Sea Turtle Monitoring and Kayaking Expedition, Mexico

By choosing RED Sustainable Tourism and Sea Kayak Adventures, you will not only be participating in vital conservation work, you will also be supporting the growth and development of local businesses that are based on environmental sustainability and stewardship, an important step towards guaranteeing the long term conservation of the region's natural resources.

You will spend the first part of the trip kayaking and camping on remote islands in Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Highlights include paddling below towering cliffs, snorkeling reefs teeming with marine life, and hiking desert arroyos.  The last days are spent camping on a remote island in beautiful Magdalena Bay where you will participate in hands-on sea turtle research with members of Grupo Tortugero and the Magdalena Bay Waterkeeper.

Recognized around the world as a model for community-based sea turtle conservation, the Grupo Tortuguero's Eastern Pacific Green Sea Turtle Monitoring Program has helped to turn the tide for this once critically endangered species.

Grab a pair of waders and boots and climb aboard the panga to help monitor green turtle populations with local fishermen. From your island base in our tent camp, you will collect data and release turtles - maybe you'll get to name one! In your down time, tour the dunes and mangrove canals by panga to view migratory and local bird species, or visit with local fishermen to learn traditional fishing techniques.

About RED

RED sustainable tourism is a network of community-based tour operators dedicated to providing world class conservation adventures along the Baja California peninsula. RED has over 15 years of conservation work in coastal communities offering travelers unique experiences which link conservation and local culture to unique ecotourism experiences.

RED builds capacity in local communities to create and operate sustainable tourism businesses along the Baja California Peninsula through:

• Helping to incubate and launch small community businesses focused on sustainable tourism.

• Training guides and crew in English, natural history, wilderness first aid, campsite cuisine, and trip management, to ensure world class service.

• Providing sales and marketing support to the network

• Providing ongoing monitoring and evaluation of sustainable business and conservation practices, RED accompanies small community businesses and service providers throughout this process to help them reach their full potential, and to ensure that the economic benefits stay in the local communities with a long term vision.

Flights are limited from Los Angeles to Loreto, Baja for this trip.
Call us with any travel questions - 1-800-616-1943 or 1-208-765-3116

All of our Baja trips meet in Loreto. Loreto is located on the Sea of Cortez side of the Baja California peninsula and is accessible by road or by scheduled air service from Los Angeles. Please call our office if you need assistance on deciding how to get to Loreto. We are familiar with traveling to Baja and we'll be happy to help you select the best way there.

Entry into Mexico: Passports are required. No visa is necessary, but a tourist card will be issued during your flight (keep the stub and show upon your departure flight to avoid fee).

Air Flights: Alaska Airlines/Horizon Airlines, (800) 252-7522, provides direct service (75 min) between Los Angeles International airport (LAX) and Loreto airport (LTO) on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Demand is high during the winter/spring season and it is essential to make reservations early. If flights on some dates are full, you may need to come in early to Loreto or stay longer.  Another option is flying to La Paz or Los Cabos and taking a bus or rental car to Loreto.  We can also arrange a preferred hotel rate for extra nights in Loreto.

Note: We do not recommend purchasing your tickets to Mexico on the Internet unless you are diligent- or at least call the airlines directly as well afterwards, to confirm your reservation and obtain a confirmed seat assignment - very critical. Call us and go over plans before you buy.

IT IS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT TO ALLOW AT LEAST 2 HOURS CONNECTION TIME PRIOR TO YOUR LORETO FLIGHT. If you find you need to overnight in Los Angeles, we have negotiated a great rate for our travellers at the Hacienda Hotel near LAX.

Car: The approximate driving time from San Diego to Loreto is 20 hours. If you found great airfare into Cabo San Lucas, the driving time north to Loreto is seven hours (or 4 hours if you are flying into La Paz).

Car Rental: You can rent a vehicle on a weekly basis from any of the major car rental agencies in Cabo or La Paz. BUDGET 016131351090 www.budgetbaja.com, HERTZ 0018006543030 www.autoturismonaver.com, EUROPCAR 016131352306 Loreto 018002013333 international reservations www.europcar.com.mx. Secure parking is available at the hotel in Loreto.

Bus Service: Aquila Transportes operates between San Jose del Cabo and Loreto (8 hours, cost: $60) as well as La Paz to Loreto (4 1/2 hours, cost: $40). Purchase tickets at the bus station (little English spoken).

Travel Agent: We recommend Robert Sulens at Kahala Travel for your travel arrangements to and from Loreto. He is familiar with flights to Baja (in business 24 years) and he can help you find the best airfare. Call him at 800-852-8338 or email: robert@kahalatravel.com.

Health: No immunizations or vaccinations are required for Mexico, but we recommend you speak to your health department or doctor. The University of Washington recommends getting hepatitis A&B, tetanus, flu, typhoid shots. Water on the trip is distilled/filtered for your extra protection. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good and plentiful (peel before eating). The restaurant food in Loreto is good and bottled water is easily available. We recommend good hand washing.

Weather: The weather in Loreto is generally mild in the winter with day-time temperatures averaging 70 to 85 degrees and night-time temperatures averaging 40 to 55 degrees between December and mid-March. Spring day-time temperatures average 75 to 90 degrees and night-time temperatures average 50 to 65 degrees between mid-March and May. Loreto is in a desert where the possibility of rain is very small, but it can happen. Winds can occur anytime but are more frequent from December through February. Magdalena Bay air temperatures are a little cooler than on the Sea of Cortez side of the Baja Peninsula. Water temperatures in the Sea of Cortez range from 65 degrees in December to 73 degrees in May requiring the use of a shorty 3mm wet suit for extended snorkeling. In October and November, air temperatures range from 80 to 90 degrees and water temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees.

What do I need to know about this trip?
This is a new trip and it will not be 100% operated by Sea Kayak Adventures. The first part of the trip is our standard Sea of Cortez kayaking trip and operated by us.  The second half of the trip is part of an eco-tourism and sea turtle monitoring program operated by RED Sustainable Tourism - a network of community-based tour operators providing world-class conservation adventures. A SKA guide will be present during the whole trip. Supporting and participating in this trip means more than just traveling: You will be participating in community-based conservation and sea turtle scientific research project. This is a very unique opportunity for those who are flexible and enjoy volunteer activities.

What skills do I need to enjoy this trip?
You need to have a sense of adventure and a willingness to be part of a new community and conservation trip. Be open and willing to support this initiative and actively participate in it. The sea turtle monitoring takes place 24 hours a day during the second half of the trip and your participation is voluntary.

What is the camping like?
Since 1993, we have created a category of travel we call "camping plus". The food served on our trips is on par with what you get in a first-rate restaurant; we provide all camping gear of the best quality: tents, sleeping bags with clean linens, self-inflating foam pads and comfortable camp seats; you get the best beach sites and you don't have to worry about missing the wildlife. We're all about truly "getting away", but not quite "leaving it all behind". It's rugged adventure with some worldly amenities. People with little or no camping experience do not find camping on our tours unduly difficult. The warm climate during October is favorable for camping, not to mention the low precipitation of the desert climate.  And best of all, you'll receive unbeatable support and camaraderie from each of our guides.

What about toilet facilities?
We’ll have a portable toilet at each campsite.  The toilet facilities are always placed in a private location just outside of camp. You’re guaranteed to have an amazing view of either sea or desert from the facilities.

What are typical meals on the trip?
The source of many compliments, our legendary wilderness meals are prepared from fresh, healthy ingredients. Our specialty is Dutch oven cookery with savory main dishes like chicken mole, fresh fish Vera Cruz style, chili rellenos and delicious desserts from brownies to pineapple upside-down cake. We serve fresh ground coffee and teas as well as an abundance of local fruits and vegetables. Vegetarians as well as special dietary requests can easily be accommodated. Each evening, we serve a cocktail and appetizer for "happy hour" so you can enjoy the spectacular Baja sunset while sipping a margarita!

There's a special emphasis on our meals because we believe you are entitled to gourmet dining in the wilderness as you would find at home.

What type of kayaks do you use on this trip?
Our fleet of kayaks on each trip is comprised of mostly double kayaks and one or two single kayaks shared among guests and guides. They are made by SEAWARD KAYAKS of fiberglass construction and ALL are equipped with rudders. Light-weight Werner paddles, PFDs (personal flotation device previously known as a lifejacket), nylon spray skirts, paddle floats and bilge pumps are all provided on our expeditions.

What are the differences between motorboat-supported and self-supported trips?
In Baja, some of our tours use a motorboat (panga) to carry camping gear, food and supplies ahead of the main group. This allows our kayaks to be lighter.  The panga also carries chairs and tables for dining as well as a cooler with ice for cold drinks.

Is previous kayaking experience necessary?
No prior sea kayaking or camping experience is necessary for this trip. Anyone in good health with a positive attitude can enjoy these activities. Paddling a sea kayak is easy to learn and your experienced guides will teach you all you need to know to enjoy kayaking.
What other activities can I expect on this trip?
This trip offers a balance between paddling, snorkeling, hiking, turtle monitoring, birding, and boating. Don’t forget relaxing on the beach, enjoying incredible Baja sunsets, stargazing and happy hour!

Can we snorkel?
Yes. There are fantastic snorkeling spots in the first part of this trip. You will snorkel in warm, clear waters of Loreto Bay National Marine Park, as your guide points out the colorful reef fishes.

Are there any physical requirements?
The amount of paddling is a good balance of challenge and ease for most of our participants. Expect a moderate workout every kayaking day, as we paddle 3-4 hours a day broken up by lunch hour.. Pre-trip time spent in any activity that uses your upper body will help you enjoy your adventure with us. We do require that anyone over 70 or with any health or weight concerns consult us before signing up to make sure you are up to fully participating.

What is the minimum age limit?
The minimum age for our trips is normally 12 to ensure that all our guests are capable of fully participating in the kayaking and other activities involved.  Also, a child must be at least 5 feet tall and 100 lbs in order to participate in our sea kayak tours. We do make exceptions on occasion, so call us if you think your child is physically capable of kayaking and comfortable in an adult setting.

What if I'm by myself?
If this is your first adventure tour, and you are naturally a little apprehensive about going solo, we will support you each step of the way. Our transport service meets you at the Loreto airport and takes you to the hotel and our guides take care of all your logistics.  We typically get a mixture of singles, couples, families and friends on our tours. You can have your own tent, so let us know.  Please call if you have any concerns.

What about safety?
Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are our priorities. Any concerns about risks and physical abilities are handled with the greatest care by our office staff and trip leaders. Your guides are always in close proximity, well equipped with first aid kits and specially trained in Wilderness First Responder to handle emergency situations. Your trip leader will provide a comprehensive kayak orientation and safety discussion before you begin paddling. We take your concerns or apprehensions to heart - to make kayaking a positive, fulfilling experience for you.   Loreto is a small, sleepy town where everyone knows each other, a few hours drive from Los Cabos.

What should I bring?
We provide the camping equipment so you only need to bring your personal belongings and avoid having to check-in luggage on your flight. Upon signing up, you'll get an informative trip handbook that includes a detailed list of clothing and other recommended items for your kayaking trip.
Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) are available to rent from us in Loreto if you do not want to bring your own.

Do I need a passport to enter Mexico?
Yes, passports are required to enter Mexico.  Click here for the U. S. Department of State’s Passport Requirement page.

What do the trip costs include?
Skilled professional guide services, airport transfer upon arrival, whale watching by motorboat, camping equipment including tents, chairs, sleeping bags, liners, and sleeping pads. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day.

What is not included?
Meals in town, airfare, gratuities, and national marine park fee in Loreto. 

Eight-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Loreto by air.  At the Loreto airport, you'll be greeted by our ground service and transported to our hotel in Loreto.  Check into pre-assigned rooms (included in trip cost).  You're on your own for sightseeing or shopping until eve pre-trip meeting (6 or 8 pm) in the hotel lobby, where we'll answer questions and let you know the meeting time for the next day.  Dinner is on your own.

Day 2: Loreto Bay National Marine Park. In the morning we'll meet after breakfast then you'll board our van and ride to the launch site. We'll teach you the basics of paddling and thoroughly review safety setting out procedures before launching kayaks. Paddle to our first night's campsite on Isla Danzante.

Day 3: Isla Danzante, Loreto Bay National Marine Park. Our day begins with a spectacular sunrise as guides serve fresh-brewed coffee. We'll spend the day exploring the waters surrounding Isla Danzante by kayak, allowing plenty of time to snorkel, hike, swim or relax with a good book. Evenings find us feasting on delicious fresh food and enjoying margaritas as the sun sets over the Sea of Cortez.

Day 4: Return to Loreto. After breakfast, we break camp and paddle to our favorite snorkel spot to savor the last moments of this incredible getaway.  We return to Loreto after lunch and check into the hotel.

Day 5: Loreto to Magdalena Bay Turtle Monitoring. After breakfast, travel across the peninsula to the fishing village of Puerto San Carlos on Magdalena Bay, and make a brief stop by the Magdalena Baykeeper office, the local conservation group working to protect the area’s green turtles, for an orientation to the research they are conducting.  Head out by panga to Conchalito, a tiny shell island that will serve as your campsite, as well as the sea turtle monitoring base for the next 3 days. Enjoy lunch as you are introduced to your guides and afterwards, settle into camp. In the afternoon, you will receive an orientation to hands-on sea turtle monitoring with Grupo Tortuguero.

Put your marine biologist hat on, because now is your chance to accompany the team on the water to capture and collect data on foraging sea turtles before releasing them back into the wild. The monitoring teams will work through the night, with rotations, checking the nets every two hours, but you can participate as much as you like; they can always use a helping hand, or enjoy a complete night's rest. The time is yours.

Day 6:  Isla Conchalito, Magdalena Bay. Monitoring continues with checking the nets. Enjoy an early coffee and take in the birds, marine mammals and other natural wonders that surround your island. Or, sleep in until breakfast and then grab your clipboard and head down to the beach to measure and weigh the captured sea turtles. This data provides vital information to sea turtle biologists who study the health and growth rates of these creatures, as well as their movement throughout the region. After lunch, we leave on the boats for a trip to the sand dunes of Santa Maria Bay to explore by foot its deserted beaches and dunes before returning to camp as the sun sets.

Day 7:  Magdalena Bay to Loreto. Enjoy an early breakfast before heading out in the pangas to visit with local fishermen to see what they are catching and learn about local/traditional fishing techniques. Continue on and navigate through narrow mangrove canals to arrive back at Puerto San Carlos. Meet your taxi driver at the Baykeeper office before heading back to Loreto for a free afternoon shopping or exploring the town.  Overnight at hotel in Loreto.

Day 8:  Departure Day. Return home with wonderful memories of kayaking in the Sea of Cortez and of helping save endangered sea turtles.