A Tour in Kayak to Espiritu Santo

Take part in the spectacular experience of gliding over the water, paddling through tight, narrow channels in a setting teeming with wildlife. You'll see sea lions and possibly manta rays and dolphins leaping above the water, as well as tropical fish beneath the surface of the sea. But how to do this? The best way is on a kayak tour.

There are a variety of tours heading out of La Paz that let you spend a full day gliding beside the coast, exploring the pristine region between Pichilingue and Tecolote. You'll get to paddle all the way up the coast to the splendid area of Balandra Bay, stopping along the way to snorkel in a hidden spot, a cavern which is only accessible by kayak and where you can swim among enormous volcanic rocks and through underwater channels.

For advanced kayakers, the star tour is to explore Espiritu Santo island, paddling at the base of cliffs over 980 feet high, dotted with fascinating cavities. When you contract the services of a tour operator, a guide will help you learn about this natural treasure and they will probably share some entertaining myths and stories as well.

This beautiful island is a protected area that has several gorgeous beaches, such as the long stretch called Ballena, which is located opposite the island with the same name. At Candelero Bay's lovely beach, a mountain range tapers right into the water, ending in a series of islets that lead out to a final 'big one'. This beach also has a spectacular hanging rock to explore.

Mesteno is another attractive beach where you can climb up rocks on the north side to get to a series of large caves that have excellent acoustics. And at San Gabriel beach you can see the remnants of the 19th century pearl-fishing industry.

Finally, between Partida and Espiritu Santo islands there are two sand banks. The northeast bank is a fabulous site for camping. High cliffs surround the area and a vast expanse of shallow water provides a spectacular view allowing you imagine how the islands were once a single body before the volcanic crater was submerged by the sea. Nowadays, you can only cross the channel at high tide.