Loreto, Mexico

Lace up your walking shoes and stroll the charming, cobblestone streets of the seaside community of Loreto, Mexico. Your guided walking tour takes you through the Main Plaza and into the preserved Mission Church and the quaint local museum for a glimpse into the history of this fascinating town.

Join an experienced outdoor guide for a walk along the dry riverbed of Gulf of California in search of its prehistoric past. Learn how the desert of the Baja Peninsula was once underwater seven million years ago as you search for marine fossils such as shells, coral, and sharks' teeth.

Mexican traditions come alive on this lively and delicious excursion that excites the taste buds and provides a true sampling of authentic Mexican culture. Enjoy a welcome traditional margarita, savor a delectable buffet filled with local delicacies, including a clambake. Music, traditional dancers and a piñata complete the festivities.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Baja's coastline and secluded beaches on a kayaking adventure along the pristine shoreline and into hidden coves. One or two-seater, stable kayaks are used, and Nopolo Beach serves as your launch point on this relaxed-paced excursion which includes free time to enjoy the beach.

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail for a trek into the heart of the rugged Giganta mountain range. Discover inspiring nature trails while your eco-oriented tour guide shares the desert's secrets and the great biodiversity of flora and fauna that are part of this gorgeous canyon.

Witness the wonders down under the Nopolo Bay National Marine Park from a seat aboard a glass bottom boat. Keep your eyes open during this relaxing cruise and you may spot creatures great and small like fish, seabirds, rays, turtles, dolphins and migratory whales (in season).

Discover San Javier Mission, the second-oldest and best-preserved of the missions of the Californias. An approximately one hour narrated ride takes you through the majestic Sierra de la Giganta mountain range to the beautiful Jesuit church, originally founded in 1699. Observe religious artifacts and learn the area's culture and history. A light snack refreshes during your day.

Saddle up for a memorable horseback ride through the Loreto Estuary & Beach. Along the way, an expert guide will share his knowledge of local and endemic flora and fauna, and entertain you with the history of the Baja California natives and the 17th century arrival of the missionaries.

Under the sea, adventure awaits on this snorkeling excursion to the lovely white-sand beach, El Atracadero Blanco. All your gear plus a snack are provided, and your beach-access snorkeling provides wonderful views of the local ocean life. A guided nature trail walk completes this nature lover's day.

Discover Loreto's aqua culture when you snorkel in the Sea of Cortez. Watch for whales, dolphins, and turtles on your way to the beautiful Islands of Loreto. Learn sailing basics (*subject to weather) and listen as your guide explains about the local wildlife. A box lunch completes the adventure.

Protected by the offshore barrier of Isla Magdalena, Puerto Lopez Mateos is considered one of the finest whale-watching sites along the Pacific Coast. During the season, this nutrient-rich waterway is the favored destination for gray whales to birth and raise their young. It is a two-hour journey from Loreto to the skiff launch site.

Take a panga boat to Coronado Island for a private tour. With a professional guide in the lead, you're sure to get an in-depth look at its history and wildlife. Visit the sea lion colony, stroll the beach, snorkel in the turquoise waters, sunbathe or relax under a beach "palapa."