Trip Overview

Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms — Beaches, Biosphere Adventures, and Creative Watercolor Retreat

Tucked into Baja California Sur, Mexico, this journey flows from the laid-back coastal charm of Todos Santos to the lush, secluded mountains of the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve. It’s a blend of ocean breezes, desert beauty, and high-mountain tranquility designed for both exploration and rest. We’ll begin in the beach town of Todos Santos, enjoying whale watching with a local fishermen’s collective, a historical walking tour, and a cooking class with a renowned Mexican chef.

From there, we head into the mountains for a stay in a luxury tented camp surrounded by groves, waterfalls, and sweeping views. Each day follows a flexible choose-your-own-adventure rhythm with hiking, swimming in natural water holes, birdwatching, and cultural workshops in traditional medicine, leather working, and tortilla making—or simply time to relax in nature.

Throughout the mountain portion of the trip, guests continue watercolor instruction, painting still life arrangements and landscape-inspired scenes drawn from the surrounding environment. This creative thread offers a grounding, expressive way to connect more deeply with the beauty of Baja and take home meaningful artwork from the experience.

Maximum group size: 12

Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms
Picture of Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms

Highlights

  • Paint from still life scenes and Baja-inspired landscape photography
  • Unleash your creativity at a 2-day mosaic class
  • Whale watch with a local fishermen's collective
  • Embark on a historical walking tour
  • Take a cooking class with a renowned Mexican chef
  • Learn about the flora and fauna as you hike through this diverse ecosystem
  • Attend workshops to learn about traditional medicine, leather making, and tortilla making
  • Take home your own Baja-inspired watercolor artwork and creative keepsakes

Inclusions

  • All transportation during itinerary including roundtrip airport transfer
  • All accommodations
  • All meals from dinner on day 1 through breakfast on final day
  • Daily happy hour in the Sierras (while at Camp Cecil)
  • Guided watercolor instruction with a local artist including all painting supplies and materials
  • All activities as described on the itinerary and related gear
  • 1-2 local bilingual naturalist guides
  • An AGC guide depending on group size

What's not included: Travel to and from Mexico, alcoholic beverages (outside of happy hours in the Sierras), snacks, guide gratuities, and travel insurance.

Trip Info


This journey is designed for women in good physical condition seeking an active vacation in a warm winter setting. Days are well-paced and full of experiences, with a balance of movement, cultural immersion, creativity, and downtime built in throughout the itinerary.

While most hikes are short, they can be rocky and uneven, so a moderate level of mobility and sure footing is required. That said, participation is flexible—guests are welcome to opt in or out of many activities depending on their energy level, whether that means joining a hike, attending a workshop, or simply relaxing at camp. The experience is designed to be active but adaptable, offering plenty of opportunities to explore and connect, while still allowing space to rest and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.

Rating: [1] 2 3 4 5.


We’ll swim and whale watch in the warm, vibrant waters of Baja California Sur, where the ocean offers incredible opportunities to connect with marine life and take in the beauty of the coastline. Throughout the journey, we’ll also explore and hike through a range of diverse ecosystems, from coastal landscapes to the lush mountain environment of the biosphere reserve, each offering its own unique scenery and sense of place.

While staying at the bioreserve, we’ll immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings through gentle adventure, time in nature, and moments of rest and reflection. Along the way, we’ll also engage in meaningful cultural experiences that highlight local traditions, food, and crafts, offering a deeper connection to the region and the people who call it home.


All accommodations on Baja Bliss are shared, and single supplements are not available. The first three nights will be spent at Los Colibris Casitas in Todos Santos, a peaceful retreat known for its sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, nearby estuary, palm grove, and the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. Guests can enjoy sunrises over the ocean, vibrant sunsets, and clear night skies filled with stars, with easy access to nearby beaches, local restaurants, and town life.

The final three nights are at Camp Cecil in the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve, a luxury “glamping” camp set deep in the mountains. Here, guests enjoy comfortable beds, soft linens, chef-prepared meals, and daily happy hour, all surrounded by pristine wilderness and the dramatic landscapes of Baja’s mountain spine.

Ready to picture yourself on this adventure?
Download the detailed trip summary for a closer look — daily highlights, travel notes, and everything you need to know before you go. It’s the perfect way to dream, plan, and share with a friend!

Itinerary

Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.

DAY 1
Bienvenidas a Mexico! Fly into Los Cabos International Airport/San Jose del Cabo (SJD) by 2PM where you'll be met by our local guides and transferred to our home away from home for the next three nights, Los Colibris Casitas. With “the most stunning view in Todos Santos”, Los Colibris Casitas is perfect for nature lovers who appreciate both beauty and tranquility. Once settled at the Casitas, we’ll go out for our first group dinner at a local restaurant. During dinner our guides will go over logistics for the week and a safety orientation.

Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Los Colibris Casitas
Travel Time: Driving (1.5 hours)
DAY 2
Nestled between lush tropical vegetation on one side and a dry mountainous desert on the other, Todos Santos is a small town with big appeal. Our lodging provides a perfect view of the Pacific Ocean, where we may even see whales breaching and splashing in the distance! After a delicious breakfast, we'll board small fishing boats to observe whales from the water. Each year the magnificent gray whales migrate 6,000 miles south from the Bering Sea to mate and give birth in the warm water lagoons of the Baja peninsula. They are truly magnificent creatures to behold!
Since Todos Santos is famous as an artist's colony, we are going to make some art of our own. This afternoon we'll attend our first of two sessions of a mosaic class taught by a local artist. In this class you will learn aspects of design, fabrication, and complete your very own work of art. You'll have a pretty unique souvenir to bring home! After class, you'll have a chance to unwind on the beach, soaking in the sun and sea, before joining the group for a delicious dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Los Colibris Casitas
Daily Activities: Cultural Activities (Whale Watching, Mosaic Class)
DAY 3
You will wake up to more breathtaking beach views in Todos Santos. After a hearty breakfast, we will head into town for a guided historical walking tour. Todos Santos boasts a diverse and fascinating history, spanning from its early missionary days to the prosperous sugar era, and now thriving as an artists' haven, agricultural hub, and popular surfing destination. On this tour, we'll explore several historic homes and buildings throughout the town, uncovering captivating tales of the global influences and vibrant individuals who helped shape the evolution of Todos Santos.
In the afternoon, get ready for the second session of our mosaic class, where you'll put the finishing touches on your masterpiece and bring it to life! This evening we'll have a Mexican Cooking Class with local Chef Iker Algorri, the author of Cooking Adventures in Baja California Sur. Learn to make the perfect margarita and gain the skill to make some truly memorable Mexican dishes following Chef Iker's cooking philosophy, the “Magnificence of Simplicity” The best part about a cooking class? Getting to eat our new recipes!

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Los Colibris Casitas
Daily Activities: Cultural Activities (Historical Walking Tour of Todos Santos, Mosaic Class, Mexican Cooking Class)
DAY 4
This morning we'll say goodbye to Todos Santos and head into the mountains. Camp Cecil de la Sierra is a luxury tent camp tucked into a peaceful mango, avocado, and grapefruit grove in the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve. The adventurous drive is well worth it! The camp is located on a local ranching family’s property and offers a unique opportunity to experience both the cultural and natural heritage of the region.
This afternoon we’ll be introduced to our local watercolor instructor, who will guide a series of relaxed painting sessions over the next few days. All watercolor supplies are included. Tonight is our first of 3 nights in luxury tents.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Accommodations: Camp Cecil de la Sierra
Travel Time: Driving (1.5 hours)
Daily Activities: Watercolor course instruction. Choose your own adventure (hiking, swimming, birdwatching, cultural activities)
DAY 5
Enjoy a peaceful morning in paradise with the option to join activities like bird watching, hiking, tortilla making, or a traditional medicine workshop. Today also includes watercolor instruction with our local artist, featuring both still life setups and photo-based painting inspired by the surrounding Baja landscapes. All supplies are included, and all experience levels are welcome. We’ll end the day with happy hour in the huerta and dinner under the stars.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Accommodations: Camp Cecil de la Sierra
Daily Activities: Choose Your Own Adventure: Hiking, Painting & Cultural Activities
DAY 6
Today you can choose to relax or join optional hikes to swimming holes and scenic mountain viewpoints. We’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional leather working workshop led by local ranchers.

Our final watercolor session will continue exploring both still life and photo-based painting, allowing guests more time to develop techniques while drawing inspiration from the landscapes, plants, and culture of the Sierra La Laguna region.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Accommodations: Camp Cecil de la Sierra
Daily Activities: Choose Your Own Adventure: Hiking, Painting & Cultural Activities
DAY 7
Enjoy one last morning in paradise, soaking up the birdsong, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking beauty of the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve. Before departing, you’ll have time to gather your watercolor paintings and creative keepsakes from the week — special reminders of your time in Baja. After one final hearty mountain breakfast, we’ll transport you back to Los Cabos International Airport/San Jose del Cabo (SJD) in time for flights departing after 1PM.

Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel: Driving (1.5 hours)

Reviews

4.5

(11 reviews)
4.7 Food
4.3 Lodging
4.6 Safety
5
(6)
4
(5)
3
(0)
2
(0)
1
(0)

*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.

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Debby H.
3 years ago

I really enjoyed being with this group. Everyone got along really well. For me, being in 75+ degree weather in January is a very positive plus.

Char R.
3 years ago

Being around fun and interesting women.

April B.
3 years ago

The inspiring women who sign up for these trips. The watercolor classes that Brenda did were fun and a nice change of pace. The stargazing that Alejandra led us thru was awesome, she's so knowledgeable. The cooking class was so fun! The highlight and most emotional part of the trip for me was the release of the baby sea turtles, really a priceless experience.

Jody R.
3 years ago

whale watching, star gazing, sea turtles, great food & drinks.

Linda C.
3 years ago

The guides, including the two Baja guides, Alejandra and Andrea, and the AGC guide, Brenda, were beyond wonderful! Smart, kind, fun, knowledgeable, attentive to every detail, sensitive to personal issues and group dynamics both.

Betty B.
3 years ago

Warm sun, good food and a variety of fun adventures in January.

Becky W.
4 years ago

I was pleased with how nice it was to travel with all the people involved. I felt like Brenda was very present and calmly and quietly attended to us.

Jeanne B.
4 years ago

A warm destination in January; good price; great guide (Brenda); I like Mexico; my first time to do Glamping

Monica H.
4 years ago

It was the other women, my fellow travelers, that made this trip extra special. They were all wonderful, interesting and fun!

Mary H.
4 years ago

Where to start? Ocean views from the beautiful casitas and pool! Beautifully landscaped grounds! Stargazing from the hot tub! Morning yoga from the mountain deck with a spectacular 360! A dip in a cool mountain waterhole by the falls after a good hike! Horseback riding the trails! Experiencing my first piñata, a surprise from our wonderful local guides! Not to mention good food and fun and camaraderie throughout! The trip introduced us to parts of Mexico that I don't think the average traveler has the opportunity to see. Just be prepared for the (literally) rocky roads!

Maria B.
4 years ago

The opportunity to go whale watching and the excellent meals at the camp.

Dates & Prices

Year Departure Date Availability Price

2027

December 05 to December 11

Available

$4895.00

Year

2027



Departure Date

December 05 to December 11, 2027



Availability


Available



Price

$4895.00




Make It Your Adventure

Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.

Common Questions


We spend the first three days in the town of Todos Santos, which is oceanside. The hotel where we stay, Los Colibris Casitas, is a short and steep hike away from the beach but the rip tide is strong here and swimming is not recommended. If you would like more beach time while in Baja, we recommend extending your stay or checking out our Camping on the Sea of Cortez trip!

We will be eating a few meals out at small local restaurants and the rest will be prepared on site at Camp Cecil of the Sierra using lots of delicious farm to table ingredients.

If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.

 

Baja's Scenic Sierras and Coastal Charms Packing List

 

FOOTWEAR:

• 1 pair sturdy sandals (Ex: Tevas, Chacos,Keens)

• 1 pair flip-flops or comfortable sandals

• 1 pair sturdy walking shoes (athletic shoes with good soles, trail running shoes, or lightweight & flexible hiking shoes/boots)

• 2 - 3 lightweight synthetic socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough , running socks, etc.)

 

EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS:

• Passport (as well as a paper and digital copy)

• One 1-liter water bottle or hydration system

• Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap

• REEF SAFE Sunscreen and lip protection

• Small headlamp or flashlight

• 1 daypack(18-24 liter)

• Insect repellent Individuals allergic to insect stings must bring an EpiPen.

• 1 garbage bag for wet clothes

• Ear plugs (for a good night’s sleep!)

• 1-2 bandanas

 

CLOTHING:

• 1-2 pair lightweight pants (synthetic material like nylon)

• 1-2 lightweight long-sleeve shirts with sun protection

• 1 lightweight “waterproof” raincoat with hood- PVC coated nylon or Gore-Tex type material (It’s not likely to rain on our trip but just in case! Also, a good raincoat can serve as your windbreaker too if it gets chilly!)

• 2-3 pairs of shorts: quick-drying nylon is recommended

• 4-5 T-shirts(synthetic and moisture wicking for hiking)

• 1 wide-brimmed hat, for rain, sun and high fashion!

• 1 lightweight fleece jacket, fleece sweatshirt, or other warm layer

• 1-2 swimsuits (make sure one would fit comfortably under a wetsuit and when laying on your stomach on a surfboard, i.e. no excessive strings or buckles!)

• Underwear/nightwear

• 2-3 changes of casual comfortable clothes (Ex: sundresses, skirts, cotton articles of clothing, blouses etc.) Try Toad & Co for sustainable options!

 

TOILETRIES (SMALL EVERYTHING):

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Dental floss

• Hand sanitizer

• Shampoo & conditioner

• Personal items (contact lens supplies, sanitary items, personal medications)

• Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen

 

OPTIONAL:

• Camera and film/memory card (extra batteries), waterproof camera bag

• Water resistant watch

• Compact binoculars

• Journal and pen, book to read

 

 

Adventures in Good Company's packing list includes items to help you be prepared for the various activities and conditions. It is not personalized, so please add the items that you require to travel safely and comfortably but remember – less is better! You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and downstairs. As space for luggage on our trips is limited, please do not overpack!

 

DAYPACKS: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 liter of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sunscreen, personal first aid kit, and personal items such as a camera, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 18 - 24 Liters with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and ‘lifters.’ Before you leave home, check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of the items listed above.

 

FOOTWEAR: Well-fitting, lightweight boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new footwear, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For hiking at Camp Cecil, lightweight and flexible boots/shoes with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle– you’ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain.

 

CLOTHING: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your activewear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends, or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied-weight materials provide better insulation than one thick layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity.

 

HYDRATION: Being able to easily access your water without assistance so that you can drink frequently is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to the outside of your backpack. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bag fits inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1 - 3 liters of water.

 

PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: feet blister remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small roll of duct tape (always useful!), and remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles, or joints. Your AGC guide will have a robust first aid kit, but knowing what you know works well for you is a good idea.

 

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: Please note that a valid passport is needed to travel to Mexico from the United States. For information on how to obtain a passport or renew your current passport, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html, ask your travel agent, or call the Passport Office at 202-647-0518. Allow at least 6 weeks.

 

Disclaimer: This packing list features some affiliate links. This means AGC gets a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for the support!

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