Leviathans
Deluxe Marine Safari in Baja Sur
January 31 - February 7, 2009

INTRODUCTION

At first glance, the Baja Peninsula seems to be a dry, barren wasteland, with nothing in particular to recommend it. However, its coastal waters boast one of the highest concentrations of marine life in the world.
     Magdalena Bay (on the western coast) is a special reserve for the protection of the Pacific Gray Whale. The whales migrate here from their feeding grounds north of Alaska to breed and give birth in the warm, calm waters.
     A typical day in February might find upwards of 250 adult whales and dozens of calves in a single lagoon, going about their daily routine: mating, sleeping, feeding, playing, nursing their young or teaching, strengthening and preparing their offspring for the long, arduous swim north. Spouts break the surface everywhere. Curious whales spy on the tourists by poking their heads straight up out of the water. Some breach the water, performing belly flops as if to entertain.
     Even though they are completely untamed, for some reason these remarkable cetaceans consistently approach humans, allowing us to get up close and personal. We are extremely careful not to disturb or chase the whales, but rather motor into an area of high concentration and wait for them to approach us. They do not shy away from the boats, enabling us to position ourselves within inches, close enough to reach out and touch one of these leviathans of the deep. It is not uncommon to watch a mother bring her baby toward a boat, nudging it gradually on for a closer look.
     The focus of this trip is to spend time appreciating Baja Sur’s great variety of marine life, but there is much more we will also experience. We begin in the city of La Paz (“peace” in Spanish), the state’s capital, and the largest city south of Tijuana on the Baja Peninsula. It lies on a deep inlet off the Sea of Cortéz. Despite its size (population 220,000) and position as the region’s commercial and political center, La Paz is a tranquil, easy-to-love port. It has preserved a sort of “old Baja” atmosphere that makes you think little has changed here for decades.
     It is from this starting point that we explore the southern Baja peninsula. In addition to Gray Whales, other marine life include marlin, sea lions, hammerhead sharks, manta rays and the whale shark (the world’s biggest fish). Weather permitting, we go sea kayaking and snorkeling with sea lions.
     Above the surface, this rich, unspoiled ecosystem has a rugged character and tranquil beauty, serving as nesting grounds to a great variety of sea birds that crowd along the uninhabited coastline and seem to fill the skies. In town, you will enjoy the vibrant Mexican culture, joyous music and great food. Also featured during this tour is incredible natural scenery: beaches, deserts, nature reserves and the mountains of the Sierra de San Francisco.
     When winter has got you feeling cabin fever, Toto Tours has the perfect cure. Head south of the border to enjoy a warmer climate and a healthy dose of fun in the sun!

ITINERARY

Saturday, January 31, 2009
Arrive in La Paz

Leave your home city today and fly to La Paz (airport code: LAP), arriving this afternoon. If it is not possible to make connections to arrive by 5pm, we recommend you arrive one day early so as not to miss our welcome activities. We arrange one group transfer from the airport to the hotel, timed to accommodate the greatest number of arriving passengers. The group meets for cocktails this evening on the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Afterwards, we proceed to a local restaurant for our Welcome Dinner. Return to the hotel and the evening is free.     (Welcome Dinner included)

Sunday, February 1, 2009
Isla Espiritu Santo

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion to Isla Espiritu Santo, the crown jewel in the warm crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez. Just 18 miles from La Paz, the 23,383 acre island has the most intact ecosystem in the region—several plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world. The waters surrounding the island support coral reefs, resident colonies of sea lions at Los Islotes rookery, 500 species of fish, and they are also frequented by over a dozen species of whales, including the year-round resident finbacks. Because of its warm waters and protected coves, Espiritu Santo provides the perfect place for beginning kayakers and snorkelers to hone their skills. Lunch is served fresh on the beach there.
     Our visit to Los Islotes will be a true adventure, swimming with the sea lions. Better known as the “Sea Lion Colony,” Los Islotes is located just north of Isla Espiritu Santo. Here we snorkel with the sea lions and a multitude of tropical fish. With over 400 sea lions living here year around, snorkeling with the pups is a must for every visitor. The pups fly around the swimmers and tug on fins and snorkels when they think you aren’t looking. In additional to sea lions, watch for king angelfish, as well as schooling damselfish and surgeonfish that are often milling around. Returning to La Paz in the late afternoon, the evening is free to sample one of the many fine restaurants in town.     (Breakfast / Lunch)

Monday, February 2, 2009
Magdalena Bay

Depart La Paz after breakfast this morning on a four-hour drive across the peninsula to the Pacific coast. Our destination is Magdalena Bay to do two nights camping in lovely walk-in safari style tents on a secluded beach near San Carlos. Upon arrival at the docks in early afternoon, board a boat for a 30-minute trip to a secluded beach where lunch is served inside a dining tent, with the sound of waves crashing against the shore. The base camp is equipped with every amenity from walk-in tents to warm water showers. You will be able to see the whales that travel over 10,0000 miles to give birth to their young in these waters right from our camp site on the beach.
     There are two whale watching excursions each day using motorized skiffs, each lasting up to three hours. Our experienced naturalist guides will point out many behaviors of the whales, including spy hopping, mating, breaching, and nurturing their young. Between whale watching excursions, you’ll have time for walks along the beach or hikes in the dunes. You can also go kayaking on guide-led forays into the mangroves or other permitted paddling areas using our fleet of kayaks. You may opt to go bird watching, or just enjoy some “down time” as you relax with a book from our camp’s library.
     Dinner is buffet-style, and often includes fresh fish and home-made tortillas. After dinner, one of our experienced guides will present a natural history talk to help you learn more about the Baja Peninsula , its local people and the marine wildlife protected in Magdalena Bay. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to star-gaze while you are here, too.     (All Meals)

Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Free Day in Magdalena Bay

Bahia Magdalena, more commonly called Magdalena Bay, is one of the three large bays on Baja’s Pacific coast where the whales go each year to mate and give birth from late December through March. Everything today is optional but included in the price, so you can do as you please. You can go out in the boats twice today to see the whales up close, and in addition you can hike along the beach, kayak out into the Mangroves, or just relax in your tent on the beach.     (All Meals)

Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Todos Santos / Coastal Hike

After breakfast, transfer to the San Carlos airstrip for our charter flight to the charming town of Todos Santos to spend the next few days. Our one-hour flight takes us over the whales and the Pacific Coast so that we can get a bird’s eye view of the scenery and add a new perspective to our adventure across Baja Sur. Touching down around 9am in Todos Santos, we proceed to our hotel, located in the heart of the downtown area. After depositing luggage in our rooms, we are off for a late morning cliff hike. This excursion includes a late lunch on the beach and features views of the Pacific Ocean along the rugged cliff-lined coast, sea lion colonies and interesting dessert flora and fauna.
     We return to town in the afternoon, when you will have time to explore before and after our dinner. Todos Santos is a lush oasis town of approximately 6,000 inhabitants, and is home to a prominent artist colony where notable galleries showcase the works of Baja’s growing artist population. The town of Todos Santos was founded in 1723 by Father Jaime Bravo and later prospered for 100 years as a major sugar-cane producer. The town’s historic district boasts a charming plaza fronted by its church and old theater as well as numerous shops, bars and some of the best restaurants on the peninsula.     (All Meals)

Thursday, February 5, 2009
Biosphere Walk / Beach Sunset and Stargazing

After breakfast take a fantastic half-day hike through the amazing Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve near Todos Santos. Enjoy a wonderful walk along a lush riverbed to a beautiful desert waterfall, where we eat a picnic lunch. This is an easy, 2-hour walk on an even path. Total trip time is about 4 hours. Afterwards, we head back to the hotel for a rest before heading to the sand dunes at the beach to enjoy a dazzling sunset over the lagoon. Sunset is one of the most active times in the marsh for its bird inhabitants, so you will see a tremendous amount of aviary activity. Our naturalist guide will point out species unique to the area and provide interesting details on their lives and habits.
     Once darkness falls, our local astronomer will illustrate the night sky, outlining the constellations and bringing their epic stories to life. He’ll have a high-powered telescope on hand so that you can get a close view of the stars and planets. He’ll make sure that you leave knowing how to find them again when you are on your own. Champagne is served during this event, after which we return to town for a free evening.     (Breakfast / Lunch)

Friday, February 6, 2009
La Paz / Optional Activities

After breakfast our group makes the one-hour drive back to La Paz, traversing the peninsula of Baja again to the Sea of Cortez. Arriving around 11am, there will be plenty of time to spare for optional activities on your own today—horseback riding on the beach, more snorkeling, sea kayaking, biking or just beach combing and haunting the local restaurants. A trip to a nearby isolated beach can be arranged if desired. Lunch will be on your own today, as well as your own chosen activities. We gather again this evening and walk to a nearby restaurant to enjoy our Farewell Dinner.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Saturday, February 7, 2009
Departure

The tour ends officially after breakfast this morning. One group transfer is provided to the airport, timed to accommodate the greatest number of people departing today. Let us know if you wish to extend your stay in La Paz.     (Breakfast)

ACCOMMODATIONS
(Click property name to read description)

La Paz:  7 Crown Hotel

Magdalena Bay:  Deluxe beach camp with walk-in tents (limited private accommodations here)

Todos Santos:  Todos Santos Inn

TOUR PREPARATION

Entry Requirements:  US citizens must show proof of citizenship (passport required). A tourist card is also required. Tourist card, valid 3 months for single-entry up to 180 days, requires proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID, and proof of sufficient funds. Visa not required of U.S. citizens for tourist/transit stay of up to 30 days. The cost should be included in your plane ticket fare.

Immunizations:  None are required, but it is wise to have your inoculations up to date. Is your tetanus booster current?

Exit Requirements:  There is no departure tax. The North American Free Trade Agreement stipulates that plane tickets purchased in North America include all taxes.

Recommended Reading List:

• King of the Moon: A Novel of Baja California, Gene Kira, 1996
• The Pearl, John Steinbeck, 1947
• The Girl of the Sea of Cortez, Peter Benchley 1982

WHAT TO BRING

The Baja Peninsula is one of the most cloud-free areas in the world. Annual rainfall averages 2"-12" in this desert region. Daytime temperatures are best described as “perfect” with highs between the upper 60s and upper 80s. The nights are usually mild but can occasionally dip to 60 degrees or lower in the winter months, especially along the Pacific Coast. Water temperatures are mild with the average surface temperature between 70 to 75 degrees. As the air temperatures gradually increase through the spring months, so do the water temperatures in the Sea of Cortez; ranging from 60 degrees in February, 65 degrees in March, and 70 degrees in April. Occasionally, windy weather makes our kayaking days exciting, and sometimes we have to stay near our base camp until the winds subside. Our activities are dictated to some degree by the weather, and safety is always our primary concern.

Suggested Packing List:
____ Proof of citizenship: Passport required.
____ Nice casual outfit for Welcome and Farewell Dinners.
____ Rain gear (waterproof jacket with hood & pants)
____ Wool shirt & warm jacket
____ Warm hat (ski cap), gloves (just in case it is unseasonably cold)
____ Beach towel, wash cloth
____ Binoculars
____ Flashlight, extra batteries (head lamps are great for camping)
____ Small first aid kit
____ Dirty clothes bag
____ Earplugs
____ Sunscreen / lip balm / sunglasses.
____ Personal toiletries / bug repellant.
____ Moist towelettes.
____ Ziploc bags. Sandwich size for your documents; gallon size for wet items.
____ Day pack or fanny pack.
____ Water bottle
____ Anti-diarrhea remedy (just in case).
____ Swimsuits
____ Camera & plenty of film or memory cards and extra batteries

MONEY MATTERS

Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso (MXP), with bills in 20, 50, 100 and 500 MXP denominations, and coins in .50, 1, 2, 5 and 10 pesos. Although most tourist centers widely accept U.S. dollars, we recommend using Pesos during your visit. ATMs offer the best exchange rate, and are available at the airport upon arrival. On May 17, 2008, the interbank exchange rate was MXP10.44 to US$1.00.

Taxes and Tipping—In restaurants, the usual tip is 15%. Porters / bellboys are tipped $1. The same is appropriate for a taxi driver who helps with your luggage. Keep in mind that many people in Mexico depend almost exclusively on tips for their livelihood. We will present a collective tip to guides and drivers.

RESERVATIONS

To reserve a place on this tour, click on the “Reservations” link above. Type in the information requested in each field, print the form, then sign and mail it to Toto Tours with your $600 deposit check. You also have the option to pay for your tour deposit with a Visa or MasterCard. The remaining balance is due 80 days prior to departure (by November 12, 2008). Tour registration is not complete until we have received both the form and your deposit check.
     Toto Tours does not accept credit cards as a form of payment except for the amount of the tour deposit ($600 maximum can be charged per tour). An installment plan is possible. Our mailing address is: Toto Tours, 1326 W. Albion Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60626-4753. Make checks payable to: Toto Tours, Ltd.

LIABILITIES / DISCLAIMERS

Making a reservation with a deposit shall be deemed to be consent to these conditions: Toto Tours does not accept responsibility in whole or in part for any delay, loss, accidents, personal injury, sickness, medical expenses, or property damage occasioned by fault of any person from whatever cause. All tour participants are required to sign a standard liability form.
     The tour operators reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a member of the tour at any time and to make whatever changes become necessary with or without notice. Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 6 participants. Due to our charter flight and limited camping facilities, the maximum number of participants on this tour is 11 plus our local guide. Toto Tours is not responsible for airline cancellation or change penalties incurred by individual tour participants for air tickets purchased prior to notification that the tour is a confirmed departure.
     We strongly encourage you purchase Travel Insurance to cover all aspects of your travel in Mexico! We will provide the necessary forms upon receipt of your deposit, or you can apply online by following the link at the bottom of this page. You can also book your travel insurance with a phone call to Toto Tours.

THE TOTO SPIRIT

Toto Tours provides Adventure Travel Experiences as differentiated from tours in the traditional sense. Adventure Travel allows (even encourages) you to be an active participant. Adventurers can be identified by certain traits. They are:

•  fun-loving optimists who have a sense of humor and accentuate the positive;
•  good natured realists who are willing to accept situations as they exist;
•  undaunted by the unexpected, like occasional delays or bad weather;
•  willing to forego some of the amenities we normally take for granted;
•  eager to try new things & test limits;
•  punctual;
•  not whiners!

Make plans now to leave the cold northern climate behind this winter and escape south of the border with us to balmy Baja! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us toll-free at: 800-565-1241.

THE BOTTOM LINE
(tour prices per person)

Price:  $2,895 double occupancy

Private Room:  $600 extra, if available. (Paying a single supplement is not required. Toto Tours will try to match you with a roommate if you are traveling alone and prefer to share a room. If this is not possible, a single supplement will be applied to your reservation before the final payment date.)

Deposit:  $600 (Due at time of registration for the tour. May be paid with a credit card.)

Remaining Balance:  $2,295 double / $2,895 single
(Assumes $600 deposit has already been made)

Remaining Balance Due:  November 12, 2008
(Full payment required with reservation form if enrolling after this date.)

Included:  Five nights hotel accommodations; two nights deluxe camp accommodations; breakfast daily at hotel; Welcome and Farewell Dinners; one group airport transfer at the beginning of the tour, timed to accommodate the most arriving passengers; one group airport transfer at the end of the tour, timed to accommodate the most departing passengers; air-conditioned transportation during land transfers and excursions; all meals and activities as listed in the itinerary; fully guided and escorted tour.

Not Included:  Round-trip air transportation to and from La Paz, Mexico (LAP); ground transportation for any sightseeing on your own (taxis, local guides, etc.); airport transfers other than the one “included” transfer at the beginning and end of the tour; meals and optional activities not specifically included in the itinerary; tips to local guides and drivers, gratuities for waiters or porters; alcoholic beverages.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We recommend you purchase travel insurance with Travel Guard to cover for unforseen events prior to and during your trip. Please follow the link below or call us for more information.