Annual flight route will take Calgarians directly to this ‘magical town’ in Mexico 

While we all love Calgary, it’s always nice to get out of our comfort zones and enjoy something new. In terms of vacations, Mexico has always been a beloved trip for Canadians, and with annual direct flights from YYC,  it’s time to experience more of the country.

Get a load of Mexico’s Loreto Baja California Sur, aka the Magical Town or Pueblo Magico. As one of the first Spanish settlements on the Baja California Peninsula, this destination is truly a magical paradise. 

Whale watching in Loreto is at its peak during the winter as the whales migrate for breeding. Loreto Baja California Sur

Located near Mexico’s western coast, Loreto is nestled within the UNESCO-designated Loreto National Marine Park along the Gulf of California and boasts a tropical desert climate. With ample opportunities for ocean fun, beach days, and culture-filled nights, Loreto is a hidden gem beside uber-popular tourist town Los Cabos.

And with annual flights via WestJet from Calgary, it’s even easier to get there. Yep, your new vacation just dropped! Here’s a little taste of that Pueblo Magico vibe.

Natural beauty 

Mountain bikers, hikers, and birdwatchers will especially love Loretta’s parks for breathtaking views and nature. Loreto Baja California Sur

You can’t talk about Loreto without mentioning its abundance of natural beauty. Loreto National Marine Park is home to over 800 marine species and is considered one of the country’s greatest natural treasures.

Desert scrublands are dotted with lizards and snakes, while sandy beaches are the spot to check out sea lions and turtles — and in the water, it’s humpback, grey, and blue whale spotting time! The park’s unique location between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California is often crossed during the whales’ migration during the winter. 

Adventure time

Get on top with a hike across the beautiful Tabor Canyon trailheads, perfect for hikers of all skill levels! Meander the volcanic escarpment of the Sierra Giganta Mountains for breathtaking ocean views and waterfall scenes.

“People who know Los Cabos or are planning to visit are aware of what Baja is about, and Loreto provides a different experience for those who already love and visit Los Cabos,” said  Jesus Ordoñez, General Director for the Board of Tourism of Baja California Sur.

Loreto boasts a unique topography, including the five main islands of Santa Catalina, Monserrat, Carmen, Coronado, and Dazante. Loreto Baja California Sur

Kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling are also extremely popular in the Sea of Cortez, where turquoise waters give way to calm conditions perfect for all water activities, sport fishing included. Snapper, yellowtail, and whitefish are plentiful year-round, while the summer months bring with them bigger catches like sailfish, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and even the occasional wahoo and yellowfin tuna! 

Culture comforts 

The picture-perfect town of Loreto has a distinct culture ready to experience via local shops and restaurants. Loreto Baja California Sur

Visit the neighbouring areas of Loreto for a healthy dose of history and culture before and after Spanish contact. Gaze up at the ancient cave paintings of deer, handprints, fish, and more that decorate the walls of the Sierra de Gigante — estimated to have been created between 100 BC and 1300 AD!

Especially unique to Loreto is the area’s legacy of Jesuit missionary history and architecture, with the San Javier Mission being one of the most popular sites to visit. Constructed in 1699, this one boasts impressive stone buildings, bell towers, and arched doorways — there’s a reason it’s known as the jewel of the Baja California mission churches.

Your Loreto Baja California Sur vacation awaits

Completely unique from its neighbouring towns and other national tourist spots, Loreto boasts so many opportunities for a unique vacation, whether you like it chill and relaxing or adventurous and non-stop.

Check out the direct flights from YYC to LTO that take off daily from late October to the end of April annually, and get ready to experience a new magical side of Mexico!