CityTour La Paz, Balandra beach and the Magic Town of Todos Santos

When it comes to experiencing the best of Baja California Sur, this tour offers an enticing mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and local flavor. While we haven’t personally joined, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of an adventure packed with memorable stops, knowledgeable guides, and authentic encounters.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Balandra, with its famous “Mushroom” rock formation. Second, the combination of charming towns like La Paz and Todos Santos, full of character and local artisans. And third, the inclusion of delicious regional dishes, making the day a true taste of Baja.

Certainly, a possible snag might be the long hours—around 12 to 13 hours—making it a hefty day for some. But if you’re eager to explore multiple spots in one trip, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenery, history, and cuisine without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Designed to give a genuine taste of Baja’s coastal towns and natural highlights.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the journey with insights and bilingual commentary.
• Stunning Stops: Balandra Beach and Todos Santos offer picture-perfect views and memorable moments.
• Value for Money: At $99.39, this tour packs in transportation, meals, and entrance fees, making it an accessible full-day adventure.
• Long but Rewarding: Prepare for a full day with some early starts, but the highlights make it worthwhile.
• Customized for Explorers: Ideal for those who enjoy cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and tasty regional dishes.

A Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

Balandra Beach: The Jewel of Baja

Our journey begins early, with pickup around 5:00 am, aiming to beat the crowds at Balandra, which is celebrated as one of the top beaches globally. The crystal-clear waters, shallow and calm, make it perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just snapping photos of “The Mushroom,” the iconic rock formation. Reviewers have been particularly impressed by the untouched beauty of Balandra, noting it’s a place that surpasses expectations despite its lack of extensive facilities.

You’ll enjoy approximately two hours here, which many find sufficient to soak in the scenery, take plenty of photos, and even just breathe in the fresh sea air. The tour includes an entrance bracelet for protected natural areas, adding a layer of exclusivity and conservation awareness. Some travelers, however, think that two hours might be a tad long—one reviewer suggested an hour in Balandra plus more time for Todos Santos might make the day more balanced.

Playa El Coromuel: A Relaxing Stop

Next, you get an hour at Playa El Coromuel, a free-access beach with inviting waters. Here, you can dip your toes in, relax, or take quick photos. While not as famous as Balandra, it provides an easy, no-cost break to enjoy Baja’s coast.

Tasting Baja: Lunch at Mariscos El Paraje

No trip is complete without local eats, and this tour offers a generous hour at Mariscos El Paraje. The menu features regional specialties like breaded steak, baked shattered steak, chicken fajitas with rice and salad, and burgers with potatoes. Vegetarian options are available upon request. Many reviewers laud the food as delicious, and it’s a chance to savor Baja’s seafood and fresh flavors in a friendly, local setting.

La Paz Malecon: Strolling the Coastal Charm

After lunch, the tour heads to La Paz’s Malecón, where you’ll spend about an hour and a half. This vibrant boardwalk features colorful architecture, the Puerto de Ilusión, and the Fiscal Dock. Travelers frequently mention the opportunity to learn about local businesses, such as the Velvet Box Jewelry Store, where pearl cultivation is explained—an interesting insight into Baja’s maritime economy. This stop is perfect for photos, relaxed strolling, and soaking up the coastal atmosphere.

Hotel California: The Iconic Landmark

Just a quick 20-minute visit to the famous Hotel California allows for some quick photos and a taste of its legendary charm. While brief, many guests appreciate the chance to see this unique hotel and its history, making it a fun, light stop that doesn’t take away from the overall schedule.

The Aztec Calendar in Todos Santos

Spending about ten minutes at the Calendario Azteca in Todos Santos offers a glimpse into regional art and history. Known for its intricate design and cultural significance, this landmark provides a perfect photo opportunity and a quick educational moment.

Todos Santos: The Magic Town

The highlight for many, Todos Santos, gets about 1 hour and 15 minutes for exploration. Visitors can admire the town’s colorful streets, visit local craft markets, and see the iconic wishing tree. Reviewers have loved the chance to explore independently and appreciate the craftsmanship of local artisans. It’s the ideal spot for photos and souvenirs, and many find the relaxed pueblo atmosphere a breath of fresh air compared to busier tourist hubs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers good value considering its inclusions: round transportation, bottled water, a lightweight lunch box, and guided commentary throughout the day. The lunch at Mariscos El Paraje is a highlight, providing regional flavors in a friendly setting. Entrance bracelets to protected natural areas and some free time at key stops make it a well-rounded experience.

However, it’s worth noting that photographs and souvenirs aren’t included, so if capturing memories or shopping are priorities, you might want to bring extra cash or camera gear. The maximum group size of 12 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, and pickup is offered, simplifying logistics.

Transport and Timing

Expect a long day, starting early at around 5:00 am, with most travelers leaving around 4:20 am. The transportation is a standard tour van, which some reviews found uncomfortable after hours on the road. The drive is a significant part of the experience, giving you a chance to see Baja’s landscapes, but a few reviewers wished for more comfortable seating or better timing.

While the itinerary is packed, many reviewers mention that some stops feel rushed, especially the last parts of the day. Still, most agree that the stops are well chosen, and the guides do their best to balance sightseeing with the long hours.

Guides and Overall Experience

The guides are a recurring highlight. Many reviews praise their friendliness, knowledge, and bilingual abilities—crucial for non-Spanish speakers. Guides like Juan, Gabriel, and Abelardo are mentioned by name, often with appreciation for their professionalism and helpful suggestions.

A couple of reviews mention the challenge of a lengthy schedule or discomfort with the transport, but the majority are positive, emphasizing the overall value and memorable sights. Tour leaders are known to share interesting facts, making the journey educational as well as scenic.

Price and Value

At $99.39 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package. It includes transport, meals, entrance fees, and guided commentary—an excellent way to see a lot in one day without the stress of planning. Considering the cost of individual excursions, meals, and transportation, it provides good value, especially for those wanting a guided experience with authentic local flavors.

Who Is This Best For?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy full-day adventures, don’t mind early mornings, and want a curated experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural insights. It’s particularly ideal for those who prefer guided tours for convenience and learning, as well as for first-time visitors eager to tick off key sights in Baja California Sur.

It’s also a good pick for food lovers, thanks to the regional lunch, and for anyone who wants a relaxed, yet comprehensive, taste of the area’s coastal towns without the hassle of self-driving or extensive research.

This tour offers a solid combination of Baja’s natural wonders and cultural highlights, all wrapped into one well-organized package. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge make a noticeable difference, turning what could be just a sightseeing trip into a memorable day filled with stories, flavors, and stunning views.

While the schedule is tight and the transport might be a bit basic for some, the experience delivers both value and authenticity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this trip provides a practical way to see some of Baja’s most picturesque spots with minimal planning.

If you’re ready for a full, scenic day that balances nature, history, and local cuisine, this tour is a wise choice. Just prepare for a long day, bring your camera, and soak in the beauty of Baja California Sur.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is part of the package, starting early from San Jose del Cabo.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended. Bringing a towel or snorkeling gear isn’t specified, so check before you go.

How long are the stops?
Stops range from about 10 minutes at the Aztec Calendar to around 2 hours at Balandra Beach, with some shorter visits like Hotel California and Todos Santos.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional lunch at Mariscos El Paraje is included, with vegetarian options available upon request.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a more personalized experience with less crowding.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
While most age groups can participate, the long hours and early start might be tiring for very young children or seniors.

Are there any extra costs?
Shopping and souvenirs are not included, and personal photography is at your discretion.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds if canceled within that window.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a good value?
Considering the inclusions, comfortable guiding, and scenic stops, many find it to be a worthwhile investment for a full day of Baja adventure.