Uncharted UTV Expedition 5 days 4 nights
RIDE OVERVIEW
Baja North Loop, 5 days, 4 nights. Designed for the more experienced drivers, this expedition features long days that could extend into the nights, demanding both skill and endurance. Having minor mechanical skills will prove useful during this thrilling journey through rugged terrain.
Locations: Tecate to San Felipe, Cativina, San Quintin, Ensenada HPR
Dates: November 8th - 12th 2024 On trail
Cost: $3450.00 per customer-owned UTV. This covers two people per UTV: hotels, food, guides, mechanics, and support trucks. (See Trip Included/ Excludes for details)
Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights.
Terrain: 70% gravel roads, 15% Sandy Washes, 5% beach riding, 10% Hyw fast-paced driving style
Difficulty Level
Advanced. During this expedition, we will be pushing some big mile days 200 + The terrain will challenge you at times but definitely make you a better driver.Advanced: During this expedition, we will be covering long distances of 200+ miles per day. The challenging terrain will undoubtedly enhance your driving skills.
Trip Itinerary
Off the Grid Expeditions is thrilled to present a groundbreaking adventure: "Baja Uncharted." This new series of adrenaline-fueled escapades will catapult you beyond the ordinary. Tailored for the daring thrill-seekers, each day encompasses roughly 200 miles of relentless driving with minimal trail stops—a departure from our standard expeditions. Participants must possess experience and mechanical know-how to handle UTV repairs on the go. However, rest assured, our lead UTV, sweep UTV, and support team are equipped with mechanics and medics to assist if needed.
Our mission? To explore the awe-inspiring Baja Peninsula with big days and big miles—definitely not for rookies! Arrival times at destinations each night vary based on daily progress. Fuel and lunch provisions are mandatory onboard. UTV prep and mechanical repairs must be completed daily, regardless of arrival time.
Join us at 7am in Tecate at our secure parking lot (address provided after registration and payment).
Day 1 - Tecate to San Felipe: Embark on an exhilarating journey from pine forests to San Felipe, navigating well-maintained trails and tackling the iconic El Diablo dry lake. Conclude the day's adventures at El Cortez Hotel.
Day 2—San Felipe to Gonzaga Bay/Cativina: Venture into the "never-never," relying solely on Chase support as we explore sand highways and conquer challenging trails, including the notorious "Tractor Trail." The East side of Baja North is a very different experience from the normal: amazing sand-washed trails and stunning views of the Sea of Cortez. The trails are challenging at times but will never be beyond your ability. Retire for the night at Hotel Mision Cativina.
Day 3 - Cativina to San Quintin: Continue the cross-peninsula journey to San Quintin, marveling at the Baja Rock Garden's beauty. End the day at Old Mill Hotel.
Day 4 - San Quintin to Ensenada: Navigate fast-paced trails along the Pacific coastline, relishing beach rides and scenic vistas. Retreat to the historic Horse Power Ranch for a true Baja experience.
Day 5 - Ensenada to Tecate: Conclude our adventure with a final exhilarating ride to Tecate, promising an unforgettable finale.
Contact us directly for inquiries at info@offthegridexpeditions.com. Embark on the ultimate Baja experience with Off the Grid Expeditions.
Trip includes/Excludes
- Guided trails from the border every step of the way.
- The entire course has been pre-run and mapped so that you will be able to view the trail on your Lowrance GPS unit. See GPS Usage page (click here).
- Hotel accommodations for all nights.
- Breakfast and dinners provided for all nights.
- Unsurpassed trail support. With our mechanics on the trail, your mechanical problems are a thing of the past.
- A lead UTV will guide the group. The lead UTV will radio back any potential hazards that you may encounter along the way.
- A sweep support UTV, which holds parts and tools for almost any trail breakdowns, will ensure that everyone gets to their destination.
- On-the-trail mechanics will handle any issues that might pop up. These mechanics, or "Baja Ninjas" as we call them, are truly amazing to have along.
- Parts: Please remember there are several different models and manufacturers of UTVs, all requiring different parts. Off the Grid does carry some parts but not all. We recommend you bring any spare parts necessary for your UTV. These parts will be carried on the chase trucks. We do recommend you carry spare belts, rear axles, and commonly used parts for your manufacturer of UTV.
- The chase trucks hold a multitude of tools, welders, parts, wheels and tires, as well as emergency fuel and medical equipment, barring any incidents along the way.
Requirements
Our goal at Off the Grid Expeditions is to ensure everyone has a fantastic time. With that said, being prepared and having the right tools/equipment can significantly enhance everyone’s experience!
Stock UTVs are incredibly capable and impressive machines, and they're also a lot of fun to customize! While heavy modification isn’t necessary, there are basic items that you must have for an Off the Grid run.
Here’s a list of required items for our Expeditions:
(Note: some expeditions might require additional items, depending on specific trail or location needs. See Run descriptions for more details.)
UTV prep is essential before any run. If one vehicle has a problem, we all have a problem.
- All vehicle services performed (oil change, air cleaner, brakes, nut and bolt check)
- All tires aired to proper pressure (1 spare tire is required on the vehicle)
- All equipment and parts securely tied down in the UTV
- Full fuel tank (spare gas can be carried but must be safely secured on the UTV)
- Tools, jack, and tow strap securely fastened in the UTV
- Helmet with wired speakers for Intercom system (helmets are 100% mandatory)
- Mounted VHF radio with weatherman programmed frequency 151.625
- Wired intercom system (highly recommended for clear communication)
- Lowrance GPS Unit only (provided by us the morning of the expedition)
- Driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance
- Off-road lights for night driving (LED lights recommended)
- At least one full-size spare tire (must be tied down and secure)
- Jack (if available)
- Basic tools/tow strap (bring only the essentials)
- Food/water (dinners and breakfasts are included, but trail snacks are suggested)
- Mexican auto insurance for your UTV (www.bajabound.com)Why do we need a GPS?
The GPS is vital for navigating the technical trails of Baja. It displays your exact route, calculates mileage for turns and potential hazards, and marks waypoints.
Communication is crucial.
We use a VHF 55w radio with a preprogrammed channel for UTV-to-UTV communication. The operating channel is weatherman (151.625). All communication systems must be wired into a push-to-talk intercom system in your helmet. This allows us to call out potential hazards, provide mileage updates, and maintain group communication.
Helmets are mandatory without exceptions. Goggles or a full-face shield are also required. Protecting your head is of utmost importance for safety.
Packing List
To prepare for your adventure, packing doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here's what you'll need:
Luggage: A carry-on size soft duffle bag is sufficient.
Check the weather in Baja California using your smartphone. Given the possibility of getting into the ocean, don't forget your bathing suits. Additionally, pack sandals or flip-flops, comfortable driving shoes, pants, shorts, and a few T-shirts. An all-conditions jacket is essential for chilly days. Your evening attire is your choice, but keep in mind that we'll be driving in the open air so you may get a little dirty. If rain is in the forecast, a good rain suit will undoubtedly be helpful. For hot days, Off the Grid Sun SPF 60 shirts work wonders to keep you cool. In the summer months, remember to pack sunblock and a hat.Cooler and plenty of snacks for. the trail. We do stop for lunch, carry you through in case of any trail issues..
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations initiated by the participant received in writing to Off The Grid Expeditions with more than 60 days notice before tour start date will receive their deposit as a credit to be used towards future tours with Off The Grid Expeditions. The credit expires 1 year after issued.
- Cancellations initiated by the participant received in writing to Off The Grid Expeditions with 60 or less days notice before the tour start date will forfeit their deposit as a cancellation fee. Any balance payments can be held on file as a credit to be used towards future tours and services with Off The Grid Expeditions. The credit expires 1 year after issued.
- Cancellations initiated by the participant received in writing to Off The Grid Expeditions with 30 or less days notice before the tour start date will forfeit their deposit and any balance payments as a cancellation fee.
- Cancellations initiated by Off The Grid Expeditions due to conditions beyond their control including but not limited to fires, weather, terrorism, civil strife, floods, earthquakes, or natural catastrophes, etc. will be credited towards a future trip in full amount of balances paid.