Classic Islands Plus

Similar to the Classic Trip we'll be exploring and camping on Carmen and Danzante Islands. However, we will paddle further up the remote east side of Carmen to the sparkling limestone cliffs (aka the "white cliffs of Dover").

The trip is oriented towards folks with some paddling experience and a desire to cover more territory. The daily mileage will be higher than our Classic trip. Qualified paddlers are welcome to use a single kayak. Mitch Powers now in his 10th Baja season will be the guide.

The Sea of Cortez has been nicknamed the poor man’s Galapagos for a good reason. During our 6 day Baja kayak trip we'll be tantalized by sightings of different species of whales, bottlenose dolphins, and occasionally turtles and sea lions. Osprey and Brown pelicans are common sights circling and diving along with Blue Footed Boobies and Frigate birds. There’ll be time to hike remote, lush arroyos and snorkel in areas that few kayakers ever see.

Date: TBD
Cost: $1250 - Price includes one hotel night, transfers to and from the airport, all Marine Park fees, tents, snorkeling gear, wet suits, 3 guides, and support boat.
Prerequisite: Paddling experience and consent of Sea Trek staff

Classic Islands Plus Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive at Loreto's airport where you'll be greeted and brought to your hotel near Loreto's peaceful, palm-lined waterfront. We will meet with you that evening to plan the upcoming week. Your afternoon and evening are at your leisure to enjoy strolling the plaza around the historic mission, visiting the shops and small restaurants of the town, or perhaps just relaxing by the waterfront.

Day 2 (4 miles)
After breakfast a van shuttles us to our launch site at Puerto Escondido. This natural harbor, Baja's largest, is 16 miles south of Loreto and located at the foot of the Sierra Giganta mountain range.

We'll pack our kayaks with our personal gear and make the 4 mile journey to Isla Danzante to our first campsite. Our motorized support boat carries the group commissary, purified water, food, drink coolers and camp chairs.

Day 3 (12 miles)
Wake up to a delicious breakfast of fresh brewed coffee, eggs Mexican style (sautéed veggies, salsa) or cereal, fresh fruit and a baked goodie.

After our first night on Danzante we'll get ready to cross the channel to Carmen Island and paddle up the southeastern side, approximately 12 miles. This side of Carmen is stunning and offers greater protection from the north winds. Along one stretch there's a huge sea cave to paddle in and explore along with fascinating limestone marine terraces that drop vertically into the sea. Here amongst a break in the coastal cliffs, we'll set up camp at Arroyo Blanco for two nights.

Day 4 (12-14 miles)
We'll pack lunch for a day paddle and head further up the east side of Carmen toward Salinas Bay and the old salt mine. We'll have a lunch of guacamole, tortillas, queso typico and fresh fruit on a remote beach along our route before returning to Arroyo Blanco.

Day 5 (9 miles)
After an early breakfast we'll round Punta Baja, the southeastern tip of Carmen, up the western side of the island to our next camp on Lighthouse Beach. This stunning camp is a combination of sandy beach and dunes backed by primal looking volcanic formations and cliffs. From your tent you can look east across the channel to see the sun set against the magnificent Giganta mountain range on the peninsula.

Day 6 (5 miles)
After breakfast we cross the channel and land at Honeymoon Cove, an aptly named cove with a light sand beach and great swimming. A short hike takes us up to a ridge offering a tremendous 360 degree view of the islands and peninsula. After lunch we'll cross over to Coyote Point, our last campsite with great snorkeling, and the best displays of bioluminesence. A nighttime paddle is not to be missed.

Day 7 (2 miles)
It's a leisurely morning with time for a short paddle and swim before returning to our take out at Puerto Escondido where our adventure began. After a short van ride to Loreto we check into our hotel and have time for fish tacos, buying souvenirs and strolling the waterfront before our farewell dinner.

Day 8
Early risers can enjoy one more brilliant sunrise over the Sea of Cortez as dawn breaks with a dazzling display of color. Mid-day we'll pick you up at the hotel and drive you to the airport for the flight to Los Angeles, homeward bound connections, and your next adventure.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change depending on conditions.