La Paz Bay: Kayak tour in mangroves with guide & snacks

Summary

Paddle quiet waters, spot dolphins, and drift into La Paz’s wild side

You’ll paddle across Bahía de La Paz with a local guide, weaving through calm waters toward El Mogote’s mangroves. Spot native birds (and maybe dolphins), pause for snacks in your kayak, and soak up stories from someone who knows these waters by heart — moments you’ll remember long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to glide across Bahía de La Paz before the city wakes up? I didn’t really know what to expect when I signed up for this kayak tour — maybe just some gentle paddling and a few birds if we were lucky. But right from the start, our guide (I think his name was Jorge?) made us laugh about how wobbly we looked getting into the kayaks. The plastic felt cool under my hands, and the air had that salty-morning smell you only get near the sea.

We set off from the Malecón beach, and honestly, it was quieter than I thought it would be. Just the sound of paddles dipping in and out of the water — sometimes in sync, sometimes not (I’m blaming my friend for that). The bay opened up around us, all soft blues and silvers. Jorge pointed out a group of pelicans perched on a buoy; he called them “the old men of La Paz.” At one point, something splashed nearby — turned out to be a school of tiny fish jumping at once. I tried to catch it on camera but mostly just got blurry water shots.

The real surprise was reaching the mangroves at El Mogote. The air changed — warmer somehow, with this earthy-green smell that reminded me of wet leaves after rain. We drifted quietly so we wouldn’t scare anything off. There were these bright little birds darting between branches (Jorge said they’re only found here), and for a second everything went still except for their calls echoing through the roots. Didn’t see dolphins this time, but someone else said they’d spotted some last week. Guess it’s luck.

After about 6 km — didn’t feel like it until my arms started complaining — we stopped for snacks and cold drinks right there on our kayaks. Sun on my face, salt on my lips, just floating for a bit while Jorge told us stories about growing up here. I still think about that feeling of being surrounded by nothing but water and green tangle — kind of peaceful in a way I didn’t expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak Safari in La Paz Bay

• Gather at meeting point
• Guide gives directions and recommendations
• Begin kayak tour at Malecón beach
• Kayak approximately 6 km towards mangroves
• Photo session and marine fauna observation
• Appreciate bay, mangroves, and biodiversity

Top questions

How long is the kayak tour in Bahía de La Paz?

The kayak tour lasts approximately 2 hours and covers around 6 km.

Is equipment provided for the kayak safari?

Yes, all equipment including sea kayak, vest, and paddle is included.

Are refreshments or snacks included during the tour?

Yes, refreshments and snacks are provided as part of the experience.

Do I need kayaking experience to join?

No prior experience is needed but moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Will we see dolphins or birds during the tour?

You may spot endemic birds or dolphins depending on luck and weather conditions.

Where does the tour start in La Paz?

The tour begins at Malecón beach in Bahía de La Paz.

Are photos included in the kayak safari?

Yes, photos are included depending on weather conditions during your trip.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking equipment (sea kayak, vest, paddle), guidance from a local expert throughout Bahía de La Paz and El Mogote mangroves, plus refreshments, snacks, hydration breaks, and photos to remember your adventure by.