Canyon Rock Art: Santa Teresa

Canyon Rock Art: Santa Teresa

Prehistoric cave painting depicting a large bird, possibly an eagle, with outstretched wings and a human figure holding a spear, along with other animal figures on a rock wall.

This mule trip takes you into the Santa Teresa canyon, home to some of the most impressive rock art sites in the Sierra de San Francisco. The ride down follows old ranch trails into the canyon bottom, where you’ll camp close to the river and spend time visiting the caves. It’s the classic route to see the Painted Caves of Baja.

See Dates and Rates

Visit the most iconic UNESCO-listed prehistoric rock art sites

Ride sturdy mules into the canyon

Camp near the oases and enjoy ranch-style meals

Meet the local vaqueros that call the sierras their home

A straightforward 4-day trip that fits most schedules

Highlights

About the Adventure

  • A light brown donkey lying in dust, kicking up dust around it in a dry outdoor setting with trees in the background.

    Trip Basics

    Length: 4 days / 3 nights

    Difficulty: Beginner-Moderate (mule riding, canyon trails, camping)

    Best Season: November–April

    Group Size: 1–8 people*

    *Private/custom trips upon inquiry

  • Campfire with six camping chairs set in a semi-circle on dirt ground, surrounded by trees and tents in the background.

    What's included

    ✔ Local vaqueros, riding and pack animals

    ✔ All fees for park entrance

    ✔ Most meals and beverages on the trail

    ✔ Camping gear (tents, kitchen, basic supplies)

    ✔ Expertise of our local guides

    ✔ Tips!

    Not included: Travel to San Ignacio and the trail-head, personal gear.

    Contact us directly to enquirer for an All-Inclusive option

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – Into the Canyon
Meet in the town of San Ignacio for orientation. Drive into the sierras to meet our mules and vaqueros. Pack the mules and ride several hours down the historic trail into Santa Teresa canyon. Set up camp.

Day 2 – Rock Art Visit
Ride and hike to the Santa Teresa cave system. Spend the day exploring different sites with time to observe and photograph the panels. Return to camp for the evening.

Day 3 – Explore and Return
Explore different, more challenging to reach sites, or spend the day relaxing in camp or by the mountain oasis pools.

Day 4 – Back to Town
Pack up and commence the climb out of the canyon to the trailhead. Return to San Ignacio by late afternoon/ early evening.

General FAQs