Seas & Sierra: Glamping Baja California Sur

After breakfast, gear up with snorkeling gear and wet suits, then it’s on to the boats and out into the Sea of Cortez! Camp Cecil is on Isla Espiritu Santo which is in a National Marine Park, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of the best marine life viewing destinations in the world. Whales, dolphins, whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays and plenty of beautiful tropical fish call the surrounding waters home, while a terrific range of bird species including blue-footed boobies, reddish egrets, great blue herons and yellow-footed gulls frequent the island’s skies and shores.

The island itself is stunning, with magnificent towering cliffs, spectacular sandy bays, amazing lava rock formations, and rock art left by the now-extinct Guaycura and Pericu Indians. There’s even an endemic ring-tailed cat, the babisuri. It’s a remarkable place to explore. Spend the days doing exactly what pleases you—kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, swimming with sea lions, stand-up paddleboarding, bird watching, and exploring hidden lagoons and desert beaches.

Who know what adventures the day may bring. Perhaps paddleboard with sea turtles or snorkel with sea lions, maybe spot some whales, or dance with some blue-footed boobies. Whatever surprises the day may hold, it will also surely include magnificent food and drink.

One last day of island bliss as Espiritu Santo is yours to explore. Choose to kayak, paddleboard, hike or snorkel with the knowledgeable guides.Hanging around doing nothing, reading novels and sipping margaritas is also an option.

Today, return from Camp Cecil for one of the most exciting adventures yet—swimming with the whale sharks, so named because at up to 59 feet and 15 tons they are definitely a whale of a shark. In fact, they are the largest fish in the world. Thankfully these gentle giants are only interested in plankton. After lunch in La Paz, return to Todos Santos and check back into a boutique hotel. The afternoon is free for exploring the shops and art galleries of Todos Santos.

This evening, local lawyer-turned-chef Iker Algorri, author of Cooking Adventures in Baja California Sur and chef-in-residence at Los Colibris Casitas, will lead a wonderful Mexican Survival Cooking Class. The emphasis is on having as much fun as humanly possible, learning to make the perfect margarita and gaining the skill to make some truly memorable Mexican dishes following Chef Iker’s cooking philosophy, the Magnificence of Simplicity. Be prepared to also learn about some great Latin music and dance moves!

Today, head into the rugged mountains, to Camp Cecil de la Sierra within the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve. Arrive at a luxury tent camp in a mango and grapefruit grove on the property of a local ranching family who acts as your local guides to the cultural and natural heritage of the Sierras.

The Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve is one of Baja´s most beautiful but least explored areas. Part of an island off the coast of Baja 10 million years ago, the Reserve is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. Reflecting long history of island isolation, almost 25% of plants and 10% of animals found in the Reserve are endemic to the area. Activities at the camp include beautiful hikes in the reserve, with opportunities to get terrific views of the Pacific ocean, swim in watering holes and picnic by waterfalls. There is fantastic birding in the early mornings, amazing star gazing at night, and plenty of opportunities to interact with the ranch family and work with them making cheese, tortillas and other products in the traditional manner. Or just hang out in the shade of the mango trees and enjoy the books in the library, perhaps while sipping a margarita.

Perhaps start the day with some birding around camp early in the morning, enjoy an amazing ranch breakfast, then head out for a great hike through the mountains, taking in some spectacular views. Return to enjoy happy hour in the huerta, then a great ranch dinner prepared by the chef. And for those awake late enough, enjoy the stars in the clear mountain air to top off a magnificent day.

After one last amazing ranch breakfast, transfer to the airport, your cruise embarkation point, or extend your stay.