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Mulege Mexico: Your Complete Guide to Baja California Hidden Gem (2024)

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Mulege Mexico is a desert oasis at the mouth of the Río de Santa Rosalía and is one of the most affordable places in Baja California . While this hamlet is well off the beaten path , there are enough things to do to keep you busy from visiting the historic mission to hiking in the mountains.

Pronounced “Moo-La-Hey,” this town is one of the best places Mexico to travel alone – as long as you have a rental car to get around the area. It’s a quiet place that’s very safe for travelers and boasts some of the best beaches in Mexico along Bahia Concepcion. But unlike other popular beaches in Baja California, Mulege beaches are less crowded and are more popular with RV’ers and campers. 

In recent years, Mulege also has become one of the most popular places to retire in Baja California thanks to its low cost of living and a relaxed pace of life. The town has a small community of North American expats who calls this place home.

Whether you are just passing by or want to spend a few days in Mulege and visit Bahía Concepción beaches, this article will help you make the most out of your trip. I loved Mulege and ended up staying there a couple of days on both of my visits, which allowed me to enjoy the area and learn new things about Baja’s history.

Where is Mulege located?

Mulege is located in the Baja California Peninsula in the Bahia de Concepcion. Mulege is 455 miles north of Cabo San Lucas, 603 miles south of Tijuana, 72 miles from Loreto , and 38 miles south of Santa Rosalia. 

✅ Learn: I s Baja California in the US or Mexico ?

MULEGE MEXICO MAP

Best things to do in Mulege, Mexico

1. Check out Mulege beaches

While Mulege doesn’t offer much culture, it makes up for it with some of the best beaches in Mexico .

Located along the Bahia Concepcion, Mulege beaches are sheltered from the waves and boast stunning cobalt-blue waters in the middle and shallow turquoise bays closer to the coastline. Mulege beaches are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. 

Many Mulege beaches have camping facilities, small stores, and pop-up restaurants. It’s a popular destination for RV’ers and campers and you can find many people staying around Mulege beaches for weeks. 

One of the best beaches in Mulege is Los Naranjos , a rustic beach that offers serene environemnt and cozy cabins facing the water. While Los Naranjos has limted amenities with electricity available only until 8 p.m., this place is a perfect getaway if you want to enjoy dark clear skies at night and relax in the nature.

✅ Read: How to visit La Bufadora – the tallest geyser in North America

Here’s a list of the best Mulege beaches: 

• Playa El Burro – one of my favorite beaches in Mulege, Playa El Burro has amazing turquoise water and plenty of camping sites. Here you can also take a boat tour or kayak.
• Playa Santispac – a perfect beach if you like water sports or want to hire a boat to explore the islands in the Bahia Concepcion. This is one of the most popular beaches in the area that boasts an amazing view of the Sea of Cortez from the Transpeninsular Highway 1 just above the beach. 
• Playa El Coyote – like most Mulege beaches, El Coyote offers free parking and restrooms, as well as access to camping, snorkeling, hiking, surfing, and swimming. You can also buy a snack from one of the vendors on this beach
• Playa Requesón – a hidden gem of Mulege, Playa Requesón has calm shallow waters and faces a small island that can be reached by treading the waters. 
• Playa Los Naranjos – one of the less visited beaches near Mulege, Playa Los Naranjos has cabins and basic amenities giving it a more rugged feel
• Playa Los Cocos – a quiet beach with a bunch of huts where you can hide from the sun
• Playa Buenaventura – home to a small hotel, Playa Buenaventura is a good place to stay if you need a break from the road and are looking for a more quiet place. 

PRO TIP : If you are visiting Mulege beaches, bring plenty of water and snacks. Many stores and restaurants on these beaches have irregular hours, so you won’t be able to get food and water unless you go back to the town.

2. Check out Misión Santa Rosalia de Mulege

One of the most popular things to do in Mulege visiting Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, a mission that sits on the hil overlooking Rio Mulege.

The mission was founded by the Jesuit Juan Basaldúa in November of 1705, in the place that the Cochimíes, a native tribe called Mulegé, (Cañada de Boca Blanca in Spanish).

The mission was abandoned by 1828 and has been rebuilt several times since then.

3. Enjoy the viewpoint behind the mission 

Follow the trail behind the church and you will find one of the best views in Mulege, if not the entire Baja California (Mirador in Spanish). Here you can enjoy the panorama of the river with many palm trees that were planted by Spanish Jesuits. 

This is the place where Jesuits brought their horses and mules to feed them dates growing on palm trees and give them water from the river. The palm trees are not native to this area, but they make a beautiful contrast with the surrounding desert. 

4. Try windsurfing 

While the most famous place for win surfing in Baja California is La Ventana near La Paz, Mulege, and surrounding areas like Bahia Concepcion, Mulege offers perfect conditions for wind-surfing from November through March.

It’s particularly popular for newbie surfers and you can even rent wind-surfing equipment in local shops. 

5. Go whale watching in Bahia Magdalena

Every year, thousands of grey whales migrate to the warmer waters of Baja California from Alaska from January through March. Bahia Magdalena not far from Mulege is the top place for whale watching. 

If you want to stay closer to Mulege, Puerto López Mateos , San Carlos , and Punta Entrada Island are the most popular places for whale watching near Mulege.

Whether you go on a whale-watching tour with a small group or on an individual tour, remember to be respectful and keep your distance. Whales are gentle creatures but they could easily kill you with one move. 

Though these whales do not pay much attention to the tourists, there have been some dangerous mishaps also, when the whales were disturbed by the crowd.

But because the waters of San Carlos are deeper than the other areas, you can watch more whale acrobatics in this area.

6. Take a day trip to Guerrero Negro 

Guerrero Negro is the last town in Baja California Sur before the road takes you to Baja California. It is a small industrial town known for its salt flats and whale watching.

If you are visiting Mulege from December through April, stop in Guerrero Negro and go on a whale-watching tour with one of the local operators. 

Most tourism in Guerrero Negro revolves around whale watching, and you won’t find much else here during the off-season. If you are visiting outside of the whale watching season, you could just stop at salt flats to snap some photos before continuing your journey north. 

In case you are traveling from north to south, Guerrero Negro is a great spot to stop for the night after a lengthy drive through the desert. 

7. Explore Cave Paintings

As mentioned earlier, Canon La Trinidad is one of the best places near Mulege if you want to see the ancient wall art. Another place that is worth a stop is the caves in “Sierra de Guadalupe” near Mulege.

It’s one of the best things to do in Mulege which can give you an insight into the history and culture of this place.

The cave paintings at San Borjitas are also popular and are considered some of the best-preserved ancient wall art in the region. To visit these caves, you are required to have a guide.

8. Go kayaking 

Kayaking is one of the most popular things to do in Mulege because many beaches in the area offer shallow enough waters sheltered from the waves that are perfect for exploring them by kayak.

Many Mulege beaches have a kayak and paddle boat rentals, so make sure to bring enough cash with you, as credit cards are not always accepted. 

9. Take a drive to Mulege lighthouse 

Located about 3 km from the center, the Mulege lighthouse (El Faro de Mulege) overlooks calm shallow waters framed by the dark mountains. You can also take a drive here by following a road that goes from the center of Mulege along the river. 

The road also goes parallel to Malecón (waterfront), which is popular for jogging and riding a bike in the morning or evening when it’s not as hot as during the day. 

Unfortunately, the lighthouse is closed to visitors, and the entrance to the stairs is closed. But you can spend some time enjoying the view of the Sea of Cortez on the rocky beach.

10. Take a walk along Mulege River

After you visit the Mulege lighthouse, take a walk along the sidewalk that goes along the river. The sidewalk is just a quick drive from the ligthouse, and there are also a couple of restaurants along the way, including La Huerta, where you can enjoy a meal with a scenic view.

11. Visit Museo de Mulege 

Museo de Mulege (or Museum of Mulege) offers a good glimpse into the history of Mulege. This museum used to be a prison that housed criminals from across Baja California Sur. 

Prisoners were allowed to leave the place every day to visit their friends and families and do work as long as they returned by the end of each day. The prison had no bars, fences, or anything that was supposed to stop them from escaping. 

Back in the day, Mulege was an isolated town with the nearest community 100 miles away, so surviving in the harsh desert was a tough challenge. 

Although the museum doesn’t have any impressive historic artifacts, it is part of the Mulege history, and visiting it will give you some context of the area. 

Address : Cananea, 23900 Mulegé, Baja California Sur

12. Check out Mulege street art

When you walk around Mulege, you will find a couple of cool murals that are worth taking a quick shot. I spotted a some interesting wall art just a few blocks from the main square in Mulege.

13. Take a walk around Mulege

Mulege is a small but very photgenic town. Grab your camera and spend some time exploring its streets and corners full of charm and typipcal Baja architecture.

Mulege history 

The area is known today as Mulege and was inhabited by the Native Indians before the arrival of Spanish Jesuits in 1600. Unfortunately, there’s little historic data about them, as most of them had died from diseases brought from Europe. 

The biggest artifact remaining from them are the thousands-year-old pieces of wall rock art which are considered some of the oldest in North America. The most famous place where you can find these paintings is Canon La Trinidad , which can be visited on a day trip from Mulege.

What’s interesting is that the official name of the town, Heroica Mulegé takes its origin in the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848 when local people fought to keep the area under Mexico’s control. 

MULEGE RESTAURANTS

1. Los Equipales

Located just off the highway, Los Equipales is a traditional Mexican restaurant that serves some of the best food in Mulege. Here you can try classic staples like milanesa, tacos, and top-notch seafood. Visitors leave stellar reviews of Los Equipajes, praising its variety of food, friendly customer service, and big portions.

Address : Moctezuma 70, Centro, 23900 Heroica Mulegé, B.C.S., Mexico

2. Restaurant Bar El Candil

One of the most popular restaurants in Mulege, El Candil has plenty of options from pizzas and burgers to burritos. They also have vegetarian, gluten and dairy-free menu items. This place is popular with expats and it’s usually busy, so if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, make sure to stop here.

Address : Col. Centro , calle Ignacio Zaragoza, 23900 Heroica Mulegé, B.C.S., Mexico

3. Restaurant La Huerta

Part of Don Chano RV Park, Restaurant La Huerta is a hidden gem located by the river. While it’s slightly off the beaten path, don’t let it deter you: Not only does it have a great ambiance and an idyllic location in nature, but it also has phenomenal food options with freshly squeezed juices, fruits, tacos, pancakes, and other options that come in huge portions.

La Huerta is a pet-friendly restaurant, so you can come here with your pooch.

Address : Unnamed Road, Las Huertas, Heroica Mulegé, B.C.S., Mexico

4. Casa Mayoral Restaurant

If you are looking for delicious food and budget-friendly prices, don’t miss Casa Mayoral, where you can try delicious chilaquiles, burritos, papas rellenos, and classic burgers. Don’t forget to try their cucumber water and juices.

Address : Galván entre Zaragoza, Centro, 23900 Heroica Mulegé, B.C.S., Mexico

5. Restaurante Señor Geko’s

One of the best restaurants in Mulege, this place has it all: delicious food, reasonable prices, and friendly staff. Visitors leave stellar reviews for Señor Geko’s, and the restaurant has many loyal customers.

Whether you are stopping in Mulege quickly before hitting the road again or staying here for a couple of days, it’s a place where you can have a delicious homemade meal.

Address : Carretera Transpeninsular Km131 al Sur, 23900 Heroica Mulegé, B.C.S., Mexico

HOTELS IN Mulege MEXICO:

Mulege is a small town, but it has plenty of hotels and guest houses where you can rest before hitting the road again.

• Hotel Cuesta Real – Located in Mulege, this hotel has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, bike rentals and free Wi-Fi. Tours of the area can be arranged at property.
• Casa Concepcion – A perfect place for spending a night if you want to visit Bahia Concepcion, this small hotel offers free breakfast and is just over 1 mile from Playa Cocos.
• Casa El Pescador – Casa El Pescador is a vacation home that comes with amenities like a washing machine, a equipped kitchen and parking.

✅ FIND MORE HOTELS IN MULEGE

MULEGE CAMPING

Mulege is known for some of the best camping in Baja California. The beaches in Mulege have many incredible campsites where you can park your RV overnight and enjoy incredible dark skies full of stars. 

If you are looking for the best campsites in Mulege, here’s a quick list:

1. Huerta Don Chano RV Park

Located about 1 mile from the beach and 1 mile from downtown Mulege, Don Chano is a family-owned campground with a variety of sites some of which have full hook-ups and some offer only water and electricity.

It also has tent camping spots without any hook-ups. A small restaurant, library, and wi-fi are available on site. There’s also a nice hike at the back of the property. 

2. Villa Maria Isabel RV Par

Located right off the main highway, Villa Maria is a popular RV park south of Mulege with a rustic feel. It has plenty of space for RVs of all sizes, hot water, and showers. The property is also within walking distance from the beach. 

3. Playa La Perla 

La Perla is a great alternative to the crowded Playa Requeson where you can find dozens of RV’s on a single night, especially during the busy season.

It’s a quiet and clean beach along Bahia Concepcion that has palapas and some vendors who sell food and snacks throughout the day. It’s a primitive campground with no amenities. 

4. Playa El Burro 

Playa El Burro is an insanely gorgeous beach along Bahia Concepcion just off Federal Highway 1. It has clear turquoise waters and a row of waterfront bungalows.

Although there’s not a whole lot of space for camping, the main draw of this place is its scenery with incredibly clear water and plenty of marine life splashing around.

5. Playa Santispac 

Playa Santispac is one of the most popular beaches along Bahia de Concepcion. The beach is surrounded by several islands, and you can rent, kayak, or swim here.

How to get to Mulege?

The best way to get to Mulege is by driving. You can rent a car in bigger cities like Cabo San Lucas , Tijuana or La Paz. You can also take a bus to Mulege from many destinations around Baja.

How to get around Mulege

While Mulege is a small town, outside of the downtown, it’s not very walkable, and there’s no public transportation in the area. While you can find some taxis in Mulege, they aren’t the best for doing scenic drives and exploring the area.

In other words, if you are in Mulege without a car , you will be very limited when it comes to activities.

To explore the beaches along the Bahia Concepcion, check out hidden corners and have more freedom, you will need a car rental in Mulege .

Where to rent a car for my trip to Mulege?

Mulege doesn’t have car rentals, but you can rent one in Loreto, La Paz and Cabo San Lucas.

To find the right car for you trip, I recommend DiscoverCars , an online platform where you can browse from dozens of available vehicles of different makes and models.

You can also purchase your car insurance through DiscoverCars , which is mandatory for driving in Mexico. I always use this company to find rental cars in Mexico and other countries, and have had only positiive experience with them do far.

✅ RENT A CAR FOR YOUR TRIP TO MULEGE

Whether you are starting your Baja California road trip in Tijuana , Cabo San Lucas, or in other places, you will be able to find the right vehicle for your trip.

Do I need Mexican insurance for driving to Mulege?

If you plan to drive your own car to Mulege, you will need to get a Baja Bound Mexican Insurance , which is required for all vehicles. 

The most popular option with travelers is  Baja Bound Mexican Insurance , that offers in coverage for cars, RV’s, camper vans, boats and motorcycles for Baja California.

You can get a quote from them ahead of your trip online .

La Paz to Mulege

To get from La Paz to Mulege, take Federal Highway 1, also known as the Transpeninsular Highway which runs all the way from Cabo San Lucas to Tijuana. The drive from La Paz to Mulege takes about 6 hours, but you will likely want to stop to strecth your legs and do some sightseeing, plan more time on the road.

Some of the popular stops along the way include Mission San Javier, Loreto, and numerous beaches like Playa Santispac, Playa El Burro and Playa El Requeson.

If you have a 4X4 vehicle , consder a stop at the beautiful Agua Verde Bay.

If you have more time, spend a night in Loreto , before heading to Mulege.

Loreto to Mulege

The drive from Loreto to Mulege takes just under 2 hours along Baja’s Federal Highway 1. It’s one of the most scenic drives in Baja California with many gorgeous beaches along the Bahia de Concepcion. Be prepared to stop along the way to enjoy the incredible scenery.

✅ RENT A CAR FOR YOUR TRIP TO MULEGE .

Loreto to Mulege bus

If you are on a budget, you can take a bus from Loreto to Mulege with Aguila , the main bus company that serves Baja California. The bus station is just outside of Loreto, and you can catch a bus from Loreto to Mulege multiple times a day.

Tijuana to Mulege

It takes at least 12 hours to get from Tijuana to Mulege by car. As you drive south along Baja California Transpeninsular Highway, you will make multiple stops to do some sightseeing, rest and get food, so prepare to spend extra time on the road.

DRIVING DISTANCES TO MULEGE:

• Cabo San Lucas to Mulege – 641 km (400 miles) about 7 hours 50 minutes
• La Paz to Mulege – 489 km (303 miles) 6 hours
• Loreto to Mulege – 135 km (98 miles) 1 hour 50 minutes
• Tijuana to Mulege – 1034 km (642 miles) 12 hours

What’s the closest airport to Mulege?

The closest Airport to Mulege, Mexico is Loreto International Airport (LTO), which has flights from the United States, Canada and Mexico.

✅ CHECK FLIGHTS TO LORETO MEXICO

You can also fly into San Jose Del Cabo International Airport (code: SJD), the largest airport in Baja California about 8 hours and 20 minutes from Mulege by car. Cabo’s airport has dozens of daily flights to Mexico, Canada and the United States.

CAN I TAKE A BUS TO MULEGE MEXICO?

Yes, you can take a bus to Mulege from Loreto and other destinations in Baja California with Aguila , a company that serves many destinations in Baja California.

Weather in Mulege 

Mulege is located in the desert and it has a dry, sunny climate year-round. The average temperature in Mulege throughout the year is about 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celcius). While winters in Mulege tend to be pretty mild, summers can be brutally hot when temperatures frequently soar into triple digits. 

The best time to visit Mulege is from December through March, when temperatures are perfect for spending time outside. During these months, you can expect temperatures to be about around low 70’s degrees Fahrenheit. 

If you want to swim and enjoy Mulege beaches, visit from May when water is warmer and you can enjoy water sports like swimming and snorkeling in many beaches along Bahia Concepcion. 

While Mulege largely gets spared from Baja’s hurricane season, the area does see some rain from August through November, so if you plan to visit the area during these months, always check the forecast, as there could be some showers.

Mulege, Mexico: FAQ’s

What’s the best time to visit Mulege?

Mulege offers beautiful weather year-round, but something to keep in mind is the rainy season which lasts from late July through September and brings the most precipitation. May through the end of June sees the hottest weather and November and April are perfect shoulder months for visiting Mulege. 

What is the weather like in Mulege?

Just like the rest of the Baja California, Mulege has a dry arid climate with over 300 days of sunshine and low precipitation. But the climate here is slightly different because of the nearby mountain range. July and August are the hottest months in Mulege when it’s not uncommon to see the triple digits and January is the coldest month when the temperature drops to the ’60s.7 

Is Mulege safe to visit? 

Mulege is one of the safest places in Baja California away from big cities and major highways. It has a low crime rate, and most locals know each other. But petty crime can still occur, especially around campgrounds and public beaches.

Always watch your surroundings, lock your car or RV, and don’t leave any valuables in plain sight when parking your vehicle.

Is Mulege Mexico safe to live?

Mulege is one of the best places to live in Baja California because of its safety, good outdoor opportunities and low crime rate. If you are looking for a slow pace and quiet atmosphere in one of Baja’s most scenic destinations, Mulege is an excellent place to call home.

How many days to spend in Mulege? 

You can see most of Mulege’s highlights in just one day, since it’s a small town. If you want to camp on Mulege beaches and explore Bahia Concepcion, plan anywhere from 5 days to a week in Mulege. Many visitors camp here for weeks, because the area is just so gorgeous. 

Mulege Mexico: final word

Mulege was my last stop in Baja California Sur when I traveled around Baja California by car. While I didn’t have big expectations, the beauty of the area blew me away! I was surprised how few visitors knew about Mulege, as most people would spend their days in Cabo and only some of them would go to La Paz.

Mulege is a real hidden jewel of Baja California with some of the most incredible beaches I’ve seen in Mexico and relaxed small-town vibes. It’s a perfect spot if you need to disconnect for a couple of days and enjoy one of the most rugged parts of Baja California.

Baja California Travel Planner

Do I need a visa for Baja California?

If you are traveling to Baja California from the United States and Canada or Western Europe, you don’t need a visa. Click here to check Mexico visa requirements for your country. iVisa a website that can help you with a visa to Mexico .

Do I need a car in Baja California?

You need a rental car to see the best of Baja California, as most places aren’t accessible by public transportation. I recommend DiscoverCars for car rentals in Baja and other parts of Mexico. 

Click here to check prices on car rentals in popular detsinations in Baja

Do I need a travel insurance in Baja California?

Personal travel insurance in not required in Baja, but it’s a good idea to get one ahead of your trip. Travel Insurance Master will cover you in case of hospital visits, missed flights, lost or stolen belongings and other accidents that could happen on the road.

Do I need a car insurance to drive in Mexico?

A Mexico car insurance is required for ALL vehicles entering the country. Note that your US insurance will not be valid in Mexico. Baja Bound Mexican Insurance is a popular website to find insurance for your car, RV, boat, motorcycles and other types of transportation.

Where can I find the best Baja tours?

the best websites for finding tours all over Baja is Viator . Guided tours are usually available in bigger cities like Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, La Paz and Tijuana.

Where can I book flights to Baja?

Click here to find cheap airline tickets to Baja

Where do I find cheap hotels in Baja?

Booking.com is the best website to find hotels all over Baja, but you can also use Hostels.com to find hostels. VRBO.com is a perfect place to find apartments and home-style places to stay in Baja. 

Can I drink water in Baja California?

While major cities like Cabo and La Paz treat their water, it’s generally not advised to drink water in Baja California. Always carry your water bottle with you, or better yet, buy a water bottle with filtration for your trip.

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Santa rosalia de mulege mission.

You can learn about the history of Mulege with a stop at Santa Rosalia de Mulege Mission. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the churches while you're in the area.

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Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bahia Concepcion during your travels in Mulege. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the churches while you're in the area.

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You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Mulege Museum in Mulege. Amble around the area's riverfront or visit its churches.

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Explore Mulegé with an experienced guide. All listings are free and tours are booked directly with the provider.

Cave Paintings

Salvador Castro Drew is an experienced guide who speaks English and provides tours of the cave paintings. Contact him at +52 615-161-4985 or [email protected]. 

Horse Rides

Contact Adrian on WhatsApp +52 615 155 8665 for more information.

Kraken DE Mulegé

Contact them on WhatsApp 6151041604 or Facebook .

Tours Elcompabrau mulege

Contact them on WhatsApp 615 113 5576 or Facebook .

El Coyote Tour Mulege

Contact them on WhatsApp 615 155 6306 or Facebook .

El Burro Baja Tours

Contact them on WhatsApp +52 615 155 9114 or Facebook .

Trajineras Mulege

Mulege river tour lasts about an hour and has a 7 km route. Location : under the bridge Capacity : 14 people Cost: $250/person Kids also pay $100 pesos Under 5 free. Cel. 6151072773, Facebook Page .

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The Loreto, Mexico Travel Guide - The Best Kept Secret in Baja California Sur

Looking to take a Cabo-style vacation for one third of the price? Instead check out Loreto - the affordable, historic Pueblo Magico with crystal clear beaches, beautiful hotels and resorts, gorgeous and very safe streets, great restaurants, and so many adventures to be had. 

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The city of Loreto was established all the way back in 1697, with the building of the very first of the famous California Missions. (If you grew up in California like I did, you learned about the missions, but probably didn't know this - Also a fun fact: my hometown of Ventura, California is an official sister city of Loreto.) With the beautifully restored mission, colorful cobblestone streets, a population of around 20,000 people, and only one street light, Loreto is the such a charming, photogenic, and laid-back vacation destination - a truly underrated gem. With a great international airport and these beautiful nearby island beaches, I am so confident that Loreto will become the next hot spot for west coast travelers (especially as Cabo has become so much more expensive in recent years.) This is the closest place to Los Angeles that Brandon and I have the crystal clear turquoise water that we love so much - and we will definitely be back.

Read on for everything you need to know to plan your trip to this hidden jewel in the Gulf of California.

Getting to Loreto: 

• Where is Loreto? 

The town is located on the Gulf of California within Baja California Sur, around 200 miles north of Cabo. Being on the gulf means that most of the year the waters here are incredibly calm and inviting - and the Gulf of California is full of some of the most incredible sea-life anywhere in the world. 

• There are direct flights to Loreto International Airport (LTO) from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, and Dallas on either American or Alaska Airlines, as well as some flights from Canada and other cities within Mexico. The flight from LAX is a breeze at under 2 hours! Check for the best flight prices here .
• You can also drive to Loreto from Cabo or other areas of Baja - the drive from Cabo is about 6 hours and is very safe to do on your own. A full Baja road trip is very high on our travel to-do list. Look into rental cars here .

What's the Best Time to Visit? 

Loreto is warm year round - Average highs are 76-96 degrees year round - and rarely ever rains (the minimal 'rainy season' is in August and September), but has different ideal seasons depending on what your main focus is. 

Best time for water activities and swimming: Summer Season, June-November. We visited in late December and while the temperatures were usually very pleasant, the water is a little cold for casual swimming. 

Best time for hiking & land activities: Winter Season, December-March. Highs are usually in the 70's with lows in the 50's during the winter, making for great weather for hiking, enjoying the town, and land excursions.

Best time for to see whales : January-March. Loreto is known for being a favorite migration spot for humpback, orca, grey, and blue whales - they migrate down from Alaska every winter and birth calfs in the gulf. This is one of the best places in the world for whale watching!

Best Overall: May and October. Almost every local we talked to said that those are the absolute best months to visit for warm (but not super hot) weather, blue skies, warm water, low wind and glassy seas.

Is Loreto Safe?

Yes! Loreto as safe as any place in the United States. Baja is isolated from mainland Mexico and largely free of the drug war violence and cartels. The local people are incredibly friendly, and we felt very safe everywhere we went. 

How Long Should I stay?

There is a large community of Americans and Canadians here that come down and stay for the entire winter! But for a vacation, 5 - 8 days is about perfect to have enough time to see a wide variety of sites, explore both the town and the natural beauty, have a few adventures, and have plenty of time to relax. 

How Do I Get Around?

By far the best and easiest way to get around would be to rent a car and drive yourself - the roads are easy and incredibly beautiful. Rental cars here can also be extremely affordable - check the best prices here . 

Where to Stay in Loreto - The Best Hotels and Resorts: 

• La Mision Loreto Hotel : We stayed here and would recommend the hotel highly! La Mision is one of the nicest hotels in the city, located directly on the Malecon, with unobstructed ocean views from some rooms. This hotel is located at the city center and is incredibly walkable - we were able to walk quickly to the pier, and all the local restaurants and sites. Also - the staff here is incredibly friendly and accommodating. To give an example of how affordable Loreto is, we ordered a full-sized pizza and 2 glasses of wine from the hotel pool bar (delivered to us directly in the hot tub pictured below) and the total came to less than $20 US. There is also a Starbucks located in the lobby here - which was a nice surprise. Price: $140-200/Night
• Posada De La Flores Loreto : This hotel located right in the city center is BEAUTIFUL - we wandered in here on our first night in town because I was so drawn to how stunning the architecture and pink building were - the building is historic, and is filled with furniture and decor from the 1800's - there is a also a rooftop glass-bottom swimming pool on a rooftop terrace with ocean views. Price $100-180/Night
• Hotel Santa Fe Loreto : A perfect place to stay for those that want to be able to cook some of their own meals - each room here has a full kitchenette and room to stay a while. Also the on-site restaurant looks unassuming but the food is fabulous - we had maybe our best lunch in Loreto here! Price: $80-140/Night
• Loreto Bay Golf Resort & Spa at Baja : Located a few miles south of the city center, the beach-front 5-star hotel is more of a resort-style than the ones in the main city, with more sprawling grounds, open beach access, and a golf course. (Now compare these prices to Cabo!) Price: $90-200/Night
• Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto : The highest end property available in the area! Villa Del Palmar is newly built, and located 30 minutes from the main town of Loreto, near the beautiful Danzante Islands. This hotel has 3 restaurants, 20,000 square feet of pools,  and with quick access to stunning beaches and island excursions, in a quickly developing new part of Loreto. Price: $250-$500 a night, with an All-Inclusive option starting at a super reasonable $400 a night .

Traveling on a budget? There are a number of simple motels and inns here starting at as little as $20 a night! Check out what's available here .

Our favorite spot: the hot tub at La Mision Hotel

Sunrise from our room at La Mision Hotel

The pool at Hotel Santa Fe Loreto

The beautiful Posada De La Flores Loreto Hotel

Where to Eat in Loreto - The Best Restaurants: 

The food here is GOOD - especially if you love seafood, flour tortillas (our local guide told us that flour tortillas are generally preferred here, while corn are more preferred in Northern Baja), and spicy salsas!

• Asadero SuperBurro - This taco shop is unassuming, and no-frills, but is a favorite of locals and tourists alike, and was one of out favorite meals in Loreto. The tacos, the salsas, and everything else we tried were all incredible - and this is coming from Los Angeles natives that are really into tacos. Try the arranchero con queso and the queso fundido!
• Los Olivos Restaurant at Mision Hotel - The restaurant on the second floor of the hotel here is quite good, with indoor and outdoor seating and sometimes a live pianist during dinner. We were super impressed with the mixed fajitas - also the pizza at the poolside restaurant is surprisingly really, really good. 
• Orlando’s Restaurante - Every detail of this restaurant is so ornate and colorful - the cups and plates are all hand-painted locally. We only had brunch here, but the dinner service also looks incredibly lively, and the restaurant just has the most welcoming vibe. Try the jilly chilly (breakfast chili relleño)!
• Lunch at Santa Fe Loreto Hotel - We had an incredible and shockingly gourmet lunch here, complete with grilled shrimp and octopus, and fried ice cream!
• Casa Carmen Restaurant - A local favorite specializing in local seafood and Loreto's famous chocolate clams (they are named chocolate clams because of the shell color - not because they are made with chocolate.) Our dinner highlights were the chili garlic fish filet, and the clams gratin!
• Las Brisa at Puerto Escondido - This rooftop restaurant overlooking Puerto Escondido is known for it's pizza and pasta - but the fish ceviche we had here was some of the best I've ever had! This is a great place to stop before or after a trip to Danzante Island and grab a cocktail and a snack in the sun. 
• El Zopilote Brewery & Cocina - The best spot in town for craft beer! El Zopilote has a great dinner selection, a number of locally-made beers on tap, and on the night we were there - live music!

Lunch at Santa Fe Loreto Hotel

Chef Carmen at Casa Carmen's Restaurant

AMAZING Tacos at Asadero Superburro

Breakfast at Orlando's Restaurante

What to Pack: 

1. a dry bag.

Shop This Bag for $11-24

For such a water and beach focused place, I make sure to always bring a dry bag with me. In case you want to take out a kayak, need to swim to a beach, or just want to protect your valuables on a boat, these bags work great as a hiking or day backpack, and are designed to be 100% waterproof. I cannot emphasize how much this bag has saved us over the years.   This orange, 40L model is the exact bag that we have and have taken with us on dozens of trips - and have often taking all of our camera gear swimming in.  

2. A Foldable Cooler Bag

Shop This Bag for $28

If you're going to be renting a car and driving around, having a cooler is key - for both cold drinks and to take your snacks and salsa to go. A big, foldable tote is great to buy ahead and bring with you - they're easy to shove into a suitcase or even a carry-on, can fit TONS, and can easily be used over and over again. I love this understated black tote bag you can use anywhere, and this extra-insulated model that will keep ice for 30 hours - at a fraction of the price of a Yeti.

3. Lots of Swimwear

Dive or Surf Swimsuit

Killer All-Purpose Bikini

We so many amazing beaches and islands to explore,  there's always an occasion to wear a bathing suit almost everywhere - with denim shorts for hiking, under a wrap top for going out to eat or exploring, and always at the hotel pool or beach. You want to make sure you never have to put on a wet one, and have enough to always be able to mix up your looks! I love dressing up a cute one piece in place of a shirt to save on packing. Not sure where to start looking? My favorite places to shop for unique and high quality swimwear are:

• Everything But Water - My go-to site for bikini and vacation shopping, Everything but Water stocks a curated selection of the best swim and tropical clothing brands - some of my favorites are WeWoreWhat and Hunza G , as well as their house line, Summerfull
• Revolve - Their house brands design some of the most Instagrammable and unique swimwear around, and they also stock tons and tons of designer pieces - everything from the wildest, boldest designs to the classy and understated .
• Free People - Not just their own brand, The Free People site stocks tons of the coolest, beachiest, boho-est , and vintage-inspired swimsuits anywhere. I need this one in my life ASAP .
• Amazon - Shopping on a budget? Amazon has some great suits with thousands of 5 star reviews at an under-$30 price point . Check out more on my   Vacation Amazon Shopping List Here !
• Nordstrom - A longtime staple for a reason. Nordstrom has Classic swim brands like Billabong , as well as more modern and sexy brands like Frankie's Bikinis . 

4. A Beach Blanket  

Shop This Blanket for $22

This is one that I STILL forget sometimes regrettably. While hotels or airbnbs will often have towels, if you're going to be moving around a lot or want to spend your days out exploring beaches, bringing a lightweight towel that can be used as a picnic blanket, mobile changing room, towel, or blanket for a cold breeze after sunset always comes in handy. 

I love a Turkish towel for a lightweight, easily packable, and forever stylish option - this set of 2 for $26 on amazon is a steal - and is already in my shopping cart .

6. Reef Safe Sunscreen & Unseen Sunscreen

Shop this Sunscreen

Shop This Sunscreen

We all know that sunscreen is #1 - especially if you're going on a winter or spring escape and haven't seen the sun in a while. However, the ingredients in many traditional sunscreens can damage the delicate tropical reefs, and its important to only bring reef-safe brands. Buying ahead of time and bringing this with you will often save quite a bit compared to buying them on the islands.

Banana Boat has a great value family-sized bottle for under $10, and I love this Hurley waterproof spray-on 50 SPF for active days. 

For face sunscreen under make up, I swear by Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen . Hands down, Supergoop is the best face sunscreen of all time . The clear formula doesn't discolor even the darkest of skin tones, and feels like a high-end make up primer - there is nothing better for wearing under make-up. I wear this under my make-up every single day, and especially when I'm out in the sun. Check it out on Sephora here or on Amazon here (where it has a perfect 5-star rating) . 

What To Do in Loreto:

Loreto's Biggest sites are its historic missions, stunningly clear watered islands, beautiful mountains, unique animal life, and lively city center. 

1. Take a Boat Tour through The Bay of Conception / Bahia Concepcion

About an hour and a half drive North of Loreto, Bahia Concepcion is a STUNNING area full of usually glassy smooth waters, crystal clear beaches and amazing local seafood. Starting from Coyote Beach, We took a day-long boat tour that took us exploring on different islands, snorkeling the reef, diving for clams and scallops - and then having our fresh-caught seafood for lunch on the beach.

During the season - you can also see and swim with whale sharks right here in this bay!

We spent our day with El Burro Baja Tours and I would highly recommend booking a tour with them, we had an amazing time for a super reasonable rate. You can communicate with them directly through Facebook. 

2. Explore the historic city center & Loreto Mission

Inside Orlando's Restaurante

The town of Loreto is small, but has lots to explore! Wander into the historic Loreto Mission and then learn more about it and the area and check out the collection of artifacts at the Loreto Mission Museum . Take a morning walk down the oceanside Malecon , enjoy tacos and margaritas at the restaurants around the plaza, sit under a palapa at the public beach, at night find live music all over the city, and at the right time of year, watch whales right from the shore here! The town is very safe and friendly. 

3. Take a Boat Tour to Isla Danzante

Unfortunately, the day we went to Danzante Bay was usually cloudy, so you can't see in these photos how insanely neon blue and crystal clear this water is in the sun - but even on a cloudy day this place is so incredibly beautiful! A boat tour to Danzante is a must on a trip to Loreto. 

Check out Loreto Guide with Said Orozco and Sea and Land Tours  and Baja Peninsula Adventure for local group and private tours that travelers love. 

4. Take a Drive Through the Mountains to Mission Javier

Fully named Misión San Francisco Javier de Viggé-Biaundó , this Mission was founded shortly after the Loreto mission in 1699 and is equally as full of history. About an hour's drive from the city, through these stunningly beautiful mountains, a visit here is a great half-day trip, especially for a history lover.

In the winter months, there are great hiking trails up through the mountains in this area as well! One aspect of Loreto we did not get to explore is the hiking - I would love to see more of the area and climb some of these mountains!

5. Visit the Famous Isla Coronado 

The bay at Isla Coronado is one of the most famous beaches in Loreto - with pure white sand and pale aqua water, even on a cloudy day it was incredibly clear why. (We visited in December and had a little bad luck with clouds for a couple of days - but even in unideal weather, this place was so beautiful). There is also a 3-mile hiking trail up to the top of this island with incredible views!

On the farther side of the island, there is a sea lion colony that you can book a tour to swim with! Swimming with sea lions is one of the coolest things I have done in Baja, and I would love to do so again.

Book a full-day tour for $120 here.  

6. Take a Fishing Trip

Fishing is one of Loreto's biggest tourism draws and is the one thing the area has really been known for. We only participated in a little light fishing within Bahia Concepcion, the area is know for sport fishing and our guide showed us photos of 100 pound Marlins he had caught! There are two fishing seasons, summer which is known for marlin and sailfish, and winter has yellowtail and other species that usually are deep in the sea rocks, as well as snapper and seabass, which are found all year long. 

7. Bird Watch and Enjoy the Varied Animal Life:

Besides the famous whales and whale sharks, bird watching is big here! I honestly don't know too much about birds, but I WAS very excited about seeing the blue-footed boobies! This is one of the best places in the world to see them outside of the Galapagos Islands 

  You can read more about the wildlife of Loreto here .

Looking for More Adventures?

You can book a private ATV tour through the rugged terrain or

horseback riding tours both through the mountains and on the sea . 

And check out the best hiking trails here !

Get Inspired:

Sandbars at Bahia Conception

Sunrise View from our Balcony at La Mision Loreto Hotel

Shop This Bikini 

Walking through the streets of historic Loreto

Exploring Mision Javier

The Beach at Bahia Conception - Shop This Bikini

Empty Beaches at Bahia Conception

Dusk in the mountains between Mision Javier and Loreto

Inside the Loreto Mission Museum

Shop This Bikini (but make sure to size up on the top)

Clams Gratin  at Casa Carmen

We will be back Loreto!

Want to see more in real time? Check out my Instagram Highlights from Loreto here?

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Mulege Mexico Travel Guide: Baja Sur’s Oasis Town (2024)

This post shares everything you need to know about visiting Mulege, Mexico in the state of Baja California Sur. We’ll share the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat and essential travel information for Mulege.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links, that may earn me a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For full information, please see our disclaimer here . While all efforts have been taken to ensure the information included in this post is correct and current, travel information such as opening hours, business operations and prices change frequently. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers.

Table of Contents

About Mulege Mexico

Pronounced moo-leh-hey , Mulege is a small town in the north of the state of Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Best known as ‘the oasis town’, it is one of the few places in the arid Baja desert where there is a freshwater source.

The Rio Mulege (Mulege River) provides life to lush palm groves, mangroves and swathes of green in an otherwise dry land.

Throw in a beautifully preserved Jesuit mission, a charming centro, and easy access to some of the state’s most impressive beaches, and Mulege Mexico is one place you can’t miss in Baja California Sur!

Grab a copy of my Baja California Sur Travel Guide!

After falling absolutely in love with Baja, I decided to put together a Baja California Sur Travel Guide Ebook to help anyone planning a trip to Baja California Sur.

This ebook is designed to be a go-to quick reference guide for the best places to visit around the state, allowing you to be confident you’re hitting all the highlights without needing to do hours of research.

This 125-page ebook covers 13 top destinations across the state, with recommendations for where to eat, stay and play, as well as regional information about climate, transport, and tour recommendations.

It’s filled with all our best tips and advice, and beautiful photos to excite and inspire you ahead of your trip to this incredible part of Mexico!

There is also the option to add a customised Google Map that has over 200 locations pinned by category, allowing you to easily visualise our recommendations across the state.

Find out more about the guide here .

History of Mulege

Mulege was the location of the second Jesuit mission in Baja. Following the first mission in Loreto , which was established in 1697.

The Jesuits first arrived in the area around 1705, but the mission, Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, wasn’t built until 1766.

The mission was only active for 100 years, changing hands multiple times in its short history. From the Jesuits to the Franciscans to the Dominicans. Eventually, it was abandoned in 1866.

Throughout this period, the town of Mulege got its official name ‘Heroica Mulege’ in honour of the locals who fought the American army trying to take over the town in 1847, during the American War of Intervention.

Where is Mulege Mexico

Mulege is located in the northeast corner of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur.

It sits on the east coast of the Baja Peninsula, on the shores of the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California). 

Mulege is 136 km / 81 mi north of Loreto, which has the closest international airport.

To put the location in context in comparison to other more popular destinations in Baja:

• Tijuana : 13 hours
• Loreto : 2 hours
• La Paz : 6 hours
• Todos Santos : 7 hours
• Los Cabos : 8 hours

How to get to Mulege Mexico

Mulege is a very small and isolated town. It doesn’t have its own airport and it is over two hours away from the nearest city of Loreto.

There is an international airport in Loreto,  LTO – Loreto International Airport,   which has limited flights from within Mexico, the USA and Canada.

To get to Mulege, we highly recommend having your own car.

The best place to pick up a rental car would be from the airport in Loreto, and you can  browse and compare prices here .

If you’re doing a broader Baja California Sur road trip, you could also drive from LAP – La Paz International Airport (6 hours) or SJD – Los Cabos International Airport (8 hours).

However, it is possible to get to Mulege from Loreto or other parts of the state via the  Aguila  bus.

These buses are new and comfortable long-distance buses and can be booked online.

LORETO TO MULEGE / MULEGE TO LORETO

There are two options to travel from Loreto to Mulege (and Mulege to Loreto):

• Drive, your own or a rental car. The trip is about 2 hours, on the very scenic Highway 1.
• Take the Aguila bus. The bus departs from the bus station outside of town in Loreto and arrives at the bus station at the entrance to the town in Mulege. There are multiple departures per day.

Getting around in Mulege

To put it simply, you have to have a car to explore the best of Mulege.

It is possible to explore the town centre on foot, and you could also make it to the mission without a car.

Beyond that, you’d be pretty stuck.

There are a handful of taxis that hang around the main square, but you wouldn’t want to rely on them. There isn’t any public transport in or around the town.

With Mulege being quite isolated from other popular parts of the state, visiting it as part of a broader Baja California Sur road trip is going to give you the best experience.

There are no car rental companies in Mulege. The closest point would be Loreto .

Weather in Mulege

The weather in Mulege is the typical Baja desert climate , mostly dry, with mild winters and scorching summers.

November – March is the cooler part of the year, with dry sunny days and temperatures ranging from 62°F – 71°F (17°C – 22°C).

This is the best time to explore the town and go hiking without the oppressive heat.

The beaches can be a little cool at this time, with strong winter winds making laying on the sand not so pleasant.

The sweet spot between April – June is the best time to visit for water and beach activities. The average temperature is around 73°F – 86°F (23°C – 30°C).

Avoid the months of July – October, when the mercury can rise over 95°F (35°C). Mulege doesn’t get heavy rain or hurricanes every season. If they do hit, it is most common during this time.

Sustainable travel in Mulege Baja California Sur

Mulege is home to some of Baja California Sur’s most spectacular nature. Mind-blowing beaches, layers of desert mountains, stunning canyons and of course the iconic Rio Mulege and surrounding palm groves.

Please do your part to keep these areas clean and beautiful for locals and visitors alike. Always leave a natural area the same or better than how you find it.

Don’t litter, if you’re camping at one of the many beach campgrounds follow correct waste management principles, and never feed or disturb wildlife, in the water or on land.

6 Best things to do in Mulege

Mulege Mexico offers the perfect mix of history, culture and nature. Despite being a quiet and peaceful place, there are plenty of things to see and do.

1. Visit the Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé

If you’ve ever seen photos of Mulege, I can almost guarantee it was taken from the town’s historic mission.

The iconic photo of the river snaking through the palms with the desert mountains in the background? Yep, that’s here!

The Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé is another of Baja’s Jesuit missions, built in 1766 and abandoned just 100 years later in 1866.

Set on a hill above the town, the well-preserved mission is the best place in Mulege to get an aerial view of the beautiful Rio Mulege, and the lush palm grove that surrounds the banks.

Like most missions, the interior is simple and was actually closed when we visited. But the architecture and the setting are breathtaking.

It is free to visit and the location is here .

2. Hit the beach at Bahia Concepcion

Just south of Mulege is the stunning Bahia Concepcion.

This enclosed bay is sheltered on either side by desert mountains and connects with the Sea of Cortez through a very small opening.

A number of small islands fill the bay, and large sandbanks connect them with the mainland at low tide, making for some absolutely epic views.

The beaches here are out-of-this-world, and in our opinion give Baja’s world-famous Playa Balandra a run for its money!

With over a dozen beaches, this is a very popular spot for Canadian and North American RV’ers, as it’s possible to park right up on the waterfront.

Camping or not, these beaches are incredible for a day, a week or a month!

No matter which beach you choose to visit, you will enjoy beautiful blue waters and stunning desert landscapes.

Some charge a flat entry fee, whether you are camping overnight or just visiting for the day. Some are free.

Some beaches are more built-up than others, with beach houses built right on the water, and small local restaurants. And some are empty, with nothing more than parking spots for RVs and a few camping facilities.

From the north (closest to Mulege) to the south (closest to Loreto), here are the most popular beaches:

• Playa Santispac
• Playa La Escondida
• Playa El Burro
• Playa El Coyote
• Playa Buenaventura
• Playa El Requeson

Unfortunately, when we visited the weather was freezing!

We had a beautiful sunny winter day, so the bay looked incredible, but the wind was howling so we couldn’t get out of the car and sit on the beach, as much as I wanted to.

We had a meal at one of the restaurants on the beach at Playa El Burro. The restaurant has since changed hands but the new spot, Nomadico , looks fantastic. We also popped into Playa El Requeson for a look.

Both beaches were beautiful, but honestly, they all were so I think you could choose any to visit and have a wonderful day at the beach!

If you’re eager to get out on Bahia Concepcion and see more of the bay than you can from land, organise a tour with El Burro Baja Tours . They can customise a day on the water for you, exploring islands, fishing, snorkelling – or whatever you want to do!

3. Take a trajinera ride on the river

This brand new experience has just opened in Mulege in March 2024!

If you’ve been to Mexico City before, you’ve probably heard of the Canals of Xochimilco . These ancient Aztec waterways are considered the ‘Venice of Mexico City’.

You can go for a cruise on a gondola-style boat, trajinera . These traditional colourful wooden boats have become an icon of the area, and have now found their way to Mulege!

This new operation, Trajineras Mulege offers cruises down the beautiful Rio Mulege. It looks like an amazing way to experience the town’s beautiful oasis in the desert.

The cruises last around 1 hour and currently cost 250 pesos per person. They depart under the bridge near town. We can’t wait to come back and try it out! You can contact them via their Facebook page or WhatsApp to book.

4. Wander around the town of Mulege

The town of Mulege is small and compact, with just a handful of very tight one-way streets. (If you’ve got a big rig, avoid driving into the centre of town) .

It is easy to explore on foot in under an hour.

It’s worth starting outside of town on the other side of the river at the Mulege letters .

Fun fact, the official name of the town is Heroica Mulege, and you will see ‘H Mulege’ on the letters.

From there, cross the bridge over the river and wander around the centro.

Be sure to pass Jardin Corona , which is the town’s small plaza. And the green Iglesia Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria (church).

The Museo de Mulege (Mulege Museum) sits on a hill above the town and is worth popping your head into.

The museum itself doesn’t provide a lot of information, but it was formerly the site of a prison.

Not a prison as we know these days, this prison had no bars and prisoners were able to leave for the day to work and be with their families.

This freedom was only possible because Mulege was so isolated, with just an arid desert in either direction.

Basically, you would be crazy to try and leave so prisoners freely returned each evening.

We thought that was a pretty interesting piece of history!

From here, make your way towards the coast to check out the Faro de Mulege (Mulege Lighthouse).

It’s possible to cover the 3 or so kilometres by foot. There is a Malecon (waterfront boardwalk), but it can be a bit confusing to follow.

It’s part road, part sidewalk and it curves away from the river in sections. But eventually, it reconnects and you can stroll alongside the water with a beautiful view.

When you leave town, exit via the other access road and keep your eye out for the grand archway marking the entry to town with a large ‘Heroica Mulege’ inscription.

5. Explore the La Trinidad cave paintings

If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss a visit to the La Trinidad cave paintings hidden in the desert outside of Mulege.

These rock paintings are thousands of years old and were created by Indigenous groups, depicting everyday life in the region.

Set in a stunning desert canyon, you can enjoy the scenery as you complete the short hike to and from the caves.

The best way to experience these paintings is on a guided tour.

It is difficult to reach the caves without a 4WD vehicle, and when you arrive you must be with a guide to enter, so it’s best to organise a tour from Mulege.

There is a small local tour company in Mulege, Mulege Tours, run by local Salvador Castro Drew. Salvador has a wealth of knowledge of the region and is the best person to share the history of the caves with you.

You can get in touch with him via email – [email protected], or via WhatsApp – +52 615 161 4985.

6. Sample some vino at a winery

Vinedo Heroica Mulege is a small winery located just outside the centre of Mulege.

A beautiful vineyard producing both red and white wines, there is a tasting room on-site where you can sample the wines and buy bottles.

The winery also houses a three-room hotelito available to rent. Built in a beautiful ranch style with a rooftop outdoor kitchen, pool and incredible mountain views.

Be sure to contact the winery before you want to visit. Their hours are seasonal and inconsistent. I wanted to include it here because the property is beautiful, and the drive there through lush agricultural land was stunning. But unfortunately, when we visited they weren’t open. Check their Facebook page or website to confirm hours.

Where to eat in Mulege

Mulege might be a small town, but there are still plenty of great spots to eat, no matter what type of food you’re looking for, at whatever time of day.

Mulege Brewing Company

In a town as small as Mulege, a craft beer brewery is not what you would expect to find! But Mulege Brewing Company is just that, with a range of beers on tap. They also serve pizzas, pasta, burgers and a range of other pub-style food.

*Note that the brewery has recently relocated from the centre of town to a larger venue south of town on Highway 1

📍 See the location and current opening hours here

Food stalls in Jardin Corona

This small garden/square acts as Mulege’s central plaza, and there are a number of food stalls serving up cheap, local food throughout the day.

We visited in the morning for coffee and burritos, and if you come back later in the day for lunch or dinner you can pick up some affordable and delicious tacos!

📍 See the location here (various stalls usually open daily from morning – late night )

Restaurant Bar Los Equipales

An iconic restaurant in Mulege serving up authentic Mexican dishes from morning to night! Chilaquiles, huevos rancheros and machaca are some of the delicious options for breakfast. And throughout the day you can choose from seafood, steak, tacos and more.

Where to stay in Mulege

If you’re looking for luxury, you’re probably not going to find it in Mulege.

But if you’re content with colourful and cute Mexican-style accommodations in a charming town, Mulege can definitely deliver.

Historico Las Casitas

Perfectly located right in the centre of Mulege, Historico Las Casitas feels like stepping into a lush rainbow garden!

Potted plants of all shapes and sizes line walkways, colourful flags hang overhead and an on-site restaurant serves up good quality Mexican food and drinks.

Rooms are simple, but clean and great value for the price.

Indie Park Mulege

If you’re looking for somewhere unique to stay in Mulege, check out Indie Park!

Located a short drive from town (you would probably want to have your own car) this trailer park-style spot has really funky accommodations available.

A-frame cabins and retro caravans share a communal kitchen and plenty of spaces to hang out.

Clementine’s

Given that Mulege is set on the beautiful Mulege River, there aren’t too many accommodations that offer waterfront views. But Clementine’s is one!

With both stand-alone casita rooms and four bed-and-breakfast style rooms that share a communal kitchen, Clementine’s is a great spot for self-caterers.

The laid-back vibe will keep you here longer than you planned.

Final thoughts on Mulege Mexico

Whether you head to Mulege for a day trip or stay for a few days, this tiny little oasis town shouldn’t be left off your Baja Sur itinerary!

Seeing that stunning vista of the palms in the desert is worth the trip alone. But the town of Mulege is very charming, and the beaches are world-class.

OUR BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR TRAVEL GUIDES

Sally Rodrick

Sally Rodrick is the voice behind Sally Sees. She has spent 12 months travelling in Mexico and Central America, and has her sights firmly set on South America. Sally helps thousands of readers discover the magic of Latin America. Sharing detailed guides to inspire and equip them with the knowledge they need to plan their own epic adventures in this incredible part of the world.

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Where to Stop in Bahía Concepción

By Carla King  | Updated 11/11/2018

Bahía Concepción (Conception Bay) is a bay within a bay on the Sea of Cortez about halfway down the peninsula. Many travelers plan a grand tour of Baja but get kind of stuck here—and not in a bad way! La Paz, Cabo, and Todos Santos can wait for  mañana.  I agree! This rugged paradise is the real “old” Baja suitable for exploration by bicycle, motorcycle, 4×4, RV, car, and boat.

But Bahía Concepción isn’t for everybody. If you like glitter and glam, fancy clothes, staying up all night, and hotels with room service, keep on going down the road. Here, the local restaurants provide entertainment with their rotating music and movie nights, but even they pretty much shut down at 9:00. We call it Baja midnight.

If you’re heading to Baja to slow down your life, you’ll be happy here. Bring your kayak, or hire one from a local to do a little island hopping. Dig your toes in the sand, sip a cerveza con lima  and watch the dolphins roll by in lazy arcs in the dark blue-green sea.

Exploring a near island in Bahia Concepcion.

Jump to the beaches

• Playa Santispac
• Posada Concepción
• Playa Escondida
• Playa Los Cocos
• Playa El Burro
• Playa El Coyote
• Playa Buenaventura

You’ll generally pay $10/night or less for a camping/RV spot with a palapa and about half that for one without, depending on the exchange rate. Motels in Mulegé run from $30 to $90 a night. There’s a hostel at Posada for $20 a night.

Note: The one bank in Mulegé no longer has an ATM that works for foreign banks (at this writing) so pick up some pesos in Santa Rosalía or Loreto. In a pinch, the grocery stores take dollars and give you change in pesos. You can also send yourself some cash using Western Union .  Carry small bills and coins for the vendors; they don’t have much change. And no… hardly anybody takes credit cards, gas stations included.

If you don’t want to be bothered by vendors at sun-up, you can make a sign that states No Necesito Nada, Gracias . It might work. And then again, maybe not. The locals really depend on the tourist economy. Don’t be afraid to bargain for trinkets (but not food). They expect it, and it’s part of the fun.

Lupe is one of my favorite vendors. She and her son come by my house with tamales, empanadas, and sometimes chicharrones (fresh peas). Look for her on the beaches, too! Watch out for the green olive in each tamale; it’s not pitted.

Orientation : Mulegé is 20 minutes north of Bahía Concepción and Loreto is about an hour and fifteen minutes south, and it’s one of the most beautiful mountainous coastal drives you’ll ever make. ( Mulegé tourism Facebook page .)

Okay. Here’s where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. I’ve provided a map at the end of this post. We’ll start at the north end, just 20 minutes south of Mulegé.

Playa Santispac | km 114

Playa Santispac is the first beach you see from Highway 1 south of Mulegé. The view never fails to stun me with its blue expanse dotted with islands and the mountains of the peninsula beyond, so close and yet so very far away. It’s no wonder most turn in and set up camp right here. There are lots of RVs parked for the season on the west end of the beach with quieter tent camping on the east end. It’s a good, sheltered swimming beach, and there’s a popular hike on the flat terrain around the peninsula. Locals will rent you kayaks and take you out on boats to fish, clam, and say hi to the dolphins and whale sharks.

There are two restaurants: Armando’s and Anna’s. If you’re tired of tortillas and are craving a salad, go to Armando’s and order the “Salad Darcy” (fresh greens with shrimp) or “Salad Rick” (fresh greens with shrimp wrapped in bacon), named for a gringo couple who live in one of the houses at the far end of the beach.

Everybody seems to stop at Armando’s. Here’s a biker with his classic Harley.

A mangrove estuary at the south end of the beach is fantastic for bird watching. Kayak in at high tide to find dozens of nesting Great Blue Herons and some Snowy Egrets stalking the small fish that are trapped there.

Posada Concepción | km 112

Posada Concepción is the private community where I live, just a few minutes south of Santispac. There, you’ll find a hostel and restaurant, tennis court, and some long-term home rentals. There are RV spots and hookups by the road. Community power is on between 10 am to 10 pm. Kayak rentals are available at the office. The community is private property; please don’t drive around. If you want to explore, park and walk.

Our little neighborhood.

The bulletin board

The bulletin board across from the Posada oficina (again, please don’t drive there–park and walk) is filled with notices about special events in all of the beach communities. Find out about movie nights, special dinners, music and dancing, flea markets, charity auctions, stuff for sale, and more.

The hostel and restaurant

The hostel is a nice break from camping and an easy, quick overnight stay. It’s very basic, with about 20 bunks in one room attached to the restaurant. The $20/night fee includes morning bread and coffee, and you can make reservations via email .

There are board games, books, and DVDs, comfortable tables, and Lucy offers very tasty home-cooked Mexican food morning to night with very generous portions. Baked goods include pizza, donuts, bread, or brownies, depending on the day. There’s small, self-serve bar with beer and hard liquor.

Home rentals

You can rent homes in Posada via the Posada site and Airbnb . If you’re shopping for a second or retirement home or RV lot, there is always  something for sale as retired residents age out and move back to the States or Canada. The community also houses location independent people like me working via satellite internet, bouncing back occasionally to California or the Pacific Northwest. Lots of residents adventure out with motorcycles, 4x4s, and quads. The community is pretty quiet, shutting down at “Baja Midnight,” which is about 9 pm. This makes sense when you rise with the sun!

Many residents gather for happy hour every evening at 5 on the beach and are welcoming to visitors. Need advice on best places to camp, RV, take your quad? Bring a beer and join us! There is a hot spring under the palapa on the beach which is public. The spring on the north end is on private property and for resident’s use only.

The locals are friendly.

Our beach is shallow—muddy at low tide with lots of stingrays, so we go to nearby beaches (Escondido, Santispac) to swim or walk out to the point where the water’s deeper. Find out more about Posada Concepción on the web and on Facebook .

In the morning you may notice residents hiking up “Good Heart Trail” across the highway. It’s about a 90-minute round trip and offers a great view of Bahia Concepcion. Every Thursday, Franz, who hails from Portland via Austria, leads a group of avid hikers that meets in the parking lot at 8 am sharp. They may walk or drive to the hiking generic viagra sildenafil 100mg location. You are welcome to join, but please be prepared. Wear long pants, good shoes, a hat, and bring water and snacks. The hike usually ends at a local eatery.

One of the more challenging hikes is above Playa El Burro.

Playa Escondida | km 112

Playa Escondida, or “hidden beach,” is a short walk from Posada and separated from neighboring Playa Los Cocos (see below) at high tide by a small, rocky promontory. There are about ten palapas on the beach, some of which are occupied by smaller RVs and truck campers for the season. There are no amenities, just outhouses, and the vendors come by daily with most everything you need.

This is probably the most peaceful beach in the area, and the water is great for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There’s an island a very short distance away for snorkeling and fishing. And, of course, you can walk to the restaurant at Posada.

Playa Escondida (far beach) and Playa Los Cocos (near the beach) and Highway 1. The mountains across the water are on the peninsula that creates this bay within a bay.

Playa Los Cocos | km 111

Playa Los Cocos is a small campground next to the road and occupied almost exclusively by RVs. Like Escondida, there are no amenities except outhouses and vendors, and it’s an easy walk to Posada.

Exploring the islands by paddleboard on the Sea of Cortez’s Bahia Concepcion. (This is my SeaEagle inflatable SUP   “deluxe” with kayak seat. And it’s easy to pack it in your trunk or check it as luggage at the airport.

Playa El Burro | km 108

Playa El Burro is a private community on the north end of the beach with RVs and tents on the south end. It offers great swimming, kayak rentals, and boating, and the dolphins and whale sharks like to hang out there.

Playa El Burro is a perfect place to chill out for motorcyclists, bicyclists, and other travelers who aren’t carrying a lot of stuff and want to stop and swim, kayak, see the whale sharks and just sit on the beach and chill. They get here and fall immediately in love with Bahía Concepción, hit with that “Geez, I am really here to relax into the Baja experience instead of frantically trying to see everything.”

Spinner dolphins frolic in the bay.

Many who stop here never make it further south and are perfectly happy with that decision. The camping and kayak rentals, boat tours, restaurants, and the store make it very convenient.

Tours: Eduardo’s

When you turn into El Burro, follow the signs to find Eduardo, a Baja gringo longtimer who can rent you a palapa and a kayak plus take you out on the boat for fishing, snorkeling, and diving tours. No contact info. Just show up.

Eduardo’s at Playa El Burro

Restaurant: Pepe’s (formerly Bertha’s)

Pepe’s( Facebook ), which used to be Bertha’s, is on the beach at the north end of Burro, with indoor dining and a full bar. Along with several other restaurants in the area, they offer movie night, music, and special events.

Restaurant: JC’s Restaurant

Across the street, next to the estación de bomberos (fire station) is Juan Carlos’, aka JCs ( Facebook ), with outdoor seating, a full bar, movie night, music, and special events, not to mention outstanding oysters once a week and a once-monthly lamb curry concocted by a local Brit named Alex.

Tours: El Burro Baja Tours

Juan Carlos ( Facebook ) of JC’s and Felipe are also El Burro Baja Tours ( Facebook ). They can take you to see the dolpins and whale sharks, fishing and for a picnic on an island, cooking fish, scallops, and clams.

Restaurant: Estrella del Mar

Just a bit further south is Estrella del Mar ( Facebook ) with indoor dining, a full bar, and which shares the rounds of music, movie night, and other events, with the other restaurants.

Store: Bertha’s store

Next door to Estrella del Mar by the Tecate sign is Bertha’s tienda, a little store with basics, food, and beer, with the actual Bertha presiding. Note that this is the only store between Mulegé and Loreto.

Playa El Coyote | km 107

El Coyote Bay is, along with El Burro, a favorite place for dolphins and whale sharks to hang out. The north end of Playa El Coyote ( Facebook ) is a private community with locked gates and no public access from the road. But there’s camping on the south end for RVs, tents, and a spot under a tree that always seems to be populated with bicycle adventure travelers. Outhouses and vendors are the only amenities.

That’s me and a baby whale shark at El Coyote Bay. Yes… that’s just a little baby!

Estrella del Mar is the nearest restaurant (see above).

Playa Buenaventura | km 94

Playa Buenaventura is an isolated getaway halfway between Mulegé and Loreto with camping and houses for rent with a great restaurant and bar. It’s run by the ever-genial Mark and Olivia along with young Nathan pictured here at the bar. The beach is lovely, and its proximity to El Requesón beach makes it pretty irresistible, too. If you want to relax in an isolated and rustic setting but appreciate flush toilets, hot showers, a good restaurant and full bar, you’re going to be happy here.

Shoes and shirt optional. Nathan sets the tone at the bar at Playa Buenaventura.

Restaurant and Taco Tuesday

Playa Buenaventura is especially popular with Bahía Concepción beach community gringos on Taco Tuesday. On other days they offer great burgers and a variety of both Mexican and gringo food.

Camping, rooms, and a house for rent

Camping is 60 pesos per person. There are (gasp!) flush toilets and on-demand hot water showers for 2 dollars or 40 pesos and kayaks are available, too. They have a house and private rooms that you can book in advance. Browse the property on Airbnb and find them on Facebook , too.

El Requesón | km 92

Playa El Requeson features a tidal sand spit that can leave you stranded!

Playa El Requesón is one of the most ruggedly spectacular beaches in Baja. Low tide reveals a stretch of sand that many people used to set up camp on until they realized that that high tide was going to sink them. Today, the caretakers won’t let you do that.

Camping is rustic with just outhouses and the usual vendors providing supplies, but just a few minutes away on the road or by kayak (or swimming) is Playa Buenaventura and their amenities.

Besides a couple of very rustic beach campgrounds a little further down the road, that’s it until you reach our “big town” of Loreto an hour south.

I created this custom Google map of Bahía Concepción beaches and restaurants. Click and enjoy planning your trip!

Click the map to help plan your trip.

Your experiences, tips?

In the comments section below, please let me know about your experience in any of these places. Let me know if I can help you choose the best one for you.

Carla King has been writing about her motorcycle adventure travels in North America, China, Europe, India, and Africa since 1994. Read about her and current adventures in Baja .

17 thoughts on “ Where to Stop in Bahía Concepción ”

I have stayed at Los Naranjos 6 months a year for the last 14 years. I recommend Los Naranjos to everyone I meet. We are 2 miles off the road, we don’t hear the highway noise. There are many Palapas for rent on the beachfront, right on the water. They are primitive, very clean, each palapa has 2 double beds with fresh linen, some have small kitchens. They rent for $400 pesos a day short term,if you stay longer he will reduce the price. We have no problems with crime as Armando ( the owner ) is very vigilant. There are only certain vendors allowed past the gate. His living quarters are next to the gate if someone arrives he is there immediately to check them out. Graham Makintosh stays here when he is in the area. I think Los Naranjos should be on your list. Thank you for your good work. Bob Cody alias Capt. Bob, my Baja nickname

Thanks Capt. Bob! I didn’t know. Will come by and check them out :-)

Hi Bob, Any camping or hook ups available? Thanks, Steve.

The beaches, no. By the river in Mulege, yes. Check this site for complete RV camping info w/hookup info https://www.campendium.com/

Hello Bob, Perhaps ought to have asked you directly for contact for Armando. Could you also tell me how far from El Burro to Los Naranjos? Thank you, Char

Hi there, Are dogs allowed at Los Naranjos & does he have RV sites with amenitities??? Will be our first time doing Baja….Thanks, Robin

Hi Carla!! Stumbled on your article! Loved it!!!!!

Thanks much, Vicki!

Great article, have camped many times over the years along the bay. I was wondering when the water temps in the bay warm up to 75 or more and if the whale shark season is June thru October as other bays along the gulf coast. Thanks, Steve

Thanks much! I’m here on the bay right now and water temps are such that I don’t wear a wetsuit though I do wear skins so I don’t burn to a crisp!

We were seeing whale sharks when here in Feb, March, and April and normally the warmer the water the more they like it but we haven’t seen any this last week. The last official count was 11 whale sharks in the bay.

It’s always so random I hate to tell people, let’s go out and see some whale sharks because you just never know.

I haven’t seen any dolphins, either, this time, but I’ve been sleeping in.

The snorkeling, however, is a different story. Rocky shores and islands are teeming with them!

Best, Carla

Love this article, thank you. Is there a contact for Armando?

Thanks for the article it is so helpful, i would love to rent a house in el coyote, el requesón o burros for 2018-2019 new years family is 12 of us… could you please suggest any website or someone who could help us? Thanks a lot

There aren’t any houses on Requeson or Burros, I don’t think, for that many people. There’s one on Coyote, I don’t know the contact info. Check https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6551077?location=Playa%20El%20Coyote%2C%20Muleg%C3%A9%2C%20Mexico&adults=1&children=0&infants=0&guests=1&check_in=2018-12-20&check_out=2018-12-21&search_id=2eb84da8-e0a1-4117-a4fe-c3547cc4d524&federated_search_id=509d54c5-b88f-450a-8ca3-38761a21f3d9 And also Playa Buenaventura next to Requeson. Message them on their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PlayaBuenaventura/ and take a look at AirB&B https://www.airbnb.com/s/Playa-Buenaventura–Muleg%C3%A9-Municipality–Mexico/all?adults=1&children=0&infants=0&guests=1&place_id=ChIJ_Tch_QeetYYRHkcabd1H8JI&refinement_paths%5B%5D=%2Ffor_you&query=Playa%20Buenaventura%2C%20Muleg%C3%A9%20Municipality%2C%20Mexico&refinement_path=%2Ffor_you&source=mc_search_bar&fromHome=1

Were you able to find something?

I camp and travel by motorcycle but have little experience off road. Are there any of the beaches on Bahia Conception that would be easier to access by street bike? Thanks so much.

Hi Jan, Yes! All of these beaches are accessible by cruisers and other types of motorcycles not specifically dual-sport. Just be a little more careful of uneven surfaces. I have a KTM 950 SuperMoto as well and have no issues. Last year I saw a Harley with ape-hanger handlebars navigating the beach! I’ve also seen a Triumph Bonneville, a Ninja, and a Valkry among all the types of bikes enjoying the beach camping experience.

This information is great! I am going to be making a trip down in 2 weeks and will be camping by the beach. So far I’m thinking of Santispac, I’m looking to do a lot of snorkeling and kayaking and hopefully see some whale sharks and dolphins. My question is: How much are kayak rentals? I’m thinking of taking my own kayak but if the rentals are cheap I rather just rent one down there.

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Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

Duration 3 days

Price from USD $730 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

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This short Moscow tour will give you a true taste of the history, culture and incomparable urban vibe that define one of the world’s largest metropolises. In just three days, this Moscow itinerary takes in all the most iconic sights of this attraction-packed destination. After two and half days getting acquainted with the city, we’ve set time aside for you to explore Moscow your way and discover your own favourite hang-outs in a city overflowing with hidden treasures

3-Day Moscow Tour Highlights:

• Panoramic Tour of Moscow: See Moscow beyond the postcard images on a private excursion by car through the city streets including a drive along the banks of the Moskva River. Visit the famous Bolshoi Theatre, pass by Gorky Park and the Novodevichy Convent, and admire the city from on high at the Sparrow Hill observation platform.
• Moscow Historical City Centre Guided Walking Tour : Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises and discover local haunts on foot, including the Red Square, the Kremlin and the multi-coloured domes of St Basil’s Cathedral.
• Armory Chamber tour: Explore the endless treasures of this unique museum, displaying the wealth accumulated by Russian rulers from the 12th century until the October Revolution of 1917. Walking through the exhibition halls is a journey through the centuries.
• Moscow Metro Tour : Go deep underground on a subway tour of the famous Moscow metro. The world’s deepest metro system is renowned for its palatial, art-adorned stations, complete with marble columns and chandeliers.

On your first day, you’ll be treated to a panoramic, drive-by tour of Moscow to get a feel for the immense scale of one of the world’s most rapidly developing urban centres. The city’s history unfolds in real-time as you pass lavish imperial mansions, solemn Soviet structures and luxurious modern shopping centres.

Day two kicks off exploring Moscow’s historic centre on foot, followed by a tour of the Kremlin, the seat of Russian power and political intrigue for centuries. Stand in the Red Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture as you hear stories of the people and events behind many of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks.

On your final day, we’ll head beneath the city for a tour of the Moscow Metro and its famously ornate underground stations. Art lovers should hit up one of Moscow’s many world-class galleries such as the Tretyakov State Gallery, the Pushkin Museum or Garage, Moscow’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. History fans can follow a Soviet trail through the city including Stalin’s Bunker, while those seeking a more indulgent experience can browse trendy neighbourhoods like Kitay Gorod or shop for everything from fashion to kitsch souvenirs at the enchanting Izmaylovo Flea Market. Foodies can head to one of the countless speciality stores sampling vodka, caviar and chocolate.

If you only have a few days to spend in Moscow, this tour will ensure you make the most of your time in the city. Let the experts navigate you through this complex and occasionally overwhelming capital, giving you plenty of time to soak up the city’s most unmissable attractions.

Accomodation

Not Included

Sightseeing

Action rating ?

Type of tour

3 days / 2 nights

Private - Any Date

Day 1 Panoramic city tour

Welcome to the glorious capital of Russia, Moscow! You’ll be met by your driver at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel.

After check-in and rest, meet your private guide at the hotel lobby for a comprehensive tour of Moscow by car. Visit the starkly contrasting Theatre Square to see the stunning Bolshoi Theatre, pass Tverskaya Street, the city’s main boulevard and home to the landmark Yeleseyevskiy Grocery Store.

You’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Moskva River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

Day 2 Red Square and Kremlin

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the historical city centre. Stroll through the Red Square, the hub of cultural life in Moscow, with its elaborate ‘stone flower’ fountain and fantasy-like St Basil’s Cathedral – a postcard-perfect symbol of the nation. Admire the grandiose façade of GUM, the city’s most luxurious shopping centre, and visit Alexander’s Garden, with its eternal flame and the chance to watch a changing of the guards.

Break for lunch before continuing on a tour of the Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous of its collection of tsarist fashion, with regalia such as jewel-encrusted crowns, orbs and sceptres as well as arms and armour, exotic gifts from the leaders of faraway lands, and an illustrious case of Imperial Faberge eggs.

As an option* spend an evening on a sumptuous dinner cruise, taking in the stunning sights and city lights of this mesmerising metropolis by night.

Day 3 Metro and Arbat Street

Start a day with a tour of Metro, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Take a stroll along Old Arbat street - the most famous street in Moscow. Through the centuries Arbat used to be one of the most bohemian places in Moscow. Today Arbat is a promenade full of small cozy cafes and street life.

The afternoon is free for you to either enjoy the rest of the day on your own or choose among optional excursions to explore more of Moscow. Visit the Tretyakov Gallery or Pushkin State Museum to admire Russian art. Join locals for a stroll at the Gorky or VDNH park.

Visit beautiful Kolomeskoye Estate or Izmailovo Kremlin, or spend a day exploring the beautiful city of the Golden Ring (Russian province) - Sergiev Posad. In the evening you will be transferred to the airport for your departure to your next destination.

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Group airport/train-station arrival and departure transfers

All transportation according to the itinerary with a private driver

4* hotel accommodation in the historical city center (twin/double)

Local licensed English-speaking guide

All activities, indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry fees according to the itinerary (skip-the-lines policy)

Russian visa support document

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here .

Optional excursions/activities

*Private tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

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From USD $730

Day 1: Panoramic city tour

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