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Kuyimá – Cave Paintings Excursion 3 days Santa Teresa

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MEX$51,957

About this trip

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day horseback expedition along the Santa Teresa route, a journey deep into the heart of the Baja California peninsula, where history, nature, and ancient culture come together.

This unique horseback adventure takes you through remote trails, winding through canyons, oases, and rugged mountains—landscapes seemingly untouched by time. From the saddle, you’ll follow paths once traveled by generations of local ranchers and communities, immersing yourself in the wild, mysterious beauty of the region.

Each day brings you closer to the cave paintings of the Sierra de San Francisco, a site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. Here, you’ll witness the ancient cave paintings, powerful symbols of the region’s deep cultural and spiritual history.

At night, you’ll camp under a breathtaking blanket of stars, far from artificial light, surrounded by the silence and vastness of the desert. Sleeping under the open sky, sharing stories around the campfire, offers a rare chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form.

Led by experienced local guides, this expedition is not just a physical adventure—it’s an inner journey that inspires respect and wonder for a land rich in meaning. Along the way, you’ll experience the warmth and hospitality of the communities who keep the traditions of the peninsula alive, enjoying simple, nourishing meals prepared with care.

This horseback journey is perfect for those seeking more than just a trip—it’s a transformative experience, an opportunity to immerse yourself in Baja California’s living history, to ride in rhythm with nature, and to discover a world where every step tells a story.

Dare to leave the beaten path and let this expedition awaken your sense of wonder.

Available Dates

Available from October 15 to May 31

Health and Fitness Recommendation

This expedition is physically demanding and requires good overall fitness. Participants should be in optimal health, with no medical conditions that could be aggravated by long hours of horseback riding, hiking on uneven terrain, or exposure to extreme weather.

We recommend prior experience with endurance activities (such as long hikes or horseback riding) and advise consulting your doctor before joining, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions.

This adventure is designed for individuals accustomed to regular physical activity and willing to embrace the rustic conditions of the environment.

Duration

3 days 2 nights

Caves to Visit

“La serpiente”

“Los corralitos”

“Clarita or supernova”

“El mono alto”

  • Comfortable, durable clothing: long pants for riding, long-sleeved shirts, breathable, quick-dry fabrics
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
  • Riding boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes (avoid sandals or lightweight sneakers).
  • Light rain jacket or poncho in case of rain.
  • Sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen.
  • Riding gloves (optional, but helpful for long hours on horseback).
  • Reusable water bottle or thermos.
  • Basic personal hygiene items and a small towel.
  • Wet wipes for quick cleaning.
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
  • Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
  • Light backpack or saddlebag for daily essentials.
  • Camera or binoculars (optional, to capture the scenery and wildlife).
  • Minimize luggage as much as possible. (recomended 10 kg, no more).
  • Filming without INAH authorization is not allowed. For commercial or promotional filming, you must request the appropriate permit from INAH.
  • The use of drones is not allowed without authorization from INAH and CONANP.  

3 OR MORE DAY EXPEDITIONS TO THE CAVE PAINTINGS

To ensure an organized, high-quality experience for our guests, Kuyimá has established the following reservation and cancellation policies for our 3-day or longer expeditions to the rock art sites of the Sierra de San Francisco.

The package includes:

  • Rental of riding animals
  • Local guides
  • Bilingual naturalist guide
  • INAH permit for access to archaeological sites
  • Permit for non-professional photo/video recording
  • CONANP permit for access to protected natural areas
  • Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, sheets, cots, folding chairs, tables, portable stove)
  • Kitchen supplies
  • Food preparation service
  • Round-trip transportation: San Ignacio – Santa Marta – San Ignacio – San Francisco – San Ignacio

 

RESERVATIONS

  1. As this activity takes place in a Protected Natural Area, visit dates are subject to official authorization by the relevant authorities.
  2. Reservations can be made up to 2 years in advance.
  3. Prices are subject to change without notice, except for confirmed reservations with deposit.
  4. Validity period: October 15 to May 31.
  5. Maximum capacity: 8 people.
  6. Rates vary by group size, minimum 2 people.
  7. Transportation from San Ignacio to thes san Francisco is included as a courtesy for this package, at fixed times:
    • Kuyimá can provide parking for your vehicle during your stay. However, this is solely a storage service; Kuyimá is not responsible for theft, damage, loss, or any incident. Use of the parking area is at the guest’s own risk.

8.    Kuyimá offers, for those booking well in advance, the option to hold a reservation for up to 3 months without immediate payment. However, at least one month before the expedition, a non-refundable deposit of $9,482 MXN per person must be made via bank deposit or transfer to confirm the booking.
Payment options for the remaining balance:

  • Final payment: at least 7 days before arrival.

If the guest does not complete payments by the deadlines, Kuyimá reserves the right to cancel the reservation without refund and release the space to other interested parties. This especially applies if the balance is not paid at least 5 days before the service starts.

If we are unable to reach the guest through the provided contact methods (phone, email, or other official channels), and after multiple attempts with no response within a reasonable time, it will be understood that the guest has forfeited the reservation, and it will be canceled under the same terms. In such cases, previous payments are non-refundable, unless Kuyimá, at its sole discretion, determines there were justified and documented reasons.

Once the reservation is confirmed, a personal information form and liability waiver will be sent.
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unforeseen events (illness, natural disasters, pandemics, or personal reasons).
Payment methods: bank transfer, deposit, credit or debit card. Reservations and payments may also be made via the secure payment gateway on our official website. We do not accept foreign checks.
WAITLIST:

  • If the requested date is unavailable, guests may join a waitlist managed in order of request.
  • If a spot opens, we will contact waitlisted guests in order.

By making payment, the guest accepts these terms and conditions.
CANCELLATIONS

10.   Kuyimá reserves the right to modify or suspend services due to force majeure (extreme weather, health measures, or other uncontrollable factors).

In extraordinary events beyond Kuyimá’s or the guest’s control (health emergencies, pandemics, natural disasters, road closures, etc.):

  • Service may be rescheduled for another date within the same or following year, subject to availability and current rates. Any difference in rates for a later season must be covered by the guest.
  • If rescheduling is not possible, a credit valid for up to one year may be issued in the reservation holder’s name.
  • Only if rescheduling or credit use is impossible will a partial refund be considered, deducting the non-refundable deposit.

11. If service is canceled due to weather once already on site:
Rescheduling is valid for up to one year, subject to availability.

NO SHOW:
12. Failure to arrive on the scheduled date will result in full forfeiture of paid amounts.

  • Cancellation due to personal reasons less than 5 days before arrival will not be refunded.

VOLUNTARY CANCELLATIONS:
More than 60 days before arrival: payments made, excluding the non-refundable deposit, may be refunded.
Less than 60 days before arrival: no refunds.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing by email and will be processed during business hours only. Requests must be sent to: info@kuyima.com.

Reducing the number of people in a reservation is considered a partial cancellation and the same policies apply.
Refunds will be processed within 30 business days of approval.
PAYMENT METHODS AND CONTACT:

  • Transfer, bank deposit, cash (MXN/USD), credit or debit card.
  • For international payments: prices are in MXN. Exchange rates are set by your bank and may vary. Kuyimá does not apply conversions or rate adjustments.

Bank details:

  • Account holder: Ecoturismo Kuyima, S.P.R. de R.L.
  • Bank: Banamex, Branch 291 Santa Rosalía, B.C.S.
  • Account: 7506798
  • CLABE: 002046029175067982
  • Currency: Mexican Pesos (MXN)
    Send proof of payment to: info@kuyima.com

For card payments, call: (615) 154 0070 or WhatsApp (615) 106 6638.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED:
Once your reservation is confirmed, please provide:

  • Full names
  • Email
  • Phone number
  • Age
  • Food restrictions or allergies
  • Relevant medical conditions
  • City of origin

This information is used solely for operational, safety, and personalized service purposes. Kuyimá guarantees the confidentiality of your data.

Kuyimá reserves the right to modify these policies as needed due to internal decisions or seasonal factors, with prior notice through official channels.

Thank you for choosing the Kuyimá experience.

What’s included

What’s not included

Contact Us

We have limited spaces for this service. Our sales team will contact you.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Rock Art Expeditions

Rock art expeditions can take place most of the year, but the best months are October through May, when temperatures are more pleasant and road conditions are better.

We visit various rock art sites in the Sierra de San Francisco and Santa Marta—UNESCO World Heritage areas.
Our one-day tours visit Cueva del Ratón in Rancho San Francisco and El Palmarito in Santa Marta.
For multi-day tours, we offer 3-day options to Santa Teresa Canyon, El Parral stream, or San Gregorio stream. We also have a 6-day option connecting San Gregorio and Santa Teresa.
These longer trips are done on muleback and include visits to several caves. Site selection depends on the tour length, fitness level required, and the type of experience you’re looking for.

It varies. Some caves require short, easy hikes, while others involve steep descents, uneven trails, or multi-hour treks.
It’s important to let us know your physical condition and prior experience so we can recommend the best option.
For 3- or 6-day trips, mule rental is mandatory.
The only low-difficulty option is Cueva del Ratón, where the most challenging part is a 100-meter staircase.

Yes, but the terrain and physical effort involved must be considered.
This activity is not suitable for those with limited mobility. For seniors, children, or people with special needs, contact us in advance to explore the best options.

Yes! Unlike wildlife sightings, the paintings are permanent. The main consideration is whether weather and trail conditions allow safe access. Our experienced guides will lead you safely and ensure a meaningful visit.

Safety comes first.
In the case of heavy rain, strong winds, or any risk, the tour may be postponed or modified. If the activity cannot go ahead, we’ll offer alternatives or apply our refund policy for force majeure.
Stay in touch with our team for updates.

Weather and Recommendations

It depends on the time of year.
In fall and winter (October–February), mornings and evenings can be cold, with mild daytime temperatures. In spring (March–May), it tends to get hotter, especially in lower elevations.
We recommend layered clothing, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and sturdy closed-toe shoes.

Bring the following:

  • Comfortable, layered clothing
  • Hat/cap and sunglasses
  • Biodegradable sunscreen
  • Hiking boots or shoes with good traction
  • Small backpack
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Camera or notebook for notes/sketches
  • Trekking poles if you use them

Getting There and Logistics

They are in the Sierra de San Francisco in northern Mulegé, Baja California Sur. Access varies—some require dirt roads, others are reached by foot trails.

First, travel to San Ignacio, B.C.S.
From there, we’ll take you in one of our vehicles.

For some sites, a vehicle with high clearance or off-road capability is recommended.
Our tours include transportation, so you don’t need to worry.

Facilities and Services

Yes. For multi-day expeditions, lodging is included in local ranches or in tented camps depending on the route.

Yes. All expeditions include locally prepared meals and drinking water.
We accommodate dietary restrictions with prior notice.
Day tours include a box lunch with 3 burritos (machaca or bean & cheese), juice, an energy bar, and a 1-liter bottle of water.

For camping expeditions, we provide portable toilets or eco-friendly designated areas depending on the site.

No. There’s no coverage in the Sierra de San Francisco, which enhances the immersive experience in nature and local culture.
Our guides carry communication equipment for emergencies.

Reservations and Payments

  • You can book through:
    Our website: [www.kuyima.com]
  • Email
  • Phone or WhatsApp: +52 615 154 0070 / +52 615 106 6638
  • Contact to Social media: Facebook and Instagram

Our sales team will guide you through every step.

We accept bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and cash. The required deposit depends on the tour type and whether lodging or transport is included.

We offer flexible cancellation and change policies. If you notify us in advance, we’ll do our best to reschedule or apply your payment to a future visit. Be sure to review the specific policy when booking.

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