco-tour in Baja will let you check that off your bucket list. It’s an all-inclusive trip that involves exploring both sides of the Baja Peninsula led by an expert biologist in the area. A highlight is visiting Ojo de Liebre, which is the most populated calving ground for California gray whales.
This tour might be pricey, but you do get what you pay for here. With all-inclusive meals, transfers, and tours, it’s a great option for anyone with a niche interest in marine life and whales. Wildlife photographers will be in their element. It’s the perfect pick if you like meaningful travel and don’t mind unplugging from reality a bit.
Cons to consider:
- A super remote location means limited Wi-Fi or phone connection.
- Seasonal only. Gray whale season is limited between February and April.
- This is a very active tour. Walking, hiking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are all optional but included (and recommended) add-ons.
8. In Steinbeck’s Wake: An Epic Voyage Through the Sea of Cortez – Best Sailing Multi-Day Tour in Baja California
- Days: 10
- Price: $6500
- Group Size: Variable
- Fitness Required: Strenuous
- Accommodation Type: Boat cabin (prices dependent on type of cabin)
- Meals Included: All-inclusive
- Service Level: Luxury
Ending off with a real bang, this incredible ten-day expedition in Baja might cost an arm and a leg, but it will no doubt stick with you for the rest of your life. This trip to Baja California starts in La Paz, where you’ll hop aboard your home for the next ten days—the Safari Voyager. From there, the boat travels to Punta Marcial, Santa Rosalia, Punta Trinidad, Isla San Esteban, the Amatortajda Lagoon, and countless other incredible destinations, most of which are only accessible by boat.
This voyage is for those who love boats. Duh. You’ll spend most of your days sleeping or traveling by boat, dipping into different attractions along the way. It’s ideal for culture fans, nature enthusiasts, and wildlife photographers. Plus, farm-to-fork meals prepared fresh on the boat make it an incredible option for foodies.
Cons to consider:
- This is a substantial commitment if you’re short on time.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, choose another tour. You’ll be on or in the water for most of this trip. The vessel travels every day.
- Expensive—the price is high, but if you’re interested in seeing Baja from the sea, it’s a no-brainer!
Best Day Tours from Cabo San Lucas
There are plenty of things to do in Cabo San Lucas, including some pretty epic day tours. If you’ve only got a day to spare in this sunny Baja spot but crave an adventure or a thrill, you’re in luck. Day tours are usually all about soaking up the beautiful coastline, exploring less busy beaches, and sometimes getting a little adrenaline fix in.
Whether it’s paddleboarding, snorkeling by the Arch, or sandboarding on the steamy dunes, there are plenty of tours that can offer you a thrill before returning to your resort lounger for an evening sundowner.
1. Paddle Board, Kayak, and Snorkel by the Arch
This Baja California tour package is the perfect combination for water lovers who want to explore Cabo’s famous Land’s End and the Arch from multiple points of view. You can paddle board through the clear water, watch sea lions go about their daily lives, and then jump in and snorkel to see the marine life under the surface, all under the guidance of a resident biologist.
The experience includes all equipment, so all you need to bring along is a swimsuit, hat, suncream, and an adventurous attitude. It also includes a snack break after you’ve worked up an appetite with all the paddle boarding and snorkeling.
2. Go Sandboarding on the Dunes of Cabo
Sandboarding might not be the first thing you think of doing in Baja, but it really is one of the best. It’s a unique experience heading inland to experience the exquisite desert landscape of sweeping dunes just outside the bustling tourist hub of Cabo. The tour is all about adrenaline and fun.
You’ll get all the gear and a quick demonstration lesson before being able to zoom down the sandy slopes alone. This tour is ideal for adventure-seekers, families, and energetic kids. Or, really, anyone looking to switch it up from the usual beach hop in Baja.
3. Explore Cabo on a Luxury Catamaran with Snorkeling and Lunch
If you want to take things up a notch with a touch of luxury, there is no better way to experience Cabo than from the deck of a catamaran. This boat cruises around the Sea of Cortez around Cabo, stopping off at two different snorkeling sites and serving up a banging lunch in the middle of it all. Along with snorkeling gear, the boat also has stand-up paddleboards for those who want a little added adventure.
It’s a four-hour Baja California trip, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure. The boat fits only a small group, which means you’ll have the best of both a social vibe and moderate privacy, all depending on what you’re after.
Best Day Tours from La Paz
La Paz, the Capital of Baja California Sur, is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. It’s got the Sea of Cortez on one side and rugged desert-like mountains on the other. A day tour could include wildlife spotting, water-based adventures, whale watching, and hiking.
La Paz offers a mix of active and cultural experiences, but there is a definite focus on the outdoors here. Tours are usually led by knowledgeable guides and include all the gear and gadgets like snorkels or flippers. It also feels a lot more laid-back up here compared with Cabo, which is definitely a busier, touristic hub.
1. Hike in the Mountains of La Paz with a Biologist
Most day tours in the area revolve around the sea, and for good reason. But there is also a lot to be seen inland, particularly around La Paz’s exquisite mountains. The tour is led by a biologist and outdoor enthusiast who has been guiding natural environment tours throughout Mexico for years.
The hike is moderate and, while you will need good shoes, a bit of stamina, and a full bottle of water, it’s not a treacherous hike that will leave you breathless for the day. It’s the perfect Baja California tour for biology students, eco-conscious travelers, and really anyone interested in the natural landscape around Baja.
2. Ride a Boat to the Espiritu Santo Island
Espiritu Santo and Balandra Islands are some of the most exquisite (and, as a result, popular) places to visit around La Paz. That said, they’re only accessible by boat, which means crowds are kept to a minimum.
This boat tour lasts six hours and departs from Muelle Fiscal in central La Paz. From there, you’ll cruise to Balandra Beach for a bit of sightseeing, walking, and photo ops. Espiritu Santo Island is next on the itinerary – an island famous for its diverse marine life. Here, you’ll get to dive headfirst (literally) into the water and explore the coral reefs with a snorkel and mask provided by the tour. The tour includes a lunch of fresh fish, ceviche, and sandwiches, as well as water and non-alcoholic drinks.
3. Spot Orcas and Dolphins on an Ocean Safari in La Ventana
This ocean safari is a whirlwind adventure for marine-life fans. On the tour, you’ll have an incredible chance of spotting mobula rays during their migration, dolphins, and even a few orcas. The tour lasts six hours on the water, cruising the waters of La Ventana from Corredor Isla Cerralvo. You’ll be guided by a professional marine biologist, who will teach you everything they can about the sea life you encounter during the trip.
Lunch and drinks are served on board. The only thing you’ll need to bring along with you will be a windbreaker, hat, sunglasses, and swimwear.
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View on OspreyQuick Guide to Visiting Baja California
If you’re thinking of taking a tour in Baja California, this quick guide will be your go-to starting point for planning the best trip possible. Continue reading for tips on what to bring, when to visit, and how to prepare for any worst-case scenarios.
Best Time to Visit Baja California
Like all places, timing your visit can make all the difference in your experience. The best time to visit Baja is usually between October and May, when the weather is still mild yet usually sunny, perfect for exploring and spending time in the sun without overheating.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Baja has a distinct rainy and dry season, even though the region experiences a lot less rain than other Mexican spots. The dry season is usually between November and April, and the wet season is between July and September. August and September are usually the rainiest months when humidity is at its peak, and roads can become muddy. This can mean fewer crowds and lower prices, but also a chance of occasional downpours.
Tourist season peaks in the winter months (between December and February) as visitors from colder climates up north make their way to the sunshine. During these months, towns like Cabo and La Paz can get crowded, and accommodation and food prices tend to be higher. If you prefer quieter experiences, consider visiting in shoulder months between March and May or even October and November.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Your Baja California Trip
While Baja is statistically among the safer parts of Mexico, a lot of the tours we are recommending are kinda outdoorsy and adventure based which means a slightly heightened chance of picking up a small injury or coming down with a bit of a tropical illness (I got something in Oaxaca last year…not nice).
As such it is vitally important to make sure you get some good travel, health insurance before you leave home. These days the one and only company we use is SafetyWing. They offer a simple subscription cover model and there are 2 different plans available depending on the level of cover you need.
Always remember that when you are on the road, things can go wrong when you least expect them. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Baja.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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What to Pack for Baja California
Packing for a Baja California holiday means preparing for a mix of sun, sea, and desert adventures. Lightweight, breathable clothing is a must for the warm days, but don’t forget your layers for when the weather cools down in the evenings.
A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are essentials you wouldn’t want to forget. The sun is harsh here, and you’ve got to keep up with applying SPF. You also might want to throw in some comfy walking or hiking shoes and a light rain jacket for those unexpected downpours.
Here’s a quick packing list for your trip to Baja:
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A dry bag to keep your electronics and valuables dry when doing water-based activities
- Insect repellent for pesky mosquitoes
- A portable phone charger or power bank
- Lightweight scarf to use for both sun protection and a bit of extra warmth at night
- A first-aid kit with essentials like blister pads, a general antibiotic, sea sickness tablets, and stomach bug pills
- A waterproof phone case or pouch
- The highest SPF sunscreen you can get your hands on – trust me here
- Electrolyte packets for rehydration after a day in the sun
- Cash in Pesos – Mexico is a cash-strong economy
Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.
Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!
Buy on REIFinal Thoughts on the Best Baja California Tours
Baja California is a treasure trove of diverse adventures and varied landscapes. One moment, you’re sandboarding through the steamy hot sand dunes; the next, you’re submerged in the tropical waters of a remote beach or at a beach club in Cabo with a spicy margarita in hand.
Whether you’re drawn to a more thrilling experience like snorkeling with whale sharks or shark cage diving, or prefer an on-land experience exploring inland trails with a trained biologist, there are some incredible tours in Baja California just waiting for you to join them.
If I had to personally recommend a tour to book, it would have to be the Baja’s Beach Serenity & La Paz Cultural Insights: La Paz and Cabo. Over the course of the six-day tour, you get to experience both Cabo and La Paz, all for a reasonable price. It gives a good introduction to the area without being either too active or educational – the perfect medium for a first-time visit to Baja.
No matter what tour you decide to book, I’m sure you’ll have the best time soaking up Baja’s magic.
Photo: Audy Scala
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Mexico.
- Check out where to stay in Mexico for some dope accommodation
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Mexico.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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