SEA OF CORTEZ

WILDLIFE OF THE SEA OF CORTEZ Oct. 14-20, 2006 Bahia de los Angeles, with 16 islands in reds, rusts and ambers floating in clean blue waters, is considered one of the beauty spots of the Baja peninsula. It is currently the site of lively discussion about its future...major development versus preservation of its unique environment. This area is known for its prolific marine life - whales, dolphins, sea lions, whale sharks, turtles et al - and colorful geological formations, rock art and bird populations. Our adventurous guests will explore shorelines and sea while staying at La Unica, an idyllic camp in a gorgeous cove some 10 sea miles south of the village, on land recently put into a conservation easement by the Fermin Smith family. Baja Discovery is eager to support these Bahia pioneers in developing Environmentally sustainable programs that may help secure their future and that of this desert paradise. Features Included: • Round trip land transportation between San Diego/Bahia de Los Angeles • Two nights hotel accommodation enroute • Four nights accommodation at La Unica • All meals at La Unica • All boating transfers and excursions • Experienced Baja hosts and guides Small groups to assure personalized experience. Features Not Included: • Meals at hotels and restaurants (7) • Tips to guides and waiters • Trip Insurance • Personal items ITINERARY DAY 1: SAN DIEGO – CATAVIÑA- We will meet you at the Holiday Inn Express in San Diego's Old Town. From the border, on Highway 1, we will drive along the beautiful Pacific Coast to Ensenada, then on through Baja's premier wine producing regions and the rich agricultural areas of San Quintin. We’ll arrive in the lush Central Desert with its forests of Cardon cactus and the unique Cirio plant. Stay tonight at Hotel La Pinta Cataviña, surrounded by wind sculptured granite boulders, nestled in the heart of an undeveloped natural park. DAY 2: CATAVIÑA - LA UNICA - Today enjoy the rich natural beauty of this least populated and most isolated area along Highway 1. We'll arrive at Bahia de Los Angeles mid-morning. We will board the 28-foot pangas, Mexican fishing boats which will be our transportation for the next five days, for our 40-minute excursion to La Unica... a very special place. After lunch and camp orientation, you will be free to explore the area, take a kayak lesson or swing in your hammock and take in the view. Dinner and conversation about the activities of the days to come. DAYS 3,4,5 - La Unica is situated on a wide white sandy beach in a two mile cove, framed by desert mountains and the emerald waters of the Sea of Cortez.... an unspoiled oasis! This unique camping experience offers quaint palm thatched "casitas" equipped with very large comfortable cots, and personal toilet and solar shower facilities. There is lots to do! The boats await each day to take you exploring among the desert islands and isolated coves in search of the whales, dolphins, marine birds, whale sharks, and sea lions that frequent the area. Other activities include kayaking, "fun" fishing, snorkeling, hiking, tidepooling... or just relax in the rhythms of this pristine natural setting. In the evening, in the main large open air dining palapa we'll enjoy delicious food, including fresh fruits & veggies and of course, seafood! Watch the soft pink and purple shades of the Sea of Cortez sunsets become a spectacular night sky, with no lights to interfere with our star gazing. Staff is always available for questions about this rich natural history area and informal discussions are a part of each day.(over) DAY 6: LA UNICA - SAN QUINTIN - After an early morning breakfast... a final swim or walk along the beach, we'll boat back to the town. Our drive north will allow time to explore and photograph. Overnight at La Pinta San Quintin on a beautiful Pacific beach. DAY 7: SAN QUINTIN - SAN DIEGO Continue north with a quick lunch stop in Ensenada before the scenic coastal drive to San Diego arriving mid to late afternoon. COST: $1495.00 per person (dbl. occ.) • $95 Single Supplement NOTE: The $300.00 deposit is refundable minus a $50.00 handling fee. Additional departure and trip information will be made available upon receipt of your deposit. Trip fares and schedules subject to change. CALL BAJA DISCOVERY AT (800) 829-2252 for more information.