Loreto Bahía Loreto Marine Park Isla Espíritu Santo La paz
Explore the breathtaking natural wonders of the Sea of Cortez aboard this National Geographic’s 11-day expedition through Mexico’s Gulf of California, one of the richest bodies of water on the planet, and the “aquarium of the world” according to Jacques Cousteau himself. Experience immersive wildlife encounters and unique desert landscapes as you navigate. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, snorkel in protected marine reserves, and kayak pristine waters. The itinerary includes the Midriff Islands, Isla Rasa’s seabird colonies, and sightings of dolphins, sea lions, whales, and whale sharks. This voyage channels the pioneering spirit of Sven Lindblad’s early Baja explorations, blending adventure, biodiversity, and expert-led discovery.
Itinerary Highlights
Explore the breathtaking marine life of the Sea of Cortez
Visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Snorkel in the crystalline waters of protected marine reserves
Kayak & paddleboard amid clear blue waters
Observe as many as 6 different species of whale
What’s included
Small group excursions and transfers while aboard
Meet & greet airport service
Expedition cruising with cabin category at your chosen level
Expert marines guide on board
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
10
Nights
Price Guide
from $14,143 pp
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Start
Mexico
Day 1
Arrive Loreto & Embark your ship
Arrive in the charming seaside town of Loreto by early afternoon and explore on your own by visiting the first mission in Baja California or sampling local cuisine. Embark the National Geographic Venture in the evening and begin your journey along the Gulf of California.
Day 2
Bahia Concepcion
Awake in Bahía Concepción, one of the largest bays of the Baja California peninsula, with over 50 miles of beaches. Take your coffee to the deck to witness the colorful landscapes revealed by the first of many gorgeous sunrises. This biodiversity hotspot is ripe for exploration. Board Zodiacs in search of whales and other marine life, kayak through lush mangrove systems and snorkel in turquoise waters. On land, join an invigorating hike among towering cacti or stroll the pristine beaches and learn about the ecology from your naturalists.
Day 3
Visit Historic Santa Rosalia
After breakfast, disembark in Santa Rosalía, established as a French copper mining town in 1884. The French influence remains in the architecture—including a steel church designed by Gustave Eiffel—and the mining facilities have been left intact, with old locomotives and machinery visible throughout. Engage with the city’s culture and cuisine as you walk the streets, stopping in at a world-famous French bakery for a sweet or savory treat. Back on board, take in the desert landscapes and search for a variety of whales as you cruise to your next destination.
Day 4
Adventures in Bahia de los Angeles
Get active this morning with options to hike, kayak, swim, snorkel or beachcomb within the Bahía de los Ángeles Biosphere Reserve. Board Zodiacs to seek out this protected reserve’s diverse marine population, including endangered species such as fin whales, California sea lions and five species of sea turtles. Whale sharks have also historically been known to populate these waters. Later, enjoy a rare opportunity to see one of the strangest plants on earth, the Boojum tree. Sacred to indigenous people, and believed to have supernatural powers, this evolutionary oddity takes its name from a Lewis Carroll poem. Capture the experience with help from your Certified Photography Instructor.
Day 5-7
Midriff Islands & Bahía Loreto Marine Park
The islands of the Midriff region in the northern Gulf of California are favorites among naturalists for their remoteness as well as their exceptional wildlife and birdlife. With nature as your guide, you will actively explore these areas by Zodiac, kayak, paddleboard, snorkeling and hiking. Some of the locations you may visit include:
Isla San Pedro Mártir This 1,000-foot-high, guano-covered island is home to the world’s largest nesting colonies of blue-footed and brown boobies. The surrounding waters boast 14 species of marine mammals, including fin whales, Bryde’s whales and a resident group of sperm whales.
Isla San Esteban Featuring volcanic slopes and cliffs, Isla San Esteban is home to spiny-tailed iguana and chuckwallas, cohabitant lizards with fascinating evolutionary traits. As you hike the broad arroyo, keep an eye out for the spiny-tailed iguana feeding on flowers atop cardon cacti, while the chuckwalla dines on the leaves and fruits of low-lying plants.
Isla Rasa T his legendary uninhabited island is less than 0.21 square miles wide and yet is crucial to the survival of two species of seabirds. Historically 95% of the world’s Heermann’s gulls and elegant terns use the island as their nesting grounds, creating a cacophonous avian spectacle seen nowhere else on earth.
Bahía Loreto Marine Park One of Mexico’s natural treasures, this protected area offers a variety of pristine landscapes and a plethora of marine life. Search for bottlenose and common dolphins, with the possibility of encountering blue or sperm whales.
Day 8-10
Exploring Southern Gulf Islands
Venture south to discover the gems of the southern Gulf. These islands and surrounding waters are celebrated for their conservation stories, marine life and the many thrilling experiences on offer. Some of the locations you may visit or enjoy by Zodiac include:
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park Set out to snorkel the pristine reefs of Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, one of the most successful national marine parks in the world. Chat with locals about their advocacy to protect this unique place, including a cessation of fishing to protect the reef.
Isla Espíritu Santo A national park as well as UNESCO World Heritage Site with volcanic rock formations, scenic beaches and coral reefs. This magical island offers excellent hiking opportunities and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. It’s a popular destination for researchers monitoring sea turtles.
Los Islotes Located at the northern tip of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Los Islotes is largely inaccessible to people and home to a large colony of sea lions. Conditions permitting, anchor off the rocky island where you’ll don flippers, a mask and snorkel (which are provided) to swim with these curious inhabitants.
Isla San Jose One of the larger islands in the Gulf of California, San José offers several landing possibilities depending on conditions and the whim of the moment. Photograph the ochre cliffs of the island’s eastern shore, hike an enchanted, cactus-laden arroyo, or visit the abandoned salt works to the west. Discover rare wildlife among desert islands.
Day 11
Disembark La Paz
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide – from $14,143 per person
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
Mexico is a wonderful year-round destination although each region has its own separate micro-climate. In the south, temperatures range between 25 – 35° in the lowlands and on the Pacific and Yucatan Peninsula. Here, days are warmer and more humid between May and October, the rainy season where afternoons often end with a short tempestuous downpour. However, Mexico’s Caribbean coast does lie on the hurricane belt which is at its height between the months of September and October. Travelling north through Mexico’s colonial highlands up into the Sierra Madre Mountains, temperatures drop down into the 10’s and beyond owing to the altitude especially over Christmas although days tend to be bright and generally sunny. Baja California is dry, arid and hottest between January and February, a time that coincides with excellent walking in the Copper Canyon and whale-watching in the lagoons of Magdalena Bay.
If you're planning a trip to Mexico in January, it's important to pack accordingly for the weather. The average temperature in Mexico during this month is around 21°C during the day and about 12°C at night, so you'll want to bring light layers to accommodate for the fluctuating temperatures. While the weather can vary depending on your location in Mexico, it's generally a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Don't forget to check the forecast before you go, and be prepared for the possibility of rain in certain regions.
Mexico in February, you should expect slightly cooler temperatures than in January. On average, the daytime temperature is around 19°C and drops to about 10°C at night. It's still important to pack light layers to accommodate for the fluctuating temperatures, and a light jacket or sweater is advisable for the cooler evenings.
Mexico in March, you can expect warmer temperatures compared to February. The average daytime temperature is around 23°C and drops to about 14°C at night. However, it's still a good idea to pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Mexico in April, you can expect warmer temperatures compared to March. The average daytime temperature is around 27°C and drops to about 17°C at night.
May, it's important to be prepared for the weather. The average temperature in Mexico during this time of year is around 26°C, so you'll want to pack light and breathable clothing. However, it's important to note that temperatures can vary depending on where you are in Mexico. In coastal areas, temperatures can be slightly cooler thanks to the ocean breeze, while inland areas can be much hotter.
Mexico during the month of June are expected to range from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. The weather should be relatively warm and sunny, with a small chance of rain in some areas. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before traveling, but overall, June is a great time to visit Mexico and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.
Mexico is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 33 degrees Celsius. While there may be a chance of rain in some areas, overall it is a great time to visit Mexico and enjoy all the amazing sights and experiences this country has to offer.
August, you can expect warm temperatures ranging from 23 to 34 degrees Celsius. Like in July, there might be a chance of rain, but overall it's a great time to explore all that Mexico has to offer.
Mexico in September, you can expect warm temperatures ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. While there may be some occasional rain, overall it's still a great time to travel and explore the country.
Mexico in October, you can expect similar temperatures to September, ranging from 21 to 31 degrees Celsius. However, there may be a slightly higher chance of rain, so it's important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Mexico in November, you can expect temperatures to range from 19 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's generally a dry month, but there may be occasional rain showers, so it's still a good idea to check the weather forecast before packing. Overall, November is a great time to visit Mexico and take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful scenery.
Mexico in December, temperatures will generally range from 17 to 26 degrees Celsius. It is also a dry month, but as always, it's good to keep an eye on the weather forecast before packing. December is a wonderful time to visit Mexico and enjoy the pleasant weather and stunning landscapes.
Add on’s
For the ultimate wildlife experience, why not combine the National Geographic cruise with Costa Rica or even the incredible marine life of the Galapagos Islands. As a contrast to the arid landscapes of Baja California, head to the steamy jungle of Chiapas or the Yucatan where tropical birds and howler monkeys flit across huge, enigmatic Mayan pyramids.
Just across the Guld of California, there is wonderful walking amidst the soaring mountains of the Copper Canyon where you can experience the traditional culture of the Tarahumara people and ride the famous Chihuahua-al-Pacífico railroad.
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