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Sonora

Mexico’s second-largest state (neighboring Chihuahua is first) has remarkable cultural and ecological diversity within its 180,000 sq km. It boasts miles and miles of gorgeous beaches, desert moonscapes in El Pinacate Reserve, near Puerto Peñasco, and everything in between. It's still undiscovered by mass tourism, but the word is definitely getting out for Mexican travelers – beach towns like San Carlos and Bahía de Kino get packed with weekend warriors from Hermosillo and beyond – and those near the US border get a steady stream of American 'snowbirds' (retired North American citizens who head south for winter). Even so, Sonora sees far fewer travelers, especially foreigners, than its myriad attractions and drop-dead beauty would suggest. But hey, who’s complaining?

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Sonora.

  • See

    Isla del Tiburón

    This mountainous island, Mexico's largest, lies 3km off the coast from Punta Chueca. It was once a Seri homeland, but was depopulated when the island was declared a nature reserve in 1963. Today it's administered by the Seri tribal authorities. An intact desert ecosystem, it's home to bighorn sheep and large colonies of seabirds. There's good snorkeling around its coast. For a permit and guide to the island, ask at the Consejo de Ancianos at the entrance to Punta Chueca. Recommended guides include Ernesto Molina, Alejandro Barnet and Genaro Robles who can set up tours (per boat M$1200).

  • See

    Museo de los Seris

    This small but well-curated museum displays an interesting collection of artifacts, handicrafts and panels about Seri culture and history, including videos on the tradition of basket weaving. Signage is in Spanish only.

  • See

    Punta Chueca

    This village is home to the Seri people, one of Mexico's smallest indigenous groups (fewer than 1000 people). The Seri are known for their handicrafts, including their highly regarded baskets and carvings from ironwood. Look for Soccaaix, a small shop near the entrance to town, for high-quality items; ask for Doña Guillermina if it's closed. A paved road leads to the settlement, 34km north of Bahía de Kino.

  • See

    La Casa del Mar

    This visitor center services the 900-island Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Islas del Golfo de California, a biodiverse protected area of islands in the Sea of Cortez. It has very informative displays in Spanish and English, and offers assistance in obtaining permits for visiting the islands (M$50 per person, per island, per day).