LA PAZ GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Swimming with Giants: A Six‑Hour Sea of Cortez Wonders Tour out of La Paz
A compact, 6‑hour guided boat trip that pairs up‑close whale‑shark snorkeling and a lively sea‑lion colony with sweeping views of Balandra Beach, Mushroom Rock and a secluded beachfront lunch.
Swimming with Giants: A Six‑Hour Sea of Cortez Wonders Tour out of La Paz.
Set off from Marina La Paz for a tightly composed half‑day at sea that compresses the Sea of Cortez’s headline acts into a single outing: guided whale‑shark snorkels, a coral‑ringed sea‑lion colony, coastal vistas at Balandra and Mushroom Rock, and a customizable lunch on a private beach.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Whale‑shark encounters
Guides locate whale sharks and organize brief, small‑group swims—two people in the water at a time—so you can glide alongside these gentle giants while following strict distance and safety protocols.
Sea lions and a thriving reef
A short ride brings you to a small sea‑lion colony framed by coral reef and abundant fish—an intimate snorkel and photo opportunity after the whale‑shark leg of the trip.
Balandra, Mushroom Rock and a private beach lunch
The itinerary includes views of Balandra Beach and the iconic Mushroom Rock, with a final stop on a secluded stretch of sand where guides set up shade and a customizable lunch of ceviche, burritos and fruit.
What the day feels like
What the six‑hour day feels like
You meet at Marina La Paz, board a boat where guides supply biodegradable sunscreen, wetsuits and snorkel gear and brief the group on whale‑shark biology, environment and safety; the day unfolds with guided wetsuit‑assisted jumps for small groups to swim with whale sharks, a short run to a sea‑lion colony and reef, coastal viewing of Balandra and Mushroom Rock, then a relaxed, customizable lunch on a quiet beach.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should skip it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is a 6‑hour guided trip; guests meet the guide at Marina La Paz prior to departure.
Guides supply biodegradable sunscreen, wetsuits and snorkel gear and will brief participants on safety and whale‑shark biology before entering the water.
Lunch on a secluded beach is provided and can be customized for vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free or lactose‑intolerant diets if you notify the operator in advance.
Some snorkel experience is recommended; you must sign a liability release prior to the activity.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Sea of Cortez Wonders Tour?
The tour is 6 hours in duration.
Where do I meet the guide?
You meet the guide at Marina La Paz before boarding the boat.
What is the minimum age to snorkel with the whale sharks?
The minimum age to snorkel with whale sharks on public tours is 5 years old; infants and children under 5 are permitted only on private tours.
Are pregnant people or those with medical issues allowed?
The activity is restricted for people with a cardiac history, back or neck problems, and for pregnant women.
Is snorkel gear provided and is a briefing included?
Yes—guides supply biodegradable sunscreen, wetsuits and snorkel gear and will brief participants about whale‑shark biology, environmental considerations and safety before snorkeling.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated for lunch?
Yes; lunch can be customized for vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free or lactose‑intolerant needs when informed ahead of time.