Private Full Day Tour to Los Cabos from La Paz

Introduction

If you’re eyeing a comprehensive day trip from La Paz to explore the highlights of Los Cabos, this private tour promises to take you through some of Baja California Sur’s most iconic spots. While the itinerary covers Todos Santos, Cabo San Lucas, and San Jose del Cabo, travelers should be aware of some notable hiccups, especially regarding punctuality and overall organization.

What we liked: stunning coastal views, authentic town vibes, and the flexibility of a private experience. However, a significant drawback is the mixed reviews about timing issues and communication, which can impact your overall enjoyment. This tour could be a good fit for travelers who want a private, customizable day with a focus on sightseeing rather than guided storytelling or deep culture.

Good To Know

• Flexible private transportation ensures a comfortable journey.
• Stops at Todos Santos, Cabo San Lucas, and San Jose del Cabo cover a variety of scenic and cultural highlights.
• Timing can be tight, so plan your expectations accordingly.
• Stunning views, especially at Los Cabos Marina and the famous arches.
• Some travelers report issues with punctuality and communication, worth considering if time is tight.
• Ideal for those wanting a private day trip rather than group tours.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins early, with pickup from your La Paz accommodation around 8 AM. This is a big plus—having your transportation arranged means you won’t need to worry about navigating the busy roads or arranging multiple taxis. The vehicle is private, which adds comfort, especially after a morning of travel.

However, one of the first red flags from reviews is the reported inconsistency in pickups. A recent review mentions being “stranded in 10,” after booking and pre-paying two months in advance, with the original driver not showing up. This hints that you should double-check your confirmation and consider that last-minute issues could happen, particularly with subcontracted drivers.

Todos Santos (10 AM – 11:30 AM)

Your first stop is the charming Todos Santos, a town famous for its bohemian vibe, art galleries, and cool cafes. We love that this stop offers a glimpse into a more relaxed Baja lifestyle, away from the tourist crowd. You’ll visit the mission of Todos Santos, one of the oldest in the Californias, and take a quick stroll around the town’s streets, soaking up its artistic atmosphere.

The Legendary Hotel California is a quirky highlight that many visitors seek out, with some reviews mentioning it’s a fun photo op. This stop is about 1.5 hours, which is enough to get a taste without feeling rushed. The tour mentions free admission, so most of the sightseeing here is just about enjoying the vibe and snapping photos.

Cabo San Lucas Marina (1 PM – 3 PM)

Next, the journey heads south to Cabo San Lucas, arriving at the bustling marina around 1 PM. Here is where you’ll board a boat to see the famed Arch of Cabo San Lucas—a highlight for many visitors. The boat ride is approximately one hour and provides stunning views of the coastline and the iconic rock formations.

This part of the tour is often praised for its breathtaking scenery, with numerous reviewers noting how close-up views of the arches are awe-inspiring. The boat ride, included in the tour, is a significant value addition, as independent boat trips can be costly.

After the boat tour, there’s an hour for lunch and strolling around the marina. While lunch is not included in the tour price, the marina offers a variety of food options, from casual tacos to seafood. Many travelers enjoy this relaxing break, though some mention that the timing can feel a little rushed, especially if the boat ride runs over or if you get caught up in the busy marina scene.

San Jose del Cabo (4 PM – 5:30 PM)

From Cabo, the tour proceeds to San Jose del Cabo, arriving around 4 PM. This old colonial town is less commercialized than Cabo San Lucas, offering a more authentic Mexican charm. The main square features a historic cathedral and quaint streets lined with souvenir shops and cafes.

The one-hour visit provides a good snapshot of town life and architecture. Visitors often comment on the authentic vibe, contrasting it with the more tourist-heavy Cabo. Again, some reviews highlight the timing issues—arriving late means less time to explore, which could be frustrating if you want a deeper experience.

Return to La Paz

Leaving San Jose around 5:30 PM, the journey back to La Paz takes about two hours, with plans to arrive around 8 PM. The drive offers more scenic coastal views and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Experience: What You Will And Won’t Get

What’s Included:

• Private transportation from La Paz and back, which is a major perk for comfort and flexibility.
• The boat ride to the arches—a key highlight that most travelers enjoy.
• Stops at Todos Santos and San Jose del Cabo, providing a mix of artistic, historic, and local experiences.

What’s Not Included:

• Lunch, so you’ll want to budget for meals or snacks at the marina or towns.
• No mention of guided commentary, so expect a mainly self-guided experience with the driver acting more as transportation than a tour guide.

Timing And Pacing

The schedule is quite packed for a 9-hour tour, especially considering potential delays. The total duration is about 12 hours, including transfers. Some reviews indicate that the tight schedule can make the experience feel rushed, particularly at the stops.

This tour seems designed for those who prefer to see multiple sites without the hassle of driving or organizing separate tickets. But if you’re someone who wants to linger longer at each stop or dive into local culture, this might feel a little hurried.

The Good And The Bad

The stunning coastal views and the boat ride to the arches are unquestionably the star attractions. Reviewers have shared how close-up views of the arches are breathtaking, which makes the trip worthwhile for scenery lovers.

However, timing issues and inconsistent communication are notable drawbacks. One reviewer mentioned being stranded and disappointed, which raises questions about reliability. It’s clear that this tour is best suited for travelers who are flexible, easygoing, and value privacy over rigid schedules.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour might suit families, couples, or small groups looking for a hassle-free day with private transportation and the flexibility to customize. If your priority is seeing key sights and enjoying the scenery without the noise of large groups, this could be a good option.

However, if you prefer a more structured experience with in-depth commentary or longer exploration, you might want to consider other options or private guides with better reviews. Be prepared for possible timing issues and confirm your pickup arrangements in advance.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a solid overview of the Los Cabos region, with stunning views and the convenience of private transportation. The boat ride and scenic stops are definite highlights, especially for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of this diverse area.

On the downside, the mixed quality of organization and punctuality could impact your experience, making it less ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace or detailed guided insights. The lack of included lunch and tight schedule could also limit the overall value for some.

In summary, if you’re comfortable with some uncertainty and value the freedom of a private day with key highlights, this tour offers a practical way to see Los Cabos from La Paz—just keep your expectations flexible.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your La Paz accommodation around 8 AM, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

What is the approximate duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts about 12 hours, including transfers, with the core sightseeing stops taking around 9 hours.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you’ll need to budget for food during the day, likely at the marina or in the towns.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Todos Santos with its art galleries and the mission, take a boat ride to see the famous arches at Los Cabos Marina, and explore San Jose del Cabo’s main square and historic sights.

Is this tour suitable for seniors or children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long travel hours and tight schedule if traveling with seniors or young children.

What should I expect from the boat ride?
A scenic 1-hour ride to the arches, offering close-up views of the famous rock formations—an image many find unforgettable.

Are there any known issues with the tour?
Some reviews mention punctuality problems, including missed pickups and timing mismatches, so be prepared for potential delays.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, there’s potential for some customization, but check with the provider for specific options.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $390 per group (up to five people), representing a decent value for private transport and entry to the boat ride, though additional costs for meals are on you.

To sum it up, this private tour from La Paz to Los Cabos provides a convenient way to see some of Baja’s most iconic sights with the comfort of private transportation. While some travelers report logistical issues, the stunning views and diverse stops make it appealing, especially for those who prioritize flexibility over a perfectly structured schedule. Just be sure to confirm pickup details and be ready for a potentially rushed day.