Many of our past travelers turn to us for all their global travel planning needs as they know they will receive the same expertise, attention to detail and personalized service they’ve come to expect and love from AAC. Our Out of Africa travel portfolio offers a variety of specially curated adventures to inspire your journeys across the globe. AAC Safari Concierge Ciara and Marketing and Sales Coordinator Brooke traveled to one of our Out of Africa destinations, Baja California Sur, and join us on the blog to share more about their experiences.
There’s something magical about Mexico’s Baja California Sur—a place where desert landscapes meet the deep blues of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Our recent adventure took us to the tranquil waters of La Paz, where we enjoyed a perfect mix of relaxation, wildlife encounters and ocean exploration.
After landing in Cabo, we were on the road to La Paz, a city known for its laid-back seaside charm and local authenticity. Then it was just us and the journey, windows down, wind in our hair and a road trip playlist bopping, while taking time to stop whenever the mood struck to peep at gorgeous seaside towns and towering cactuses along the way.
When we arrived in La Paz, we adventured to Balandra Beach. If there’s one place that captures the essence of Baja California Sur’s beauty, it’s Balandra Beach. Tucked along the Sea of Cortez, this protected bay is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico—and after experiencing it firsthand, we can see why. Unlike the busy beaches of Mexico’s resort destinations, Balandra is serene and untouched. The water is impossibly clear, with shades of turquoise and aquamarine that shift with the sunlight. Gentle waves lap against the shore, and the bay’s shallow waters stretch far into the distance—perfect for wading, swimming or simply floating under the Baja sun.
The following day, we went on a private kayaking excursion. Paddling along the rugged coastline, with turquoise water stretching endlessly ahead, reminded us why the Sea of Cortez is called “the world’s aquarium.” It is teeming with incredible wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery. On this adventure, our paddle took us into a world where playful sea lions and rare blue-footed boobies stole the show while rays shot above the surface in the distance. It was a day filled with movement, discovery and quiet awe.
The highlight of the trip was a whale shark adventure. Arriving early at Marina La Paz on the Malecon, we joined the group to head out into the Sea of Cortez. Swimming alongside these gentle giants was surreal. These carnivorous fish are around the size of a school bus, yet their presence is peaceful. Our guide let us know that in some parts of the world whale sharks are called constellation fish, and their speckle patterns really do look like stars against the bright blue water surrounding them. It felt magical watching them and even more surreal swimming next to them! Gliding alongside these massive and beautiful creatures was truly the most magical and humbling experience.
“My goggles got a little foggy from getting emotional; this was definitely a core memory for me.” - Ciara
In addition to our kayaking and whale shark adventures, we enjoyed slow days in La Paz—wandering the Malecón and enjoying its vibrant energy and outdoor art, sipping coffee at a local cafés, browsing boutiques and galleries, devouring fantastic local cuisine and watching the sunset paint the sky in soft shades of orange and pink.
All too soon, it was time to make the drive back to Los Cabos International Airport for our return flights home. We were blown away by Baja’s mix of relaxation, wildlife encounters, culture and ocean exploration. Leaving Baja, we carried with us not just memories of whale sharks, sea lions and turquoise waters, but also a new appreciation for slowing down and treasuring each moment.
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Photos courtesy AAC Sales & Marketing Coordinator Brooke Dare