Sea Kayak Espiritu Santo Island
Isla Espiritu Santo, off the coast of La Paz in Baja California Sur, features some of the most beautiful beaches in the world coupled with unique wildlife experiences. A snorkeling-friendly colony of sea lions and a nearby population of plankton-eating whale sharks make Espiritu Santo an extraordinary destination for kayakers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Join us on this spectacular island, and fall in love with Baja's startling beauty.
On this Sea Kayak Adventures classic Baja kayaking trip youll spend your days sea kayaking in the tranquil waters surrounding Isla Espiritu Santo, a National Park and UNESCO Biosphere located just north of La Paz, Baja. The island features numerous deep coves with beautiful white sand beaches hidden between sienna-hued headlands jutting out of turquoise waves. The island hosts spectacular beaches that were voted by Travel Magazine as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Espiritu Santo (Holy Spirit) Island is uninhabited unless you count pelicans, parrot fish and dolphins.
One of the trip highlights is snorkeling with friendly sea lions at Los Islotes, volcanic islets where playful sea lion pups dive off the rocks and pirouette below you. Other activities include hiking up colorful arroyos studded with tall cactus, snorkeling amongst hundreds of tropical fish, paddling below fantastic rock formations, and enjoying margaritas on the beach as the sun sets. Our motorized support boat carries all camping gear and the makings for fabulous meals prepared by your guides with a Mexican flair. Your kayaks are light and easy to paddle between camps while the accompanying motorboat provides an additional level of safety.
ADD A DAY TO SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS: Don't miss out on the opportunity to swim and snorkel with these gentle giants during your trip to La Paz. This day tour is specifically designed to add on to either end of your kayaking trip and is the perfect complement to your vacation experience. La Paz is one of the few places in the world where you will have the opportunity to observe, interact and learn about these docile fish. A local whale shark guide accompanies you on your swim. Their knowledge and passion for whale sharks are obvious as they work to make your time swimming in La Paz educational, meaningful, and memorable.
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Itinerary
Day 0 - Arrival in La Paz, Evening Orientation Meeting
Check into rooms (NOT included in trip cost). You're on your own for sightseeing or shopping until the evening pre-trip meeting in the 7 Crown Centro hotel lobby, where we'll answer questions and let you know the meeting time for the next day. Dinner is on your own in town, and we highly recommend a stroll at sunset along the waterfront malecon walkway. There are a variety of restaurants with ocean views, or look up our local restaurant guide for details.
Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja.
- Accommodations: Not Included
- Meals Included: None
Day 1 - Panga Ride to Espiritu Santo Island, Paddling Orientation, Kayak and Camp
You'll board a boat for our shuttle to Espiritu Santo island. Upon arrival to the beach, your guides will teach you the basics of paddling and thoroughly review safety procedures. You won't leave shore until all participants feel comfortable in the boats, and then you will kayak to the first night's campsite. Our motorized support boat carries all the heavy gear, food and water so your kayaks are light and easy to paddle.
- Accommodations: Beach Camping
- Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Days 2-4: Sea Kayak, Snorkel, Hike, Wildlife Watch and Beach Camping
Awake to freshly brewed coffee and tea as the sunrise spills golden light onto this serene desert island. After a warm breakfast prepared by your guides, you'll pack your belongings into the kayaks for the morning paddle. Expect to kayak about 4 hours per day, including floating rest stops, moving along the coast to a new campsite each night. You'll enjoy a long lunch break between the morning and afternoon paddle, and occasional floating rest stops while kayaking. During lunch and before happy hour, you'll have plenty of opportunities for snorkeling with Baja's plentiful reef fish, hiking the island's arroyo trails, or just relaxing on the sandy beaches. Enjoy stunning landscapes, unique geology, and watch as the subtle nuances of the Baja desert landscape unfolds into a natural masterpiece through interpretive hikes and talks by your highly-educated guides. At night, the lack of light pollution reveals constellations you've never seen!
Enjoy the stars through the comfort of your tent, or sleep underneath them on the sand. When the moon hides behind the canyon peaks, you can even see brightly-glowing blue bioluminescence in the water.
- Accommodations: Beach Camping
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Snorkel with Sea Lions at Los Islotes, Return to La Paz
After a final breakfast, you'll take a short motorboat ride to visit the friendly sea lions at Los Islotes. This colony is accustomed to people snorkeling among them, and curious pups are often eager to interact with people. After getting your fill of whiskers and flippers, the panga will drive you back to La Paz and the hotel (ah, showers!). *Please note: Most of our tours on Isla Espiritu Santo include a trip on the first or last day of the kayak tour to snorkel with these playful animals. The timing of this day will be determined by your guides and the weather forecast. Due to the length of the boat ride to and from Los Islotes, you likely will not kayak on this day.
You're invited this evening to join your group and guides for a farewell dinner at a delicious local restaurant (not included in the trip cost). Recount your tales and toast your new friends before relaxing into a real bed.
- Accommodations: Not Included
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: OPTIONAL: ADD A DAY TO SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS
Note: If you are not extending your stay to swim with whale sharks, day 6 will be your departure day.
Extend your stay in La Paz a day before or after your kayak tour for a chance to swim with whale sharks. These plankton-eaters are the world's largest fish, and can reach lengths of up to 42' (13 m)! Whale sharks migrate into the bay of La Paz from October through April, where the shallow water of the bay harbors the favorite treats of these filter-feeding animals. Meet your guides bright and early to get a head start on the water in search of these peaceful creatures. The tour is approximately four hours, depending on the number of whale sharks present, so you'll have time to spend the afternoon exploring La Paz's beautiful Malecon.
- Accommodations: Not Included
- Meals Included: None
Day 7: Return Home
Visit the hotel cafe or a local restaurant for breakfast before your departure. Depending on your flight arrangements, you may have time for a morning promenade on the malecon of La Paz bay to say your farewells to Baja. If you're flying via San Jose del Cabo, ensure that you have adequate time in your itinerary to shuttle from La Paz to Cabo.
- Meals Included: None
Day 0 - Arrive in La Paz
Arrive in La Paz at your leisure. Direct flights are available, or fly to Cabo San Lucas and transfer north three hours on a shuttle bus. Check into your room at the Seven Crowns Centro Hotel (not included in trip cost) and explore La Paz on your own. In the evening we have an orientation meeting and give you your dry bags to pack. We provide everything you need in terms of camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, pillow), snorkels, masks, and wetsuits.
Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja.
- Accommodations: Not Included
- Meals Included: None
Day 1: Transfer to to Espiritu Santo, Kayak, and Settle Into Camp
Meet your guide at the designated time in the morning, dressed ready to kayak. We transfer to the harbor and take our motorized boat about two hours to the island of Espiritu Santo. Once there we have a kayak orientation to familiarize you with your kayak and trip safety, and soon, start our paddle. We enjoy lunch on a beach along the way, with time to take a dip in the warm, clear waters of the Gulf of California.
By late afternoon we arrive at our camp on Isla Espiritu Santo. There is time to explore on land, or underwater by mask and snorkel. Your guides will accompany you and are happy to help you learn how to snorkel if you are not practiced.
Soon it’s time for appetizers while we watch an amazing sunset. Dinner is served under the open sky, prepared by our staff with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, enjoy the stars and when tired, retire to your tent.
- Accommodations: Beach Camping
- Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Kayak, Snorkel, and Explore the Coast of Espiritu Santo
The day is a mix of sea kayaking on the clear blue waters of the Gulf of California, walking up desert arroyos and swimming or snorkeling to discover marine wonders. The coastline of Isla Espirtu Santo is perfect for kayaking with many protected bays. The water in the bays gets shallower you move closer to shore, providing wonderful views of the sea bottom. There are many sparkling white sand beaches on the island and we choose one of these for lunch.
We arrive at our next camp with time to enjoy this wondrous landscape. You might want to hike above camp for stunning views of the island and surrounding sea. Or you may wish to snorkel among darting tropical fish. Or just relax and catch up on a book or visit with new friends. Dinner, stargazing or moon-watching and overnight at our beach camp.
- Accommodations: Beach Camping
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Snorkel, Paddle, and Explore Desert Scenery
Similar to the day before, we enjoy another superb day of sun and water. We paddle along the coastline, marveling at the desert beauty, wildlife, and crystal seas. There is a magical sense here as the desert is so full of life. Tiny flowers, running lizards, various cacti, and succulents weave a tapestry of color and intrigue. Underwater is an entirely different ecosystem where patient observation rewards one with new discoveries.
We spend another evening at camp with appetizers, a lovely sunset, and dinner.
- Accommodations: Beach Camping
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Snorkel with Sea Lions at Los Islotes and Return to La Paz
If we haven’t done it yet, we head out early to snorkel with the young sea lions at Las Islotes. This is home to a large sea lion rookery. Keeping our distance from the main rookery, we swim at a location where the younger sea lions usually engage with us. They love to play, swirling in the water, and if you dive and swirl too, they tend to stick around longer and play more. Being face-to-face with a young sea lion is a thrilling experience, and this is often a real highlight of the trip! Afterwards, we return to camp to finalize packing, perhaps take a short walk, and then are met by our panga to return us to La Paz by early afternoon.
On this Baja kayak tour, each day’s weather determines our activities and schedule. Sometimes, afternoon winds mean that it’s best to kayak in the morning only. Or a cooler day may make for perfect hiking conditions. We encourage you to come with a flexible attitude and understanding that nature is the one in charge. We reserve the right to substitute other activities if weather prevents the trip from going as planned.
- Accommodations: Not Included
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Featured Accommodation
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | ||
| Jan 30, 2026 to Feb 02, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 02, 2026 to Feb 06, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 06, 2026 to Feb 09, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 09, 2026 to Feb 13, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 13, 2026 to Feb 16, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 16, 2026 to Feb 20, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 20, 2026 to Feb 23, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 23, 2026 to Feb 27, 2026 5-Day High Season SOLD OUT | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 27, 2026 to Mar 02, 2026 4-Day High Season SOLD OUT | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 02, 2026 to Mar 06, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 06, 2026 to Mar 09, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 09, 2026 to Mar 13, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 13, 2026 to Mar 16, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 16, 2026 to Mar 20, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 20, 2026 to Mar 23, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 23, 2026 to Mar 27, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 27, 2026 to Mar 30, 2026 4-Day High Season | $1,740£0€0$0$0 | $1,650£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 30, 2026 to Apr 03, 2026 5-Day High Season | $2,090£0€0$0$0 | $1,950£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 03, 2026 to Apr 06, 2026 4-Day Low Season | $1,690£0€0$0$0 | $1,600£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 06, 2026 to Apr 10, 2026 5-Day Low Season | $1,970£0€0$0$0 | $1,870£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 10, 2026 to Apr 13, 2026 4-Day Low Season | $1,690£0€0$0$0 | $1,600£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 13, 2026 to Apr 17, 2026 5-Day Low Season | $1,970£0€0$0$0 | $1,870£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 17, 2026 to Apr 20, 2026 4-Day Low Season | $1,690£0€0$0$0 | $1,600£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 20, 2026 to Apr 24, 2026 5-Day Low Season | $1,970£0€0$0$0 | $1,870£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 24, 2026 to Apr 27, 2026 4-Day Low Season | $1,690£0€0$0$0 | $1,600£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 27, 2026 to May 01, 2026 5-Day Low Season | $1,970£0€0$0$0 | $1,870£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
** ALL PRICES ARE IN USD
4-DAY TOUR RATES
Low season: October 24, 2025 - January 8, 2026 and April 1 - May 1, 2026
- $1690 per adult
- $1600 per youth
High season: January 9, 2026 - March 31, 2026
- $1740 per adult
- $1650 per youth
5-DAY TOUR RATES
Low season: October 27, 2025 - January 8, 2026 and April 1 - May 1, 2026
- $1970 per adult
- $1870 per youth
High season: January 9, 2026 - March 31, 2026
- $2090 per adult
- $1950 per youth
Single Kayak: If you are interested in reserving a Solo kayak for yourself, it will cost an additional $100 for the trip and we require that you fill out an eligibility questionnaire. Your adventure consultant will determine if you qualify after receiving the filled out questionnaire. In any case, the Trip Leader of your adventure always has the right to decide that a solo kayak is not appropriate based on weather and ability.
Single Supplement: Solo travelers will be provided with their own tent during all of our kayaking tours, at no additional cost. Please note, a limited number of single tents are available per departure.
PRIVATE CHARTER TOURS
Available for 8-14 guests October 1 - December 15 and March 15 - May 1
- Minimum of 8 paid spaces is required.
- With 10 paid spaces, the 11th space is free.
Available for 10-14 guests December 16 - March 19
- Minimum of 10 paid spaces is required.
- With 13 paid spaces, the 14th space is free.
INCLUDED
- Full services of our Adventure Consultants
- Professional naturalist and bi-lingual guides
- All meals and beverages as indicated on the itinerary
- All transportation while on tour
- All kayaking, camping, and snorkeling equipment
- Panga-supported kayaking tour. *For more information on panga support, see HERE.
- Taxes
NOT INCLUDED
- Airfare
- Transportation to and from the airport
- Hotel before and after the tour
- National Parks & Biosphere Reserves access fees required by itinerary
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
PLEASE NOTE
Strong winds and/or rough water conditions sometimes prevent our trips from going as scheduled. We are at the mercy of nature, as well as decisions made by Port Captains on our Baja trips. In these cases we may alter the itinerary to mitigate these issues. This could look like staying in a campsite for multiple nights, delaying water crossings by a day or two, or transferring the trip to an entirely different location. If we cannot kayak, we will provide a substitute activity. We recognize this isn’t ideal, however we have no control over nature and we’ve found that most prefer to still have a trip going, versus no trip at all. Since we are basing our decisions on constantly shifting wind and weather forecasts, decisions to alter trips are made last minute (no sooner than noon the day prior). The safety and security of our trips is our top priority. Our guides monitor forecasts very closely and will inform you as soon as any changes are made. ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right to modify and alter trip itineraries and will not provide any refund in these circumstances.
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FAQ & More
How do I get to La Paz?
Getting to La Paz is easy with Alaska Airlines, Delta, Volaris, and Aeromexico. There are flights available from Los Angeles and Mexico City. Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja. For more information on flying to La Paz see here.
*As of November 2024, there is easy access to La Paz with new direct flights from Los Angeles to La Paz via Alaska Airlines!
What’s included in this kayak package? What’s not included?
Included: Skilled professional guide services, ground transportation, motorboat-support to carry gear, snorkeling equipment, camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, liners, and sleeping pads. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day.
Not Included: Airfare, transportation to and from airport, hotel nights before and after activities, gratuities, National Parks & Biosphere Reserves access fees required by itinerary, and items of a personal nature.
Is this kayak trip motorboat supported?
Yes, many Sea Kayak Adventures Baja trips are motorboat supported. If at any time a guest does not want to paddle they are welcome to ride in the panga instead. For more information on panga supported kayaking tours, see HERE.
What are the physical requirements for this trip?
There are some physical requirments for sea kayaking in Baja. When stopping at shore, you should be able to climb in and out of the kayaks on your own. They will be floating in calf-deep water. Your guides are happy to assist, but balance and limberness are required. When you get to your evening campsite, all group members must to be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line, in teams of 6-8, before the group disperses. You will change camp sites almost every night, but may have a layover day.
What’s camping in La Paz like? Are there toilets and showers at camp?
Camping in La Paz is made easy thanks to your guides! You can expect to camp on vast sandy beaches with snorkeling and fishing opportunities right outside your tent. When you get to your evening campsite all group members must be able to help carry the kayaks above the high tide line. You will change campsites almost every night, but may have a layover day. Campsites are assigned by the National Park Service immediately prior to the tour. We endeavor to secure the very best campsites for the natural beauty and amenities of the area. Your guides will give a demonstration of how to set up and take down your provided dome tent. We also will provide you with a sleeping bag, liner sheet, pillow and an inflatable thermarest sleeping pad. There will be a kitchen/dining area and shade tarps where you can sit back and relax.
While kayaking, we can only carry enough fresh water for drinking and cooking. There are no fresh water sources on most of the coastline and islands we visit. You can clean up with saltwater and soap off above the high tide line, or bring disposable shower wipes. A porta potty will fit into a hatch of the kayak or on the panga support boat, and will be transported to each campsite and set into a sheltered area for solid waste. Liquid waste can be expelled below the high tide line, or in a separate porta-potty bucket.
When is the best time to visit La Paz?
Spring and fall are the most ideal times to visit La Paz and explore the beaches of the Gulf of California, as the seasons are characterized by warm days, glassy calm waters for paddling, and endless sunshine. Fall trips enjoy the chance for a desert in bloom and warm water snorkeling, while during spring, many cetaceans migrate into the Gulf of California and sightings may include blue, fin, and humpback whales.
What happens if it’s too windy to paddle?
If it’s too windy to paddle your guides will have alternative activities for guests to enjoy. There are opportunities to snorkel, hike or just relax on the beach with a margarita. We plan our itineraries to minimize risks posed by weather, but there is always an element of unpredictability in nature. The risk of capsizing is reduced by our stable boats, but exists. All of our kayak guides are trained in kayak rescue.
What are the highlights of this tour?
La Paz offers some unusual highlights, such as swimming with playful sea lion pups and the chance to see Whale Sharks (harmless plankton eaters, and the largest fish on the planet!). Espiritu Santo is stunningly beautiful, with deep coves of turquoise water surrounded by white sand beaches and burnt sienna colored volcanic cliffs. Additionally, because La Paz is only a couple hours from Los Cabos (via a shuttle service from the airport), the city is easily accessible by air. You can also fly directly to La Paz from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines.
Can I fish in La Paz?
In general, fishing in allowed in La Paz. You would need to obtain a fishing license either before arriving or upon arrival. Our guides will not allow fishing if you are unable to produce a valid license. You will also need to bring all of your own fishing equipment. Along our kayaking routes there are areas where fishing is allowed, the guides will let you know where fishing is prohibited. Also, fishing is only allowed at the guide's discretion, as we have an itinerary, schedule and other group members that we have to take into consideration.
What’s the difference between Loreto & La Paz?
There are many diferences between Loreto and La Paz, making them each unique and worth a visit. Loreto is smaller and serene, while La Paz is bigger city boasting with activies and exploration. If you are having trouble deciding between the two destinations and would like to learn more, we suggest reading this blog detailing the differences between Loreto and La Paz.
What gear do I need?
Sea Kayak Adventures will provide you with a detailed packing list prior to your trip. We provide all of the necessary camping, paddling and snorkeling equipment, which you will need to fully enjoy your adventure. If you are interested in more specific information, check out our general Baja packing list here! If you have any questions, or need help deciding what to bring, you can call or e-mail one of our friendly Adventure Consultants at any time for some extra advice!
What kind of food will I eat? Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Our renowned wilderness meals are prepared daily by our guides using local, fresh, healthy ingredients. In Baja you can expect an authentic dining experience, with savory dishes like chiles rellenos, tostadas, ceviche, and chicken mole. We even serve delicious desserts like brownies and pineapple upside-down cake! Each morning, we serve up freshly brewed coffee or tea. Throughout the day we provide an abundance of local fruits, vegetables, and other snacks. Wine and mixed drinks are served with hors d’oeuvres each evening for happy hour.
We do our best to accommodate special dietary requests, working within the parameters of the destinations in which we operate. If you have a very strict diet, we recommend packing extra snacks that you know you can eat.
Where can I store my luggage while I’m on your tour?
You can leave your luggage at your hotel while you are on tour. We recommend getting a luggage lock if you are leaving any electronics in the bags. We’ve never had any issues with guests leaving their bags at the hotel but it’s always better to be safe just in case. Please ensure any details with your hotel upon check in.
Is there any extensions I can add to the beginning or end of my trip?
If you will be extending your stay in lovely La Paz before or after your tour, consider joining us for a day to swim with Whale Sharks. La Paz is home to a unique and prolific whale shark population. Don't miss the adrenaline rush of snorkeling with these gentle giants, while simultaneously learning about this unique species. Please inquire with the office if you would like to add on a whale shark tour to your reservation.
Can I bring a drone on the trip?
Due to Mexican Park regulations, drones can only be operated by special permit. Because of this, and the potential of impacting others' experiences on our trips, we ask guests not to bring drones.
Reviews
Wonderful
Our 4 night kayak trip with Fabian and Pierro was wonderful. The food was excellent, scenery was amazing and we really enjoyed the snorkeling. Sea Kayak Adventures was excellent to deal with and Fabian and Pierro made sure we were happy and looked after. Highly recommend.
Fantastic
This was a fantastic 7 day kayaking tour! The guides were amazing! Diego, Tiko, Nishma and Nathan were all fantastic and always provided top notch information on the local geography and wildlife. They also provided amazing cooking and meals. I feel like I can call these guides my friends and I will never forget their efforts to make this a spectacular week. Sea Kayak Adventures is a top notch organization and I highly recommend them!
Honestly, my hat is off, and my spirit is restored and joyous!
The 7 day circumnavigation of Isla Esperantu Santo was absolutely sensational! Diego and the rest of the crew were the hardest working bunch I have ever been with on a guided trip. From sunrise to sunset, they went above and beyond to meet the needs (and wants) of our group. Carlos, the shuttle boat driver even brought ice cream out to us on day 5 when to members split off. Tico caught fresh group two days with his speargun. They had a positive attitude throughout and infused us all with their optimism and desire to add ever more adventures to our itinerary. Their planning was great, pushing us to get up extra early some days to be the first boat out to the sea lions for example, swimming with the turtles, and paddling farther to sea the frigate bird rookery, or adding yet another ‘must see’ snorkel spot before the sun went down. Honestly, my hat is off, and my spirit is restored and joyous! I just want to break into song! Recommended soundtrack: Ngiculela-Es Una Historia-I Am Singing- Stevie Wonder. Play it!
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