BajaNomad

Baja virgin

vernezze - 1-4-2011 at 08:32 PM

So I am thinking of driving down to Cabo around January 19th. I have about three weeks until I have to be back in Tucson. It's my first time and I have so many questions I don't know where to begin. I have done some reading on this and other forums and am still unclear whether a basic four door sedan can make the drive. Also, I would be interested in suggestions on how to spend the time--where to stop along the way and for how long. Finally, if anyone is interested in driving down I am looking for a travel partner willing to share expenses. Knowledge of Spanish and familiarity with the road a plus. Thanks

woody with a view - 1-4-2011 at 09:10 PM

your basic car can make it if you stay on the pavement. you'll figure it out. don't be afraid to have some fun. meet other travelers. spanglish is not really needed. let us know how it all works out after you return.

return a virgin would be the best advise i can give you....:o

Bajatripper - 1-5-2011 at 01:49 AM

Cabo's OK for a day trip, but La Paz is better for a stay--and cheaper.

Pescador - 1-5-2011 at 07:05 AM

These questions are so hard to answer because you do not share any of your interests. To some of us the fishing is the most important part and we can tell you which beaches, stops, and rocks are the best places along the peninsula. Some like tourist shops and markets, some like places of historical interest, and some like the quaint little get aways that are difficult to describe, so without knowing some of the things that "trip your trigger", it is very difficult to make recommendations.
It would be like asking you about the southwest United States, which would be about the same amount of land, and would include Indian Reservations, desert, big cities, small get aways, mountains, mining towns, etc., and is a very diverse area.
Baja is exactly the same situation, and there is a huge difference between Baja California which is the northern half of the state and Baja California Sur which is the southern half.

vernezze - 1-5-2011 at 07:27 AM

Good point. No particular interest like fishing. As a first time visitor to the area, I just want to experience the region, get an overall sense of it. Because of my vehicle I am obviously limited to the main roads. Wouldn't mind hanging out at a few places along the way. Relatively uncrowded places by the beach with cheap beer are my idea of a good place to stay. Right now I am split between taking a long time to get to the destination or just taking a few days on the drive and spending most of my time in Cabo or La Paz. Any thoughts?

Marc - 1-5-2011 at 07:32 AM

I would suggest using coin of the realm. Change to pesos before or near the border. You can use USD in most places but you will often be short changed in pesos and the rate get worse the farther south you go. Make sure the gas pump is at zero before the attendant starts pumping. Except for some construction the roads are in very good condition these days. Just stay on the pavement.

shari - 1-5-2011 at 08:11 AM

vernezze...we extend a hearty Baja Nomad welcome to you...we LOVE baja virgins!!! No sweat in a sedan...there are countless wonderful places you can stop for a bit. Now that our road is paved, you can come and experience a true baja small beach village hospitality...we are an hour off Mex ! and a sweet place to visit and hang out for a bit. Central baja is a cool place to explore...see whales, miles of pristing beaches, cheap beer & food and genuine folks who just might "trip your trigger"...a good place to rest up before you continue south.

KurtG - 1-5-2011 at 09:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by vernezze
So I am thinking of driving down to Cabo around January 19th. I have about three weeks until I have to be back in Tucson. It's my first time and I have so many questions I don't know where to begin. I have done some reading on this and other forums and am still unclear whether a basic four door sedan can make the drive. Also, I would be interested in suggestions on how to spend the time--where to stop along the way and for how long. Finally, if anyone is interested in driving down I am looking for a travel partner willing to share expenses. Knowledge of Spanish and familiarity with the road a plus. Thanks


Get the Auto Club guidebook and map, equip yourself with an open mind and head south!

David K - 1-5-2011 at 09:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by shari
vernezze...we extend a hearty Baja Nomad welcome to you...we LOVE baja virgins!!! No sweat in a sedan...there are countless wonderful places you can stop for a bit. Now that our road is paved, you can come and experience a true baja small beach village hospitality...we are an hour off Mex ! and a sweet place to visit and hang out for a bit. Central baja is a cool place to explore...see whales, miles of pristing beaches, cheap beer & food and genuine folks who just might "trip your trigger"...a good place to rest up before you continue south.


And... all pavement too. It recently has been finished all the way into Bahia Asuncion. While primarily a fisherman's destination, the town and Shari's hospitality are infectious. I do recommend you stay at her Bed & Breakfast and experience this Baja village, before the pavement changes it. The road to Bahia Asuncion leaves Mex. 1 at Vizcaino.. about 500 miles from the border.

Other places that are on pavement and should be considered for a look on your first trip:

Bahia de los Angeles... 41 miles off Hwy. 1 on paved side road. 'The Bay of Angels' is a special place with many places to stay and eat and a great little museum, too. Turnoff is about 360 miles from the border.

San Ignacio... 2 miles off Hwy. 1 on a paved side road... Not to be missed at any cost as you head south... See the oasis river in the center of Baja's vast desert and the Spanish mission, founded in 1728 in the town plaza. Ignacio Springs is a unique B&B on the water.

Mulege... turn off the highway at the entrance gate to town... and take a drive all the way through town and along the river, that gave the town the nic namd of 'Baja's Hawaii'... at the end of the road is a great restaurant/ bar 'El Patron' on the Sea of Cortez.

Some trip photos to give you ideas of what's there to see:

http://vivabaja.com/1106 (La Lobera, Cataviņa Painted Cave, Bahia de los Angeles)

http://vivabaja.com/707 (El Rosario, Remote Pacific, Bahia Asuncion, San Ignacio, Santa Rosalia, Mulege, Bahia Concepcion)

http://vivabaja.com/709 (San Ignacio/ Ignacio Springs, Mulege, Bahia Concepcion, Loreto, San Javier)




[Edited on 1-5-2011 by David K]

mtgoat666 - 1-5-2011 at 09:53 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by vernezze
Right now I am split between taking a long time to get to the destination or just taking a few days on the drive and spending most of my time in Cabo or La Paz. Any thoughts?


as a newbie, you should read up on areas, plot on a map the sites that sound interesting to you, and take off and explore. you should do the drive down to Cabo real quickly (in ~3 days) -- that will give you a general idea of the regions -- after that, you can drive back north slowly, stopping to explore the places you found interesting interesting on drive down. 4 door sedan can go on most about any well-traveled unpaved road, just drive slow over the bumps.

Ken Cooke - 1-5-2011 at 10:32 AM

Make sure you have a good camera with a large memory card for all of the great photos you will be able to take. Also, a sleeping bag for the times you can stay at a campo instead of a motel to save $$. Keep off of the sand, though.

toneart - 1-5-2011 at 10:40 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mtgoat666
Quote:
Originally posted by vernezze
Right now I am split between taking a long time to get to the destination or just taking a few days on the drive and spending most of my time in Cabo or La Paz. Any thoughts?


as a newbie, you should read up on areas, plot on a map the sites that sound interesting to you, and take off and explore. you should do the drive down to Cabo real quickly (in ~3 days) -- that will give you a general idea of the regions -- after that, you can drive back north slowly, stopping to explore the places you found interesting interesting on drive down. 4 door sedan can go on most about any well-traveled unpaved road, just drive slow over the bumps.


Welcome!

I would disagree, slightly, in that you should take your time to Cabo. Yes, go directly if destination is a goal, but remember that it is winter and the days are shorter. Do not drive at night!. Rather than setting a goal of "3 days", get there safely in however many days it takes.

Having said that, spending time in Cabo runs counter to one's desire to see the country and experience its people. Cabo is touristy and expensive. If you want to use Cabo as a quick turn around, just to say you did it, fine. Do the loop and spend more time in Las Barrilles, La Paz, Loreto, Mulege and the Bahia de Concepcion.

If your car is well maintained, you will have no problems.

Some like to make rigid plans. I like to stay flexible; poke around, linger where I feel good, split when I am bored. You will meet people along the way that will have interesting information and tips on where to go and what to see. Be a NOMAD! :tumble::cool:

wilderone - 1-5-2011 at 11:53 AM

Take your time going down, but reserve at least 5 days for the return trip. You'll be more comfortable with your adventure after a couple weeks, and spending time on the return trip to enjoy your days will not make those days a drudge. I can't imagine doing the entire peninsula in one trip - I would suggest not going further than La Paz, in order to actually experience more time off the road. Driving can be white-knuckle due to the numerous big rigs.

Where are you crossing the border? Crossing in Tecate will take you down the Ruta de Vino. Stop at a couple wineries, eat fish tacos at Ensenada, stay at Cielito Lindo in San Quentin. Stop and see the whales at Scammons Lagoon; some side trips to see missions can definitely be done in a passenger car; do a little hiking at these places - get out of the car and see the unique landscape, birds, springs - that's what makes Baja so special. An overnight at Mision San Borja is quintessential Baja. They may have a room for you, or use your tent. They can take you to see pictographs, a little hiking, the mision itself is awesome. Still some mission-era grape vines, a warm springs pool, birding. Whizzing down Mex. 1, you will miss everything. Bring a shovel for minor road building. I owned a Hyundai Excel for 12 years and did a lot of off-road, but knocked a lot of rocks off roads to do it. The Sea of Cortez will be cold. Are you bringing camping stuff? Maybe a tent and sleeping bag for those times when you don't feel like getting to the next town - nothing like waking up to the sound of quail. Will be cold in January - bring warm clothes.

vernezze - 1-5-2011 at 02:23 PM

WOW. Thanks all for the great advice and keep it coming. It's extremely helpful in planning things out. I'm a little concerned about driving down by myself and am thinking of seeing if I can get a travel companion for at least part of the ride. Think I might put together a tentative itinerary based on all the great suggestions, post it on the ride share section and see if anyone is interested. Thanks again.

willyAirstream - 1-5-2011 at 02:55 PM

If you can't find a travel companion, don't sweat it. I drove down by myself in Sept and was paranoid the first day ( ever other car carried drug dealing, pistol toting, crazed cartel members) Second day, I realized it was just not so, it was every 4th car. :) Each time I pulled over, someone would stop to see if I needed anything. Be alert, as you would in any unfamiliar place and use common sense. 99% of the people I meet were not only friendly, but extremely helpful.
My only caution - The highway is very narrow and has NO shoulders, pull outs are rare. Know where the side of the road is at all times. Busses will pass you in seemingly blind hills and curves. If the guy in front puts his left blinkers on, it " Usually" means it is ok for you to pass. Guy flashing his lights at you "usually" means - cows, burros, dogs, horses or accident in road ahead or you are over the center line! Or it's his birthday and he is celebrating. Make sure your spare tire is in perfect shape. Keep your cooler and camera with in easy reach and enjoy!! You will have a great time!

Baja virgin

masymas - 1-5-2011 at 05:08 PM

Check your u2u. We are driving down mid January.

Marc - 1-5-2011 at 08:09 PM

Mulege!

YELLOWTAIL copy - Copy - Copy.jpg - 38kB

woody with a view - 1-5-2011 at 08:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by willyAirstream
If you can't find a travel companion, don't sweat it. I drove down by myself in Sept and was paranoid the first day ( ever other car carried drug dealing, pistol toting, crazed cartel members) Second day, I realized it was just not so, it was every 4th car. :) Each time I pulled over, someone would stop to see if I needed anything. Be alert, as you would in any unfamiliar place and use common sense. 99% of the people I meet were not only friendly, but extremely helpful.
My only caution - The highway is very narrow and has NO shoulders, pull outs are rare. Know where the side of the road is at all times. Busses will pass you in seemingly blind hills and curves. If the guy in front puts his left blinkers on, it " Usually" means it is ok for you to pass. Guy flashing his lights at you "usually" means - cows, burros, dogs, horses or accident in road ahead or you are over the center line! Or it's his birthday and he is celebrating. Make sure your spare tire is in perfect shape. Keep your cooler and camera with in easy reach and enjoy!! You will have a great time!


somewhere in there lies the truth!

edit: just go....

[Edited on 1-6-2011 by woody with a view]

shari - 1-6-2011 at 08:32 AM

maybe sirenita might ride shotgun with ya from Ensenada to Vizcaino (U2U her)...she's fun to have as a co pilot and that way I'd get to see baby again too!!!!

wilderone - 1-6-2011 at 09:05 AM

The first 200 miles or so will be the most nerve-wracking, as you drive slowly through Ensenada sprawl and small towns - watch for stop signs, topos are a nuisance, and with the jay-walkers, stray dogs, parallel traffic - be extra alert. There are a couple construction zones with dirt road detours - will slow you down as well. And at least two military checks. But after getting out of town at San Quintin, things dramatically improve. Which is why I suggested staying at Cielito Lindo hotel (turn right at the Los Pinos plant). You can make several stops to see stuff en route to that point instead of just trying to get through it; then call it a day - watch the sun go down on the beach, nice restaurant/bar, maybe some gringos to talk to, sometimes musica. The next day will be so different - MUCH more relaxing.

Pescador - 1-7-2011 at 08:40 AM

I think you are picking up the flavor of Baja and now you have a much better idea about what is going on. The Pacific side is cooler with a little more wind, but this time of the year the Sea of Cortez side can be a little windy also. While Cabo is certainly fun for people watching, for the most part it has almost nothing to do with the baja experience and is not unlike any other overcrowded and overpriced tourist destination. La Paz, on the other hand, is a vibrant and alive Mexican city that feels infinitely more authentic. I would think you would love Mulege with it's quaint little places to hang out at and get a feel for the location. The new place called the Shack which is under the bridge, seems to be loaded with tourist types sipping (or maybe guzzling) beer while watching the river flow downstream (or upstream depending on tide), and Anna's place on Santispac Beach south of town seems custom made for you.
There is probably about 1,500 years of experience on this board and I think you are getting it all dialed in for a wonderful Baja Experience.

DianaT - 1-7-2011 at 09:13 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by toneart

Some like to make rigid plans. I like to stay flexible; poke around, linger where I feel good, split when I am bored. You will meet people along the way that will have interesting information and tips on where to go and what to see. Be a NOMAD! :tumble::cool:


It is the way we like to travel---we seldom know where we will be on any given day------exact mileage, we have no idea, exact times, no idea, GPS, got rid of it-----for us, it is the only way to go.

It is often more fun to make your own discoveries.

Then again, in Baja we do concern ourselves with the daylight available as we don't like driving at night.

And when you get as far as El Rosario, don't forget to buy gas there even if you don't think you need it----

Have a GREAT TRIP

BajaBlanca - 1-10-2011 at 06:57 PM

@ David: you do realize that La Bocana isn't even on that map ??????

@ vernezze - take Sirenita down with you !! Not only does she speak fluent English and Spanish BUT she will fill you in on everything Baja you ever thought you wanted to know. she is young and vivacious. Her mom Shari has been here 20 years plus - you could not get a better travel companion.

Don't forget the gas in El Rosario. A MUST for sure as the next station is over 200 miles away.

woody with a view - 1-10-2011 at 08:40 PM

Quote:

Don't forget the gas in El Rosario. A MUST for sure as the next station is over 200 miles away.


no EXACTLY correct! definately the cheapest for 200 miles. there are some guys you can buy from on the side of the hiway out of barrels. don't hesitate to use their services if you need (or even if you think you might) fuel. their fuel is legit. not watered down like the story goes...

Skipjack Joe - 1-10-2011 at 09:50 PM

Since this is your first driving trip -

Always keep an eye out for these road signs. Called 'TOPES' these are speed bumps on an open highway. When run over at high speeds (>25mph) they can do severe damage to your vehicle. Even if you see one to late it is worth slowing down as much as possible because the greater the speed the greater the damage. They are always next to schools. Virtually every school on the highway has a set of them in front.

Once you get dialed in you will be automatically scanning for signs as you approach every town. Don't worry about the open road as they never occur there and potholes are now a rarity.

A topes is baja's version of a stop sign, although they require no police enforcement (you won't make the same mistake twice).

DSC00001.jpg - 6kB

Don't forget .......

bajaguy - 1-10-2011 at 09:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
Since this is your first driving trip -

Always keep an eye out for these road signs. Called 'TOPES' these are speed bumps on an open highway. When run over at high speeds (>25mph) they can do severe damage to your vehicle. Even if you see one to late it is worth slowing down as much as possible because the greater the speed the greater the damage. They are always next to schools. Virtually every school on the highway has a set of them in front.

Once you get dialed in you will be automatically scanning for signs as you approach every town. Don't worry about the open road as they never occur there and potholes are now a rarity.

A topes is baja's version of a stop sign, although they require no police enforcement (you won't make the same mistake twice).






About the Vados........

David K - 1-10-2011 at 11:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by BajaBlanca
@ David: you do realize that La Bocana isn't even on that map ??????

@ vernezze - take Sirenita down with you !! Not only does she speak fluent English and Spanish BUT she will fill you in on everything Baja you ever thought you wanted to know. she is young and vivacious. Her mom Shari has been here 20 years plus - you could not get a better travel companion.

Don't forget the gas in El Rosario. A MUST for sure as the next station is over 200 miles away.


Maybe because I didn't make that map! :light: La Bocana (the one where Baja Blanca is) is a 15 min. drive north along the coast from Punta Abreojos (which is on the map).

David K - 1-10-2011 at 11:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by woody with a view
Quote:

Don't forget the gas in El Rosario. A MUST for sure as the next station is over 200 miles away.


no EXACTLY correct! definately the cheapest for 200 miles. there are some guys you can buy from on the side of the hiway out of barrels. don't hesitate to use their services if you need (or even if you think you might) fuel. their fuel is legit. not watered down like the story goes...


True... and when you buy 5 gallons of gas you get a true 5 gallons (19 liters) of gas. Some Pemex stations (not El Rosario) have altered pumps and some can give you 23 liters in a 19 gal. can!

The independent gas sales locations are at Cataviņa and Parador Punta Prieta (the Bahia de Los Angeles junction).. which is the longest stretch of Hwy. 1 without Pemex stations on the peninsula... pay about $1/ gal more for this helpful service.