Private Tour to Balandra, La Paz and Todo Santos

Exploring Baja California Sur: A Deep Dive into the Private Tour to Balandra, La Paz, and Todos Santos

If you’re considering a day trip that combines natural beauty, charming towns, and cultural sights, this private tour from Cabo San Lucas might just be what you’re looking for. Although I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have—and from the tour details—to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we really like about this experience is how it offers a personalized, relaxed way to see some of the most stunning spots in Baja California Sur. First, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which can make all the difference when exploring unfamiliar destinations. Second, the trip’s flexibility and small-group vibe mean you get a more intimate, tailored experience compared to larger, bus-based tours.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that Balandra Beach can reach capacity early in the morning, which means there’s a chance you might not get to enter if your timing isn’t perfect. This could be disappointing if visiting Balandra was your main goal. Though, this tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day to enjoy highlights without rushing.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert-guided excursions, enjoys exploring scenic spots, and prefers a private experience over a crowded group, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially ideal for those who want to combine natural beauty with cultural stops, all within a manageable day.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Only your group participates, with a dedicated guide.
• Expert guidance makes a difference: Guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach.
• Stunning scenery at Balandra: The beach offers incredible color, shallow waters, and a viewpoint for sweeping views.
• Flexible itinerary: You get time in La Paz and Todos Santos, with opportunities to explore or relax.
• Pre-arranged logistics: Includes a cooler, beach umbrella, and transportation, easing planning worries.
• Potential for capacity issues: Balandra can fill up early, so timing is crucial if that’s your main goal.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transpeninsular Highway

The tour kicks off early, around 5:00 AM, with pickup at your accommodation—an advantage if you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas or nearby. The drive along the Transpeninsular Highway takes about 2-3 hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. The transport is an air-conditioned private sedan, which makes the long drive comfortable and more intimate than a big bus.

Traveling in a private vehicle means less waiting and more flexibility to enjoy the landscape—think of endless desert vistas, rugged coastlines, and distant mountains. It’s a smooth start to what promises to be a full day of exploring.

Balandra Beach – The Showstopper

This is the main event, and most travelers are eager to get here. Balandra Beach is known for its tranquil, shallow waters and striking, often turquoise, scenery. The tour includes about 3 hours on-site, which is enough time to relax, take photos, and explore the bay.

You’ll have the option to go up to the viewpoint for panoramic views, or wade into the water—famous for being safe and shallow, perfect for a leisurely swim or just floating around. The beach is a protected area, so there are no vendors or restaurants, but the tour provides a beach umbrella, small cooler, and snacks before arrival. That helps you enjoy your time without worrying about packing everything yourself.

One traveler shared that they “loved the way the guide set everything up for comfort,” making the experience even more relaxing. Another pointed out the incredible color of the water, which truly lives up to its reputation.

However, a notable review noted that they arrived just after 8:00 am and were told the beach was full. Since Balandra’s capacity is limited, arriving early is key if you want to ensure access. It’s a good reminder that this iconic spot can fill up fast, even in the early morning.

La Paz – City stroll and local flavor

After Balandra, you’ll head to La Paz, where you can enjoy a couple of hours of free time. This is a great chance to walk around, admire murals, and soak in the local vibe. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility here, with some choosing to browse shops, sit at a café, or visit a museum if they wish.

The guide often shares tips and history, enriching your understanding of the city. One reviewer highlighted that their guide made the visit very comfortable and tailored, which can make a big difference when exploring on your own for a bit.

Todos Santos – The artistic town

Your last stop is the charming town of Todos Santos, about an hour from La Paz. Known for its arts scene, historic buildings, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for a quick exploration. Visitors enjoy walking around, popping into local shops, and experiencing the town’s unique vibe.

The tour includes a brief stop here, giving you a taste of this “Pueblo Mágico,” with some reviews mentioning how much they enjoyed browsing local crafts and tasting the small-town charm. It’s a relaxed way to end the day, without feeling rushed.

Return Journey

After exploring Todos Santos, you’ll head back along the highway, with a drive of about 1-2 hours to return to your accommodation. The total day’s length, around 9 to 10 hours, is quite full but manageable, especially considering the personalized nature of the tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a lot of value: a guide, private vehicle, beach umbrella, cooler, and all the logistics for a smooth day. This means fewer worries about planning and more time to enjoy the sights.

Not included are food and snacks, so bringing your own or purchasing during stops is recommended. Towels aren’t provided, so if you plan to swim or relax on the beach, bringing your own is a good idea.

The Value of the Price

At $362.45 for up to three people, this tour might seem pricey compared to larger group excursions. But considering it’s private, the vehicle, and the included amenities, many find it worth the cost—especially for the flexibility and comfort it offers. Travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics will likely see this as good value.

The Experience Guides

Multiple reviews praise the guides—especially David—for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to tailor the day to their interests. It’s clear that having a passionate, informed guide makes a big difference. The personalized attention turns what could be a standard sightseeing trip into a memorable day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after an easy, hassle-free way to see Balandra, La Paz, and Todos Santos, this private tour offers a comfortable and engaging option. The small-group format and expert guide make it ideal for those who prefer a personalized touch over crowded tours.

Keep in mind that Balandra’s limited capacity makes timing important—arrive early if the main goal is to visit this iconic beach. The full-day adventure suits travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without feeling rushed, and those who appreciate local insights and a flexible schedule.

While it’s not a budget option, many travelers find the experience’s quality and convenience justify the price. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or friends wanting an exclusive, memorable day out.

FAQ

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. You’ll get a full refund if canceled in time.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation is part of the package, making it easy to start your day without extra arrangements.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks, drinks, and a towel if you plan to swim or relax on the beach. The tour provides a cooler and umbrella, but towels are not included.

Will I have time to explore La Paz and Todos Santos?
Yes, the schedule allows for free exploration of both towns, with some travelers choosing to walk around, shop, or visit local spots.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it’s mainly a scenic and cultural experience. If children enjoy scenic drives, beaches, and small-town walks, they will likely enjoy it.

Is Balandra always open for visitors?
Balandra can fill up early, especially in peak season, so arriving early is strongly recommended if visiting the beach is your priority.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Baja’s scenic coast, charming towns, and beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for travelers wanting comfort, flexibility, and local insights, making it an excellent choice for a memorable and personalized Baja adventure.