LORETO

A must-go destination where you can visit the ancient missions, enjoy the spectacular beaches and islands, and go looking for the blue whale.

Loreto, one of the Magical Towns of Baja California Sur, offers a large variety of natural attractions and the possibility to practice many activities, from visiting the ancient missions, and enjoying spectacular beaches and admiring breathtaking volcanic islands, to journeys by boat looking for the majestic blue whale during winter.

When first founded, Loreto became the capital city of las Californias and it was here where the first mission was built. Nuestra Señora de Loreto Concho is an architectural jewel that still has its original altarpiece, some Jesuit paintings, amongst other relics.

Inside the marine national park, Parque Nacional de Bahia de Loreto, declared World Heritage by UNESCO and a natural protected area, there are several islands that form the perfect refuge for migratory birds, marine and land wildlife. During winter the blue whale, the largest mammal on earth, comes to this sanctuary to enjoy the warmer calm waters.

Loreto, one of the Magical Towns of Baja California Sur, offers a large variety of natural attractions and the possibility to practice many activities, from visiting the ancient missions, and enjoying spectacular beaches and admiring breathtaking volcanic islands, to journeys by boat looking for the majestic blue whale during winter.

When first founded, Loreto became the capital city of las Californias and it was here where the first mission was built. Nuestra Señora de Loreto Concho is an architectural jewel that still has its original altarpiece, some Jesuit paintings, amongst other relics.

Inside the marine national park, Parque Nacional de Bahia de Loreto, declared World Heritage by UNESCO and a natural protected area, there are several islands that form the perfect refuge for migratory birds, marine and land wildlife. During winter the blue whale, the largest mammal on earth, comes to this sanctuary to enjoy the warmer calm waters.

Very close to Loreto, hidden in the middle of the mountain range, there is the community of San Javier, home of a beautiful mission of great importance for the history of this region.

Each year, from December 1st to the 3rd, Loreto and nearby villages organize a number of festivities to celebrate Saint Francisco Javier, patron saint of the San Francisco Javier de Viggé Biaundón mission. These celebrations are known as the San Javier festivities and pilgrims gather here to renew their faith and participate in cultural and religious activities like the 32 km horseback ride that goes from San Telmo´s bridge up to the community of San Javier; or the pilgrimage to the 200 year old chapel inside the ranch Las Parras.

San Cosme and Agua Verde, two villages located sixty kilometers south of Loreto City, by the sea attract visitors who can do several activities like horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, camping and “glamping” (in a picturesque refurbished bus), boat tours to the nearby islands and visit to the hot springs.

Loreto is a destination of easy access since it has its own airport, International Airport of Loreto.