The Sierra de San Francisco in Baja California Sur is an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and adventures in one of Baja’s most historically significant mountain ranges. This area is best known for the breathtaking Sierra de San Francisco cave paintings, (in Spanish – the pinturas rupestres de la Sierra de San Francisco), which are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an ideal stop to combine with the famous grey whale watching in Guerrero Negro or San Ignacio, creating an exciting blend of wildlife encounters and exploring Baja’s cave paintings.

From the stunning drive through the San Francisco de la Sierra BCS to the captivating rock paintings, this side trip off Baja’s Highway 1 is perfect for those who love exploring under the radar spots. There’s a lot more to Baja than it’s beaches! Here’s the beta from our recent spontaneous detour to explore some of the finest Mexico cave paintings and the rich traditions of Baja California Sur.

The Journey: A Desert Drive Like No Other

Getting to the Sierra de San Francisco was an adventure in itself. The road from Highway 1 to the village is a smooth, paved stretch—arguably better than the main highway—and winds through stunning desert canyons. The landscape is striking, with towering saguaros and lush desert vegetation giving the area a vibe reminiscent of a greener Zion National Park. The 40-minute drive was a highlight of the trip, with dramatic vistas making us wishing we were on our bikes instead.

At the top of the road lies the small town, and the charming Hostal Buena Aventura. The hostal can make arrangements for all of your adventures – whether you want day hikes, visits to Baja’s cave paintings like Cueva Raton, or overnight treks or mule trips up the canyon to more cave paintings. Because the area is a Biosphere Reserve, and the cave paintings are an Archeological Reserve, a guide is required but it’s also helpful for route finding, and learning more about the area. Most of the local guides don’t speak English, but it was a great chance of us to practice our Spanish!

Day Hikes of the Sierra

One of our favorite adventures was our hike with Jose to the highest peak in the Sierra de San Francisco. At 5,200 feet, the summit offered jaw-dropping views of both the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, as well as other nearby peaks like the Tres Vírgenes – three looming volcanoes that still emit smoke. This 4.5-mile round-trip hike was a great day adventure, and starting early was smart – with 1,500 feet of elevation gain and a rocky, loose trail with limited shade, mornings are more pleasant. A guide is required for this trek because it’s in the archaeological area (400 pesos), but it’s well worth it for their local expertise, route finding, and knowledge of the trail. The hike took us about three hours and was the perfect way to experience the rugged beauty of these inland Baja mountains.

Discovering Ancient Cave Paintings at Cueva Ratón

In the afternoon, we visited Cueva Ratón, the closest set of Baja’s ancient cave paintings to the road. These paintings are part of the Sierra de San Francisco rock art, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over 7,000 years. Created by the region’s indigenous Cochimí people, the artwork features vibrant depictions of animals, humans, and abstract designs, providing a fascinating glimpse into their lives and spiritual beliefs. The figures are painted in red, black, white, and yellow, and the best time to view them is in the afternoon light – we went around 5pm.

To visit the caves, you’ll need a permit (100 pesos per person) and a guide (200 pesos), both of which can be arranged easily by the hostel. It is a very short walk up several stairs to Cueva Ratón, where you can take in several sets of these ancient masterpieces.

Supporting a Local Legacy

One of the most rewarding aspects of this trip was supporting the local community, who have been protecting these archeological treasures for many generations. The families in the Sierra de San Francisco are deeply connected to this land and its history, serving as stewards of the rock art and the surrounding environment. By booking tours to Baja’s cave paintings directly through these local families, your money goes farther in helping sustain their efforts to preserve this incredible heritage. While it’s possible to book tours through third-party agencies, we strongly recommend connecting with the locals to ensure your visit has a meaningful impact.

The tradition of safeguarding the Sierra de San Francisco’s rock art dates back to the early days of exploration in the region. Local families, often descended from the original ranching communities established centuries ago, play a vital role in maintaining the trails, guiding visitors, and ensuring the preservation of these ancient artworks. This cooperative model helps support the community, allowing them to support themselves while sharing the rich history and culture of the area with travelers from around the world.

Goats, Baby Goats, and Local Life

Another charming aspect of our trip was the chance to experience local life. The people of the Sierra de San Francisco tend large herds of goats, and we had plenty of opportunities to watch these playful animals—including baby goats—roaming the area. Our dog was particularly enthralled by the goats, making this part of the trip a fun and unexpected highlight.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Sierra de San Francisco

• Timing: Plan to spend at least two nights to fully enjoy both the hiking and cave tours. Doing the hike in the morning and the cave visit in the afternoon worked perfectly for us. Plan for a few more days if you want to do multi-day treks or mule trips to see more remote canyons.
• Permits and Guides: Permits are required for both the caves and guided hikes, but they can be easily arranged at the hostel.
• Accommodations: Hostal Buena Aventura is a great option for convenience and comfort, with both camping and room options.
• Bring Your Pup: If you’re traveling with a dog, the area is pet-friendly, but keep them leashed around the goats!

History of the Sierra de San Francisco Rock Art

The rock art of the Sierra de San Francisco is considered some of the finest and best-preserved in the world. These paintings are thought to have been created by the Cochimí, a now-extinct group of indigenous people who inhabited the Baja Peninsula for thousands of years. Archaeologists believe the art served religious or ceremonial purposes, as many of the figures are placed in locations that were difficult to access, adding to their spiritual significance. The region’s dry climate and sheltered caves have preserved the paintings remarkably well, allowing visitors today to connect with this ancient culture.

Baja’s Cave Paintings: A Journey Through Culture and History

The Sierra de San Francisco is a great side trip off Baja’s main drag that offers something for everyone—whether you’re a history buff, a hiker, or someone looking for a quiet escape exploring the rich cultural heritage of Baja Mexico. The paved road and welcoming locals made this a must-do on our list, and a place we’re already planning to revisit. If you’re heading to Baja, add this epic adventure to your list!