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

Planning a day trip that combines natural beauty, authentic towns, and scenic vistas? This full-day tour from Los Cabos to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos offers an immersive experience at a reasonable price, crafted for travelers eager to see Baja’s diverse side.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of iconic sights—like the mushroom-shaped Balandra beach—and the chance to wander through the art-filled streets of Todos Santos. We also value the inclusion of a comfortable round-trip transfer, which makes the day hassle-free.

On the flip side, a possible snag is that the trip starts early at 5:00 AM, which might be tough for some. Plus, some reviews hint at issues with vehicle comfort and guide engagement, so temper expectations accordingly. Still, if you’re keen to explore beyond the tourist spots and enjoy a full day of Baja’s best, this tour is worth considering.

This experience is perfect for those who want a well-rounded day trip, enjoy scenic beaches, and are comfortable with a long day and small group setting. It’s especially great if you’re interested in capturing memorable photos or experiencing local towns with a bit of guided insight.

Key Points

• Includes transport, guide, and meals for convenience and good value
• Visit Balandra Beach, known for its iconic mushroom-shaped rock and turquoise waters
• Explore La Paz’s Malecón along the Sea of Cortez
• Discover Todos Santos, a lively arts town with unique architecture and local crafts
• Long day, early start, suitable for energetic travelers
• Mixed reviews on comfort, so prepare for an older vehicle and the possibility of a hot ride

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a 5:00 AM pickup from Cabo San Lucas. This early start allows ample time to visit multiple spots, but it also means your day begins before most breakfast routines. The transportation is a tourist transporter with comfortable seats—though some reviews mention the vehicle’s age and lack of air conditioning, which can make the 2.5-hour drive a bit challenging in Baja’s warm climate.

Having a bilingual driver and traveler insurance provides peace of mind, and the small group size (limited to 14 participants) ensures a more intimate experience compared to large buses. However, if you’re sensitive to vehicle comfort, it’s worth noting some travelers have experienced discomfort on older vans.

The Jewel of Balandra Beach

The highlight for many is Balandra Beach, an undisputed standout of Baja. Known for its crystal-clear waters and the famous mushroom-shaped rock formation, it’s a picture-perfect spot. You’ll spend around 2-3 hours here, enough time to relax on the sand, take a swim, or snap plenty of photos.

Reviews echo this, with one traveler praising the stunning scenery and the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful environment. The beach’s natural beauty is unspoiled, making it ideal for those wanting a tranquil escape.

Slight Detours: Playa El Coromuel

Next, you’ll visit Playa El Coromuel, a family-friendly beach offering shade under palm umbrellas and relaxed vibes. It’s a brief stop—about an hour—where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the ocean breeze.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Stroll Along La Paz’s Malecón

Your journey continues with a 30-minute walk along La Paz’s Malecón, a long promenade with panoramic sea views and local shops. It’s a relaxed way to soak in La Paz’s charm, perfect for those wanting to experience local life without a hurried pace. Many reviews mention enjoying the views and the opportunity to browse souvenirs.

Lunch with a View: El Paraje Restaurant

Midday, you’ll stop for a meal at El Paraje, a restaurant overlooking La Paz’s coastline. The food is considered good value, and the setting offers a chance to unwind with fresh Baja seafood or Mexican fare.

The Artistic Charm of Todos Santos

The highlight of the afternoon is Todos Santos, a magical town famous for its art galleries, crafts, and colonial architecture. Though the visit lasts only about an hour, it’s enough to wander through its vibrant streets, visit local shops, or snap photos of the iconic Hotel California.

A notable stop is the Hotel California, which many associate with legends and stories, making it a fun photo op. Guides often share interesting tidbits about the town’s artistic scene and history, adding depth to your visit.

Returning and Reflections

The trip wraps up with a 2-hour drive back to Cabo San Lucas, arriving around 7:00 PM. While the total duration is about 12 hours, some travelers note it can feel longer, especially if vehicle comfort isn’t ideal or if the guide’s engagement is limited—something a few reviews have pointed out.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a balanced picture. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery—noting that the beaches are among the most beautiful they’ve seen. For example, one traveler shared, “The beaches were both wonderful! Also, our guide Manny was fantastic—very friendly and helpful.”

However, some express disappointment about comfort issues: “The ride was not comfortable; no AC and the vehicle was old,” according to one reviewer. Another added that the guide seemed more like a driver, with limited commentary during the trip.

The long hours are appreciated by some who feel they get plenty of sightseeing for the price, but others find the vehicle discomfort and early start challenging, especially if traveling with elders or those sensitive to heat.

Analyzing the Value

At $98 per person, this tour offers solid value given the number of destinations and included meals and transportation. It’s a convenient way to see Baja’s scenic beaches and artistic towns without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The small group size adds a layer of intimacy that larger tours can’t match.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights and wants to maximize your day, this tour delivers. But if comfort or a more relaxed pace matters most, you might want to consider alternatives or prepare accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurers eager to explore and willing to endure a long day with an early start. It’s ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and culture seekers who want a comprehensive glimpse of Baja’s highlights in one package. The small group setting makes it perfect for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

It’s less suited for travelers who prioritize luxury or maximum comfort—the vehicle’s age and limited amenities might be a concern. Also, if you’re traveling with young children or elderly parents, the early start and long hours could be challenging.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Los Cabos to La Paz, Balandra, and Todos Santos offers a well-rounded taste of Baja’s natural beauty and artistic spirit. You’ll leave with a camera full of photos, a full stomach, and plenty of new impressions of this vibrant region.

We appreciate the value for money and the chance to see some of Baja’s most iconic spots in one day. The guided element helps you learn about the places without the stress of navigation, although expectations around vehicle comfort should be managed based on reviews.

If your goal is a full, active day with plenty of scenic and cultural experiences, this trip will likely satisfy. Just pack sunscreen, a hat, and a sense of adventure—and be prepared for a long but rewarding journey.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The pickup begins at 5:00 AM, which is early but allows for a full day of sightseeing.
• Is transportation comfortable? The tour uses a tourist transporter with comfortable seats, but some reviews mention the vehicle’s age and lack of AC, so it may be warm.
• How long is the visit to each stop? Expect about 2-3 hours at Balandra Beach, an hour at Playa El Coromuel, a 30-minute walk along La Paz’s Malecón, and around an hour in Todos Santos.
• Is food included? Yes, you get a light snack and a meal at El Paraje restaurant with ocean views.
• What is the group size? The tour is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Can I get a refund if I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Is the tour suitable for children or elders? It can be, but the early start and long hours may be tiring for some.
• Are guides bilingual? Yes, the driver and guide speak both Spanish and English.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water are recommended. Towels are not included.
• How long does the entire tour last? Approximately 12 hours, from pickup to return.

This tour offers a practical and immersive way to experience the highlights of Baja California Sur, blending scenic beaches, charming towns, and cultural insights—all in a single, well-priced package. Whether you’re after stunning photos, local flavor, or just a break from the resort environment, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby