One of the must-sees on a visit to Baja California in Mexico are the cave paintings, some dating back to 7,000 years ago. While many are hidden in difficult terrain, others are more easily accessible. With a home base in Loreto, dozens of archeological sites can be visited, including Rancho San Gregorio, Cueva La Palma, Cueva El Borrego, plus Cueva Pintada (Gardener Cave), Cueva de las Flechas, and more in Santa Teresa canyon.
An easy stop from Loreto is the La Pinguica Mountain Range, which contain many cave paintings that are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. Even closer, albeit much more simplistic stylistically, are cave paintings just off the road from Loreto to San Javier by the Cochimí people, who were native, nomadic people.
Where to Stay: Thankfully, the Loreto area is not overrun with resorts and hotels (hopefully it stays that way) and there’s a nice range of places to stay, depending on your budget and preferences. One of the latest is the all-inclusive Villa del Palmar Loreto which faces the incredible Bay of California and Loreto Bay National Park. Its targeted towards tasteful travelers, so you won’t see Spring Breakers or screaming children here. Get in touch with the author @untappedmich. Also read about the first Spanish missions in the Americas, right in Baja California.
Michelle is the founder of Untapped New York and the author of The Art Spy (HarperOne, forthcoming) Secret Brooklyn, Secret New York Hidden Bars & Restaurants, and Broadway. michelleyoungwriter.com
