Explore with Viking—Mexico

Get acquainted with San José del Cabo, the more subdued sister city to Cabo San Lucas. The oldest Spanish mission on the Baja Peninsula, San José was an important city during the Spanish colonization and a stopover destination for ships heading farther into the Pacific Ocean. You will tender ashore and meet your guide for a drive along the highway that connects all the resorts between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Set out on a guided walk to explore its charming mission, inviting town square and low adobe homes that evoke an old colonial atmosphere. A Spanish mission here, founded in 1730, replenished galleons making the long journey to the Philippines. Walk through the main plaza, enjoy the town’s artistic flair and browse the many art galleries before returning to your awaiting ship.

Savor the taste of a mouthwatering seafood delicacy during a visit to Puerto Nuevo. Begin your journey with a narrated drive up the coast to bustling Rosarito Beach, where you will have free time to browse its shops for mementos, art and handicrafts. Afterward, head south to Puerto Nuevo, a charming coastal village that is a renowned culinary destination, particularly known for its delectable lobster dishes. You will visit one of the town’s numerous restaurants that specialize in serving fresh and flavorful cuisine, enjoying a lobster dish prepared in the traditional Puerto Nuevo style of deep-fried or grilled, accompanied by beans, rice and handmade flour tortillas. Appetite sated, you will make the return journey down the coast to Ensenada and your awaiting ship.

Discover Ensenada during visits to famous landmarks. Your first stop will be the historic Hotel Riviera del Pacifico. Today, it is a cultural center, but during its heyday during the 1930s, it was a glamorous resort and casino renowned for its Colonial Californiano architecture and famous clientele like actor Douglas Fairbanks and gangster Al Capone. Listen to tales of its past glories while sipping a complimentary margarita, which legend claims was invented at the hotel. Continue to the second oldest winery in Mexico, Bodegas de Santo Tomás, where you will sample four different wines, accompanied by bread and cheeses. Cap your tour with free time to browse the boutiques and shops displaying handicrafts and imported goods at Ensenada’s main shopping district before returning to your awaiting ship.

Experience the power of nature at one of the world’s only marine geysers, La Bufadora. Legend says that La Bufadora’s geyser is the waterspout of a whale who became trapped in the cave, eventually turning to stone. In reality, it is the result of trapped air escaping from a partially submerged sea cave. Embark on a coastal drive by motor coach to the tip of the Punta Banda peninsula. After a short walk, you will reach the rocky shoreline and the second largest in the world—and the only one of its kind in North America. Have your camera ready to photograph this natural phenomenon, which happens at consistent intervals based on the tide. Marvel at the sight of the water spray shooting to heights of 100 feet, accompanied by the sound of thunder. After time to admire the geyser and take photographs, enjoy free time to sightsee and shop before returning to your ship.

Sample a taste of Mayan culture and enjoy a traditional dance show. Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach to the Mayan Cacao Company, where you will be greeted by your host. Delve into the fascinating history of chocolate and hear about its influence on Mayan cuisine. Cacao was considered a “food for the gods” and was consumed for its health benefits. Experience firsthand the traditional method of making chocolate and enjoy a tasting. Continue your tour to El Barriecito, where you will take your seat to enjoy a traditional Mayan dance performance. Be captivated by the music and colorful costumes as you watch this beautiful art form that celebrates their powerful connection to the natural world and a rich cultural heritage. Afterward, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Sample Mexican wine and delicious food pairings recommended by your sommelier. Embark on a short transfer by motor coach to downtown to a local restaurant. You will then be introduced to your sommelier, who will provide brief insight into Cozumel and its surrounding landscapes. Sample four different wines, including Cava, white, rosé and red, from four different vineyards. Despite the first vines being planted in Mexico during the 16th century, the country is still considered to be an emerging wine region. Learn more about its evolution and spectrum of grapes and varietals as you enjoy an informative tasting, accompanied by a charcuterie board and cheese. Afterward, sit down to savor a delicious lunch paired with wine. Your appetite sated, return to your ship.