MEXICO: Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is proud of their Arch, known locally as El Arco.

It is a natural rock formation that marks the confluence of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez (AKA the Gulf of California).

The arch was naturally carved over millions of years by wind and the constant pounding of the waves against the rock. 

MEXICO: Baja California Sur

We were staying at the tip of Baja California Sur just outside of Cabos San Lucas. 

We decided to do some exploring.

We thought it would be pretty to drive up the east side of the peninsula, which is along the Gulf of California. 

We chose a route that had a busy day for traffic. 

MEXICO: Day of the Dead Celebrations in San Jose del Cabo

Dia De Los Muertos, Day of the Dead, is a celebration of life and remembrance.

Families honour the memory of deceased relatives.

People pray for their departed loved ones and reflect on their lives, tell jokes and share memories. 

Day of the Dead blends ancient indigenous beliefs with Catholic practices. 

It happens during the beginning of the Catholic holy season of the All Saints’ Day (November 1). 

Day of the Dead is an essential part of Mexican culture. 

We were in San José del Cabo, near the southern tip of Baja California Sur, Mexico, for Day of the Dead celebrations.

MEXICO: Stunning Natural Beauty in the Loreto area in Baja California Sur

 

If I had a dollar for every time I commented on how gorgeous it is here, I'd have a LOT of money!

The natural beauty is stunning.

Mountains.

Desert.

Water.

Sun.

Blue skies.

It is beautiful.

MEXICO: Ancient Rock Art in Baja California Sur from 7,000 Years Ago

In the mountains and caves around the town of Loreto are paintings from centuries ago. 

Carbon dating on some of these paintings indicate that they were created by indigenous civilizations in the Baja California Peninsula of Mexico up to 7,000 years ago. 

The Baja murals represent one of the largest concentrations of rock art in the Americas. Some are the oldest and largest panels of rock art in the world. 

UNESCO has declared the caves World Heritage Sites. 

MEXICO: A 300 Year Old Mission Tucked in the Baja Peninsula Mountains

At one time there were 17 missions in Baja California. 

About an hour west of Loreto by car is the St Javier Mission. 

It was founded by the Jesuits of the Roman Catholic church in 1699. 

The missionary's objective was to convert the local Cochimi to Christianity. 

MEXICO: Loreto in the Baja California Peninsula

Loreto is a small town in western Mexico. 

It is on the east side of the Baja California Peninsula. 

It was founded on October 25th, 1697 by Jesuit Missionaries when they discovered a steady stream of fresh water in the area. 

In the town centre is the Mission de Nuestra Senora de Loreto, a 17th century church. 

MEXICO: Sunrise in Loreta Bay on the Baja Peninsula

I am not really an early riser. 

Which is probably an understatement. (I suppose John would be the best judge of that.)

Generally I prefer to start the day after the sun rises.

But I will also say, when I do not push the snooze button on an early alarm and I get out of bed to see the sun rise, I do really enjoy it.