25 years ago, some seasoned Baja explorers took me way up in the mountains in the center of the peninsula to an isolated ranch, little visited by outsiders. From there, we hired guides from among the“Californios”who still live there - descended from the soldiers and artisans who accompanied the early European missionaries to Baja California in the 1600s, they live and work on ranches started a dozen generations ago by their ancestors.
We packed all of our belongings on burros, and rode mules for a full day, winding down into a steep canyon where we camped in a paradise of crystal clear streams, date palms, a profusion of flowers, and - hundreds of huge, prehistoric cave paintings, everywhere - some of them on sheer rock walls 30 feet above us!
We packed all of our belongings on burros, and rode mules for a full day, winding down into a steep canyon where we camped in a paradise of crystal clear streams, date palms, a profusion of flowers, and - hundreds of huge, prehistoric cave paintings, everywhere - some of them on sheer rock walls 30 feet above us!
I have traveled all over the world since then, and I still remember what a spectacular trip that was. And, now I know how lucky I was to have experienced something few ever do - spending time immersed in a culture that is little changed from the 1600s, and is now disappearing.
In November 2021, I will be re-creating that incredible trip, and taking a few friends with me to this little-known UNESCO World Heritage Site - cave paintings so isolated they have been protected for thousands of years and historically and artistically, they rival those in Lascaux, France.
In November 2021, I will be re-creating that incredible trip, and taking a few friends with me to this little-known UNESCO World Heritage Site - cave paintings so isolated they have been protected for thousands of years and historically and artistically, they rival those in Lascaux, France.
Our experienced guides will lead us into the mountains on muleback (or hiking) the way people have always traveled here. Visiting the isolated ranches along the way where people still live the old ways of life, is a delight. The people are warm and welcoming and enthusiastically show us their handmade and hand-cured leather saddles and polainas - strap- on leg protectors, describe their traditional medicines derived from plants, and tell us how they live, removed from our chaotic world.
We will camp for several days in this beautiful canyon, hiking to see as many cave painting sites as we can. Then, we will return to Loreto on the Sea of Cortez for a couple days of relaxation, before returning home.
As well as an incredible journey into the Sierras, it is also a sojourn into the hearts and minds of people whose simple ways owe more to the traditions of 17th century Spain than that of 21st century America.
And, all you need to bring with you is a sleeping bag!
As well as an incredible journey into the Sierras, it is also a sojourn into the hearts and minds of people whose simple ways owe more to the traditions of 17th century Spain than that of 21st century America.
And, all you need to bring with you is a sleeping bag!
Price: $1995 USD, which includes all hotels (double occupancy), all ground transportation from Loreto to the Sierra San Francisco and return, most meals, all camping gear, all guides, and mules. Airfare and tips are not included. A non-refundable deposit of $800 USD is required to reserve your space. The trip is limited to 8 people. Timelessjourneys@gmail.com to confirm your attendance, and receive a day-to-day itinerary beginning November 27 at 5pm and ending December 6 after breakfast.
