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Baja
and Loreto
Mexico's Baja California peninsula,
a mountainous 1000 mile long finger of land,
separates the Sea of Cortez from the Pacific
Ocean. In the Loreto area the central desert
ridges and canyons boast the richest variety
of plants and animals on the peninsula, while
its islands, shores and reefs teem with life.
The diversity and isolation of its desert landscape,
situated on a calm tropical sea offer the perfect
environment for relaxing and exploring.
Loreto Baja is the ideal destination for outdoor
enthusiasts. The tranquil town, located on the
lower part of the eastern gulf coastline is
long noted for its spectacular scenery, historical
sites, and beautiful bay. It is also host to
the center for a protected national marine park.
With the Gulf of California eastward, and the
Sierra Giganta west, Loreto is the perfect jumping
off point for a great wilderness adventure.
The islands, shores and reefs of the Sea of
Cortez are rich with life. On one island over
100 species of plants and 16 species of birds
can be seen. Fish and marine mammals are a thrill
to encounter as we snorkel, or sight whales
and dolphins.
The Sierra de la Giganta, the desert mountains
in Loreto's backyard, are spectacular with their
red rock ridges, cactus garden valleys and palm-lined
oases. In addition to the ranch animals ranging
free throughout the high-country, jackrabbits,
fox, coyote and hawks are often sighted. After
seasonal rains have soaked in, the desert comes
alive with the brilliant colors of leafing
scrub and mesquite trees; yellow flowered Brittlebush,
bright red trumpets on the Palo Adán,
and the crepe-like white petals of Prickly Poppies.
The real treasures of the Sierra though, are
the wonderful people to meet at traditional
ranches and villages along the original trails
of 'El Camino Real'.
From the idyllic coastline on the Sea of Cortez,
to the craggy volcanic peaks of the Sierra de
la Giganta, Baja California is a natural paradise
for adventure travelers.
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