Private experience from Los Cabos to La Paz: (Balandra)

If you’re seeking a way to see beyond the typical resort scenes of Los Cabos, this private tour to La Paz and Balandra offers a truly authentic glimpse into Baja California Sur. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines natural beauty, local culture, and personalized attention.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized approach with a dedicated guide like Eduardo, who is praised for his knowledge and friendliness. Second, the stunning scenery—think incredible beaches, vibrant towns, and breathtaking sunsets—delivered at a relaxed pace. Third, the gourmet breakfast and authentic local spots make it feel more like a day with friends than a typical sightseeing bus tour. The main caveat? It’s a long day at around 13 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the move and eager to explore Baja’s hidden gems.

Who will love this? If you’re after a flexible, intimate experience with expert guiding, amazing photo opportunities, and a taste of local cuisine, this tour ticks all those boxes. But if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed outing or are traveling solo without a flexible schedule, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience ensures a flexible and tailored day.
• Incredible beach landscapes like Balandra and Cerritos offer memorable photo ops.
• Guided by a local who shares insights and treats you like a friend.
• Includes breakfast and drinks, with optional snorkeling gear at your expense.
• Carefully paced itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture.
• Long but rewarding day perfect for adventurous travelers wanting more than standard tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup in Los Cabos

The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Cabo San Lucas. The use of new, comfortable vehicles—ranging from SUVs to other modern transportation—means you’ll start your day in style and comfort. The tour is private, so your group size is limited, allowing for a more intimate and flexible experience. The timing varies, so check availability to pick a start time that suits your plans.

Todos Santos (1 Hour)

Driving through the scenic roads of Baja, your first stop is Todos Santos—a town famous for its art galleries, colonial architecture, and bohemian vibe. Instead of rushing, you’ll enjoy a brief but meaningful walk through its charming streets. Reviewers like Garth and Jacquelin appreciated how Eduardo took them around, sharing local insights and making the town feel welcoming and authentic.

La Paz & Breakfast at La Gireta (1.5 Hours)

Next, the group heads to La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, known for its lively ambiance and waterfront charm. Here, you’ll indulge in a regional breakfast at La Gireta, a spot renowned for delicious, authentic local cuisine. Reviewers like Susan and Mila highlighted the quality of the food and Eduardo’s careful planning to include this tasty stop. Drinks are available throughout the day, making it a relaxed start to your sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Balandra Beach (2.5 Hours)

No visit to Baja is complete without experiencing Balandra Beach—famous for its shallow, turquoise waters and unique rock formations. Reviewers like Carlos and Sally Anne describe it as just “amazing,” with the added bonus of pelicans diving into the sea right in front of them. The carefully timed 2.5 hours allows for relaxing, photos, and possibly some light swimming, although snorkeling equipment is at your own expense.

Playa Cerritos & Sunset (2 Hours)

The day winds down at Playa Cerritos, a favorite among surfers and sunset lovers. Watching the sunset here is often described as “stunning” by travelers, with its broad sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Reviewers like Shawna and Beth mention how peaceful and beautiful the setting is during the golden hour, making it a perfect way to end your adventure.

Return to Los Cabos

The trip concludes with a comfortable ride back to Cabo San Lucas, with plenty of time left for reflection on the day’s highlights and photos. The entire journey, at around 13 hours, is designed for those eager for a full, immersive day rather than just a quick tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a regional breakfast and drinks throughout the day, which adds good value for the price of $88 per person. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide like Eduardo makes a big difference, ensuring you get local insights, personalized attention, and a smooth experience.

However, certain items like sunscreen, towels, snorkeling gear, or additional snacks are not included, so packing a few essentials is recommended. Reviewers also point out that the logistics for some accommodations—like resort pickups—may require advance planning, especially at larger resorts like Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach.

Transport and Group Dynamics

Different vehicles are used depending on group size, all of which are new and comfortable, which can be a significant plus—no cramped vans here. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the guide can adapt the schedule or pace based on your preferences.

Price and Value

At $88 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, considering the personalized service, multiple stops, and included meals. It’s a good deal for travelers who want an all-in-one experience without the stress of organizing transport and visits independently. Many reviews, such as Susan’s, emphasize how well the timing and logistics went, enhancing the overall value.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Several travelers highlight the authenticity of the food and local spots. The breakfast at La Gireta doesn’t just fill your stomach; it immerses you in local Baja flavors. The guide Eduardo’s local knowledge is also a highlight, making each stop more meaningful. His attention to detail—from sharing history to pointing out pelican diving—adds depth to what could otherwise be just a sightseeing list.

The beaches, especially Balandra, are described as “magical,” with pristine waters and scenic rock formations. Watching the sunset at Cerritos creates a peaceful, almost meditative end to a full day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and a towel if you plan to get into the water.
• Pack light snacks or additional drinks since only basic drinks are included.
• Coordinate with your hotel about pickup details, especially if staying at large resorts.
• Be prepared for a full day—comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure are a must.
• Check availability as start times vary, and bookings can fill up quickly.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers craving a personalized, authentic glimpse into Baja’s natural beauty and local life. It suits those who appreciate guided insights, fantastic photo opportunities, and a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a flexible, well-organized day that covers a lot of ground, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you prefer a shorter trip, or are less comfortable with a full day on the move, you might want to explore shorter options or half-day tours in the area.

FAQ

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is designed for private groups, providing a more personalized and flexible day.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, accommodating a range of travelers.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 13 hours, including stops and travel time. Check availability for specific start times.

What’s included in the price?
A regional breakfast at La Gireta, drinks during the trip, and the guided experience are included.

Are snorkeling or other activities included?
Not at this time. Equipment like snorkeling gear is at your own expense if you choose to use it.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, water shoes or flip-flops, towels, sunglasses, and a camera for capturing the views.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your specified location, but verify with your hotel if there are restrictions or specific arrangements needed.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Los Cabos to La Paz and Balandra is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to experience Baja’s natural beauty and local charm in a relaxed, personalized setting. From the colorful streets of Todos Santos to the tranquil waters of Balandra and the stunning sunset at Cerritos, it offers a well-rounded, value-packed day that goes beyond typical tourist fare.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone eager to understand Baja’s culture through its scenic spots and friendly guides, this experience delivers. The attention to detail, local insights, and flexible itinerary make it an excellent pick for travelers craving authenticity and comfort.

If you’re ready to discover Baja’s hidden treasures without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour might be just what you need for a memorable day out in paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: