LORETO
Where the Baja Peninsula Begins
A magic town rich in history, nature,
and sustainability
Loreto is a tranquil town located at the edge of the Sea of Cortez, marking the starting point of the majestic Baja California Peninsula. Unlike the bustling resort cities of Los Cabos and La Paz, Loreto offers a peaceful refuge for visitors and wildlife alike, embraced by the imposing Sierra de la Giganta mountains on one side and the shimmering sea on the other.
Founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, Loreto is historically significant as the first capital of the Californias and home to the Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó—the first of many missions in the region. The mission still watches over the town, serving as a picturesque reminder of its colonial past.
Loreto’s natural beauty is matched by its dedication to preserving it. The town is one of only two "Pueblos Mágicos" in Baja California, an official recognition given to places of exceptional cultural and natural value in Mexico. More importantly, Loreto has earned the Silver EarthCheck certificate, confirming its status as a sustainable and eco-friendly community and tourism destination. This certification reflects decades of commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable development, and responsible tourism practices.
The nearby Sierra de la Giganta (“Range of the Giant”) provides a dramatic and rugged backdrop, with towering peaks, red and green canyons, waterfalls, and palm oases. The area is steeped in history, from the ancient rock paintings of the indigenous Pericú people to the historic Misión de San Javier nestled in a mountain valley.
Nature’s Majesty: Between the Sea and the Sierra
The Sierra de la Giganta: The Spine of the Baja Peninsula
The surrounding Loreto Bay National Marine Park is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring five protected islands celebrated for their rich biodiversity and ecological importance. The park is among Mexico’s largest marine reserves, offering visitors access to pristine islands that are just a short boat ride away, making exploration convenient and immersive.
Loreto not only thrives on its natural wonders but also showcases a vibrant cultural life, hosting marathons, fishing tournaments, and food festivals that celebrate the local heritage.
Epicenter of Biodiversity and Pristine Wilderness
Exploring beyond Loreto brings you to enchanting coastal bays like Concepción and charming villages such as Mulegé, where desert landscapes meet the sea in spectacular fashion.
Loreto is much more than a destination, it’s a vibrant community where history, nature, and sustainability converge. Visitors here join a movement toward regenerative tourism, actively contributing to ecosystem restoration, community empowerment, and cultural preservation.
When you visit Loreto, you become part of a place committed to protecting its treasures for generations to come.