Catch & Cook Baja Spearfishing Expedition
Curated by Tania Panés, with spearfishing expert Matías Vargas
La Ventana - Baja California Sur, Mexico
A unique spearfishing adventure exploring La Ventana’s best hunting grounds, harvesting our own food from the ocean, and learning new ways to cook, prepare, and share our catch together.
What’s Included
✔ 7 days/6 nights
✔ Airport or Hotel pick-up an Drop-off (La Paz ↔️ La Ventana)
✔ Beach Front Accommodation (double occupancy)
✔ 4 Spearfishing Expeditions (typically 6 hours)
✔ 1 Ocean Wildlife Seafari
✔ Breakfast & Boat Lunch
✔ 2 Ocean-to-Table Catch & Cook Dinners with Matías
✔ 2 Exclusive Dinners Prepared by Our Private Chef
✔ Snacks, water, soft drinks
✔ Static & breath hold workshop with Tania
✔ Desert Sunset Hike
✔ Professional Freediver/Certified Guide on board
✔ Boat & spearfishing expert local captain (25+ years)
Not included
✗ Freediving & Spearfishing equipment
✗ Flights
✗ Spearfishing license for BCS - $60 USD (mandatory)
✗ Travel/Dive Insurance (required)
✗ Dinners on day 1 & day 6
✗ Gratuity (for Captain)
Trip Details
Each expedition is limited to a maximum of 5 guests
When?
July 20th-26th 20276: OPEN (5 SPOTS LEFT)
Price
Early bird $3250 USD
Regular price $3750 USD
About the trip
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Max. 5 participants + 2 trip leaders
For both safety and comfort, we keep our groups small. This ensures everyone has enough space in the water, better access to hunting opportunities, and more personalized guidance from the trip leaders.
Depending on conditions and the group's experience level, the group may occasionally be divided into two smaller teams, each accompanied by one trip leader.
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18 years old
Spearfishing experience
Insurance (mandatory, to get yours, visit dan.org or World Nomads)
Spearfishing Permit for Baja California Sur (link here) - 60 USD
Each participant will be required to sign a liability waiver before the expedition
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All accommodation is included on front beach hotel Villa Paraíso in La Ventana.
Rooms are based on double occupancy, meaning you will share the room with another guest.
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Breakfast will be served every morning at 6:00 am before heading to the ocean.
Lunch boxes will be provided on all expedition days. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary requirements before the trip so we can accommodate them. -
Freediving & Spearfishing equipment
Proof of dive insurance
Hat, buff, polarized sunglasses, warm sweater, dry bag, beach towel, dry clothes for after diving, waterproof jacket, sandals or shoes that can get wet
Personal water bottle (although there will be water and drinks available on the boat)
Any special foods or medications (seasickness tablets, waterproof bandaids for fin sores, electrolytes)
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While we have a very high chance of encountering these species, sightings can never be guaranteed 100%. Ocean conditions and wildlife behavior are constantly changing, and we ultimately work with what the ocean offers us—this, however, is one of the best times of the year for these encounters.
Participants should feel confident in the water, comfortable in the open ocean, and able to enter and exit the boat efficiently (a ladder is available onboard).
Expect full days at sea, dynamic conditions, and the potential for truly unforgettable encounters.
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You can fly directly into La Paz International Airport (LAP) from Tijuana (TIJ), Ciudad de México (MEX) o Guadalajara (GDL). There are also direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX).
Another option is to fly to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which offers many direct flights from the United States and Europe. Please note that if you choose this option we can arrange a taxi to La Ventana at an extra cost (around 100 USD).
Trip Overview & Itinerary
This 7-day / 6-night spearfishing expedition takes you to the productive waters of La Ventana, Baja California Sur, one of the Sea of Cortez's premier destinations for sustainable spearfishing and marine wildlife encounters.
Over the course of the week, we'll explore a variety of hunting grounds, target different species, and immerse ourselves in the complete sea-to-table experience. Beyond time in the water, you'll learn new ways to prepare and cook your catch, participate in a breath-hold workshop focused on safer and more efficient diving, and gain a deeper understanding of the marine ecosystem that makes this region so unique.
The adventure extends beyond spearfishing. We'll embark on a dedicated marine wildlife seafari in search of dolphins, mobula rays, sea lions, turtles, whales, and other seasonal visitors, while also experiencing the beauty of Baja through local cuisine, a sunset desert hike, and evenings shared with like-minded ocean enthusiasts.
Designed for small groups, this expedition combines adventure, learning, conservation, and connection—both to the ocean and to the community gathered around it.
Day 1 — July 20 | Arrival in La Ventana
Upon arrival in La Paz, participants will be welcomed by our team and transferred to La Ventana. The afternoon is yours to settle in, meet the group, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of Baja California Sur.
In the late afternoon, we'll gather for an expedition briefing where we'll review the week's itinerary, safety procedures, local conditions, wildlife, and guidelines for responsible interactions with the marine environment. Afterwards, we'll head out for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant (not included), giving everyone the chance to get to know each other, experience authentic Mexican cuisine, and kick off the adventure together.
Day 2 — July 21 | First Spearfishing Adventure
After breakfast, we'll head out by boat to explore some of La Ventana's most productive spearfishing grounds. Throughout the day, participants will have the opportunity to hunt sustainably, refine their techniques, and experience the unique connection that comes from harvesting their own food from the ocean. A packed lunch will be provided onboard so we can make the most of our time at sea.
Back on shore, the adventure continues with a hands-on catch-and-cook experience. Together, we'll learn different techniques for preparing and cooking our catch while sharing stories from the day around the table. There's no better way to celebrate a successful day on the water than enjoying a meal you've helped bring from ocean to plate.
Day 3 — July 22 | Spearfishing, Apnea Workshop & Chef's Dinner
We'll spend the day exploring Baja's productive reefs and rocky structures, searching for new opportunities and continuing to build our experience in the water. Every day in La Ventana brings different conditions and opportunities, allowing participants to continue refining their skills while exploring the incredible marine environment of the Sea of Cortez. A packed lunch will be provided onboard as we spend the day immersed in the ocean.
Before dinner, we'll gather for a breath-hold apnea workshop focused on helping participants become more comfortable and efficient in the water. We'll explore the fundamentals of breath-hold diving, including the roles of CO₂ and hypoxia, the risks of hyperventilation, and practical techniques to improve breath-hold performance while maintaining safe diving practices. These are essential concepts for any spearfisher looking to dive more confidently and safely.
In the evening, we'll gather for a special dinner prepared by our private chef, showcasing fresh local ingredients and Baja-inspired flavors. It's the perfect opportunity to relax, share stories from the day's adventures, and enjoy a memorable meal together.
Day 4 — July 23 | Spearfishing & Sea-to-Table Experience
After breakfast, we'll head back out onto the Sea of Cortez for another day of spearfishing adventure. By now, participants will be feeling more comfortable in the water and have a better understanding of the local conditions, allowing for a more relaxed and rewarding experience. A packed lunch will be provided onboard as we continue exploring the diverse reefs and hunting grounds around La Ventana.
In the evening, we'll come together for another sea-to-table experience, preparing and cooking our catch as a group. This is a chance to exchange techniques, learn new recipes, and enjoy the unique satisfaction of sharing a meal sourced directly from the waters we've spent the day exploring.
Day 5 — July 24 | Final Spearfishing Expedition & Sunset Desert Hike
After breakfast, we'll set out for our final day of spearfishing in the waters of La Ventana. This is an opportunity to put into practice everything learned throughout the week, explore new areas, and enjoy one last day immersed in the incredible marine environment of the Sea of Cortez. A packed lunch will be provided onboard as we make the most of our time on the water.
Back on land, we'll head out for a sunset hike through the Baja desert, taking in the unique landscapes, cacti, and panoramic views that make this region so special. Afterwards, we'll gather for a memorable dinner prepared by our private chef, celebrating the week's adventures, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences both above and below the surface.
Day 6 — July 25 | Marine Wildlife Seafari & Farewell Dinner
Today, we leave the spearguns behind and dedicate the day to exploring the incredible marine life that makes the Sea of Cortez one of the most biodiverse bodies of water on Earth.
Aboard our boat, we'll search for the many species that inhabit the waters around La Ventana, with opportunities to observe dolphins, mobula rays, oceanic manta, sea lions, turtles, and if we are lucky, we might encounter whales, pilot whales or even orcas. A packed lunch will be provided onboard as we enjoy a final day immersed in nature.
After returning to shore, you'll have time to relax, enjoy the sunset, and reflect on the week's adventures. In the evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant (not included), celebrating new friendships, shared experiences, and an unforgettable week in Baja.
Day 7 — July 26 | Departure
After a final breakfast together, it's time to say goodbye to La Ventana. Participants will be transferred back to La Paz International Airport for their onward journeys, taking home unforgettable memories, new skills, and a deeper connection to both the ocean and the sea-to-table experience.
We hope this week has inspired a greater appreciation for the marine world and the unique adventure that spearfishing offers. Until next time, safe travels and good diving.
What animals can be seen during this time of the year in La Ventana?
During the expedition, we’ll also embark on a marine wildlife safari to explore the incredible diversity of life that calls La Ventana Bay home. Situated within one of the Sea of Cortez’s richest marine corridors, La Ventana offers the chance for unforgettable encounters both above and below the surface.
During this season, we most often share the water with:
Schools of mobula rays (Munkiana, Bentfin, Spinetail, Sicklefin — and sometimes even Oceanic mantas)
Dolphins (Risso, Common, Spinner, Bottle nose…)
California sea lions
Sea turtles
Huge variety of reef fish
And because the Sea of Cortez is so abundant and full of surprises, there’s always the possibility of encountering:
Whales (Humpback, Blue, Fin, Sperm, Bryde’s)
Orcas
Pilot whales
Whale sharks
Mola Mola
Marlins
Hammerheads
Silky Sharks
No two days are the same — that’s part of the magic of this place.
While there’s a very high chance of seeing these creatures, encounters aren’t 100% guaranteed, as nature is always unpredictable. Sometimes, even small changes in water temperature can attract unexpected species.
The Hotel
Welcome to Villa Paraíso — Your oceanfront sanctuary in La Ventana.
For our expeditions, we’ll be staying at Villa Paraíso, a beautiful 3-star beachfront villa that feels like a quiet slice of luxury in the heart of Baja. Just steps from the turquoise waters of Playa La Ventana, this property blends comfort, nature, and simplicity in the best possible way.
Wake up with the sound of the waves, enjoy your morning coffee with sweeping ocean views, and unwind in the garden or on the villa’s private beach area — reserved exclusively for guests. The property features a spacious outdoor swimming pool, a sun-drenched terrace, and cozy common areas where our group can relax, connect, and recharge after long days at sea.
With its beachfront setting — where our boat will pick us up directly from the shore — Villa Paraíso is the ideal home base for our adventure in the Sea of Cortez.
Meet your hosts
Matías Vargas – @matiasvargas12
Matias is originally from Peru. He lived in Australia for six years and currently calls Ecuador home. He is a marine biologist, has been freediving since childhood, and began spearfishing seriously in 2021. Since then, he has traveled extensively around the world pursuing his passion for the ocean, guiding spearfishing trips in Australia, Indonesia, and Ecuador.
Over the years, Matias has gained experience hunting and studying a wide variety of pelagic and reef species across diverse marine ecosystems, from tropical coral reefs to open-ocean bluewater environments. His time in the water has given him a deep understanding of fish behavior, marine ecology, and sustainable harvesting practices, which he brings into every expedition and interaction with fellow ocean enthusiasts.
For Matias, spearfishing is about much more than landing fish—it’s about sustainable harvesting, respecting the marine environment, and sharing every meal with friends, family, and local communities. The ocean has shaped who he is, and he remains grateful for every adventure it continues to bring.
Tania Panés – @tania.apnea
Tania Panés is a freediving instructor, Scuba Divemaster, and competitive athlete representing Spain, holding five national freediving records. With extensive experience in the water, her professional path has developed into leading freediving expeditions in some of the world’s most recognized marine destinations.
In recent years, she has worked as an expedition leader, creating and operating trips in destinations including Mexico, Dominica, Egypt, and the Maldives. Her approach combines technical expertise, structured planning, and a clear commitment to ocean awareness, ensuring that each expedition is conducted with professionalism and respect for the marine ecosystem.
In addition to her expedition work, she coaches a select group of students and delivers workshops internationally, continuing to share her expertise in freediving through training and mentorship. Spearfishing has become on of her passions since she moved to Baja.