Our most frequent questions

Where should I fly into; San Jose del Cabo (SJD) or La Paz (LAP)?

When Rancho Buena Vista was built, there was not any option other than La Paz.  Now, you will most likely find the best rates and options for travel by flying into San Jose del Cabo.  Just enter "SJD" into your online flight provider (we like kayak because you can actually check La Paz rates at the same time you are checking Cabo rates) and go from there.

Once I land, what's the best way to get to Rancho Buena Vista?

The dreaded "it depends" answer.  Well it really does.  If you plan on exploring the Baja on your own, then we suggest renting a car.  If you plan on scheduling your explorations through us and if you are fishing a lot, then we suggest getting a taxi.

I keep hearing about Drug Violence...Is it safe there?

The drug violence is a serious issue in Mexico, but not one that impacts any resort area, and especially a place like Rancho Buena Vista.  Here is where you don't worry about locking your room; here is where your kids roam free and you aren't worried; here is where you forget where you left your camera and find it the next day.  We are likely farther away from real trouble than you are where you are reading this.

What makes Rancho Buena Vista different than the other resorts on the East Cape?

(1) Our focus - delivering a hassle-free experience for our guests.  While every resort can offer the same services, we are committed to working with the best service providers to ensure a quality experience and we will handle the arrangement so that you’re only responsibility is to have fun. (2) The atmosphere – there is no other place in all of Baja that has the aura and charm of Rancho Buena Vista.  It is a tangible exhale that happens when you arrive to RBV, and you have to experience it to understand it.

How do you handle Activities Charges?

If we are providing the service for you (rooms, boats, fishing), then we will collect the fees and pay them out directly.  For all other eco-adventures, we work directly with our third-party providers and simply act as the agent for the event. 

Is Rancho Buena Vista available for private retreats and events?

Yes. Subject to availability, Rancho Buena Vista can “go private” for large groups wanting to reserve the entire resort.  A good example of this is the Gyrotonic Retreat scheduled from April 8 – 11, 2010 at the hotel.  We will not accept outside reservations during this time and the retreat will feature a customized food menu and specific activities.  Please visit Rates/Packages for more information or contact us for more information.

Is there a discount or group rate?

We do offer group rates and extended stay discounts.  Please contact us directly or check our "specials" tab for discounts going at the moment.  If you are booking a package, then your discount is imbedded in your package rate.  We agree that our package rates are ridiculously affordable.

What forms of payment are accepted at Rancho Buena Vista?

We accept cash (both US Dollars and Mexican Pesos), Visa and Mastercard.  Personal checks are discouraged and only allowed in special instances.

Can I take fish home with me?

Yes. In years past you could pack your frozen fish in a styrofoam cooler.  Now you must pack your catch in a hard cooler to take it with you.

What type of documentation do I need to enter Mexico?  

A valid US/Canadian passport or a US/Canadian birth certificate (original - not a copy) with a photo ID is needed. Non-US/Canadian citizens will need to obtain a visa from the Mexican consulate nearest them. Minor children under the age of 18 will need notarized written permission from the other parent when traveling with one parent, or from both parents when traveling without either parent.

What time do I have to arrive at the airport?

Most airlines require check-in at least 2 hours before flight time for international flights. We will arrange your airport transportation and make sure that you leave with ample time to catch your flight home.

How do I get from the airport to Rancho Buena Vista?

For guests who have not pre-arranged for travel, taxis are readily available at the airport.  Rental cars are also available.  You should expect to pay $80 each way for a group of 4 people.  We can arrange to have someone at the airport carrying a sign with your name on it, but it's also easy to just tell them to take you to Rancho Buena Vista.

What Should I pack?

For most of the year, casual summer dress (shorts, t-shirts, bathing suits, flip-flops, sunglasses, etc) is appropriate and expected.  During the winter months (November – February), it is advisable to bring an extra layer so that you are warm and cozy in the evening.  We recommend that you bring your own sunscreen and toiletries, though we can get anything you need if you forget to bring it.

Do I need to rent a car?

No, but many of our guests do so that they can further customize their trip to Rancho Buena Vista.  You don't have to get a car at the airport if you want to rent a car later in your trip.  There are several car agencies at the Cabo airport, let us know if you need our help.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

No.  It’s great if you can speak Spanish, but you’ll get along perfectly well without knowing the language.  If you know a little Spanish, we suggest you use it because our employees appreciate it when you try.

Can I drink the water?

We do, but then again, we've been drinking it for some time and you might say we are accustomed to it.  Different people have different constitutions, so to be safe, we recommend you drink the bottled water from the bar.

How much should I tip?

All of our room rates include gratuities for our hotel employees.  Additional tips are always appreciated by our staff, but it is not something you should feel obligated to provide.  Tips for boat captains and mates are not included.  A general guideline is to tip the boat crew between 10% and 20% of the boat charter price.