Fees · Destination Guide
La Paz Baja California Sur Mexico
Sea lions, whale sharks, and desert-meets-ocean adventures in the Sea of Cortez
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 16 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- Espiritu Santo National Park entrance (CONANP) - MXN $225 per person per day
- Balandra Protected Area entrance - MXN $125 per person per day
- Typical payment pattern: There is no single destinationwide tourism levy for La Paz like some island destinations, but you should budget for protectedarea fees (Espiritu Santo National Park and Balandra) plus regulated wildlife access (whale shark tours).
What people usually pay
There is no single destination-wide tourism levy for La Paz like some island destinations, but you should budget for protected-area fees (Espiritu Santo National Park and Balandra) plus regulated wildlife access (whale shark tours). Many operators bundle some fees, but verify what is included.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Espiritu Santo National Park entrance (CONANP) | MXN $225 per person per day per day | Visitors entering Espiritu Santo National Park (including Los Islotes) | Usually collected by licensed tour/dive operators; check CONANP guidance for official payment options | Fees can change. Keep proof of payment if asked by rangers. |
| Balandra Protected Area entrance | MXN $125 per person per day per time slot/day | Visitors entering Balandra Protected Area | On-site per protected-area entry procedures | Balandra uses time slots and capacity limits. Arrive early for the first slot and bring cash as a backup. |
| Whale shark refuge access (permit-based tours) | Included in tour price (limited daily access) per tour day | Whale shark snorkeling tours in La Paz Bay | Book with an authorized operator | The activity is regulated and can pause based on monitoring, conditions, and seasonal rules. |