Loreto's National Parks and Ramsar Sites
The municipality of Loreto has stood out as an area of exceptional biodiversity and high levels of endemism, on the border between two ecoregions. It is home to a large number of protected areas and conservation schemes
Bahia de Loreto National Park
Located in the city of Loreto, Baja California Sur, it protects the rich biodiversity of the ocean in that area. It is recognized as one of Mexico's greatest treasures. Officially established on July 19, 1996, this park covers about 26,580 hectares, including 11.9% of rocky islands. In addition, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 and as a Ramsar Site.
Within its boundaries are five islands: Danzante, Carmen, Coronado, Montserrat and Santa Catalina. Activities in the park include guided tours to explore nature and activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, sport fishing and hiking on the islands. In addition, marine biologists have observed natural phenomena such as fish and whale migration, making Loreto a must-see destination for marine life lovers.
Nopolo National Park
Nopolo National Park, located in Baja California Sur and administered by CONANP, stands out as a sanctuary of biodiversity in the region of the Baja California Peninsula and the North Pacific. With an extension of 2,076.51 hectares of land, this park offers a vital habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. From the imposing iron wood to the majestic golden eagle and the narrowly endemic Belding’s yellowthroat, the land forms serene coastal lagoons into intricate estuaries, Nopolo is home to a rich biological diversity that reflects the uniqueness of its natural environment.
Declared a National Park in 2023, Nopolo is also home to endemic species such as the Baja California night snake and the marbled toad, as well as the local bobcat, adding further value to its importance as a protected area. This wildlife oasis is not only a living testament to the natural beauty of Baja California Sur, but also a reminder of the need to conserve and protect vulnerable ecosystems worldwide.
Loreto II National Park
Loreto II National Park, located in the State of Baja California Sur and under the administration of CONANP, stands as an enclave of biodiversity in the Baja California Peninsula and North Pacific region. With a vast extension of 6,217.52 hectares, this park encompasses a variety of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, including coastal lagoons, estuaries, freshwater pools and rivers.
Declared a National Park in August 2023, Loreto II is home to an exceptional wealth of vegetation, highlighting species such as black mangrove, red mangrove, white mangrove, sweet pitaya and ironwood , among others. In terms of fauna, the park is home to a diversity of representative species, including from the endangered peninsular spotted rattlesnake to the majestic aura eagle and the charming desert fox, not to mention ring-tailed cats, deer, coyotes, raccoons and more. In addition, the park is home to a number of locally endemic species, such as the Carter’s lavender, the Mexican desert spiny lizard, and the Baja California night snake, underscoring its importance as a refuge for the region's unique biodiversity.
Sierra La Giganta Oasis Ramsar Site
The Ramsar site "Oasis de Sierra La Giganta in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico" encompasses an extensive area of wetlands, including coastal lagoons and estuaries, and oases vital for regional biodiversity. Recognized internationally under the Ramsar Convention, these oases are a critical habitat for a wide variety of waterfowl, fish, and other wildlife.
Designation as a Ramsar site underscores Mexico's commitment to the conservation and sustainable use of these wetlands, ensuring adequate management measures to preserve their natural and cultural value over the long term. These sites also connect the upper springs of water to the downstream coastal parks.
Los Comondus Wetland Ramsar Site
Los Comondú Wetland, in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico, is an essential part of the Ramsar site "Upper Gulf of California and Colorado River Delta Wetlands and Bird Sanctuary", designated in 1995 for its relevance in wetland and biodiversity conservation. This wetland is part of a larger protected area that includes coastal wetlands, mangroves, and estuaries, which are crucial for migratory and resident waterfowl, fish, and crustaceans.
Subject to conservation measures, Los Comondú contributes significantly to the protection of coastal ecosystems through regulations aimed at safeguarding their biodiversity and preserving their vital function. As part of the Ramsar sanctuary, actions are implemented to mitigate negative impacts of human activities on the wetlands and their fauna