Private Full Day Tour to Los Cabos from La Paz

A Practical Look at the Private Full Day Tour to Los Cabos from La Paz

If you’re considering a day trip from La Paz to Los Cabos, this private tour might seem like a convenient way to tick off multiple must-see spots in one go. It promises to take you from your hotel in La Paz to the vibrant towns of Todos Santos and San Jose del Cabo, with a boat ride to see the iconic Arch in Cabo San Lucas, all wrapped up in roughly nine hours. That kind of itinerary packs in a lot, especially for those pressed for time or wanting a quick overview of this part of Baja California Sur.

What we like about this experience is its flexibility and focus on key highlights. You get the chance to explore a charming, artsy town with a visit to the historic mission in Todos Santos, enjoy the stunning views at the famous Arch, and experience the relaxed, authentic vibe of San Jose del Cabo. Plus, with private transportation included, it’s a straightforward way to get around without the hassle of coordinating multiple tours or public transport.

However, there’s a notable concern regarding reliability. The only review we have mentions a serious issue where the driver did not show up at the scheduled time, leaving travelers stranded. That’s a reminder that with any tour — especially private ones — it’s crucial to book with trusted providers and confirm arrangements. Also, keep in mind that the tour is quite packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely, in-depth experience or want to spend more time in each spot, this might not be the best fit.

This tour could work well for travelers who want a quick, all-in-one day trip with some beautiful views and sightseeing, but it’s essential to weigh the potential for hiccups and the fairly tight schedule.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport simplifies the logistics of covering multiple locations.
• Focus on highlights like Todos Santos, the Arch, and San Jose del Cabo, ideal for a snapshot of the region.
• Time management is tight — expect a busy day, which might limit time at each stop.
• Potential reliability issues — as one review shows, drivers not showing up can happen.
• Cost is $390 per group, which might seem steep but includes private transport.
• Snagging a genuine experience depends on your expectations for a structured, scenic overview rather than an in-depth tour.

What to Expect from the Day

This tour is designed to give you a whirlwind overview of some of Baja’s most popular sights. Starting early, around 8 AM, your day begins with pickup from your La Paz accommodation. The first destination is Todos Santos, a town famed for its artsy, bohemian vibe and historic charm. You’ll stop there for about an hour and a half, which means quick visits to the Mission of Todos Santos and a stroll through the streets lined with galleries and cafes.

Todos Santos is a favorite for its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque streets. You’ll also see the legendary Hotel California, often linked to stories and songs, though the actual connection is more folklore than fact. This stop is great if you want a taste of local culture and some good photo opportunities.

Next, around 11 AM, the journey continues south to Cabo San Lucas. You’ll arrive at the marina around 1 PM, where the highlight is a boat ride to see the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas. The boat cruise takes about an hour and offers a close-up view of this iconic rock formation. The views from the water are fantastic, with plenty of photo ops of the cliffs, sea lions, and marine life.

Following the boat ride, there’s a scheduled lunch break and free time to stroll around the marina, which is lively with shops, restaurants, and bars. The time here is about an hour, so don’t expect a lengthy sit-down meal — more a quick bite and a chance to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Then, heading to San Jose del Cabo, your destination around 4 PM, you arrive in the main square, home to the historic cathedral and charming streets lined with shops. This town is known for its authentic Mexican feel, with plenty of souvenirs and local flair. You’ll stay for about an hour, enough to wander and maybe grab a quick souvenir.

Finally, around 5:30 PM, you leave San Jose and head back to La Paz, arriving around 8 PM — a long but scenic day. The drive back offers a chance to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Todos Santos (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)

This stop is a highlight for those who love a bohemian vibe and scenic streets. Visiting the Mission of Todos Santos provides a glimpse of Baja’s colonial past, while a quick walk through the town’s galleries and cafes gives visitors a taste of local arts and culture. The Hotel California, though more of a legend than a verified historical site, adds to the town’s mystique. You get about an hour and a half here, which is enough to take photos and soak in the atmosphere, though it’s a tight window.

Cabo San Lucas Marina (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

The marina is a lively hub, perfect for people watching and checking out local food options. The boat ride to see the Arch is the main event, and it’s a highlight you’ll probably remember for the stunning views and the chance to get close to this world-famous rock formation. Expect about an hour for the cruise, which is generally considered a worthwhile experience.

Lunch and Stroll (around 3:00 PM)

You get a brief hour to relax, grab some lunch, and enjoy the marina’s buzzing environment. Most travelers find this enough for a quick meal or snack, but if you’re a foodie or want a more substantial sit-down experience, you might be disappointed with the limited time.

San Jose del Cabo (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

This town’s charm lies in its old-world architecture, the cathedral, and the quiet, cobbled streets. An hour here allows for a quick walk around the main square and perhaps some shopping for souvenirs. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busy marina, offering a more authentic Mexican feel.

Return to La Paz (5:30 PM – 8:00 PM)

The drive back is straightforward, but it’s a long day. Expect to arrive back around 8 PM, tired but with plenty of memories. The return journey is also an opportunity to discuss the highlights and maybe plan a longer stay next time.

Additional Considerations

While the tour promises private transportation, the sole review available hints at reliability issues, with the driver not showing up and leaving travelers stranded. This underscores the importance of verifying your booking and perhaps choosing a provider with a stronger track record or good reviews.

At $390 per group (up to 5 people), the cost is not insignificant. When you break it down, it covers transportation, boat rides, and the convenience of door-to-door service. But whether it’s value for money depends on your expectations: if you’re looking for a quick, scenic overview with some iconic sights, it’s probably reasonable. If you want a more in-depth exploration or to spend more time at each location, this tour may feel rushed.

The tour doesn’t include lunch, which means you’ll need to budget extra for food. The schedule is tight, so packing some snacks or a water bottle is a good idea. Also, be prepared for a full day — the timing is ambitious, and delays could cut into your experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, guided overview of Los Cabos’ main attractions without the hassle of planning. It’s good for people with limited time who prefer private transport and a structured itinerary. However, if you’re someone who values deep, leisurely experiences or is traveling with family members who need more flexibility, you might find this schedule a little rushed.

Those interested in the scenic views and photo opportunities, especially at the Arch and Todos Santos, will likely find plenty to enjoy. But it’s worth noting that the experience can be quite busy, and the reliability of the service is a factor worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour involves some walking and boat rides, which could be manageable for older children. Always check with the provider about age restrictions or specific needs.

How much time is allocated for each stop?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours in Todos Santos, 2 hours in Cabo San Lucas (including the boat ride), 1.5 hours in San Jose del Cabo, and around 2 hours traveling back to La Paz.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to buy something during your free time in Cabo or bring snacks.

Is the boat ride to the Arch included?
Yes, the boat ride to see the Arch is included in the itinerary and takes about an hour.

What if the driver doesn’t show up?
There’s at least one report of a driver not arriving, which caused inconvenience. Confirm your booking beforehand and consider choosing a well-reviewed provider.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to ask for some adjustments, but it’s best to clarify this when booking.

How reliable is this tour?
Reliability seems to be a concern based on the one review. It’s important to communicate clearly with the provider and check recent reviews if possible.

What’s the total duration?
Including transfers, the tour lasts about 12 hours, starting at 8 AM and returning around 8 PM.

What’s the price for?
The $390 fee covers private transportation for up to five people and the boat ride, but not meals or optional extras.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Given the walking involved at each stop and the boat ride, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

To wrap it up, this private tour offers a convenient way to see some of Los Cabos’ most famous sights from La Paz. If you’re after a quick, scenic overview and don’t mind the packed schedule, it could be worth considering—just keep an eye on the reviews and plan for some flexibility. For those wanting a more relaxed, in-depth experience, you might want to explore other options or customize your own day.