Today we experienced the best of Baja California from sunup to sundown. At sunrise we explored the bird island of Isla Rasa. The sights and sounds of the elegant terns and Heerman’s gulls overwhelmed our senses. We enjoyed lunch on deck with a sighting of a lone sperm whale. For sunset, we ventured inland from the small fishing town of Bahia de Los Angeles to walk among the legendary boojum trees, capped off by moonrise through the clear desert sky. Photographers lingered to capture the moment as we made time exposures painting the most fanciful boojum tree of all with torches.
4/5/2023
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National Geographic Venture
Bahia Concepcion
Sunrises in Baja deserve their legendary status. The light paints the hillsides as it peeks over the horizon before erupting in a shower of oranges, yellows, and reds. In the morning light, seabirds swirled about the ship, silhouettes dancing in the breeze. Leaving a sizzling wake to our north, we greeted the day with anticipation and excitement. A delightful breakfast prepared us for a morning spent exploring Bahia Concepcion. This area was exactly what we needed, offering protection from howling winds and swells. We set out in expedition landing craft to spend time with the flora and fauna of the bay and the islets around it. Endemic yellow-footed gulls nested near the tideline with ospreys conspicuously perched on bluffs. Brown pelicans were a delight to watch as they plunged down into the inviting, blue-green waters. Locals in brightly painted cabanas rimmed the shoreline. It’s no surprise this is a destination for many. In the afternoon, we sheltered on National Geographic Venture . The north winds continued howling, so we enjoyed presentations on the cultural history of Mexican foods. Our crew performed delightful music in the afternoon, which set a great mood for the Mexican fiesta dinner that followed. It was a joyful day that also allowed for some well-deserved resting on the ship. With an idyllic sunset matched with a brilliant moon rise to wrap up the day, we were surrounded with reminders of how this corner of the world is teeming with vibrant beauty.