How A Trip To Mexico's Baja California Is The Ultimate Escape From Reality

Blessed with some of Mexico’s most awe-inspiring natural beauty, the states of Baja California and Baja California Sur have become increasingly popular with visitors looking beyond the typical tourist hubs. The northern border with the United States offers cities like Tijuana and Rosarito, which are rapidly reinventing themselves as hip, arty destinations. Yet the real majesty of Baja California is found further south, in the unblemished beaches and scenery that dot the stunning Mexican peninsula.

Wild Horse in the Baja California landscape

Off the beaten track

Baja California is one of the best places for travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City or Cancún. The region offers secluded destinations and a huge diversity of landscapes. The unblemished Isla Espíritu Santo, or Holy Spirit Island, is one of its most stunning locations. Situated between Baja peninsula and the mainland, the island is surrounded by the Sea of Cortez, which was memorably called “the world’s aquarium,” by the French explorer Jacques Cousteau. Designated part of a wider World Heritage Bioreserve by UNESCO in 1995, the island provides excellent hiking, snorkeling and sunbathing options. It is also the only home of the black-tailed jackrabbit, a distinctive hare with huge ears.

Californian Sea Lion off the coast of Isla Espíritu Santo, Baja California Sur

Every year, Pacific gray whales migrate to Baja from the Arctic so they can mate and give birth. Once in danger of extinction, these whales are now believed to number approximately 25,000. Their yearly round-trip of 10,000 to 14,000 miles is the longest migration of any mammal in the world. In February and March each year, whale-watchers from around the world descend on Baja to catch a glimpse of the spectacular creatures. These gray whales are famously friendly and often approach boats, allowing watchers to pet or kiss them. The best way to experience a whale-watch is by joining a marine safari expedition such as that run by Whale Watch Cabo, an organization offering trips that start in Cabo San Lucas.

Breaching Humpback whale in Baja California, Mexico

Extreme sports

Baja California has become something of a mecca for extreme sports enthusiasts. Several of the country’s best beaches for surfing are found on the peninsula, the excellent conditions attracting pros and beginners alike. In recent years, Ensenada has established itself as a major surf hub. A little more than two hours from San Diego, the beach town offers perfect waves, especially during the winter.

Zip-lining has also taken off on the peninsula. The Outdoor Zip Line Adventure Company based in Cabo San Lucas provides the longest zip-line route in the country, taking thrill-seeking adventurers on a journey through the air above the Boca de la Sierra forest. It’s an excellent way to enjoy an adrenaline rush while appreciating the stunning local wildlife.

Throwing buckets in Baja California, Mexico

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.