yosemitejim - 2-20-2005 at 06:44 AM
Crossed into Baja at San Ysidro on Saturday, February 12th with a final destination of Guerrero Negro for three days of whale watching and a day of
desert exploration. No problems at Ensenada immigration (we were the only ones there). The immigration officer said the free tourist visa for less
than 7 days is misinformation. Stayed first night at Cielto Lindo. Rooms, food, and bar same as always. Due to all the rain however, mud and
puddles are everywhere. Drove the next day to Guerrero Negro enjoying the spectacular desert scenery made more so by all the rain. Stayed at
Malarrimo for no other reason than to look many times at the great photo of the two children playing on the sand dunes. Dinners at Malarrimo and El
Morro were excellent and tacos at Leonellas (sp?) were also great. Drove with rain the entire way from San Agustin to Yosemite National Park. Border
wait on Saturday morning was about 45 minutes.
Highway was in good condition but be careful of rocks and water on the road. Crews working in the pouring rain. The road to about 10 miles past El
Arco was OK but look out for side washouts. Driving on the sand alongside is doable but has lots of standing water. The one local I saw drove on the
main road. Two soldiers half-heartedly questioned us as we turned to continue on to Poz Aleman.
Whale watching as usual was indescribable. Many calves (and occasional mothers) were curious and approached the boat. The latest census (February
12th) counted over 1,800 whales in the lagoon. I have enjoyed this experience several times in the past but this was the best.
TMW - 2-20-2005 at 12:28 PM
Thanks for the report.