LA PAZ GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Balandra Bay: mangroves, a mushroom rock and sea lions off La Paz
A focused, 4‑hour guided boat outing from La Paz that visits San Rafaelito for sea‑lion encounters, then drops you at Balandra for snorkeling, swimming and a light meal.
Balandra Bay: mangroves, a mushroom rock and sea lions off La Paz.
Twenty‑five kilometers from the port city of La Paz lies Balandra, a sheltered bay framed by a healthy mangrove forest, broad sandy beaches and the city’s iconic “hongo” — a limestone mushroom rock that punctuates the shoreline. The outing is a short, coastal exploration that pairs a scenic boat run with snorkeling, swimming and a chance to watch or swim with sea lions at the nearby reef of San Rafaelito.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Mangrove bay and the 'hongo' landmark
Balandra is centered on a healthy mangrove fringe and broad sand flats; the mushroom‑shaped rock — locally called the 'hongo' — is the visual anchor of the bay.
Swim with sea lions at San Rafaelito
The route calls for a visit to the reef of San Rafaelito, where guided swims allow close encounters with wild sea lions and good snorkeling opportunities.
Short coastal boat run and beach time
The program combines a roughly 45‑minute boat transfer to San Rafaelito with time back at Balandra for swimming, snorkeling and a light meal on the sand.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
This is a compact coastal excursion: depart by boat from La Paz, travel along calm, clear water to San Rafaelito for a guided sea‑lion swim and snorkeling, then move on to the sheltered beaches of Balandra where a light meal is served and guests can snorkel, swim or wander the mangrove edge before returning.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The guided tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with a boat transfer of roughly 45 minutes to San Rafaelito.
Included on the outing: a snack en route, bottled water and soft drinks, snorkeling equipment and a neoprene suit; a light meal is provided at Balandra.
Bring a swimsuit, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, anti‑slip footwear or sandals, a change of clothes, a light sweater or jacket and a towel.
Departure is from the marina 'La Paz' or the 'Muelle Fiscal' according to guest preference and operator arrangements; tips are not included.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour is approximately 4 hours in total.
Where does the tour depart from?
Departures are arranged from the marina 'La Paz' or the 'Muelle Fiscal' depending on guests’ needs and preferences.
What is included in the price?
Included are a snack en route, bottled water and soft drinks, snorkeling equipment and a neoprene suit; a light meal is served at Balandra.
Can I swim with sea lions?
Yes — the itinerary includes a visit to the reef of San Rafaelito where guests can swim with sea lions under guidance.
Are children allowed?
Yes; the operator accepts participants of all ages.
Are gratuities included?
No — tips are not included in the listed inclusions.