Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Bahía de Loreto National Park, established in 1996, encompasses approximately 206,580 acres of pristine marine and island habitats along the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez) in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The park protects five rugged islands—Isla Coronado, Isla Carmen, Isla Danzante, Isla Monserrat, and Isla Santa Catalina—along with the surrounding waters that sustain one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. Its waters harbor thriving communities of coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and a plethora of marine species including sea lions, dolphins, whales (notably blue, humpback and gray whales), sea turtles, and over 800 species of fish. The park serves as a critical refuge for endangered and vulnerable species such as the vaquita marina and the totoaba. Outdoor recreation opportunities center around water-based activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, whale watching, and sport fishing. The islands themselves offer rugged terrain for wildlife observation and limited hiking, with scenic views of the sea and desert landscapes. Loreto, the closest town, serves as the main gateway and provides amenities, guides, and boat trips to explore the park. As a UNESCO biosphere reserve, Bahía de Loreto balances conservation with sustainable tourism, providing visitors an immersive experience in one of the most biologically significant marine environments on the planet.
