Los Islotes, Baja California Sur, Mexico
This windy morning began with a special snorkeling session at Los Islotes, a small rocky islet located just few miles north of Espiritu Santo-Partida island complex. At this spot we had the unique opportunity of snorkeling with the California sea lions, and to admire their incredible capabilities in and out the water. The youngest animals, probably not older than a year of age, were curious about us, coming straight toward our masks and suddenly changing direction, leaving us with the impression that a big undersea train just passed our way. The females, less curious, were heating up on the big boulders, but eventually turned their faces towards our group whilst barking a protest against the intruders. The big males simulated fights in preparation for the coming breeding season.
After staying there all morning we took off and anchored in the southernmost part of the island, at a place known as Punta Dispensa, where we had excellent hikes and more snorkeling and swimming. Some of us were fortunate enough to see the endemic Antelope Squirrel and the Black Rabbit, and some more were more than happy with a variety of birds, including mockingbirds, sparrows, thrashers and a hummingbird.
The night finished with the promise that the following stage in our journey – through northwestern Mexico, the Copper Canyon – will be as fabulous as the sea portion.
This windy morning began with a special snorkeling session at Los Islotes, a small rocky islet located just few miles north of Espiritu Santo-Partida island complex. At this spot we had the unique opportunity of snorkeling with the California sea lions, and to admire their incredible capabilities in and out the water. The youngest animals, probably not older than a year of age, were curious about us, coming straight toward our masks and suddenly changing direction, leaving us with the impression that a big undersea train just passed our way. The females, less curious, were heating up on the big boulders, but eventually turned their faces towards our group whilst barking a protest against the intruders. The big males simulated fights in preparation for the coming breeding season.
After staying there all morning we took off and anchored in the southernmost part of the island, at a place known as Punta Dispensa, where we had excellent hikes and more snorkeling and swimming. Some of us were fortunate enough to see the endemic Antelope Squirrel and the Black Rabbit, and some more were more than happy with a variety of birds, including mockingbirds, sparrows, thrashers and a hummingbird.
The night finished with the promise that the following stage in our journey – through northwestern Mexico, the Copper Canyon – will be as fabulous as the sea portion.
