These northern states showcase the lesser-known side of Mexico, offering unforgettable adventures through stunning natural wonders, vibrant culture, and rich history.

Sonora is a vast northern region of arid beauty, offering a striking contrast between its expansive deserts and coastal area, where travelers can explore everything from massive dunes to stunning, serene beaches.

• Gran Desierto de Altar
• Pinacate Biosphere Reserve
• Sea of Cortez Coastline

Chihuahua is renowned for its vast desert landscapes and rugged mountain ranges, a stunning natural wonder offering adventurous travelers amazing scenic views, hiking trails, and the famous Chepe train journey.

• Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre)
• Sierra Tarahumara
• Paquimé Archaeological Zone

Coahuila is a diverse region known for its vast deserts, unique ecosystems, and historic mining towns such as Parras de la Fuente and Real de Catorce, where visitors can explore vineyards, mystical landscapes, and rich history.

• Cuatro Ciénegas Biosphere Reserve
• Real de Catorce
• Parras de la Fuente

Nuevo León is a state renowned for its rugged Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, offering vibrant outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and exploring natural wonders and the scenic Cola de Caballo waterfall.

• Cumbres de Monterrey National Park
• Cola de Caballo Waterfall
• Chipinque Ecological Park

Tamaulipas invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore its remarkable natural diversity, stunning coastal wetlands along the Gulf of Mexico, lush subtropical forests, and rugged mountain ranges in the Sierra Madre Oriental.

• El Cielo Biosphere Reserve
• Playa Miramar
• Soto la Marina River

Sinaloa offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty and rich cultural heritage, with its stunning beaches along the Pacific Ocean, lush valleys, vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, lively music scene, and deep-rooted traditions.

• Mazatlán
• Las Labradas
• El Fuerte

Durango boasts a striking blend of deserts, majestic mountains, and lush forests that have graced numerous films. This diverse terrain offers hiking, rock climbing, and exploring nowadays abandoned mining towns.

• Zona del Silencio
• Sierra Madre Occidental
• Old West Film Sets

Baja California is renowned for its stunning desert landscapes and breathtaking coastal beauty. This dynamic region offers a unique blend of all kinds of outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine.

• Valle de Guadalupe
• Ensenada
• Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park

Baja California Sur is known for its beaches, marine life, and landscapes where the desert meets the ocean. The region offers snorkeling, whale watching, and hiking, alongside opportunities to relax on its sandy shores.

• Cabo San Lucas
• La Paz
• Loreto

Plan your trip now and explore the hidden gems of Northern Mexico!

Those who wish to visit this space declared as Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO can camp in the place known as El Cacarizo. There are some tourist services available in this archaeological zone such as identification cards, guides, and information modules.

To go to this archaeological site, it is necessary to arrive by the dirt road that begins in the sector of the peninsular highway (federal highway number 1) that links the community of San Ignacio with the town of Vizcaíno, that is, about 46.7 kilometers of the deviation that leads to San Ignacio.

Baja California offers an array of diverse attractions and activities for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-visit tourist spots along the way.

Tijuana: Gateway to Baja California

Tijuana is a diverse city that beckons travelers to explore its unique blend of cultures.

As you journey along Baja California’s stunning coastline, make a stop in Tijuana to experience its lively atmosphere, savor delicious street food, and discover a rich tapestry of art and entertainment.

From the bustling Avenida Revolución to the tranquil beaches, Tijuana offers a taste of Mexico like no other, making it an essential destination on your Baja California adventure.

Rosarito Beach: Surf and Sun

As you continue your journey along the enchanting Baja California coastline, don’t miss the picturesque town of Rosarito. This coastal gem is known for its stunning beaches, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunsets.

Rosarito also boasts a lively scene with vibrant bars, delicious seafood eateries,

The town has a friendly atmosphere that welcomes travelers. Whether you’re seeking tranquility by the ocean or a taste of Baja’s famous lobster dishes, Rosarito promises a memorable stop on your Baja California adventure.

San Quintín Bay National Wildlife Refuge: Birdwatching and wetlands

San Quintín Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. This pristine sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers, offering a tranquil escape into a wetland wonderland.

Explore the serene waters, salt flats, and marshes while observing an array of bird species in their natural habitat.

Whether you’re an avid birder or simply seek solace in nature, a visit to the San Quintín Bay National Wildlife Refuge promises a peaceful retreat, adding a touch of natural wonder to your Baja California journey.

Cataviña Desert: Unique desert landscapes

Venturing deeper into the Baja California landscape, the Cataviña Desert awaits with its surreal and unique beauty. This otherworldly desert is a tapestry of gigantic granite boulders, cacti, and arid landscapes that appear straight out of a science fiction movie.

Explore the rocky terrain, hike among the towering cacti, and be mesmerized by the natural sculptures created by wind and time.

Cataviña Desert offers a stark contrast to the coastal areas, making it a must-visit for adventurers seeking the wonders of the Baja California desert, adding a touch of rugged wilderness to your Baja California journey.

Valle de Guadalupe: Wine country delights

Be sure to savor the region’s world-class wines in Valle de Guadalupe.

This picturesque wine region boasts rolling vineyards, boutique wineries, and farm-to-table cuisine. Valle de Guadalupe offers a delightful wine-tasting experience amidst the landscapes of Baja California.

Valle de Guadalupe is a must-visit destination on your Baja California journey.

Ensenada: Natural wonders and wine

Ensenada, a coastal treasure along the Baja California route, beckons with its blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. This bustling port city boasts breathtaking ocean views, world-class wineries, and a lively waterfront scene.

Visit the bustling fish market, ample fresh ceviche, and famous street tacos. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Ensenada is a must-visit destination for travelers along the Baja California coast, offering a taste of Mexico’s coastal delights.

El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve: Wildlife and scenic landscapes

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve.

This is a true natural wonder along the Baja California Peninsula. This vast and protected reserve encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush desert landscapes to pristine coastal areas.

It’s home to iconic species like the endangered gray whale and native desert wildlife. Explore the scenic beauty of the reserve, embark on whale-watching adventures, and immerse yourself in the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this pristine environment.

El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve promises a remarkable journey into the heart of Baja California’s untamed wilderness, making it an essential stop on your Baja California adventure.

San Ignacio Lagoon: Whale watching (seasonal)

Hidden away in the heart of Baja California, San Ignacio Lagoon is a serene oasis that captivates travelers with its untouched beauty. This remote lagoon is a sanctuary for wildlife, particularly the majestic gray whales that visit its tranquil waters.

Explore the serene surroundings by kayak or take a boat tour to get up close to these gentle giants.

With its pristine landscapes and the chance to witness incredible marine life, San Ignacio Lagoon is a nature lover’s dream and an unforgettable stop on your Baja California journey.

Bahía Concepción (Mulegé)

Mulegé, a hidden gem along the Baja California Peninsula, beckons travelers with its unspoiled natural beauty and relaxed charm. This picturesque town offers stunning beaches, historic missions, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites relaxation.

Explore the palm-lined streets, visit the historic Mission Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, and soak in the sun on Mulegé’s pristine beaches. With its laid-back vibe and scenic landscapes, Mulegé is a true oasis for those seeking an authentic Baja California experience.

Loreto: History and culture

Loreto is a coastal town, that enchants travelers with its rich history and natural wonders.

The town boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant marine life that beckons snorkelers and divers. Visit its historic town center, visit the centuries-old Mission of Our Lady of Loreto, and savor delicious seafood cuisine.

Loreto’s tranquil ambiance and outdoor adventures make it a perfect stop on your Baja California journey.

Todos Santos: Charming art town

Todos Santos offers travelers a unique blend of culture and coastal beauty. Known for its vibrant arts scene, this charming town boasts colorful galleries, boutique shops, and a creative atmosphere that’s sure to inspire.

Walk through the historic streets, admire the iconic Hotel California, and savor farm-to-table cuisine at charming restaurants. With its artistic spirit and breathtaking beaches, Todos Santos is a must-visit destination.

Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park: Hiking paradise

Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park, nestled in the heart of Baja California, is a pristine wilderness waiting to be explored. This natural wonderland is home to rugged mountains, lush pine forests, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and stargazing in this protected area. The park’s high-altitude location provides some of the clearest skies for astronomy, making it a mecca for stargazers.

Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a glimpse of the cosmos, Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park offers a breathtaking escape in the heart of Baja California.

La Paz: Island adventures

La Paz, a tranquil oasis on the Baja California Peninsula, invites travelers to discover a harmonious blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm. The town boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life.

Dive into vibrant coral reefs, swim with whale sharks, or simply relax on the shores of the Sea of Cortez. Beyond its stunning coastline, La Paz offers a welcoming atmosphere, with a vibrant boardwalk, and delightful seafood cuisine.

Whether you seek adventure or serenity, La Paz promises an unforgettable escape in the heart of Baja California.

Espíritu Santo Island: Marine conservation and snorkeling

Sea of Cortez, Espíritu Santo Island stands as a pristine marine oasis, beckoning explorers with its unspoiled beauty. This protected island is a haven for marine life, featuring crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and playful sea lions.

Embark on snorkeling or diving adventures to witness the mesmerizing underwater world, or paddle along its rugged coastline to discover hidden coves and white-sand beaches.

Espíritu Santo Island offers a serene escape amidst nature’s wonders, making it an unforgettable destination on your Baja California journey, where the call of the wild meets the tranquility of the sea.

Cabo San Lucas: Beaches and nightlife

Cabo San Lucas is a world-renowned destination at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. This destination beckons travelers with its blend of natural wonders and vibrant nightlife.

This coastal paradise boasts stunning beaches, including the iconic Playa del Amor and El Arco, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. Adventure-seekers can go sport fishing, snorkeling, or take a thrilling ATV ride through the desert.

In the evenings, Cabo San Lucas comes alive with a bustling restaurant scene, lively bars, and unforgettable sunsets.

Because of its temperate climate, the town is also known as “Cuernavaca of the State of Baja California Sur”.

There is evidence that demonstrates the human presence in Todos Santos for at least 3000 years.

The first European to discover the oasis was the Jesuit Jaime Bravo, who observed that there were nomadic tribes of guaycuras that took advantage of the water and collected shells from the coast.

The mission at what is now Todos Santos, Misión Santa Rosa de las Palmas was founded by father Jaime Bravo in 1723. In 1724 it was renamed Nuestra Señora del Pilar de La Paz.

Located across the street to the southwest from the small town plaza, this mission contains the statue of the Virgin of Pilar, which is the focus of Todos Santos’s main festival in November.

The site was originally a station established in 1724 by the Jesuit subordinate to the mission of Our Lady of the Pillar of Peace that supplied water and fruits and vegetables to La Paz.

In 1725 the priest Lorenzo Carranco was permanently established throughout that year.

Father Jaime Bravo established three visits in this area, however, it has never been possible to establish with certainty where the other two were.

During the Mexican American War the Skirmish of Todos Santos, the last battle of the war, was fought near the town on March 30, 1848.

During the 19th century following the secularization of the missions, Todos Santos thrived as the Baja sugarcane capital, supporting eight sugar mills at the end of the 19th Century.

Only one existed by the time the town’s freshwater spring dried up in 1950 and that last mill closed in 1965.

Todos Santos faced a bleak future until the spring came back to life in 1981 and the Mexican Government paved Highway 19 in the mid-1980s. The highway brought tourists and the rich farmlands have been revived.

The town now prospers from farming vegetables, chilies, avocados, papayas, and mangoes; as well as from fishing and ranching.

More recently, there has been a gradual increase in tourist activity and a boom in real estate development.

Handicraft shops, owner-operated art galleries featuring landscape paintings of local scenes (some artists from Guadalajara and other parts of Mexico also exhibit works in Todos Santos,) upscale restaurants, boutique hotels, and restored colonial buildings have contributed to the gentrification and redevelopment of the town.

There are a few annual festivals including the Festival de Cine and the Todos Santos Music Festival.

The Hotel California is a favorite stop because of the name associated with the song made famous by the Eagles, even though the song does not specifically reference this particular hotel, nor any other existing hotel.

On May 1, 2017, the band The Eagles, filed a lawsuit against the Hotel California alleging trademark infringement.

The Eagles were seeking relief and damages.

The lawsuit was settled in 2018: The hotel continues to use the name, abandoned efforts to apply for a trademark in the United States, and now expressly denies any connection with the song or the Eagles.

There are many beautiful beaches within a 15-minute drive of Todos Santos. However, some of the area’s beaches, with rip tides, undertows, and fairly steep drop-offs close to shore, are not considered safe for swimming.

Playa Las Palmas and Playa Los Cerritos are great beaches for swimming and shell collecting.
San Pedrito Point, Los Cerritos, and other local surf breaks attract surfers from around the world.

There are many accommodations both at San Pedrito and at Cerritos beach.

The mission Nuestra Señora del Pilar de La Paz contains the statue of the Virgin of Pilar, which is the focus of Todos Santos’s main festival in November.

This rock formation is known as Land’s End because it is where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. These rocks played an important role in the epoch when the route of the Manila galleons passed through this coast.

Many pirates historically frequented this region. These rocks provided good hiding spots for pirate ships, and lookouts stationed there could signal the arrival of potential targets, allowing the pirates to prepare for attacks.

Boats depart from Medano Beach every morning for a 30-minute trip to Land’s End.

The trip passes good diving spots and a famous sea lion colony, and your guide will introduce you to the history and legends associated with each of the rock formations you encounter along the way.

In October, when sea levels drop, visitors can walk through the arch onto the beach.

In the 2010 census, it had a population of 69,788. Together with neighboring Cabo San Lucas, it forms a major tourist destination for travelers, with over 900,000 hotel guests in 2011.

The two cities are served by Los Cabos International Airport.

This growth has been regulated outside of the town center, especially to the south where the beaches are, leaving the historic town center quiet and relatively unchanged.

There are still cobblestone streets, adobe houses, jacaranda trees, and a central square in front of a church that dates from the 1700s, where people still gather in the evening when it is cooler.

A number of the large houses in the center date from the 19th century, and most of these have been converted into restaurants, art galleries, and shops selling everything from fine handcrafts, silver, local gemstones, and souvenirs.

The art scene in the town is well-developed because of tourism and people with vacation homes. These shops carry high-end paintings, and sculptures from traditional Mexican, Mexican contemporary, and international artisans and artists.

During the high season from October to May, these galleries stay open late into the night.

The town has resisted the addition of large shopping malls and chain stores.
There is also some colonial-era architecture as well, but this style has more in common with colonial towns to the north of the United States rather than the center and south of Mexico.

The main example of colonial architecture here is the town’s parish church. It was part of the Estero de las Palmas de San José del Cabo Mission, founded in 1730. The facade is marked with a tile mural depicting the martyrdom of founder Nicolás Tamaral, killed by the local Pericu people.

The patron saint of the town is Saint Joseph, whose feast day is celebrated here on March 19. Another important occasion is the feast of the Our Lady of the Pillar on October 12.

Occasions like these are marked by a traditional dance in dress styles known as “Flor de Pitaya” and the “La Cuera”.

Other important landmarks in the town include the Municipal Hall (Palacio Municipal), which dates from 1981, and the cultural center of Casa de Cultura, housed in a 19th-century building.

The tourist area of the town is the area between the town proper and the shoreline. This area has a nine-hole golf course and a line of hotels and resorts facing the ocean, which served over 900,000 hotel guests in 2011.

The Mission San José del Cabo was founded in 1730 on the west bank of the nearby Río San José.

The Río San José flows into an estuary, the largest body of fresh water in southern Baja, after flowing largely underground for 39.1 km from its origin in the Sierra de la Laguna (Laguna Mountains).

For more than 250 years it has furnished drinking and irrigation water for the town of San Jose del Cabo, beginning as a source of fresh water for Spanish galleons traveling back from the Philippines.

The river used to flow above ground until the beginning of the 20th century due to anthropogenic causes.

A one km long sand bar separates the estuary from what early Spanish explorers, including Sebastian Vizcaino, called the Bahía de San Bernabé or Bay of San Bernabé and now San José del Cabo Bay.

San José del Cabo is one of two places where the rare and possibly extinct rice rat Oryzomys peninsulae have been found.

San José del Cabo, like almost all of the Baja California peninsula, has an arid climate although it does receive more rainfall than most areas further north due to tropical cyclones occasionally coming in from the south and bringing very heavy falls such as 340 millimeters on the first of September 1998 and 316 millimeters on 3 November 1993.

Overall, however, rainfall is some of the most erratic anywhere in the world due to this influence, and many years pass by without significant falls at all.

The sea experiences lows of 22–23 °C in winter, and highs of 25–29 °C during the summer months.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

National Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

Cruz Roja: 065 o +52(55)5557-5757
Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700

Cabo San Lucas has a desert climate.

During summer, Cabo San Lucas is cooler than San José del Cabo by about 1.5 to 3 °C.

Sometimes during the summer, when winds blow from the Pacific Ocean instead of the Gulf of California, the differences in temperatures between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are higher.

Cabo San Lucas is less rainy than San José del Cabo, although hurricanes can bring heavy rain for long periods.

Hurricane Odile made landfall at Cabo San Lucas on 14 September 2014 and caused widespread damage. Due to the position of the city and orography, local summer thunderstorms do not get near enough to bring rain to the town.

The sea temperature experiences lows of 21–22 °C in winter, and highs of 28–29 °C during the summer months.

In 2010, the population was 68,463 and has experienced very rapid growth and development. It is the third-largest city in Baja California Sur after La Paz and San José del Cabo (although it is only slightly less populous than San José del Cabo).

The majority of non-Mexican inhabitants in the community originate from the United States, and along with residents from San José del Cabo they account for 80% of the US population in the state.

Archaeological excavations have shown evidence of continual human habitation in the area for at least 10,000 years.

When the first Europeans arrived, they encountered the Pericú people, who survived on a subsistence diet based on hunting and gathering seeds, roots, shellfish, and other marine resources. They called the location Yenecamú.

According to the narrative of Hatsutaro, a Japanese castaway, in the book Kaigai Ibun (written by Maekawa, Junzo, and Bunzo Sakai and narrated by Hatsutaro), when he arrived at Cabo San Lucas in May 1842, there were only two houses and about 20 inhabitants.

American authors such as Henry Edwards and John Ross Browne claim that Cabo San Lucas’s founder was an Englishman named Thomas “Old Tom” Ritchie. John Ross Browne says Ritchie arrived there about 1828, while Edwards says that he died in October 1874.

A fishing village began growing in the area. In 1917, an American company built a floating platform to catch tuna, and ten years later founded Compañía de Productos Marinos S.A. The plant operated for several years.

Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are served by Los Cabos International Airport.

The town is also a popular port of call for many cruise ships. Cabo San Lucas has a small international airfield, which handles air traffic for general aviation flights and air taxi services.

Many tourists get around the area through the numerous local taxis that service the primary parts of Cabo, as well as the Corridor and the airport. Alternatively, there is a system of small buses that are used by locals but also available to tourists.

Clubs in Cabo include the Cabo Wabo Cantina, the Baja Brewing Company (also the first microbrewery in Baja California), Pink Kitty Nightclub, Mandala, El Squid Roe, Giggling Marlin, Nowhere Bar, Tiki Bar, the Usual Suspects, and the Jungle Bar.

Restaurants in downtown Cabo include Edith’s, Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, and Sunset da Mona Lisa.

Tourists can also ride horses through the desert, charter a boat for fishing, snorkel, and parasail on the beach.

Resort corridor

The corridor is home to a variety of hotels and tourist attractions. High-end resorts in the corridor include the One&Only Palmilla, Esperanza, The Resort at Pedregal, and Las Ventanas al Paraiso.

Medano Beach, located in Chileno Bay, is one of the most frequented beaches in the Corridor. It is home to tropical fish, sea turtles, invertebrates, and sponges. Snorkelers often visit Chileno Bay to observe the underwater sea life.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

National Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

Cruz Roja: 065 o +52(55)5557-5757
Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700

Loreto is located on the east coast of the Baja California Peninsula. It is bordered on the east by the Gulf of California, on the west by the Transpeninsular Highway, and on the south by the Arroyo Loreto, a dry creek bed that only fills with water after a heavy rainfall.

The city is built on relatively flat land with an average elevation is 10 meters (33 ft) above sea level. “La Giganta” Mountain Range (“Sierra de la Giganta”) lies to the west, extending along the center of the state of Baja California Sur, parallel to the gulf coast.

The geology and topography of the Loreto region, extending from Bahía Concepción to Agua Verde, is a coastal belt consisting “mainly of a narrow belt of ridges, valleys, and pediments adjacent to the escarpment, low- to moderate-elevation ranges transverse to the coast, and narrow coastal plains”.

Climate

Loreto’s climate is hot and humid, with abundant sunshine (desert with some rainfall in summer).

The median temperature is 24.4 °C (76 °F). The temperatures are hot from June through October. These summer days have highs around 34 °C (93 °F) and high humidity.

In spring season, the temperatures are moderate and temperate.
Autumn and winter months are usually windy.

From January to March, winds blow from the NW (night hours) and the North (day hours), the rest of the year, the winds blow usually from the West.

Loreto’s yearly precipitation is low; averaging about 160 mm (6.3 in). The wettest months are August and September, when there are occasional short-lived rainfalls.

One concern for Loreto is the Pacific hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, and some times causes heavy rainfall and floods in the area. The last time the town area was hit by a hurricane was on September 2 and 3, 2006, when the hurricane John hit the Baja California Peninsula.

Loreto was the first Spanish colonial settlement of the Viceroyalty of New Spain on the Baja California Peninsula.

The town was founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, who found a steady spring of fresh water on this site, as the Misión Nuestra Señora de Loreto.

The Jesuits were expelled in 1767, and control of the Baja California missions was given to the Franciscans.

In 1769, the Franciscans were ordered to turn over the Baja missions to the Dominican order and accompany the expedition of Gaspar de Portolà to establish new missions in the unexplored northern frontier that became Alta California. The expedition departed from Loreto on March 24, 1769.

The town served as the capital of the province of Las Californias from its founding until the capital was moved to Monterey on February 3, 1777.

In 1768, the province had been split into Alta California (today’s U.S. state of California) and Baja California. At first, the two provinces continued with a single governor. Later, the town became the headquarters for the Lieutenant Governor of California Viejo (the province of Baja California).

There are seven buildings in Loreto from the 18th to the 20th century that are considered historical monuments by the federal government; the most important is:

The Mission of our Lady of Loreto, which is at the start of El Camino Real (“The Royal Road”).

Historic corridor that follows north along the ancient route of the Spanish missions, to its ending in Sonoma, California, USA.

In the neighboring town of San Javier are five historical buildings, most important of them are:

Mission of Saint Francis Xavier (Misión de San Francisco Javier), the best preserved mission in the peninsula.

The ruins of Mission of San Bruno, the first mission of Baja California, founded in 1683 by Jesuit missionary explorer Padre Eusebio Kino. It was ordered abandoned by the Spanish Crown a mere two years later. It is located twenty kilometers north of Loreto.

The Jesuit Missions Museum (Museo de las Misiones Jesuíticas) is located beside the Mission of our Lady of Loreto. It has a collection of religious art, weapons and tools from the 17th and 18th centuries that were used in the Spanish missions in Baja California.

In the “La Giganta” Mountain Range (“Sierra de la Giganta”), there are cave paintings in canyons and rock shelters. The nearest sites to Loreto are “Cuevas Pintas” (15 km to the west) and “La Pingüica” (60 km to the North).

The cave paintings from the indigenous groups of Baja California are world-famous and some of them have been added to UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites.

Fishing

Loreto has a reputation as an excellent sport fishing location. This is its main tourist attraction, as well as the main source of employment in the area, thus linking Loreto’s economy closely to fishing.

There are two well-defined fishing seasons:

• summer features “dorado” and species like marlin (black marlin, Atlantic blue marlin, striped marlin) and sailfish, which are ideal for fly fishing
• winter fishing features “yellow tail” (jurel) and other species that usually are deep in the sea rocks

In addition to these seasonal species, Loreto’s waters are home to other species like snapper and seabass, which are found all year long.

Thanks to this abundance, Loreto has been home of several IGFA records. The two “foundations” of Loreto’s sport fishing are the “dorado” and the “yellow tail” (Seriola lalandi dorsalis).

The dorado is the emblematic species of Loreto’s warm waters, its season beginning in late May, peaking from July to September, and ending in November, with two important tournaments, in July and September.

The yellow tail is one of the strongest species; its season begins in November, peaks from March to April, and comes to an end in late May.

• Fiestas de la Virgen de Loreto. The Our Lady of Loreto Festivities are celebrated on September 8. It’s a series of religious, civic and cultural events.
• Fiestas de la Fundación de Loreto. The foundation of the city is celebrated from October 19 to 25. It’s one of the most important cultural events in the state.
• Fiestas de San Javier. The festivities from December 1 to 3 are in honor of Saint Francis Xavier, patron saint from the neighbor town of San Javier. These festivities attract a lot of pilgrims from the peninsula.
• Loreto 400. An off-road racing event that takes place in September. The course is a classic desert offroad race which route includes Comondú, San Javier and the old towns of La Giganta mountain range.
• Loreto 300 milles. Off-road racing event. December.
• Torneo de las Mision Fishing Charity Tournament that started in 1993. The 2007 edition will be July 12–14.
• Loreto Dorado International Fishing Tournament. Takes place in July.
• Copa Dorado Tournament. State tournament in September.
• Governor’s Cup Fishing Tournament. May

The city is served by Loreto International Airport, offering domestic flights on carriers Aeromexico, AeroCalafia, and Aeroservicio Guerrero.

It is also one of the few places to get aviation fuel in the Baja area. International service is currently provided by Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air to Los Angeles.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information to the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

National Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

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Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700

La Paz has a desert climate. The climate of La Paz is typically dry, warm, and sunny with a year-round average of between 24 and 33 °C. Summer months (July–September) are typically between 34 and 36 °C and can be humid.

The winter months (December–February) are the coldest with temperatures dropping below 15 °C at night, but most maxima are from 20 to 25 °C. Breezes from Bahía de La Paz moderate the temperature.

The bay also acts as a barrier against seasonal storms in the Gulf of California.

Rainfall is minimal at most times of year, although erratic downpours can bring heavy rains. Rain tends to be concentrated in a short, slightly rainier season that peaks in August and September, following the pattern of the North American Monsoon.

The driest season, where it is common to have no rain, occurs from March through June. La Paz averages over 300 days of sunshine annually and it’s known to be very hot in the summer.

During the summer the cooling Coromuel winds, a weather phenomenon unique to the La Paz area, blow during the night from the Pacific over the Peninsula and into the Bay of La Paz.

As with most of the Gulf of California, the temperature of the water changes substantially over the course of the year, with temperatures around 68 °F during winter and around 85 °F during summer.

The guaycuras were the first inhabitants of the peninsula and named this place as Airapí.

On May 3, 1535, Hernán Cortés arrived in the bay by La Paz and named it “Santa Cruz”; he attempted to start a colony but abandoned his efforts after several years due to logistical problems.

In 1596 Sebastián Vizcaíno arrived, giving the area its modern name, La Paz.

Pre-Columbian history

Fourteen thousand years ago the first nomadic human groups arrived on the peninsula from the Pacific Ocean coasts.

There were three well-defined tribal groups in the pre-Hispanic era: the Pericúes, guaycuras and cochimíes.

The Pericues inhabited the southern part of the peninsula and extended north, from Cabo San Lucas to the middle of the peninsula, the Guaycuras inhabited the middle and the Cochimies in the far north.

In the vicinity of the current city of La Paz have been discovered indications of pre-Hispanic burials, which shed light on the funeral customs of the Pericues. In that sense, El Conchalito is a site of great archaeological importance.

First discovery of Baja California

In 1533 Hernán Cortés sent an expedition of two ships: “Concepcion” and “San Lazaro”.

This expedition had to explore the South Sea (Pacific Ocean). The Concepción ship was commanded by the captain and commander of the Diego de Becerra. The other ship was under the command of Captain Hernando de Grijalva.

On October 30, 1533, the expedition sailed from the port which today is known as Manzanillo (State of Colima). By December 20 the two ships had separated. The ship “San Lazaro” had advanced and waited in vain for the ship “Concepcion” for three days. Then having no sign from the companion ship, “San Lazaro” began to explore the Pacific Ocean and discovered the Revillagigedo Islands.

Onboard the “Concepcion” everything was different. The navigator and second in command Fortún Jiménez murdered Captain Diego de Becerra while he was sleeping. The loyal part of the crew was assaulted. Later, Fortun Jimenez left them on the coasts of Michoacán.

Fortún Jiménez sailed northwest following the coast and at some point turned west and reached a peaceful bay. Today it is known that he arrived at the city and port of La Paz, though he thought he had arrived on an island. He never knew he had arrived at a peninsula that would eventually be called the Baja California peninsula. There he met natives who spoke a language unknown to him and who also walked half-naked. They were very different from the natives of the Mexican highlands who had their own culture.

The crew members who accompanied him saw half-naked women. Having a long period of involuntary celibacy led them to take the women by force. The crew had realized that natives extracted pearls from the shells of mollusks that were abundant in the bay. So they dedicated themselves to looting the place and abusing the women. It is necessary to highlight that Fortún Jiménez and his companions did not give any name to any of the places they found.

The abuse of the women by the crew together with the looting to which they dedicated themselves to provoked a violent confrontation with the natives that ended in the death of Fortún Jiménez and some of his companions. The survivors left and they sailed erratically for several days until they reached the coasts of the present state of Jalisco. They ran into the subalterns of Nuño de Guzmán who seized the ship and took them prisoners.

Hernán Cortés “discovers” California and founds the town of Santa Cruz

After having sponsored two exploration trips in the South Sea (Pacific Ocean) and without having obtained results, Hernán Cortés decided to head the third exploration trip.

Nuño de Guzmán had seized a ship during the first expedition which Cortés had already paid for. In addition, Nuño de Guzmán seized the ship Concepcion that Cortés had sent on the second voyage of exploration of the South Sea which annoyed him greatly. He decided to confront Nuño de Guzmán on his own land. He started mounting the third expedition by preparing a large number of troops on foot and horseback to march on the province of New Galicia of which Nuño de Guzmán was governor.

On September 4, 1534, Don Antonio de Mendoza who was the Viceroy of New Spain warned Hernán Cortés not to confront whoever had requisitioned his ships. Hernán Cortés refused this order by alleging that he had spent more than 100,000 Castilians in gold and was also designated by his Majesty the King of Spain Felipe II to conquer and discover new territories.

The confrontation between Cortés and Nuño de Guzmán did not occur mostly because Nuño de Guzmán feared Hernán Cortés.

In Chametla (Sinaloa) Cortes boarded ships “Santa Águeda” and “San Lázaro”. All 113 laborers and 40 horse riders boarded and 60 horse riders more were left to wait. After boarding, Cortés along with his expedition took a course to the northwest.

On May 3, 1535, Cortes arrived at the bay that was named Bahia de la Santa Cruz. This was the place where it was confirmed that the death of his subordinate Fortún Jiménez happened at the hands of the natives. Cortes had taken possession of the Bay of Santa Cruz. He decided to establish a colony and ordered to bring back the soldiers and supplies he left in Sinaloa.

Bad weather did not help him though. The ships were lost and only one of them returned to the bay of the Santa Cruz carrying a load of fifty fanegas of corn which was insufficient to feed the expedition. Cortés went out in search of food but what he found was insufficient. He decided to return to New Spain with the intention of providing the new colony from there.

Cortes left the town of Santa Cruz under Francisco de Ulloa’s control. However, the complaints of the relatives of those who had remained in the peninsula made the viceroy Don Antonio de Mendoza order the abandonment of the Santa Cruz and all settlers returned to New Spain.

17-19 century

In 1596 Sebastián Vizcaíno arrived here, giving the area its modern name, La Paz.

In 1616 the Dutch pirates, nicknamed “Los Pichilingues”, anchored their ships, “Gran Sol” and “Luna Llena”, in a bay near La Paz that is now named after them and is the commercial port for the city and most of the southern peninsula.

In 1683 Admiral Isidro de Atondo y Antillón took possession of the port settlement and on behalf of Carlos II of Spain, designates it as Puerto de Nuestra Señora de La Paz.

In 1720 the Mission of La Paz was founded by the Jesuit fathers Juan de Ugarte and Jaime Bravo.

The capital of the Californias was transferred to La Paz in 1830. The settlement was re-established several years later and renamed La Paz.

William Walker’s Republic of Sonora

On October 15, 1853, William Walker set out with 45 men to invade and conquer the Mexican territories of Baja California and Sonora. He succeeded in capturing La Paz, the capital of sparsely populated Baja California, and declared a Republic of Baja California, with himself as president and his partner, Watkins, as vice president. He then put the region under the laws of the American state of Louisiana, where slavery remained legal in 1854. He declared independence from Mexico on January 10, 1854.

Fearful of attacks by Mexico, Walker moved his position twice over the next three months, first to Cabo San Lucas, and then further north to Ensenada to maintain a more secure position of operations. He never gained control of Sonora but three months later, he pronounced Baja California part of a larger Republic of Sonora.

A serious lack of supplies, discontent within his party, and an unexpectedly strong resistance by the Mexican government quickly forced Walker to retreat. William Walker’s Republic of Sonora left his existence on May 8, 1854.

The original capital of the territory was Loreto, which was founded 162 years later and continuously inhabited. Through the years that followed the La Paz settlement was abandon a couple more times for disease, lack of water and famine. So there is some contention as to which is the oldest city on the peninsula.

Espiritu Santo island (Biosphere Reserve)

Isla Espíritu Santo (“Holy Spirit”) is an island in the Gulf of California, off the Mexican state of Baja California Sur. It is separated from Isla Partida by a narrow canal. It has a land area of 80.763 square km, the 12th-largest island in Mexico.

Isla Partida’s land area is 15.495 square km. Both islands are a short boat trip from La Paz.

The history of these places dates back to pre-Hispanic times, when the islands were occupied by indigenous groups of island pericues. Later, the Spaniards exploited the pearl deposits of the complex, the only resource of economic interest for the Spanish crown.

At first, they used the pericúes as labor, although later they rebelled and were definitively expelled from here.

The area is protected as part of the Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna – Islas del Golfo de California and is an important eco-tourism destination.

Both islands together cover an approximate area of 100 square km. The French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau called it “The Aquarium of the World”.

It was declared a natural and protected area in 1978 and later in 1995 was declared by UNESCO as part of a Biosphere Reserve. Espíritu Santo is the only known habitat of the black jackrabbit.

The islands are both uninhabited. Ensenada Grande beach, on Isla Partida, was voted the most beautiful beach in Mexico and one of the top 12 beaches in the world. Sea kayaking is a popular activity around the island.

The surrounding reefs are home to parrotfish, angelfish, trumpetfish, Moorish idols, and rainbow wrasse, while many other species pass nearby including sharks, rays, turtles, dolphins, and even whales.

Birds include brown pelicans, great blue herons, snowy egrets, turkey vultures, and hummingbirds. A large sea lion colony resides on Los Islotes, off the north tip of the islands; snorkeling with the females and young is a highlight of many tours.

Eco-tourism is by far the most important source of tourism income in La Paz as people come to enjoy its marine wonders, as well as its diverse and often unique terrestrial species endemic to the region. Tourists also visit the city’s balnearios. There are some 900 islands and inlets in the Gulf of California with 244 now under UNESCO protection as World Heritage Bio-Reserves and the Isla Espíritu Santo group, which borders the northeast portion of the Bay of La Paz and are considered the crown jewels of the islands of the Gulf (also referred to as the Sea of Cortez/Mar de Cortes), the primary tourist destination of the area. Its diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are considered world-class.

La Paz is also favored by water enthusiasts for its marinas, boat yards, marine supply stores, and cruiser club activities. The surrounding waters provide adventure for experienced boat captains and their customers. Novice captains enjoy the nearby island coves for day and overnight trips. A wealth of experienced sailors and boaters willing to share their expertise are readily available.

La Paz is served by Manuel Márquez de León International Airport with flights to the most important cities of Mexico: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. Airlines flying into La Paz include Aeroméxico Connect, Volaris, and VivaAerobus.

Two ferry services operate from the port of Pichilingue outside the city, connecting the Baja California peninsula to the mainland at Mazatlán and Topolobampo, near Los Mochis.

Roads

Running along the coast in front of La Paz is a 5 km long Malecon Road.

The main purpose of this road is to allow easy movement across the city. However, it quickly became the focal point of tourist-related activities with a large number of bars, restaurants, and shops opening along its length.

Since 2004 extensive development has taken place which includes a large sidewalk that offers safety for large numbers of people to walk along the coastal front of La Paz.

In September 2011, a bicycle lane was added to the Malecon road, providing cyclists protection from cars and pedestrians.

La Paz is served mainly by two highways; Mexican Federal Highway 1 which links the south of the state from Cabo San Lucas to the north of the peninsula to Tijuana, and Mexican Federal Highway 19, which connects La Paz with other South Pacific towns. It is also served by two secondary roads, the Los Planes highway (286) that connects La Paz with towns such as La Ventana, Ensenada de los Muertos and Los Planes.

The other is the Pichilingue highway which links La Paz with its maritime port.

John Steinbeck visited La Paz in 1940. He describes the town in his 1947 novel The Pearl and mentions it extensively in his 1951 travelogue The Log from the Sea of Cortez.

The city is also the setting of the 1967 Scott O’Dell children’s novel The Black Pearl, chosen as a Newbery Honor Book in 1968, where La Paz is the home of the main character.