This expedition is one of North America's favorite winter sea-kayaking trips. And deservedly so! It offers the adventurer 7 glorious days voyaging up and down the western coasts of one of the most appealing islands in state of the art expedition sea-kayaks. The rugged shoreline, off-shore islands and series of headlands and deep bays make each day a new adventure. The west coast of Espiritu is studded with some of the most spectacular white, sandy bays. After paddling approximately 3-4 hours each day we will have plenty of time to enjoy fantastic snorkeling, to swim with sea lion pups, hike intriguing volcanic arroyos, bathe in the glorious Baja sun, watch manta rays leap up out of the water, admire a school of dolphins, explore hidden inland lagoons and relax in great company..... Isla Espiritu Santo really is paddling in paradise!
Day One - Meet together at BOA to go over gear and organize boat shuttle. The boat shuttle leaves from La Paz, and takes us to the western tip of Isla Espiritu Santos. After lunch on our first beach site, the leaders will take you through 'kayak school'. Whether a beginner or seasoned kayaker, this time will provide opportunity to practice and refine kayak strokes, wet exits and rescues. We will camp at this site and set up tents after kayak school.
Day Two - We embark on our first paddle beneath spectacular volcanic cliffs and arrive at the another of many beautiful beaches to set up camp.
Day Three - Continue voyage to the end of the island, stopping off to take a refreshing well water shower, hike up a wonderful canyon to discover fascinating rock formations. Continue paddle over to Isla Partida and set base camp for two days on north end of the island.
Day Four - This is our lay over day - time to relax those paddling muscles! Today we take a short paddle to a beautiful off shore island which is home to a large sea lion colony. Experience the amazing thrill of swimming with sea lion pups and snorkel amongst thousands of tropical fish.
Day Five - Start paddling back down the island, while continuing to explore small off shore islands where numerous sea birds nest. Camp on a new beach.
Day Six - In the afternoon we arrive at our favorite camp spot ~ a magnificent 2 mile stretch of superb sweeping white sand. Last night camping.
Day Seven - Final morning sea-kayaking to complete our trip. We will paddle the 4.5 mile crossing back to mainland, where BOA will pick us up and return us to La Paz. Check in to your hotel. Time to shop for souvenirs before a farewell dinner together.
See pictures at the bottom of the blog for a glimpse of what this looks like!
What do you need to bring?
Participant Gear List: (taken from BOA - http://www.kayactivities.com/bring.htm )
Clothing General
We recommend that your clothing is made of synthetic material such as capilene, nylon etc. for quick drying.
Shorts (1 or 2 pairs)
A couple of t-shirts
Fleece & long pants
Foot wear: Tevas and hiking shoes
Shorty wetsuit (Recommended Mid Dec-April)
Swimsuit and towel
Rain jacket (optional Dec-Feb)
Lycra suit for snorkeling to avoid jelly fish stings.
Miscellaneous
Compact Sleeping Bag in stuff bag
Thermarest or sleeping pad (rentals available)
Sun glasses (with leash)
Sun hat/visor/bandana
Personal water bottle
Mug
Camera and films (ziplock bag to carry camera with you)
Flashlight/Headlight
Notebook/Pencil
Reading Book
Paddling gloves (optional)
Toiletries
Sun cream
After sun cream
Small first aid kit
Insect Repellent (Skin so Soft works well)
Prescription Drugs
Toothbrush/Paste
Shampoo/Conditioner - Biodegradable
Deodorant
Washcloth/towelettes
Personal Hygiene items
Diarrhea medicine
Lip Balm
Travel Essentials
ID/Passport
Airline tickets
Money belt/pouch
Credit Card (note: There are ATM's all over La Paz - this is the easiest way to get local currency).
Do not bring travelers checks as not many places will accept them (banks also don't accept them).
Available Rental Gear:
BOA has a limited supply of the following items - please advise early if you wish to reserve anything:
Therma rest sleeping pads
Dry Bags
Snorkeling Gear ~ (Rental rates: Quick Escape = $20US, Week trip = $30US)
Wet suits ~ (Rental rates: Week trip = $40US)
Lycra suits ~ (Rental rates: Week trip = $30US)
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