From the late 17th century through the 19th century, Jesuit, Franciscan, and Dominican missionaries founded numerous missions throughout California. These missions were one of the main institutions used by the Spanish crown to colonize frontier territories where its influence was not yet firmly established.
The Royal Mission Trail of the Californias (Camino Real Misionero) connected all the missions along the peninsula heading north. In some stretches, it was a wide path across the rocky desert; in others, barely a faint and nearly invisible trail.
This historic route covered an extensive network of religious settlements and native rancherías inhabited by Indigenous Californians who lived by hunting, fishing, and gathering—and who did not always welcome the message brought by European missionaries.
On this journey, we will take you to explore several of these historic missions, as well as remarkable sets of prehistoric rock paintings created by ancient native Californians—an experience that will captivate you from the very first day.
Reception and welcome, transfer to Ensenada, with the option of stopping in Puerto Nuevo to enjoy a delicious lobster on the seashore (not included). Accommodation in Ensenada.
Tour of the Wine Route in Valle de Guadalupe, where you will enjoy tours of facilities to see the winemaking process and a tasting. You will also have the opportunity to sample the exquisite cuisine of Baja (lunch not included). Lodging
Ensenada – Cataviña – Bahía de los Ángeles: At the indicated time, transfer to the town of San Vicente Ferrer, visit to the mission (as long as access allows), continuation through San Quintín and El Rosario, to finally arrive at Cataviña, where we will take a short walk through cave paintings and admire giant cardon cacti, continuation to the bay. Accommodation.
Bahía de los Ángeles – Guerrero Negro
At the designated time, we will travel through the landscapes of the Valley of the Cirios until we reach the Sea of Cortez.
There, we will enjoy a tour of some islands, with the possibility of observing whale sharks and dolphins, as well as snorkeling and swimming in its crystal-clear waters.
Afterward, we will continue to Guerrero Negro.
During gray whale season (January to March), we will have the opportunity to see this majestic mammal.
Outside of this season, you can enjoy a tour of the world's largest saltworks, or simply contemplate a beautiful sunset at the lighthouse and go birdwatching.
Overnight in Guerrero Negro.
In the morning, at the designated time, we will enjoy an extraordinary gray whale watching experience at Laguna Ojo de Liebre, the largest habitat of this majestic mammal (additional cost).
Later, we will continue to the Sierra de San Francisco to admire the impressive rock murals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afterward, we will continue our journey to San Ignacio, a true oasis in the desert surrounded by verdant palm trees.
We suggest strolling through its tranquil streets, enjoying a refreshing margarita by the reservoir, and visiting the San Ignacio Mission and Museum.
Overnight in San Ignacio
Ignacio.
San Ignacio – Mulegé – Loreto
At the appointed time, we will continue our adventure, traveling to Santa Rosalía, a picturesque town with a French-inspired style.
We will visit the Church of Santa Bárbara, designed by Mr. Eiffel, as well as the Mining Museum.
The route continues to Mulegé, where we will have the afternoon free to explore the town and visit the Mission of Santa Rosalía de Mulegé.
At the end of the day, we will arrive in Loreto.
Overnight in Loreto.
Visit the town center, home to the first mission in Baja California, the mother of all the missions. Afterward, take a tour to the Mission of San Javier in the Sierra de la Giganta mountains, where the first trees planted by the Spanish in these lands can be found. In the afternoon, we suggest enjoying the peaceful town, the boardwalk, or purchasing souvenirs, among other things.
San Ignacio – Mulegé – Loreto
At the appointed time, we will continue our adventure by traveling to Santa Rosalía, a picturesque town with French-style architecture.
We will visit the Church of Santa Bárbara, designed by Mr. Eiffel, and explore the local Mining Museum.
Afterward, we will head to Mulegé, where you will have the afternoon free to explore the town and visit the Santa Rosalía de Mulegé Mission.
Finally, we will arrive in Loreto.
Overnight in Loreto.
Visit the town center, home to the first mission in Baja California, the mother of all the missions. Later, take a tour to the San Javier Mission in the Sierra de la Giganta mountains, where the first trees planted by the Spanish in these lands can be found. In the afternoon, we suggest enjoying the peaceful town, the boardwalk, or purchasing souvenirs, among other things.
At the designated time, transfer to the airport. End of trip. Optional 1 or 2-day extension available at an additional cost.
Loreto – City of Origin
At the designated time, transfer to Loreto Airport.
End of trip.
Optional: For an additional cost, you can extend your stay by 1 or 2 days in La Paz.
Ensenada
Hotel Cortés ★★★★
Cataviña
Hotel Misión Cataviña ★★★★
Bahía de los Ángeles
Hotel Costa del Sol ★★★ o Villa Vita ★★★
San Ignacio
Hotel La Huerta ★★★★
Loreto
Hotel Loreto Inn ★★★★ (con playa)
Suites Santa Fe ★★★★ (sin playa)
La Paz
Hotel Araiza ★★★★
Hotel Catedral ★★★★
Climate: Extreme; very hot during the day and cold at night.
Terrain: Rocky ground with uneven levels; comfortable high-ankle footwear is recommended for walking.
Backpack: Lightweight, to carry beverages and food during the day’s excursions.
Environmental awareness: Maintain care for the ecosystem and respect nature.
Clothing:
Light and comfortable clothing (shorts) for sunny days.
Swimsuits for water activities.
Formal clothing to enjoy a good lunch or dinner.
Coat or jacket for the night.
Equipment: Photo and/or video camera with protective case.
Approximate daily duration: 8 to 10 hours, including visits and breaks.
January to March: Gray whale and blue whale.
July to October: Whale shark.
October: Moons.
January to March: Snowfall in San Pedro Mártir.
December to March: Rainy season.
Airfare or bus ticket to the tour’s starting city, accommodation, breakfasts, transfers, or any other option from our offer. *Check out our best fare options.
