Where can you find the oldest cave paintings in the Americas? Situated within the Sierra de San Francisco Mountains on the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico are the oldest cave paintings in the Americas.
A visit to The Great Murals makes for the perfect autumn trip as summer heat and rains give way to more temperate weather. The Rock Paintings of Sierra de San Francisco offers a rare glimpse into ancient history, attributed to the lost Cochimí tribe. The paintings date to as early as 5,500 B.C. to as late as the 18th century, telling a story spanning thousands of years. You can locate these pictographs at nearly 250 sites, found east of the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve.
© Visit Baja California Sur
A UNESCO World Heritage site, these paintings can be witnessed with Aventuras Mexico Profundo, a company offering fully guided tours showcasing the region’s ancient rock art, starting and ending in La Paz. On this tour, you’ll journey from La Pintada Cave, which depicts thousands of overlapping images of marine life and human figures, to Boca de San Julio Cave, where a forgotten language adorns the walls.
This 10-day adventure also covers the peninsula’s beaches, oases and Jesuit mission churches. Guests camp under the starry skies and delve deep into canyons on mule back. Tour accommodations include hotel and air-condition vans.
For a shorter tour of the caves, Loreto Sea & Land Tours, based in Loreto, offers three- to five-day rock art tours on mule back, providing a unique perspective on Baja California Sur’s ancient marvels.
© Visit Baja California Sur
The paintings are well-preserved and protected, surrounded by reversible infrastructure (designed to be easily removed) and environmental protections.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
May 27, 2025Plan a Legendary Gathering in Honolulu
Myths and origin stories form a powerful framework for the history of Hawai‘i. Marking the horizon behind Honolulu, the ancient volcanic formation of Lē‘ahi — technically a volcanic tuff cone more commonly known to the world as Diamond Head — provides a constant physical reminder of the tales that shaped the history of this location. While researching legends for my Hawai‘i-based Dark Paradise Mysteries series (Kensington Books), I learned the tale of the demigod Maui, who used his enchanted fishing hook to reach into the sea to heave the Hawaiian islands, including Diamond Head, above the surface of the water.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Slideshow
May 27, 20256 Reasons to Put Wellington, New Zealand, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Wellington, New Zealand, with us.
Airlines
May 25, 2025Delta Air Lines Adds Flight to Kona, Hawai‘i
From its Salt Lake City (SLC) hub, Delta Air Lines launches a new Hawai‘i route this winter. Starting this December, the airline offers non-stop service from Salt Lake City to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole on the Big Island. Marking the airline’s 17th route from the U.S. mainland to Hawai‘i, the service will operate on a Boeing 767-300ER through March 28, 2026.
Sponsored Content
Sail Unique with Explora Journeys
SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.
Hotels
May 24, 2025Beaches Turks & Caicos Unveils Treasure Beach Village
Beaches Resorts recently revealed details about the addition of Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort. Now open for reservations, Treasure Beach Resort features 101 multi-bedroom concierge and butler suites, including two-, three- and four-bedroom luxury accommodations.
Relax, Rejuvenate and Heal at StolenTime
May 2025
May 23, 2025Hotel Nice Beau Rivage Review
eFlyer Reviews
May 21, 2025Celebrity Cruises Launches Limited-Time Sale
eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025Escape and Save at The Shore Club’s Estate Villas in Turks and Caicos
Combine luxury with some good deals this summer at The Shore Club’s stunning Estate Villas in Turks and Caicos. These standalone accommodations are perfect for groups or anyone craving a full-service resort experience. From private pools to full kitchens to butler service to ocean views, you can save and indulge at the same time.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025Save 20 Percent Off Stays at This Turks and Caicos Resort
Who says a trip to Turks and Caicos needs to be expensive? This summer, the all-suite The Regent Grand, on world-famous Grace Bay Beach, debuts its May I Stay Here Please offer.
ShareThis