Scheduled programs for 2008, 2009 & 2010 See list below. Click buttons above.

What to expect on Mary & Piet's learning vacations... Expect the unexpected... You're in Good Company—Our guests are very special people of all ages bonded by common curiosity about the chosen travel environment and their passion to learn about the world around them. The result is VERY pleasant people sharing our enjoyment of these unique travel and learning vacation experiences. Great fun combined with learning—During BFT's four decades, an approach has evolved through which we share our favorite places with pleasant, thoughtful, independent  and curious guests who choose our enthusiastic guidance and the enjoyable companionship and sociability of like-minded traveling companions. You'll enjoy our guests (and our instructors) as we do! The best interpreters of the travel environment—Our instructors are always highly skilled and affable folks, whose company and knowledge you'll enjoy. In Baja California, for example,  we are your hosts, tour operators and instructors. On other trips, if the subject is not our specialty, we produce and operate the program personally, and work with the best and most knowledgeable of interpreters. Additionally, we work with a number of local specialists to provide our guests a well-rounded understanding of the focus subject of the trip, be it natural or cultural history, archaeology, geology, the arts or whatever. Great food & lodging—always part of the BFT experience to the extent the travel environment permits! Generally some meals are included; and for the others, we guide our guests to places where they are free to choose from healthy mouthwatering specialties, from Baja to Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Arizona and New Mexico. In Baja California, every restaurant and hotel we'll take you to is one we've shared with our guests for over 30 years...most of them since they first opened their doors. The variety of truly fresh seafood is mouthwatering! We select accommodations that allow us to accomplish the goals of a particular trip, generally the best that an area has to offer. As some itineraries take us off the beaten track at times, our choices vary from fairly simple to rather extravagant, yet always clean, comfortable, pleasant and safe. Meals included? Not necessarily. And that can be a good thing. Some of our programs include most meals; the cuisine of Oaxaca is an example. Others include few or no restaurant meals; Baja is an example of the latter. Many trips include a number of enjoyable picnic lunches afield, when we find ourselves far from restaurants. Generally, we include meals when there is some specific reason to do so. By not including all meals, we save  you money, perhaps a great deal. If you eat lightly; for example, and you and your traveling companion prefer to share entrees. Additionally, when you do the ordering, you may choose from the full range of an often-extensive menu, thus enjoying - and paying for - exactly what you choose. "Wish Lists" planning for the future—Each tour program is different; many are unique, offered one time only. So, we encourage you to call us to discuss your interests so that we may help you choose the memorable and fun experience that will be just right for you! For some programs that tend to fill quickly, we offer the opportunity to put your name on a "Wish List" for that trip well in advance, before a date is chosen and details are available. This means you'll be among the first to receive details and the opportunity to sign up when itinerary specifics are available and the program is officially scheduled. We're accountable—These days, when business is so often impersonal and lacking in accountability, we hope you’ll appreciate that we create and operate each program personally. As BFT's owner/operators, we’re right there with you on your vacation to keep things humming. Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are very important to us! Our quality control is excellent. Our commitment is deep and personal; we’re accountable. Each of BFT’s 40 years has taught us a lot about producing learning vacations. We hope you like our style!  Weather & Timing—We thoroughly consider optimal weather and special events—both natural and cultural—in planning scheduling for each learning vacation. We plan carefully to avoid bad weather and crowds whenever possible. You will notice that our offerings come in fall, winter and spring. That's because most of our favorite places are hot (or crowded!) in the summer. Learning vacations, not sightseeing tours— We do see the sights. And yet we do so much more. We rarely sit around in lectures. Our guests are much more experiential people. Hands-on folks, who enjoy getting out and actually having the experience of being there.  Details vary considerably from one trip to another. That's why we suggest that you call us and learn about the program that interests you. Smoking—In the interest of health and comfort, there is no smoking where our guests gather—in vehicles, at meals, group discussions, field interpretations, whether inside or outdoors. No one breathes smoke unless they choose to. Some of our hotels are non-smoking properties. Smokers are very welcome with this understanding. BFT has offered natural and cultural history learning vacations in Baja California, Mexico since 1966. Now, offerings also include Arizona, New Mexico (including Indian Country programs), Sonora, Chihuahua, the historic Valley of Oaxaca, Copper Canyon and more in both Mexico and the United States. Mary & Piet produce and operate each of their programs personally.  Our philosophy regarding Baja's Frontier Tours' goals is simple: We go to places that are special to us and that we've found our guests enjoy immensely, as well; sometimes these are not the most popular tourist destinations, rather they are special places where our guests can learn, enjoy and refresh themselves in peace, safety and comfort. We assure the success of each program by producing and operating it personally...we enjoy each experience right along with you, making each program the best learning vacation possible!  We await your call to discuss your interests, answer your questions and to help you choose, plan and enjoy the most memorable and personally satisfying vacation possible.  And to get acquainted...or to catch up with you, if we haven't spoken for a while.  Please choose your vacation way ahead. We need to plan ahead to get reservations at the best places. And to reserve the best teachers. Early decisions will assure you a space on your chosen learning vacation. Some programs fill way in advance. Plan ahead and savor the anticipation. We do look forward to chatting with you and to enjoying your company again...or for the first time! Never stop learning! Piet & Mary  Dennis Winsten photo Scheduled BFT programs for 2008, 2009 & 2010... Our Learning Vacations Listed Below are now reserving/filling. Call us for Brochures & Reservations. Please Note: Most programs are offered only every few years, while some are one-time special events...so, if you see something that really interests you, don't just put it off 'till next year without learning if it will ever be offered again! Make your decision now and enjoy the anticipation! Don't miss out! Scheduled BFT programs 2008 - Father Kino's Sonora with Thomas E. Sheridan, Ph.D., historian and Professor of Anthropology, University of Arizona - December 3, 2008. A colorful exploration of nearby Mission history in Sonora, as a comfortable day trip by motorcoach. Co-sponsored with Tucson's Tohono Chul Park &  the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Free! 14th Annual Christmas Folk Art Sale  with Unknown Mexico - Dec.  6 & 7, 2008 (Barney T. Burns & Mahina Drees) Scheduled BFT programs 2009 - The Best of Baja California, Mexico. Whale Watching & Natural History -  March 2-10, 2009. Experience Baja California, Mexico's personalized natural history...including boating with Scammon's Lagoon's friendly gray whales. Scammon's is the largest and best-protected migratory destination. Thousands of whales have always been there for our guests for forty years. We look at the whales, not for them! And half of our guests get to pet friendly whales and their calves! The opportunity to enjoy the most wonderful fresh seafood and delightful Mexican (American and continental, as well) cuisine is unsurpassed! Co-sponsored with Tucson's wonderful Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Sonora’s Seaside Deserts & Tropical Thornscrub - April 16-23, 2009, This learning vacation is created and produced as the official Post-Convention Field Trip following the Cactus & Succulent Society of America's 2009 Convention in Tucson, Arizona. This one is for people who especially love cacti and succulents! And who want to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the lovely state of Sonora, Mexico, touching the Arizona border immediately to the south. These days present a comprehensive view of many of the fascinating cacti and succulents of Sonora. The specific focus of our daily activities will center around meeting a good many of these wonderful plants up close and personal in their wild natural habitats, all in the enjoyable company of fellow enthusiasts and expert botanists. Comfortable hotels and memorable Mexican cuisine and seafood from the Sea of Cortez throughout! Produced for members of CSSA. From Acoma to Zuni…New Mexico Arts, Culture & History with Mark Bahti Author, Scholar, Indian Trader. May 5-9, 2009 Join Mark with Mary & Piet for an enjoyable look at the arts, artists, culture and food of this very beautiful region of New Mexico. Meet some very special folks and visit the best of old-time Indian Traders for the best in shopping, serious collecting and just enjoying the experience! Luxurious motor coach (those Big vista-view windows, recliners, full audio-visual and always a bathroom aboard!). Enjoy the convenience of four comfortable nights in historic Gallup, New Mexico, and very scenic traveling every day! Chaco Canyon, New Mexico Archaeology - October 19 - 23, 2009. Gwinn Vivian, Ph.D. literally grew up at Chaco. He will introduce you to the science and theories surrounding the strategies and techniques that Chacoan farmers used to adapt to their harsh environment.  We will begin with an overview of Chacoan culture in Chaco Canyon and then trace the expanding Chacoan system as it moved throughout the San Juan Basin.  Our exploration takes us not only to well known sites such as Pueblo Bonito but to significant and seldom visited Chacoan outliers including Pierre’s, Kin Bineola and Kin Ya’a. In these days you will see natural beauty and human history that may well change your life! Dia de Los Muertos in the Arizona/Sonora Borderlands: Nov 1 & 2, 2009. On the heels of Halloween, the colorful and elaborate celebration of El Dia de Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), a centuries-old tradition in Mexico, is very much alive today in our culturally rich region! We’ll visit two colorful, historic cemeteries in southern Arizona, plus the celebratory extravaganza across the border in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico: the vast and dazzling Panteon Nacional! Experience the celebration of this holiday Sonoran style! Enjoy the bustle of noisy vendors selling food and colorful flowers to thousands of friendly people, all tending gravesites and socializing! This memorable day includes luxury motor coach transportation from Tucson, a yummy picnic lunch and absolutely dazzling photographic opportunities!  Rio Grande Pueblos with Mark Bahti - November 12 - 18, 2009. Not offered since 2002, this may be our most exciting, comprehensive and wonderful from among the Indian Country Series that we produce for Tucson's Tohono Chul Park. Join Mark and Piet & Mary, along with dozens of New Mexico Pueblo Indians, to savor the arts and culture of one of the most amazingly beautiful places in America! Motorcoach comfort also provides you our rolling classroom to prepare you for every stop on our fascinating journey. We've chosen excellent accommodations near some of New Mexico's finest restaurants in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos to assure you restful and memorable evenings.  Free! 15th Annual Christmas Folk Art Sale  with Unknown Mexico - Dec. 2099 (Barney T. Burns & Mahina Drees) Scheduled BFT programs 2010 - COPPER CANYON: Land of the Tarahumara, with Barney T. Burns  GOOD NEWS: We're now able to offer this program again April 17 - 25, 2010. Call to put in your reservation now! We don't do this very often. The 2007 trip filled in 2006. The first one in 2004 filled up quickly, too, so please don't delay your decision to join this spectacular learning experience in the future; a $300 deposit holds your spot for this trip. A simple call or email will assure your participation. Join us round trip from Tucson with amazing Barney Burns, Ph.D. in our very comfortable rolling classroom motor coach. Please call and let us help you with any questions so you don't miss this next one. (to benefit NativeSeeds/SEARCH). Death Valley: Where Wonder Reigns! December 7-13, 2010. Geologist Amazing Bob Scarborough loves Death Valley! Most visitors are surprised by the awesome beauty and scope of this amazing out-of-the-way place. We invite you to join us to explore your amazement: share this affable geologist’s long experience in this very special place, home to wonderful geologic mysteries! From mile-high Dante’s View, we'll peer way, way down at Badwater: (at -282’ it's the western hemisphere’s lowest elevation!), while across the valley spectacular Telescope Peak rises to 11,049'. Fabled Scotty’s Castle provides a memorable tour. Long-abandoned 20 mule team borax works, lovely sand dunes and narrow canyons are among many other wonders we’ll experience. Photograph and walk about the desert in fine fall weather. The historic Furnace Creek Ranch Resort offers us very comfortable nightly accommodations plus a full range of resort amenities. Get your brochure and plan now to find out just how much fun you can have on this unique and comfortable learning adventure! Reserving now. As you consider your learning vacation plans, please keep in mind that many of our programs are offered one-time-only, or are available to you just once every few years. If you're thinking about "going next time" please call us to check on availability. The Chiricahua Cottages - for your personal quiet getaways in southeast Arizona anytime... Please click on their image to be directed to Travel Insured's website to learn more and to purchase travel insurance for your learning vacation with us. We recommend the purchase of travel and trip cancellation insurance.  Travel Insured has provided our guests with excellent service for many years.  Our favorite places in Baja California, Mexico are those that have remained relatively unchanged since BFT first ventured into "The Forgotten Peninsula" in the 1960's. Perhaps that explains our focus on the midsection of Baja, rather than well-developed and more familiar areas like Cabo San Lucas, lovely as they are. We hope you'll join us to experience some of the peninsula's lovely hidden, uncrowded and unchanged places that few of the peninsula's visitors experience in their mad rush to Baja's resort country. Go With Experience! We do! Tucson's 14th Annual Mexican Folk Art Christmas Shopping Spree! Saturday & Sunday December 6 & 7, 2008, 10 am - 3 pm NOTICE!  Cash or Checks Only Please  NOTICE! It's become a Christmas shopping tradition for many in southern Arizona who leave the crowded malls behind and gift their family and friends with truly unique Folk Arts of museum shop quality at true wholesale prices! Add to your own dazzling collectable decor! Accept our invitation to join those wonderful folks at Unknown Mexico—Barney Burns & Mahina Drees—who will again open their warehouse to Friends of Baja’s Frontier Tours for a two-day Wholesale Holiday Shopping Spree...our way of saying "Thanks and Happy Holidays!" The treasures of the Mayo, Yaqui and Tarahumara people are knowledgeably selected during Barney and Mahina’s exhaustive forays into remote corners of Mexico: Wooden Bowls and Utensils! Baskets! Ceremonial Masks! Instruments! Weavings! Wood Carvings! Furniture! Toys! Decorations! Lots of Specials & Surprises! All at genuine once-a-year wholesale prices from an anthropologist who’s working to preserve the crafts and culture of the native peoples of northwestern Mexico. Support the arts! Refreshments, too! Your friends are welcome. Come and say "Hello" to us, too... we’ll be there to help! Piet & Mary Van de Mark.   Barney & Mahina have graciously agreed to take us to Copper Canyon - Land of the Tarahumara once again. We're planning our next learning vacation with Barney in April 2010. This program benefits Tucson's Native Seeds/SEARCH, which Barney & Mahina helped found 25 years ago! This trip fills up! The 2007 trip filled in 2006.  Remember: no one knows Copper Canyon and it's people like Barney & Mahina; this is the best of the best...and it may not happen again, so we hope you'll plan now to plan ahead and enjoy the anticipation of this very special event! PLEASE NOTE: COME ONLY ON THESE TWO DAYS AND ONLY BETWEEN 10AM and 3PM. Unknown Mexico is wholesale ONLY and NOT OTHERWISE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. THANK YOU! From I-10 & Camino Del Cerro, drive west across Silverbell Road and turn south on Wildlife Drive; continue to follow turns on the this map. When it's crowded, please park in the corral and walk up the road to the Christmas Sale. This special event is free of charge. BFT does not profit from this event, other than the joy we take in your support of Barney & Mahina and their artist/farmer friends in Northwest Mexico...and the pleasure we enjoy in seeing all of you who come to shop and say "Hello!"  This is our way of thanking you for traveling and learning and sharing the adventure with us on our learning vacations...many of you for many, many memorable years.   We wish you all a very Merry Christmas!  Piet & Mary Van de Mark Any questions or comments about our website?  Thanks very much for bearing with any confusions that may beset your browser. Please feel free to e-mail us about anything. We've learned that some linked emails you've sent from our website have not been getting through to us...We always answer all emails received. If you've emailed us and not received a reply, perhaps we didn't receive your email. Please try again or, better yet, give us a call! QUESTIONS & RESERVATIONS? Considering a trip? Or wondering which trip? Each program is personally produced and operated by Piet & Mary Van de Mark and their knowledgeable interpreters of natural and cultural history. Each trip is unique, and the details that concern you may not be obvious. We're here to discuss your interests and answer your questions so you may make a good decision. Having done so, you'll join a select group of folks to share a very pleasant and memorable learning experience. Contact Mary & Piet by phone: 520-887-2340 (Tucson, Arizona)  Outside Arizona call Toll Free: 1-800-726-7231 EMAIL: piet@bajasfrontiertours.com If you enjoy fun and learning, we hope you'll join us for your next getaway or vacation. Planning a tour with us? The Chiricahua Cottages on your own? Thoughts about your next vacation? Please tell us how we can help you make it happen! ©Baja's Frontier Tours LLC, Tucson, Arizona 2003 & 2007, 2008 all rights reserved Please request written permission for copy or publication of any portion of these pages. Thanks! Proofed by Marcia Quiroz at Tucson, Arizona January 11, 2006. Thank you, Marcia! The management would also like to thank Mike Liebert for help with proofing! Updated by Piet Van de Mark November 2008. Typos? Not Marcia's fault! Home Page