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San Francisco de la Sierra

San Francisco de la Sierra

Hidden within the rugged mountains of northern Baja California Sur, San Francisco de la Sierra is the gateway to one of the world's most extraordinary collections of prehistoric rock art. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sierra de San Francisco shelters hundreds of cave paintings created thousands of years ago by the region's earliest inhabitants. Visitors come to experience this remarkable cultural legacy while discovering dramatic desert landscapes, traditional ranching communities, and some of Mexico's darkest night skies.

Location

Sierra de San Francisco, Mulegé Municipality, Baja California Sur.

Municipality

Mulegé Municipality

Communities:

  • San Francisco de la Sierra

Activities

  • Explore the Sierra de San Francisco Rock Paintings (It is necessary to purchase a wristband to access this UNESCO World Heritage Site.)
  • Guided mule expeditions
  • Hiking
  • Cultural heritage tours
  • Nature photography
  • Birdwatching
  • Experience Baja's ranch culture
  • Camping
  • Stargazing

Travel time

  • San Ignacio to San Francisco de la Sierra: approximately 2 hr
  • Guerrero Negro to San Francisco de la Sierra: approximately 2 hr 30 min
  • Santa Rosalía to San Francisco de la Sierra: approximately 3 hr
  • Loreto to San Francisco de la Sierra: approximately 5 hr 45 min

How to get there

By Land

Drive along Federal Highway 1 to San Ignacio, continue north on the highway for approximately 50 km, then turn onto the access road to San Francisco de la Sierra. The route combines paved and unpaved sections through the mountains. Access to the rock art sites requires authorized local guides and, for most cave painting shelters, travel by mule or on foot.

By Air

Fly into Loreto, then continue by rental car or private transportation.

Flights / Nearest airports

Primary Gateway

Loreto International Airport (LTO)

Approximately 5 hr 45 min from San Francisco de la Sierra.

Offers domestic flights and seasonal international service from the United States and Canada.

Alternative Gateway

Manuel Márquez de León International Airport (LAP) – La Paz

Approximately 2 hr 30 min from San Francisco de la Sierra.

Offers domestic and regional air service.

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