From Los Cabos: City Tour La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos

If you’re considering a day trip from Los Cabos to explore some of Baja California Sur’s most captivating spots, this tour offers a lot to think about. It promises a full day of sightseeing, beaches, local culture, and scenic drives—all for around $98 per person. While it’s not perfect, it can be a great pick for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of La Paz and its surroundings without the hassle of planning every detail.

We really appreciate the focus on natural beauty and local charm—especially the visits to Balandra and Todos Santos. The included meals and comfortable transportation add value, making it easier to relax and enjoy the day. That said, some reviews highlight concerns about comfort and the actual length of the tour, so it’s worth considering if you’re sensitive to those issues.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want to see a variety of sights in one day, don’t mind early mornings, and are okay with a group setting. If you’re traveling with family or looking for a super luxurious experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re after an overall interesting, budget-friendly exploration, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Price & Value: Around $98 for a full day, with meals and transport included, offering solid value.
• Highlights: Breathtaking Balandra Beach, La Paz’s Malecón, and the charming town of Todos Santos.
• Tour Length & Timing: About 12 hours, starting early at 5:00 AM, which means a long but full day.
• Group Size & Comfort: Small groups limited to 14, but reviews suggest the transport can sometimes be less comfortable.
• Guide & Language: Bilingual guides are provided, with some guests mentioning guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.
• Includes & Excludes: Meals, snacks, transportation, and insurance are included; photos and towels are extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Baja’s Hidden Gems: A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Out: Early Morning Pickup from Los Cabos

The tour kicks off with a 5:00 AM pickup from your Los Cabos accommodation. That might feel a bit early, but it’s pretty standard for full-day trips that aim to maximize sightseeing. Expect a comfortable ride with a bilingual driver, who also carries traveler insurance—peace of mind for a long day on the road.

Some reviews note that the transportation might not always be the newest or most comfortable. One guest shared that their van was old, with a panel falling off, and the air conditioning failed after a couple of hours in the heat. If you’re sensitive to less-than-perfect transport, this could be a consideration. However, many find that the scenic drives and destinations more than make up for it.

First Stop: Balandra Beach – Natural Wonder of Baja

Balandra is the star of the show. Known for its crystal-clear waters and the iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to snap photos at every turn. The tour allocates about 2-3 hours here, enough time to relax, swim, or just soak in the stunning scenery.

Several travelers have commented on how beautiful and peaceful Balandra is, making it a perfect spot for taking photos or just chilling on the sand. One guest mentioned feeling like this was “worth the trip alone,” praising the natural beauty. Be aware, though, that some reviewers found the beach somewhat neglected or “a little abandoned,” which might impact the overall experience.

Playa El Coromuel – A Seaside Break

After Balandra, the tour includes a visit to Coromuel Beach, a quieter spot with palm umbrellas and local charm. It’s a good place for families or travelers wanting a laid-back beach experience. You’ll get an hour to enjoy some shade, wander the shoreline, or grab a quick snack. It’s not as famous as Balandra but offers a more relaxed vibe.

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La Paz Malecón – Scenic Promenade & Shopping

Next, you’ll stroll along La Paz’s Malecón, the scenic waterfront promenade. Here, you can enjoy views of the Sea of Cortez, do some shopping, or simply walk and take photos. This part of the tour is relatively brief—about 30 minutes—but it’s an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Lunch with a View at El Paraje

Midday, the tour takes you to El Paraje restaurant, which overlooks La Paz. The meal included is a nice touch, allowing you to relax and enjoy local cuisine without the hassle of finding a spot on your own. Many reviews mention the restaurant’s beautiful setting as a highlight, and a few say the food was quite good.

Todos Santos – The Artistic and Architectural Charm

The final major stop is Todos Santos, a town that’s become famous for its vibrant arts scene and charming streets. You’ll get a guided tour, which helps you appreciate the architectural sights, galleries, and local crafts. Free time here lets you browse shops, buy souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee.

One guest praised the guide for sharing interesting stories and tips about the town, making the visit more engaging. The visit to Hotel California, a legendary spot, is also part of the experience, giving you a taste of local legend and history.

Return Journey & Overall Duration

The trip wraps up with a two-hour ride back to Los Cabos, arriving around 7:00 PM. While the tour claims to last 12 hours, some travelers note it actually extends longer, partly due to traffic or delays. This long day can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to early starts or long rides.

Real Traveler Perspectives

The reviews give a good sense of what to expect. Many loved the scenic beaches and the knowledgeable guides who shared local insights. One guest said, “He shared interesting things along the way, especially in Todos Santos,” highlighting the value of a good guide.

However, some expressed dissatisfaction with the transportation, mentioning it was uncomfortable or poorly maintained, and that the tour duration felt longer than advertised. One review mentioned that the tour “was shown as 12 hours,” but they were out from 4 AM until 7 PM, making it a very long day.

On the positive side, travelers appreciated good value for the price and the opportunity to see a variety of sights in one trip. The included meals and the scenic stops make it a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience without extra planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour works best for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day and early mornings. It’s suited for those eager to see multiple sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. If you’re interested in beaches, charming towns, and some light shopping combined in one trip, this is a solid option.

However, if comfort is a priority or you’re sensitive to long rides and basic transportation, you might want to consider other options or private tours. Families with older children who can handle a full day on the road may find it rewarding, but it might not suit those looking for a more relaxed or luxurious experience.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses a tourist transporter with comfortable seats, but some reviews mention that the van can be old and less maintained. It’s advisable to prepare for some possible discomfort.

What’s included in the price?
Price includes guided transportation, a bilingual driver, traveler insurance, a light snack, a meal at El Paraje restaurant, and round-trip hotel or Airbnb pickup.

Are there any extras I need to budget for?
Yes, professional photographs, towels, sunscreen, and other personal items aren’t included, so plan to bring those with you.

How long is the tour?
Officially around 12 hours, starting early at 5:00 AM and returning in the evening. Some guests report it feels even longer due to traffic and delays.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guided nature of the tour means you’ll have some free time at key locations like Balandra, Coromuel Beach, and Todos Santos.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children who can handle a long day may enjoy the beaches and town visits. Always check if your kids are comfortable with early starts and long rides.

Is there a guide during the stops?
Yes, guides are bilingual and provide commentary, especially during the Todos Santos visit. Some guests found guides to be very knowledgeable and friendly.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Los Cabos to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos offers a practical way to see some of Baja’s most loved sights without the stress of planning. The combination of stunning beaches, charming towns, and scenic views makes it appealing to those who want a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

While some aspects—like transportation comfort and tour duration—may fall short for very discerning travelers, the overall experience provides good value, especially if you’re eager to maximize your time and see diverse sites in one go. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to explore iconic spots like Balandra and Hotel California add unique touches that make this trip worthwhile.

If you’re prepared for a long day and want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience Baja California Sur’s highlights, this tour could be a great fit. Just keep in mind the reviews about comfort and duration, and plan accordingly to get the most out of your adventure.

Remember, the best trips are those that match your style—so weigh the long hours and basic transport against the stunning sights and included meals. Happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: