The island of Espiritu Santo, located approximately 20 miles off the coast of La Paz, is a haven for divers, kayakers and travelers seeking an ecological adventure. Uninhabited by humans, Espiritu Santo is a nature reserve and is home to over 235 species of plants, 271 of fish, 32 of reptiles, 98 of birds and 21 of marine mammals. Declared a Natural Protected Area by the federal government, the island is a valuable conservation area and draws many visitors annually to enjoy and interact with the environment.

One of the best ways to truly experience Espiritu Santo and capture the essence of Baja Sur is to camp on or around the island. Many tour operators and local vendors offer camping trip itineraries complete with meals and equipment, aimed to make each travelers journey as comfortable and memorable as possible. The following outfitters offer multiple-day camping trips to Espiritu Santo throughout the year:

Baja Camp

A small-tented camp based on the island of Espiritu Santo, Baja Camp offers visitors a unique vacation experience. From now through September 7, 2009, Baja Camp offers 5 spacious tents that can accommodate up to 10 guests at a time (based on double occupancy) complete with beds, sheets, towels, bathrooms and showers. A large living room tent is also available for use with comfortable chairs, tables for dining and stocked bar. A chef trained in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine provides a flavorful menu prepared fresh daily. During the day, guests can enjoy the many ecological wonders provided by Espiritu Santo, from snorkeling among an array of colorful fish to spotting various fauna and tropical plant life on an exciting hike around the island. Rates begin at $480 per tent, per night plus tax and include the transfer from Tecolote Beach to the camp as well as 3 meals per day. Additional fees may apply based on additional activities such as scuba diving and sport fishing. For more information, please visit www.bajacamp.com

Fun Baja

This La Paz based tour operator offers many opportunities to explore the beauty of Baja California Sur. Grupo Fun Baja features a first-class camping adventure by way of their Safari packages which include all camping gear, meals and drinks and comfortable bathrooms including a fresh water shower and toilet. A professional chef accompanies the group and prepares a different menu each day. Safaris range from 2-days/1-night (Mini Safari) to 4-days/3-nights (Grand Safari). Kayaks and snorkeling gear are provided for kayaking around the bay and swimming with sea lions. In addition to the popular camping safaris, Fun Baja offers day trips where guests can enjoy a fun-filled day of snorkeling, swimming with sea lions and enjoy being surrounded by paradise. To make a reservation, please call 1-800-667-5362 and for more information, please visit www.funbaja.com

Sea & Adventures, Inc

, Specializing in sea kayaking and whale watching expeditions from La Paz and Loreto, the company offers a quick getaway entitled "Kayaking Espiritu Santo Island." The journey begins and ends in La Paz and includes accommodations on the island of Espiritu Santo, transportation from La Paz to camp and back, all meals and beverages at camp, and trip equipment. Enjoying a flexible itinerary, travelers will have the chance to explore hidden coves by kayak, swim with sea lions in the Sea of Cortes, relax on white sand beaches, hike on trails throughout the island or enjoy a cold margarita during "happy hour" every night at sunset. Guests can choose from a 3-day trip at $450, a 4-day trip for $575 or a 5-day trip for $700. For available travel dates and more information, please visit www.kayakbaja.com

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