Experience the Thrill of Nature: UTV + Marlin Safari Expedition in Baja California Sur

aventurastourslore
Jul 10
3 min read

Updated: Sep 5

Every year, from October to December, fishermen and ocean lovers travel to San Carlos, on the Pacific coast of Mexico, to witness one of the wildest marine events on Earth. Just like in a wildlife documentary, you’ll experience nature in its rawest form: massive bait balls of sardines being devoured by striped marlin, mahi-mahi, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds in a breathtaking feeding frenzy. This is an adventure you simply can’t miss if you’re a nature enthusiast, an experienced snorkeler, and someone who craves adrenaline. To get to San Carlos, you'll cross the dramatic Sierra de la Giganta from Loreto to the Pacific Ocean in a fully equipped Speed UTV, going from sea to sea on a thrilling off-road route.

🌅 DAY 1: Off-Road Adventure from Loreto to Magdalena Bay

The Exciting Start of Our Expedition

Our 3-day expedition in Baja California Sur: UTV + marlin safari begins in Loreto, a coastal gem rich in colonial charm and vibrant marine life. We hop into our high-performance UTVs and venture off-road across stunning landscapes that include the San Javier Mission, vast canyons, and winding desert tracks.

Journey to San Carlos

Our route leads us to the remote fishing town of San Carlos on the Pacific coast. As we travel, we reveal hidden ranches and enjoy breathtaking views. We’ll stop for a light lunch to refuel before continuing our off-road journey toward San Carlos. The excitement builds as we near our destination.

Arrival and Dinner Plans

After arriving at the hotel and settling in, we gather for a delicious seafood dinner. This is the perfect opportunity to share our exciting plan for the next day’s Pacific expedition—an unforgettable journey awaits!

🌊 DAY 2: Ocean Safari with Marlin – The Sardine Run Experience

Sea lions, mahi mahi (dorados) and big ball of sardines in the Pacific Ocean in magdalena bay — Dorados and sea lions chasing the ball of sardines

Early Start on the Water

Get ready for a full day of adventure on the water! Our journey begins at 7 AM as we explore the rich waters of Magdalena Bay. Like a National Geographic documentary, we will search for the famous Sardine Run and marlin activity. This promises to be an unimaginable experience.

Snorkeling with Marine Life

With fins, mask, and a wetsuit, you'll snorkel alongside marlins, dolphins, sea lions, dorados, mantas, even whales, and countless seabirds. This is not a fishing trip—it’s a raw, immersive marine adventure unlike any other. The thrill of diving into the depths of the ocean and witnessing such magnificent creatures is an unforgettable experience.

Marlin safari tour in Magdalena Bay during sardine run — Bait ball of Sardines, dorados and sea lions chased by snorkelers in Magbay

🏞 DAY 3: Return to Loreto via Hidden Gems and San Javier Mission

Scenic Journey Back

As we return to Loreto, we’ll use the same rugged trail, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenic journey. On our way back, we’ll pass by traditional ranches. Notably, we will visit the stunning San Javier Mission, one of Baja’s finest-preserved colonial treasures.

Connections to Nature and Culture

This charming detour provides the perfect ending to a journey that connects nature, culture, and adventure. It’s a meaningful way to conclude our expedition, as we reflect on the remarkable experiences we’ve had.

Off road tour From Loreto to San Carlos passing San Javier Mission in Baja California Sur — Visiting San Javier mission on the way back to Loreto by UTV

🛏 Stay at Villas Mar y Arena

During this unforgettable expedition, you'll stay at the beachfront Hotel Villas Mar y Arena in San Carlos. Relax by the sea while enjoying warm local hospitality.

Dining and Comfort

We’ll enjoy two dinners and two breakfasts at this cozy beachfront hotel, providing the perfect fuel for our thrilling days of adventure. Accommodations include single, double, and triple occupancy, all with scenic bay views.