Destination:
Days: 15Vast desert landscapes, sun-drenched vineyards, and the vibrant blue of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez – this is Baja California at its best. On this immersive 15-day journey, you’ll dive deep into the region’s wild beauty and rich culture, from sustainable wine country and fishing communities to pristine marine sanctuaries and remote lagoons where gray whales gather each year. Between swims with sea lions, tasting flights of Grenache, and soulful encounters with Baja’s whales, you’ll unwind at design-forward resorts that blend luxury with a deep sense of place.
Before arriving in Baja, you’ll enjoy a vibrant cultural prelude in Mexico City – soaring over ancient pyramids by hot air balloon, tasting traditional cuisine in floating gardens, and stepping inside the world of Frida Kahlo and the Aztecs. But it’s in Baja where the journey truly unfolds: sipping wines among the vines, cooking with local fishermen, snorkeling in protected waters, and sleeping under canvas beside the whales. From start to finish, this is a journey of contrast, connection, and wonder – crafted for travelers seeking the wild and the luxurious in equal measure.
HIGHLIGHTS
3N Mexico City – Stay at the design-forward Casa Polanco in chic Polanco, your base for exploring the city’s vibrant culture and cuisine.
Xochimilco & Frida Kahlo – Cruise to a chinampa by traditional trajinera boat and enjoy a farm-fresh lunch; then step inside Frida’s Casa Azul to see her world up close.
Hot Air Balloon Over Teotihuacán – Drift above ancient pyramids at sunrise, followed by a sparkling toast and privately guided archaeological tour.
Private Night at the Museum – Explore Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology after hours with a cocktail in hand and a private expert guide.
Puerto Nuevo Lobster Lunch – Kick off your Baja chapter with ocean views and buttery lobster tacos in a legendary seaside town.
4N Valle de Guadalupe – Retreat to a private villa at Banyan Tree Veya, nestled in the hills of Baja’s celebrated wine region.
Signature Baja Vineyards – Visit a curated selection of Baja’s most emblematic wineries, from pioneering organics to design-forward estates and family-run gems.
Breakfast at Doña Esthela’s – Tuck into hearty ranch-style dishes at this Valle favorite, celebrated by foodies and featured by Bourdain.
Design Your Day in Ensenada – Choose between joining fishermen at sea (and cooking your own catch) or exploring Ensenada’s lively food and wine scene with your guide.
3N La Paz – Stay beachfront at Hotel Indigo, with views over the marina and easy access to Baja’s marine-rich waters.
Whale Sharks & Sea Lions – Snorkel alongside gentle whale sharks and playful sea lions on a private expedition to Espiritu Santo Island.
Sunset in Balandra Bay – Cruise to a serene anchorage for wine, charcuterie, and swimming beneath fiery desert skies.
1N Los Cabos – Unwind at Esperanza Resort, a cliffside retreat with oceanview casitas and elevated Baja cuisine.
3N Whale Glamping – Fly by private charter to San Ignacio Lagoon and sleep under canvas beside the whales, enjoying daily encounters, rustic luxury, and nature-based adventure.
Optional Beach Extension – Add a few extra nights in Los Cabos to close your journey with style – think poolside cocktails, golden sands, and top-tier service.
Day 1:
Mexico City Airport Private Transfer to Mexico City Hotel
Our airport supervisor will greet you in the arrival hall of Mexico City International Airport. He will accompany you to your awaiting car and introduce you to the driver.
Overnight: Casa Polanco
Day 2:
Chinampas Experience in Xochimilco and Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul
Overnight: Casa Polanco
Day 3: Mexico City from another Perspective
Mexico City Guided Visit to Teotihuacan with Hot Air Ballooning
Today, you´ll visit the mighty Teotihuacán, an ancient city located just outside the capital (50km/1h15min drive). This rare experience is well worth the early start! See the sunrise over the Valley of Teotihuacán as you pass over the Sun and Moon Pyramids in your own private hot-air balloon. Take in the sheer size of pre-Columbian religious and ceremonial centers, with vistas over the surrounding valley. Once the gentle flight is over, enjoy a traditional landing toast with sparkling wine before heading to a breakfast at a nearby restaurant.
After breakfast as you arrive at the archaeological zone, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Sun and Moon pyramids, two magnificent structures that have stood the test of time and hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. Guided by your private knowledgeable expert, explore the remnants of this once-vibrant city, walking along the Avenue of the Dead – a central thoroughfare flanked by impressive temples and palaces. Learn about the daily life, rituals, and beliefs of the Teotihuacanos as you marvel at the well-preserved murals, detailed carvings, and architectural wonders that grace the site. After exploring this captivating ancient city, you´ll be privately transferred back to your hotel.
National Museum of Anthropology Off-Hours Privately Guided Visit and Time for Dinner
Set off on an extraordinary adventure as you begin your evening with a welcome cocktail, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey. Then, enjoy a special, after-hours, privately guided visit to the National Anthropology Museum—Mexico’s most visited museum—renowned for its architectural design by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and its vast collection of fascinating artifacts from a myriad of cultures.
Your expert private guide will lead you through the museum’s remarkable treasures, bringing to life the myths and secrets of ancient civilizations. From the legend of the five suns depicted on the 24-ton Aztec Sunstone to the tomb of King Pakal unearthed in Palenque, Chiapas, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Mesoamerica’s rich history.
After this immersive journey into the past, delight your tastebuds with dinner at one of the city’s many renowned restaurants, part of a culinary scene celebrated for its world-class chefs (meals not included; we will gladly assist with reservations). Conclude the evening with a private transfer to your hotel.
Overnight: Casa Polanco
DAY 4: From Mexico City to Baja
Private Transfer to México City Airport
You will be met in your hotel lobby by your driver and driven to Mexico City International Airport (between 30- 45 minutes), where our airport supervisor will be waiting with your boarding pass ready to help you check-in your luggage.
From Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe: Baja’s Coastal Flavors in Puerto Nuevo
Your journey In Beautiful Baja begins with a warm welcome at Tijuana International Airport before heading to the legendary fishing village of Puerto Nuevo for its iconic lobster lunch, served with handmade tortillas, rice, beans, and fresh salsa (meals included; beverages à la carte). From here, enjoy a scenic transfer to the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe and settle into your hotel.
Overnight: Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe
Day 5: Through the Heart of the Valle
Exploring Wine, Heritage, and the Spirit of Baja’s Signature Vineyards
Set out on a sensory journey through Baja California’s wine country, where centuries-old tradition meets modern innovation. Visit two of three emblematic vineyards—Clos de Tres Cantos, Santo Tomás, or Viñedo La Carrodilla—each offering a unique perspective on the region’s winemaking and cultural heritage.
Step into living history at Santo Tomás, Baja’s oldest winery, where bold wines and sustainable practices reflect the land and its communities. At Clos de Tres Cantos, architecture and philosophy converge in a serene, reclaimed-material sanctuary, while Viñedo La Carrodilla showcases biodynamic farming and pioneering organic practices.
Between vineyard visits, pause for an optional lunch (not included) at Villa Torel, a Michelin-recognized restaurant celebrating Baja’s seasonal flavors. Return to your hotel in the afternoon, carrying a deeper appreciation for the landscapes, stories, and wines that define Valle de Guadalupe.
Overnight: Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe
Day 6: A Taste of the Valle
Breakfast at Doña Esthela’s and a Journey Through Baja’s Wine Country
Begin your day with breakfast at Doña Esthela’s, a beloved Valle de Guadalupe spot known for its warm hospitality and hearty ranch-style dishes like machaca, chilaquiles, and fresh tortillas. Featured by Anthony Bourdain, this iconic eatery gained international acclaim for its authentic culinary heritage.
From there, visit two of three distinguished vineyards that showcase the diversity and evolving spirit of Baja’s wine country. At Viñedo La Lomita, experience a family-run estate where tradition, care, and craftsmanship are evident in every detail, producing wines that truly reflect the Valle’s unique terroir. Viñedo Las Nubes sits atop rolling hills, offering breathtaking views and boutique, artisanal wines crafted with a deep respect for the landscape. Alternatively, Viñedo Adobe Guadalupe blends rustic charm with innovative winemaking, providing not only acclaimed wines but also a vibrant vineyard atmosphere and culinary offerings that reflect Baja’s creativity and warmth.
For lunch today (not included), our suggestion is Finca Altozano, an acclaimed open-air restaurant by chef Javier Plascencia, where local ingredients and Baja flavors come alive in a beautiful countryside setting. Alternatively, enjoy fresh, casual bites at Adobe Guadalupe’s popular food truck.
Return to your hotel inspired by the authentic flavors, stories, and evolving vision that continue to shape the dynamic wine culture of Valle de Guadalupe.
Overnight: Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe
Day 7: Design Your Day
Morning with Baja’s Fishermen or an Afternoon to Discover Ensenada’s Flavors
This day is intended for you to shape, with one of two unforgettable ways to experience the heart of Baja.
Begin by the sea in Ensenada’s Campo 7, where local fishermen welcome you aboard for a scenic journey across the bay. Learn their traditions, witness the rich marine life — including seabirds and sometimes migrating gray whales — and return to shore to enjoy a catch-based lunch prepared in their rustic kitchen. You may even join in the cooking, transforming the morning’s harvest into a soulful Baja meal.
Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel before venturing to Ensenada in the afternoon. Explore Plaza Santo Tomás, tasting the heritage of Baja’s winemaking, stroll colorful streets with your guide, and savor the local cuisine — from Michelin-recognized restaurants to legendary street food that celebrates Baja’s bold flavors.
Whether you immerse yourself in the fishermen’s world or Ensenada’s vibrant culture, this day offers an authentic, flavorful, and deeply human perspective of Baja, tailored to your pace and interests.
Overnight: Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe
Day 8: From Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe to La Paz
Private Transfer to Tijuana Airport
Your journey in Valle de Guadalupe concludes with a seamless private transfer from Banyan Tree to Tijuana International Airport.
Commercial Flight from Tijuana to La Paz, Baja California
**Airfare Cost Not included**
Private Transfer from La Paz Airport to Hotel
Bilingual Driver + Transportation
Overnight: Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortes
Day 9: Full-day Private Expedition
Whale Shark & Espiritu Santo Island Adventure
Embark on the ultimate marine safari, a full-day private expedition that combines two of the Sea of Cortez’s most iconic experiences. Your adventure begins with an early morning departure into the sheltered Bay of La Paz, a crucial feeding ground for the majestic whale shark. Here, your expert naturalist guide will lead you into the calm waters for a truly breathtaking encounter: the opportunity to swim and snorkel alongside the gentle giants of the ocean*.
The journey then continues to the magnificent Espiritu Santo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its dramatic volcanic cliffs and vibrant ecosystems. As we navigate the coastline, your guide will illuminate the island’s rich natural history. The day’s second highlight awaits at a lively sea lion colony, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel with the curious and playful pups in the crystal-clear water**.
Afterward, your captain will anchor at a secluded, pristine beach where a delicious, freshly prepared lunch will be served against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. The afternoon is yours to relax on the white sand, swim in the turquoise sea, or simply soak in the tranquility of paradise. This comprehensive adventure concludes with a scenic boat ride back to La Paz, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the ocean’s most incredible wonders.
Overnight: Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortes
Day 10: Balandra Bay at Sunset
Morning At leisure & Afternoon Experience
Discover the magic of a Baja California sunset on a private boat excursion to the iconic Balandra Bay. This is an evening designed for pure relaxation and sensory delight, as the desert landscape is painted in golden and crimson hues.
Your adventure begins in the late afternoon as we cruise across the tranquil waters. We’ll make a brief visit to the sea lion rookery of San Rafaelito, where you can observe these charismatic animals in their natural habitat and, if you wish, enjoy a refreshing snorkel in the turquoise water*.
As the sun begins its descent, we will anchor in the serene, protected sanctuary of Balandra Bay. Here, with the stunning scenery as your backdrop, your guide will serve a gourmet platter of fine cheeses and charcuterie, perfectly paired with a glass of wine.
There is no agenda but your own: swim in the calm, crystalline waters as the light fades, or simply recline on the deck and watch as the sky transforms into a spectacle of color.
The experience concludes with a peaceful boat ride back to La Paz under the twilight sky, leaving you with the indelible, sun-kissed memory of a perfect evening in paradise.
Overnight: Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortes
Day 11: From La Paz to Los Cabos
Private Transfer
Meet your private driver in La Paz and journey south toward Los Cabos for a for a seamless and transfer at arrival enjoy rest of the day at leisure.
Optionally, along the way, you may wish to explore the charming town of Todos Santos and even enjoy a surfing lesson at Cerritos Beach (not included).
Overnight: Esperanza Resort
Day 12: Whale Camping Adventure
Hotel Private Transfer to Departure Site
Early this morning your private driver will meet you at your hotel lobby and you will be driven to meeting point for group departure to Los Cabos International Airport FBO Terminal.
Take a truly unforgettable trip to experience gray whales in Baja’s San Ignacio Lagoon. These beautiful creatures migrate to the shallow, warm waters of the laguna each winter for mating and calving season. You’ll get to have close-up encounters with these social animals, while staying at a gorgeous luxury camp.
San Ignacio Lagoon Camp
Start the day with a shared transfer from Whales HQ to the private airstrip at Los Cabos Airport. Enjoy a 1 hour 55 minutes flight (max. 13 passengers) to San Ignacio on a shared chartered Cissna Caravan, comfortably furnished with leather interiors and air conditioning. Arriving, get settled into your lovely luxury tent before heading out on a 27 ft. whale watching boat in the afternoon, in search of gray whales. An expert naturalist guide will be present on each boat, which comfortably fit 6-7 passengers, so you can learn while on the lookout. This friendly species is known to seek out interaction with humans! After your first whale encounter in the lagoon, cruise back to camp and relax into the evening.
Overnight: Glamping in San Ignacio
Day 13-14: Days at the Camp
San Ignacio Lagoon
During the next two days you can take advantage of all that the area has to offer. Head out for three gray whale encounters per day, as well as birdwatching, hiking and mountain biking inside the lagoon on the north and south shorelines. You’ll also get to visit the natural salt flats in the laguna and unwind with evening presentations from your experienced naturalist guide.
Overnight: Glamping in San Ignacio
Day 15: Departure Day
Return Flight to Los Cabos
After an early breakfast, you’ll head back onto the waters of the lagoon to say goodbye to the gray whales with a final encounter. Your shared return flight will take off from San Ignacio at 10:35am, getting you into Los Cabos Airport, where your journey of adventure and unforgettable memories comes to a perfect close.
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