Once the capital of the Province of the Californias, Loreto is a lively city on the east coast of Baja California. It was chosen as the first Spanish colonial settlement on the peninsula due to its abundance of fresh water and was the departure point for Gaspar de Portola’s 1769 expedition to explore what is now Alta California.
Things to do in Loreto
Don’t miss the Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto, which was founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries. It was established on the Native American settlement of Concho and served as a base for the expansion of missions throughout Baja Peninsula. Admire the Baroque-style church with its Viceregal-era paintings, then learn about the settlement of the region at the Museo de las Misiones.
Rising behind Loreto are the rugged peaks of the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range, which can be explored along a network of hiking trails. You can soak up the sweeping views from the rim of Canyon Mezquite and go birdwatching in Las Parras Canyon while seeing some of the prehistoric cave paintings that dot the area.
Protecting the wildlife-filled waters of the Sea of Cortez is Bahía de Loreto National Park, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features pristine beaches, dramatic sea cliffs and submarine canyons that provide a habitat for dolphins, whales and seabirds. Jump aboard a boat cruise to spot reptiles on Isla Coronados or observe blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds on Isla del Carmen.
Getting around Loreto
Loreto International Airport is around 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre and has seasonal flights to destinations across North America. Buses connect to Loreto from towns and cities throughout Baja California while the city centre is compact enough to explore on foot.