La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos: Your Tour from Cabo Reviewed
If you’re looking for a getaway from the usual Cabo scene, then day trips to places nearby such as La Paz, Balandra Beach, and Todos Santos could be just what you’re looking for. A privately arranged outing from Cabo is frequently thought about, giving you, well, more power over your vacation. This is what it’s like.
Why Choose a Private Tour?
Think about it: a privately guided tour. So you aren’t packed onto a tour bus, also you aren’t tied to a schedule that isn’t what you want, either. Perhaps the best part about a private outing is how easily you can change plans, like your own traveling wishes can be accommodated better. Do you want more time to float in the unbelievably crystal-clear water at Balandra? It can be done, right? Maybe a random stop to grab tacos that look particularly good is in order, and that could be arranged too. Private tours will give you that kind of flexibility. If you’re one of those people, like myself, who gets anxious having to share a vacation moment with tons of strangers, then I might argue that going for a private tour is the thing to do for a stress-free good time. Another thing is the people showing you around; often the tour guides on these private experiences are so full of local information and they can tell you all kinds of information that isn’t included in guidebooks and you will never find online.
La Paz: A Taste of Authentic Baja
When we rolled into La Paz, the air, in some respects, was full of anticipation. Quite unlike the energy of Cabo, La Paz can feel different; maybe more traditional or more serene. Our first stop was the malecón, too, a spot next to the water. While walking, the sun warmed our skin, just the way I love. So, of course we ended up stopping for fresh ceviche from a local vendor. Now that’s vacation for me. Oh, and also we checked out the local pearl shops. La Paz used to be, literally, famed for its pearls. Did you know that? Another fun fact is that Jacques Cousteau described the Gulf of California near La Paz as “the aquarium of the entire planet,” a real testimonial to this place. After that, for instance, we walked some random roads where the local flavor felt strong, that is, people doing everyday things instead of the obvious tourist show.
Balandra Beach: Turquoise Paradise
Okay, I guess I have to address the iconic Balandra Beach. Actually, the pictures barely do it justice; seeing that blue color is something that you have to experience firsthand. I mean the water? Like bathwater. The beach has a very gradual slope into the sea and is wonderfully safe for everyone, and that is why families can have fun here. Another great thing is “El Hongo,” or The Mushroom, a natural rock formation that Balandra is sort of well-known for; I almost didn’t know that it had been rebuilt after some silly person had pushed it over some years before. So, we spent hours paddling and relaxing, a great way to soak up the quiet beauty of this place. Of course, go earlier to beat the crowds; the local regulations now keep only so many people at any one point at the beach to try to prevent its becoming too packed, maybe also helping preserve it.
Todos Santos: Art and History
After Balandra’s unbelievable beaches, then it’s time to roll on over to Todos Santos. Now, this place has a bit of artistic charm. It is very well known because of the Hotel California, or at least the rumor that the Eagles’ song might have been written about this place (the management denies that connection). Regardless, the place has got such a special environment! Wander around the roads, that is what you should do. So, check out the art galleries; you can see local artisans’ shops, too. Todos Santos gives that creative feel; almost a relaxed atmosphere you would not find in larger resort towns. Did you know the town has a history? Well, this area once was an important place for growing sugarcane and has so many interesting historic structures.
Food Stops Along the Way
Any decent tour must revolve around cuisine; the one to La Paz, Balandra, also Todos Santos doesn’t disappoint. Roadside taco stands? Clearly. Upscale eateries with ocean views? Got ’em. Also on the way you can often stop where your guide suggests for actual, proper, fresh seafood that you did not see coming, also fresh fruit stands that are almost too good to pass up, full of juicy regional produce. Don’t be scared of tasting the regional flavors because, actually, half the fun will be in discovering the food scenes on the Baja peninsula, trust me.
What to Expect on Your Tour
Expect an early start for most Cabo day trips. This can ensure you take full advantage of daylight; getting to Balandra before everyone will pay dividends. Road lengths will depend, really, on the kind of transport your group uses. Private tours are better because SUVs are used instead of big, slow tour buses. These tours also give bathroom and snack breaks anytime. Your tour will usually handle things like water and drinks throughout your long, entire day. Look at what each individual tour contains and what you need to bring.
Things to Consider When Booking
When it’s time to pick a tour, it can be useful to compare some factors. Cost, I mean, is just one aspect, really. Are meals and entrance fees also covered? Are you paying extra, I almost want to say? Do the tours boast proper credentials and what do reviewers say about them? Is the itinerary clearly described, and what are its assurances should changes occur or you need assistance? Check small details as it will make a significant impact to a worthwhile travel.