Baja California Sur (March 6, 2025) – Spring in Baja California Sur is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts; and from seasoned experts to beginners seeking an accessible adventure, Las Tres Vírgenes offer an ideal challenge. The “Three Virgins” – El Viejo, El Azufre, and La Virgen – are three dormant volcanoes that dominate the Baja California landscape near Santa Rosalía. This lesser-known destination offers hikers the chance to engage with the region’s biodiversity while supporting local, community-run tour operators on an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The volcanoes are nestled within the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve, Mexico’s largest wildlife refuge. In addition to the 500 bighorn sheep which live near the volcanoes, the area teems with wildlife, including hawks and eagles soaring above, and the vibrant desert marigolds that bloom in spring. For those seeking to experience the region’s natural wonders up close, shorter hikes offer a glimpse into its rich ecosystem. However, summiting Las Tres Vírgenes is the ultimate way to appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the biosphere reserve. From the peak, hikers are treated to panoramic views of the Gulf of California to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The view also stretches to the Ojo de Liebre Lagoons, to the west, and the Sierra de Santa Marta, renowned for its ancient cave paintings and rock art.
Summiting the volcanoes requires a two-day trek and guidance from a local expert. Local guides also offer a variety of other hiking options, from short 1-hour walks to longer, overnight treks. A popular 5 km loop trail takes hikers through the striking “lava fields,” where solidified lava flows create a surreal landscape. Steam vents along the volcanoes can also be explored on shorter excursions.
The sole lodging option in the area is Eco Tour Las Tres Virgenes, run by a local ejido (a family that manages the land communally). The property offers five rustic cabins (10 rooms in total), each with breathtaking views of the valley and volcanoes. The rooms come equipped with hot water and Wi-Fi, providing a peaceful retreat for approximately 450 pesos ($22 USD) per night. The on-site restaurant serves home-cooked meals with incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Eco Tours offers guided hikes without prior reservation for as little as 150 pesos ($8 USD) per person. For summit hikes, which require advance booking, visitors can contact the team via email at ecotourtresvirgenes@gmail.com or call +52 615 104 2291. By emphasizing sustainable, low-impact hiking practices, Eco Tours and local operators ensure that visitors can experience this extraordinary ecosystem while helping preserve it for future generations.
The volcanoes are accessible from Loreto, located about three hours by car via Mexico Highway 1. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Loreto to Santa Rosalía and arrange local transportation to the volcanoes. For travelers flying into Loreto, Alaska Airlines offers direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO), while American Airlines provides seasonal direct flights from Phoenix (PHX) and Dallas (DFW), making access easy for travelers across the United States
