San Ignacio Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to San Ignacio, Baja California Sur, with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and where to eat in San Ignacio.


Introduction to San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a charming small town located in the Baja California Sur region of Mexico. Known for its colonial architecture, natural beauty, and friendly locals, San Ignacio offers a unique travel experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, delicious food, or just relaxing by the beach, San Ignacio has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in San Ignacio

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of San Ignacio’s unique features is its well-preserved colonial-era architecture that can be seen throughout the town. You can explore the town’s rich history by visiting the following attractions:

  1. Misión San Ignacio Kadakaamán - This 18th-century mission is a must-visit for history buffs. Originally built in 1728, the mission features beautiful baroque architecture and impressive frescoes.

  2. Cave Paintings - San Ignacio is located near some of the oldest cave paintings in North America. These paintings were created by the Cochimí, the indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of the Spanish.

  3. Casa Lammers - Located in the heart of San Ignacio, Casa Lammers is a beautifully preserved 19th-century hacienda that showcases the town’s rich colonial history.

Natural Attractions of San Ignacio: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, San Ignacio offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. From hiking and biking to beachcombing and wildlife watching, there’s always something to see or do in San Ignacio.

  1. Laguna San Ignacio - This stunning lagoon is home to a variety of marine life, including gray whales, sea turtles, and endangered brown pelicans. Take a boat tour for an up-close view of these majestic creatures.

  2. Sierra de San Francisco - This rugged mountain range is home to some of the oldest cave paintings in North America. Visitors can explore the area on guided hikes or horseback rides.

  3. Misión San Borja - Located just outside of San Ignacio, this mission is known for its stunning desert scenery. Explore the area on foot or by car for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a great destination for hikers and bikers, with plenty of well-marked trails and paths to explore. Some of the best routes to check out include:

  1. San Ignacio Canyon Trail - This 3.5-mile trail takes hikers through a scenic canyon with towering walls and a small oasis at the end.

  2. Laguna San Ignacio Trail - This 7-mile out-and-back trail offers stunning views of the lagoon and its wildlife. Bikers can also ride along the beach for a scenic ride.

  3. Misión San Javier Trail - This 7-mile round trip hike takes visitors to the stunning Misión San Javier, a well-preserved mission that dates back to the 1750s.

Best Things to Do in San Ignacio: Activities and Tours

San Ignacio offers a variety of activities and tours to suit every interest and budget. Some of the best things to do in San Ignacio include:

  1. Whale Watching Tours - Take a boat tour of the Laguna San Ignacio to see gray whales up close and personal.

  2. Cave Painting Tours - Explore the ancient cave paintings of the Sierra de San Francisco on a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide.

  3. Horseback Riding - Explore the beautiful San Ignacio countryside on horseback for a unique and memorable experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Ignacio

A week in San Ignacio allows visitors to truly experience all that this charming town has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Explore San Ignacio’s historic churches and buildings.
2 Take a boat tour of Laguna San Ignacio for some whale watching.
3 Hike or bike the San Ignacio Canyon Trail.
4 Take a guided tour of the nearby cave paintings.
5 Visit Misión San Javier and the surrounding countryside.
6 Relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches of San Ignacio.
7 Take a day trip to nearby Loreto for more sightseeing and shopping.

Food and Drink Scene of San Ignacio

Must-Try Dishes

San Ignacio offers a range of delicious local dishes, including:

  1. Fish Tacos - Made with fresh fish from the nearby Sea of Cortez, San Ignacio’s fish tacos are a must-try.

  2. Shrimp Ceviche - This refreshing dish is made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, and a variety of seasonings.

  3. Carne Asada - Grilled beef is a staple of Mexican cuisine, and San Ignacio’s version is second to none.

Local Beverages

Don’t miss out on the local beverages:

  1. Mezcal - This smoky spirit is made from the agave plant and is a popular drink in Mexico.

  2. Cerveza - Mexican beer is known for its light, refreshing flavor. Some popular brands include Corona, Tecate, and Pacifico.

Where to Stay in San Ignacio: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Ignacio offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some popular choices include:

  1. Ignacio Springs Bed and Breakfast - This cozy B&B is located just outside of town and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  2. San Ignacio Springs Hotel - Located in the heart of town, this hotel features spacious rooms, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.

  3. Ignacio Carrillo Hotel - This historic hotel dates back to the 19th century and offers comfortable, well-appointed rooms and a central location.

What to Buy in San Ignacio: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave San Ignacio without picking up some local souvenirs and products. Some popular choices include:

  1. Mexican Folk Art - San Ignacio is known for its vibrant and colorful folk art, including pottery, textiles, and ceramics.

  2. Local Honey - Made from the nectar of local desert flowers, San Ignacio’s honey is a delicious and unique souvenir.

  3. Agave Fiber Products - From rugs and baskets to clothing and accessories, San Ignacio’s agave fiber products are both beautiful and sustainable.

Local Culture and Customs of San Ignacio

San Ignacio’s culture is deeply rooted in its colonial history and indigenous heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, including:

  1. The Siesta - Many shops and restaurants close for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta, a traditional midday nap.

  2. Respectful Dress - Visitors should dress modestly when visiting churches and other cultural attractions.

  3. Dia de los Muertos - This traditional Mexican holiday is celebrated in San Ignacio with colorful altars, parades, and festivals.

Best Time to Visit San Ignacio

The best time to visit San Ignacio is during the fall and winter months, from October to March. During this time, temperatures are mild, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. The summer months can be hot and humid, and there is a higher chance of rain and storms.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Ignacio

Do:

  1. Try the local food and drink - San Ignacio has a rich culinary tradition that’s worth exploring.

  2. Explore the natural attractions - San Ignacio is surrounded by beautiful mountains and beaches that are just waiting to be explored.

  3. Take time to relax - San Ignacio is a laid-back, friendly town where it’s easy to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Don’t:

  1. Forget sunscreen and insect repellent - San Ignacio is located in a hot and humid climate, so be prepared for the elements.

  2. Leave valuables unattended - While San Ignacio is known for its friendly locals, it’s still important to keep an eye on your belongings.

  3. Disrespect local customs - San Ignacio has a rich cultural heritage that should be respected by visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a generally safe town, but visitors should still exercise caution and follow some basic safety tips, such as:

  1. Stay aware of your surroundings - Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity or individuals.

  2. Avoid walking alone at night - Stick to well-lit areas and walk with a group if possible.

  3. Lock up your valuables - Keep your money, passport, and other valuables in a hotel safe or other secure location.

Health in San Ignacio

San Ignacio is generally a healthy destination, but visitors should still take some basic health precautions, such as:

  1. Drink bottled water - San Ignacio’s tap water is not safe to drink, so make sure to stick to bottled water.

  2. Protect yourself from the sun - Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Mexican sun.

  3. Bring insect repellent - San Ignacio is located in a tropical climate, and mosquitoes can be a problem.

Getting to San Ignacio: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Ignacio

The nearest airport to San Ignacio is the Loreto International Airport, which is about 2 hours away by car. Other nearby airports include the La Paz International Airport, which is about 3.5 hours away, and San Diego International Airport, which is about a 6-hour drive.

Bus Stations Near San Ignacio

San Ignacio is served by several bus lines, including Baja California Sur, Tres Estrellas de Oro, and Americanos. Bus stations in nearby towns include Loreto and Santa Rosalia.

Other Options

Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the area at their own pace. There are several rental car companies located in nearby towns, including Loreto and Santa Rosalia.

How to Get Around in San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Taxis are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from San Ignacio: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Ignacio is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Some nearby destinations to check out include:

  1. Loreto - This charming colonial town is known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture.

  2. Santa Rosalia - This mining town is home to stunning French colonial architecture and a unique culture that blends Mexican and French influences.

  3. Bahía de los Ángeles - This beautiful bay is home to a variety of wildlife, including gray whales, sea lions, and dolphins.

Conclusion

San Ignacio is a hidden gem in the Baja California Sur region of Mexico. From its stunning natural attractions to its rich cultural heritage, San Ignacio offers a unique travel experience that’s well worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or just relaxing by the beach, San Ignacio has something for everyone.

The front facade of Misión San Ignacio The front facade of Misión San Ignacio