Loreto, Mexico
 This peaceful seaside community, founded in 1697 by Jesuit priest and explorer Juan Maria Salvatierra, was the first European settlement in the Californias.  Stroll the cobbled plaza to the Mission Nuestra Senora de Loreta, burnished with years of devotion; commune with nature as you snorkel the crystal-clear lagoons at Isla Coronados.  Four of the five major islands that surround the Loreto area are within a few minutes boat ride, giving easier and faster access to uncounted fishing and diving reefs, rocky points, sandy beaches and unique points of interest.  The greatest concentration of fish are located near the southern islands of the Loreto National Marine Park and although it may be a long ride in a panga from Loreto, El Fuerte has no problems reaching these areas within minutes.

Kayak the Baja

DURATION:  Approximately 2 1/2 Hours
PRICE:   $64 Adult   $64 Child

Your tour will start with a drive along the miles of desert coastline that fringe the rugged Baja Peninsula and are ideal for exploration. Upon arrival at the Camino Real Resort, your guide will give you an introduction and safety briefing. Stable, two-person sea kayaks are used, and the pace is comfortable and relaxed. Anyone in average physical condition can participate. No previous paddling experience is necessary. Your kayaking will begin at this topgraphically diverse shoreline with striking scenery and expansive views of Loreto Bay.

NOTES:
Children must be 10 years or older to participate. Maximum weight is 220 lbs. You will get wet, so dress accordingly.

 

Loreto Walking Tour

DURATION:  Approximately 1 1/2 hours
PRICE:   $29 Adult   $26 Child

Three hundred years old and still "undiscovered", Loreto is one of the oldest cities in all Mexico. Walk along Main Street seeing the houses from the late 19th century, the city hall building and the downtown plaza. You will visit the Mission Church, founded in 1697 by Salvatierra, an Italian Jesuit, home to wonderful old paintings and a magnificent altar from the 17th century. Then, step into the museum to appreciate the juxtaposition of two different worlds-Indian traditions, costumes and artifacts, and original art pieces brought by the missionaries from Europe, Asia and Mexico's mainland.

NOTES:
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Guests carrying a video camera may be charged fee of $3 at either the Church or Museum.

 

Mexican Fiesta & Traditional Clambake

DURATION:  Approximately 3 hours
PRICE:   $66 Adult   $52 Child

Experience a delightful Mexican tradition on this excursion. Your taste buds will savor the flavors of a delectable Mexican buffet, including a clambake and welcome margarita. The live music will have your feet tapping, and the traditional decor and dancers of the ballet folklorico will bring you pure delight. Olé!

 

Oasis Horseback Ride

DURATION:  Approximately 3 hours
PRICE:   $80 Adult   $80 Child

At the pier you will meet your English-speaking guide and board the waiting van that will take you on a 25- to 30-minute drive from town to the rendezvous point. Your horse adventure begins next to the stream of San Telmo, where after brief instruction and horse assignment, your guide will lead you on a peaceful horseback ride to the stream of Las Virgenes. Admire the desert flora and watch for the fauna of the Sierra de la Giganta, as you travel through the extraordinary rock formations for about 45 minutes. Arrive at a natural spring, where you will taste different fruits of the region, with bottled water and snacks. Here you will have time to stroll or take a 30-minute rest. Then, your guide prepares the horses to begin the return route via the streams. After your approximately 1 1/2 hour total ride, you will board the waiting vehicle to return to the tender pier.

NOTES:
Leave your valuables on board the ship. There are inherent risks involved with horseback riding and you should be aware of this before deciding to participate. Guests must be in good physical condition. Minimum age is 10 years; maximum weight is 220 lbs. Wear a tied hat, sunscreen, long pants and closed-toe shoes.

 

San Javier Mission

DURATION:  Approximately 6 1/2 hours
PRICE:   $89 Adult   $79 Child

Travel by motor coach or van for approximately two hours to San Javier-the second oldest town in all of the Californians. En route, you will see a charming little orchard at the bottom of a canyon with a natural spring and fruit trees. The orchards of the Jesuits introduced the first irrigation system on the peninsula and are working to this day. San Javier was founded by Spanish Jesuit Miguel del Barco in 1699, and it is classified as the most beautiful and one of the best-preserved missions. A light, traditional local lunch will be served before your return drive to the pier.

NOTES:
The main road to the Mission is winding and bumpy. A light jacket is recommended.

 

Snorkeling at Coronados Island

DURATION:  Approximately 6 hours
PRICE:   $95 Adult   $69 Child

Travel by motorized skiff for approximately one hour to a lovely white sand beach called El Atracadero Blanco. Approximately five kilometers long and four kilometers wide, it is located on the west side of Coronados Island. Your snorkel gear is provided for you, along with a light lunch and refreshments. While snorkeling from the beach you may have the chance to see the colony of sea lions that give this area life. During the time on the island, enjoy a nice walk on the nature trail.

NOTES:
Jellyfish may be encountered. Wear closed-toe shoes if you intend to take the nature hike. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes; bring a hat and sunscreen.