Friendly Whales & Ancient Paintings of Baja

*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

Important Trip Details:

MEETING PLACE: Hacienda Suites, Loreto
ORIENTATION MEETING TIME: 7:00 PM MST
RETURN TIME: 4:00 PM MST
THE LAST SUPPER: On the evening of Day 6, join your guide and fellow trip guests for a no host farewell dinner at a favorite local restaurant.
TRIP LENGTH: 6 days
AGE LIMIT: Recommended age is 8
NEAREST AIRPORTS: Loreto International Airport (LTO)

Friendly Whales & Ancient Paintings Itinerary

Day 0: Explore Loreto, Orientation Meeting

We begin our adventure in Loreto, a historic coastal community on the Sea of Cortez that has also been home for Sea Kayak Adventures’ Baja operations since 1993. Loreto was originally founded by Jesuit Missionaries in 1697 and remains the oldest permanent settlement in the Californias. Now a growing destination for tourists, Loreto and its people are an integral part of our company, and we are proud to be part of the community. While we employ over 15 local Mexican guides and other support staff, your participation in our trips is also an important contribution to a number of local businesses from whom we purchase our supplies.

While the town is gaining commercial attention, it retains its historic and idyllic ambience. You might consider extending your visit on some of our day tours to hike, snorkel or go see blue whales, or join one of our 3-6 day sea kayaking tours. 

• ACCOMMODATION: Not Included. The tour hotel is the Hacienda Suites where we hold our evening orientation meeting and is our pick up point in the morning of Day 1.
• MEALS: Not Included

Day 1: Driving and Cultural Touring, Hiking

After breakfast at the hotel, we tour the coast toward the north before traveling west toward the Pacific Ocean through desert habitats. 

Our first stop is the the old French mining town of Santa Rosalia. Here we find quite the surprise, as the town houses the singular metal church designed by the Eiffel Tower’s own Gustave Eiffel. We continue our exploration of Baja missions into the afternoon with our stop at tranquil San Ignacio, an old mission town. We will spend an hour or so learning about the history of the California missions and visiting the Spanish Mission, constructed in 1786, before arriving at our campsite on the edge of the San Ignacio lagoon. Tonight we camp in simple tents and enjoy an al fresco dinner. 

• ACCOMMODATION: San Ignacio Camping
• MEALS INCLUDED: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Whale Watching, Return to San Ignacio Town

Whales were once icons of the powerful and the unknown, and they retain a unique sense of mystery and elusiveness even amidst scientific advancements that are helping us learn more about these gentle yet majestic creatures. Our whale watching expedition will allow you to encounter whales on a personal, authentic level. Our focus is viewing and learning about gray whales who travel south from Arctic waters every winter to have their babies in one of four protected bays in Baja California. Whale watching from San Ignacio Lagoon is an unmatched experience. A small percentage of the population here are known to be "friendlies" and for reasons unknown, invite interaction with humans. Mothers sometimes come very close to our boats, and may even nudge their calves within touching distance.  It is one of the world's most wondrous wildlife viewing experiences. 

Our whale watching excursions are held from “pangas”— compact, motorized boats carrying no more than 7-8 people — that allow a closer view of the whales. The pangas, navigated by experienced local fishermen, take you a respectful distance from the whales and turn the engine to idle.  At this point, the whales may approach the boat if they so wish. During our sessions, you are likely to see whales spy-hop, and perform single or double tale lobs. If lucky, a whale or even a calf will swim close to the boat and you can smell their breath or get wet from the spray from their spout. Such an intimate experience can be enlightening and transcendental, forming a connection unsurpassed in artificial environments. Your guide is your personal onboard naturalist further enhancing the experience. We will have two whale watching sessions today, each about 2 hours in length. However, we will take weather, whale activity, and whale watching ordinances into consideration; these parameters could influence the timing of our excursions. In order to protect the whales in their natural habitat, whale watching is a monitored activity in order to mitigate boat congestion and traffic so that your experience is unique and natural. 

After a full day of whale watching and exploring in the San Ignacio lagoon, we return to the picturesque town of San Ignacio and stay in a small hotel. 

• ACCOMMODATION: San Ignacio Hotel
• MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Hiking and/or Mule Riding

After breakfast, we depart San Ignacio for the next part of our great adventure. We travel north on Highway 1 and then east to the small village of Sierra de San Francisco.  Here we pick up our permits, local guides and mules before continuing on to Guadalupe and the start of our hike. 

On our adventure through the canyon, mules and horses — the time-honored method of canyon transportation — will help carry our gear.  Some guests may also choose to ride rather than walk. After a short distance of relatively level hiking, we begin our descent into Santa Teresa canyon.  It's a steep switchback trail that drops over 2000' over just a few miles. Careful footing on the slippery gravel and loose rock surface is required.  We stop often and take in the magnificent views that surround us. After a few hours we reach the canyon floor where a serene, palm-fringed oasis awaits. After a picnic lunch and time to rest, we continue our hike, now on riverbed rocks and a rough trail at the edge of the arroyo. Cactus and other plants adapted to this dry environment frame the rock canyon walls and their mosaic of colors.

We make camp in the late afternoon, feast on a well-deserved dinner and watch as the night sky illuminates in stars.  Evening conversation with our local cowboy guides and shared stories of explorations finish the day.

• ACCOMMODATION: Camping
• MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 4–5: Hiking, Exploring Cave Paintings, Camping

Over the next two days, you explore multiple painted caverns and hike through the stark beauty of desert canyons. The landscape, with its volcanic rock slopes and dry creek beds, offers a rare form of enchantment. 

The dry air and higher elevation (around 3000’ or 1000 meters) preserved the rock paintings, which illustrate a profound connection between humans and their environment through depictions of prehistoric hunter-gatherers and many animal species. Sierra de San Francisco was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 1993 and stands as one of the five largest concentrations of rock art in the world.

One of our featured stops is Cueva de la Soledad, perched high on a plateau. Painted on the ceiling are large anthropomorphic figures known as “monos”, layered over animals to create a sense of movement. Nearby, a checkerboard of red, black, and yellow-lined boxes adds to the visual complexity. The pigments were made from minerals sourced from the nearby volcano of Las Vírgenes.

Next, we’ll visit Cueva de las Flechas (Cave of Arrows), unique for its depictions of human figures pierced with arrows—one with as many as ten. The meaning remains a mystery: is it black magic, superstition, or a story of conflict?

We’ll also tour Cueva Pintada, the largest mural site, spanning 500 feet at its base. Its preservation is likely due to its remote location, possibly undiscovered by missionaries until the late 1800s. The murals show humans, birds, deer, and even sea mammals like whales and sea lions. Many believe painters built platforms from palms to reach the highest walls and ceilings.

Nearby lies Boca de San Julio, known for its vivid images of a leaping buck and a pregnant deer, lit naturally by sunlight throughout the day.

In the same area is Los Músicos, a cavern named for dancing human figures that resemble musical notes on a white-lined "staff."

These are just a few of the extraordinary sites you'll experience—each one offering a vivid window into the life, nature, and spirit of Baja’s earliest people.  How many sites we visit will depend on the group's hiking abilities, weather and other factors.  In the afternoon of Day 5 we return along the arroyo to Santa Teresa oasis to spend the night.

In the evening we share a simple simple dinner and marvel at our surroundings. 

• ACCOMMODATION: Camping
• MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Hiking, Climbing, Return to Loreto

We get an early start for our our climb to Guadalupe Ranch and, lastly, San Francisco de Sierra. Stop to catch your breath and reflect on the wonders you've seen. By lunchtime we reach the canyon rim and hike a bit further to Guadalupe and our vehicle.  From here we begin our return trip to Loreto.

We should arrive in Loreto before the evening sets in, which provides you with well-earned time to enjoy your hotel’s amenities, join your guides for a no host farewell dinner to enjoy delicious local cuisine, and a good night’s sleep!

• ACCOMMODATION: Not Included
• MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Departure Day

Today you’ll either begin your journey home or extend your stay with one of our optional tour add-ons.

Baja Weather

We highly recommend checking the weather before your departure for the most updated forecast and current conditions.

 

 

Sea Kayak Adventures Physical Requirements

Here at Sea Kayak Adventures our first and foremost goal is for you to have an enjoyable and safe experience. While most of our trips are suitable for beginners, some of our trips are more active than others and it’s important that you understand the physical requirement of the trip you choose. 

All of our sea kayaking trips are active adventures that involve some level of physical exertion and possible exposure to the elements including but not limited to wind, rain, heat, sun, cold temperatures and cold water conditions. Sea Kayak Adventures is able to accommodate people with physical limitations, disabilities and medical conditions; please speak with your Adventure Consultant if you think you will require any additional assistance while on the trip.  We ask that you consult your Doctor if you have health or medical conditions that could impact your ability to participate in an active and outdoor adventure.  In general, all trip participants must be able to do the following:  

• Wear all protective and safety equipment that are required by Sea Kayak Adventures and recommended/required by industry wide standards.
• Load and unload, on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion, the bus and/or van providing transportation for Sea Kayak Adventures activities.
• Reach the water access points (put-in and take-out) on their own, or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Enter and exit the raft, kayak and/or inflatable kayak on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Remain seated and balanced in a floating raft, canoe, kayak or inflatable kayak w/ the aid of adaptive equipment, if necessary.
• Float on their back when entering moving and still water.  The participant must be capable of turning from face-down to face-up in the water with the aid of a Personal Floatation Device and must be able to hold their breath while under water.
• Remain calm and keep breathing under control in the event of a swim.
• Climb into the kayak, with the help of another person, should an involuntary swim happen at any point on the water.
• Make progress toward the shoreline or a boat by swimming in moving water and must be able to exit the water and ascend the shoreline once reached.
• Participate as an active paddler when instructed by the guide for the duration of trip. 
• Move about the campsite on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion on all trips that include overnight camping and/or lunch.

Physical Preparedness

Whether you are an avid sea kayaker, or it is your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips, and share in our passion for adventure, commitment to conserving the environment, and relishing unique experiences. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the camping gear, kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small to allow you to not only travel intimately among nature, but to ensure you receive the necessary attention from our guides.

Friendly Whales and Ancient Cave Paintings Packing List

Overview:

The packing list outlined below is meant to serve as a guide to help you plan, prepare and outfit yourself for your upcoming travels. We have provided our best recommendations and suggestions. If you pack according to this list you will have what you need.

San Ignacio Whale Camp is located on an island on the Pacific Coast side of Baja. At times it is quite a bit cooler on the Pacific side than the Gulf of California side. Fog and mist are common. When out in the pangas (motorboats) for whale watching, it can be windy and cool. If you’re lucky and the sun is out during the day you will need to focus on sun-protection. However, evenings are always cool and the weather is highly variable. Thus, be sure to pay attention to our recommendations about cold-weather gear.

The Cave Paintings are in an area where the temperature is known to drop due to their location. We recommend layers to be sure that you can comfortably enjoy these marvelous wonders!

Gear Provided by Sea Kayak Adventures:

Sea Kayak Adventures provides all necessary equipment for your selected tour. This includes all necessary camping equipment for your tour. At whale camp we have stand-up canvas tents, each with two cots. In addition, we provide a sleeping pad, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and pillow with pillow case.

Luggage Recommendations:

Sea Kayak Adventures trips are best enjoyed if you travel light. We think it is wise to avoid checking any luggage under the plane. If you do check a bag, make sure that you have everything that is either essential or would be hard to replace, with you in your carry-on.

We recommend packing in one soft sided, roll-on (ideally a non-hard-sided version) or duffle luggage that meets carry-on requirements. Alternatively, if you must have a checked bag; make sure your personal item is packed with your “hard to replace items.” You will be able to leave luggage not needed for your kayaking trip in hotel storage.

We also recommend bringing one small day pack.  This dual purpose pack can serve as your personal item during your flights as well as your day pack for hikes during the tour. Outside zippered pockets are nice and allow you to organize your travel gear. Carry medications, travel documents, important personal items and other essentials or “hard-to-replace” items in this on the plane.

 

Essential Items

•     Passport – Please check that it is valid for the required amount of time depending on your destination.
•     A photo of your passport on your phone. A photocopy of your passport, inside a ziplock bag and stowed elsewhere in your luggage. (As an additional precautionary measure, consider leaving a photocopy with family or friends at home. 
•     Copy of your air tickets with ticket numbers, placed elsewhere in your luggage and/or email someone back home your air ticket information in case you lose your phone.
•     Credit and/or Debit/ATM card that works internationally, ideally with chip technology (Some banks want you to notify them of travel plans ahead of time which often can be done online.)
•     Plan to use cash (pesos) for small purchases, taxis and incidental tipping
•     USD, CAD or Euros for guide gratuities at the end of your trip
•     Watch or small travel clock with alarm (if you are taking a phone, this can serve as your alarm clock)
•     Money belt or concealed passport carrier to carry your passport, travel documents and money, hidden under your clothing
•     TSA-accessible lock for luggage security when not on your person (optional- can buy these at any travel or outdoor recreation store)

Active Clothing

Please follow this list carefully to prepare for the many weather conditions we experience in Baja, as well as the unique hiking conditions.

• Swim Suit for bathing
• 2-4 pairs of shorts (synthetic or nylon is best)
• 2-4 synthetic shirts (quick drying)
• 1-2 pairs of long pants (synthetic or nylon are best. Convertible pants are nice to save space and weight)
• 2-3 Long sleeve synthetic shirts (quick drying, also look for SPF protection)
• 2 pair of long underwear
•  Rain/Wind Jacket and Pants
• 1-2 insulating layer (light weight synthetic is ideal, fleece works well too)
•  Underwear
•  5-6 pairs of good hiking socks (No cotton, we suggest a synthetic or merino wool blend)
•  1-2 Bandanas or Buff's
•  Sun hat with brim and chin strap
•  One pair of camp shoes or sandals (to wear while not hiking)
•  One warm hat (wool or fleece)
• Hiking shoes (Nothing new, they need to be well broken in to prevent blistering)

Casual Pre & Post Activity Clothing

•     1-2 other comfortable pairs of bottoms: pants, shorts, skirts, dresses, etc.
•     1 pair other lightweight shoes for time in town
•     1-2 tops: short sleeve, long sleeve and/or button up shirt(s)
•     1 light sweater or jacket for warmth in the evenings and mornings
•     1 pair pajamas

Additional Gear

•     Retaining strap for glasses and sunglasses
•     Flashlight or headlamp
•     One pair of paddling gloves
•     One pair of light wool gloves if you get cold easily
•     Small day pack or fanny pack for hikes
•     One large-mouth water bottle, 1 liter or larger
•     Camp towel (small lightweight towel, backpacking style works great)
•     ​Camera and appropriate charging mechanism (We do have a solar panel at whale camp that can recharge phones but it doesn’t always work based on sunshine)
•     Back up battery pack for electronic devices
•     Waterproof camera or valuables case
•     Binoculars or monocular
•     Glasses or contacts if needed
•     Polarized sunglasses
•     ​Reusable/clean gear bags for wet or soiled items
•     ​Small ​​reusable, leak-proof bags for liquid or spillable personal items
•     Books or E-reader, pen and notepad, headphones, etc. If you want to listen to music, please do it privately with earbuds or headphones.
•     Small travel pillow if you require more support than provided pillow.

Toiletries and First Aid

•     Standard toiletry kit including general hygiene products, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. (keep liquids under 3.38 oz.(100ml) for carry-on)
•     Insect repellent
•     Reef safe sunscreen (we highly recommend Stream2Sea as a reef safe option)
•     Lip balm with SPF 20-50
•     Pre-moistened toilette packets or disposable shower wipes to refresh
•     Prescriptions and any necessary personal medicines (please be sure to bring necessary prescriptions and any needed emergency medicine such as an EpiPen, Benadryl, etc)
•     Heavy duty skin lotion for dry, sun-baked, and salted skin
•     Small squeeze bottle of hand-sanitizer gel
•     Shampoo and soap (we recommend biodegradable, multi-purpose options)
•     *Optional female urinary device (allows women to urinate standing up without removing clothing). Silicon or hard plastic ones work great. Popular name brands include Gogirl and Shewee.

 

 

Sea Kayak Adventures - Recommended Baja Reading List

Additional Baja Information 

Weather report- Check the weather before you go.

Baja Travel Guide- Additional Information on travel to and from Baja

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