The Baja California peninsula is a mosaic of high ranges, desert regions, coastal lagoons, beaches, mangroves, and other interesting and important ecosystems. Today we took the opportunity to visit Punta Los Gatos, a beautiful peninsular location between San Jose Island and the Loreto National Marine Park. As a backdrop for our activities (snorkeling, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and hiking), there was the magnificent scenery of La Giganta mountain range with all its colored layers of volcanic sediments. Formed by the erosion and sedimentation of andesite and rhyolite, both volcanic rocks, the intense, pink sandstone structures are one of the main attractions of this location. On the rocky beaches and in the desert, we found a number of different animals and plants species that are representative of the great biological diversity of the area.
1/22/2025
Read
National Geographic Venture
The Baja Peninsula
A gull flew by the rising sun to begin our day. We rounded the end of the Baja Peninsula and sailed into the Pacific. Soon after the dawn brightened into day, the first whale blows were seen. Bow decks filled with whale enthusiasts pointing at humpback whales diving and breaching all around our ship. We encountered a heat chase: about seven males thrashed through the water to gain the prime location next to a female for possible mating. Lisa Hornack, our National Geographic certified photo instructor, gave a presentation on “Photographic Storytelling” to help enhance the images of our day. James Hyde explained the “Dynamics of Oceanography” until he was interrupted by a pod of long-beaked common dolphins bow-riding our ship. Rich Kirchner presented his photographic journey, “Wild from Pole to Pole.” We went back on deck for sunset and the chance to see the fabled Green Flash. Our jam-packed day ended with sunset and photographic proof that the green flash does indeed exist.