How to get to Loreto, Mexico? (2024)
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Wondering about how to get to Loreto?
Loreto is a town along the eastern coast of Baja California Sur that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and incredible adventure opportunities like hiking, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
Loreto is a hidden gem of Baja, but more travelers are starting to discover this scenic place and falling in love with its incredible scenery and relaxed lifestyle.
I visited Loreto by car and by airplane, and it quickly became one of my laborite destinations in Mexico. It’s one of the most unique places in Mexico that combines culture and history with the outdoors. Loreto used to be the capital of the Californias and was used as a strategic outpost by Spanish conquistadors during colonial times.
If you are thinking about visiting Loreto, and want to find out how to get there, keep reading. This article will tell you about how you can get to Loreto and what type of transportation to choose based on your budget and travel plans.
Where is Loreto?
Loreto is a small town along the Sea of Cortez, in Mexico’s Baja California Sur. It’s about 316 miles north of Cabo San Lucas and 222 miles from La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur.
Why go to Loreto?
Loreto is a hidden gem of Baja California that boasts mild sunny climate year-round and a nice mix of outdoor opportunities and rich culture. If you like good food, want to learn Baja’s history and see wildlife, Loreto should be on your bucket list.
MAP OF LORETO, MEXICO
Distances to Loreto
- Cabo San Lucas to Loreto – 316 miles (508 km)
- La Paz to Loreto – 222 miles (357 km)
- Tijuana to Loreto – 725 miles (1,168 km)
How to get to Loreto: an overview
There are several ways to get to Loreto. Here are some of the most common options for traveling to Loreto.
Getting to Loreto by car
I recommend renting a car to get to Loreto, as it will give you the most freedom to plan your trip however you like and visit scenic areas and hiking trails near Loreto that are usually not accessible by public transportation.
Do I need a car in Loreto?
Yes, you need a car in Loreto, because many scenic areas and beaches near Loreto are not accessible by walking or public transportation. A car rental will give you the most freedom to explore the best places near Loreto.
Where to rent a car in Loreto
The best place to rent a car in Loreto is Loreto International Airport (LTO), which has the largest selection of vehicles. You can look for car rentals in Loreto through DiscoverCars that has tons of options that fit your travel style and budget.
➡️ CHECK PRICES ON RENTAL CARS IN LORETO
DiscoverCars is a popular car rental platform that works with major car rental companies in Mexico and has some of the best prices on many types of vehicles. You can also add full Mexican insurance for your car rental for less than $10 per day when booking your car with DiscoverCars.
What car rental companies can I find in Loreto?
Loreto airport has several car rental companies including Hertz, Thrifty, Dollar and Mex Rent a Car.
Renting a car in Baja California
If you are traveling to Loreto from other parts of Baja California, you can rent a car there. You can find car rental companies in Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Tijuana, and Ensenada through DiscoverCars and choose from many options that they offer.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Loreto?
Renting a car in Loreto costs between $30-40 a day with full coverage. Expect to pay more for bigger vehicles or if you are traveling during the busy season when the demand for car rentals is high.
Things to watch out for when renting a car in Mexico
When renting a car in Loreto and other parts of Mexico, watch out for low daily rates between $5-10 a day. These rates usually don’t include taxes, fees, and mandatory Mexican insurance which is required for all rental cars in the country.
By the time you apply them, your daily rate could go up to $50-70, a day in some cases.
Unfortunately, some companies are not being upfront about their rates when listing their services on car rental websites, so if you find a super low rate, it’s best to reach out to them to ask what exactly it covers.
In most cases, the low rate listedon online is a bare minimum that’s used as a click bait to get customers. It doesn’t include fees and other mandatory charges.
When I look for cars through DiscoverCars, I usually see standard rates, but it’s still important to vet a car rental company and read online reviews before making your reservation.
What other travelers say about a car rental company is often a food indicator of how good their service is.
➡️ CHECK PRICES ON RENTAL CARS IN LORETO
Best car rental Loreto Mexico
The best car rental in Loreto, according to customers’ reviews is Mex Rent a Car.
What documents do I need for renting a car in Loreto?
Renting a car in Loreto is no different than renting a car in any other destination in Mexico. You will need a valid driver’s license, a passport, a credit or debit card, and Mexican car insurance.
✅ A passport
You will need a valid passport to rent a car in Loreto.
✅ A driver’s license
If you are wondering whether you can rent a car in Loreto with a US driver’s license, the answer is yes. The same goes for a Canadian and European driver’s license.
A valid driver’s license is required to rent a car in Mexico.
If you travel to Mexico from countries that don’t use the Roman language alphabet, you will need an international driver’s license, and you can apply for it online before your trip.
✅ Can I drive in Mexico with a US license?
Yes, you can drive in Mexico with a valid US driver’s license as well as driver’s licenses from Canada, the EU, and the UK. If your driver’s license is not in English, you might need to buy an International Driving Permit that is typically valid for two years.
✅ A credit or debit card
You can use a debit or credit card to rent a car in Loreto. A car rental company will put a hold on your credit card between $1,000-$2,000.
👉 If you return your car rental with no damages, a rental car company will remove a hold, and the money should be back in your acount in a few days.
Note that it’s best to use a credit card, because if you use a debit card, a car rental company will take the required amount straight out of your checking account, which means you will not have access to this money while in Loreto!
✅ A security deposit
Car rental companies in Mexico usually place a hold on your card, which can be up to a thousand dollars. If you return your car with no damages, a rental car company will give you the money back within a few days.
It’s a standard procedure for renting a car in Mexico, including Loreto and other parts of Baja California.
✅ A Mexican car insurance
To rent a car in Loreto, you will need Mexican car insurance, which is mandatory for all cars.
Note that car rental companies in Mexico will not accept US car insurance. When you book your car with DiscoverCars, you can buy your car insurance through their platform. DiscoverCars offers basic, medium, and full coverage for rental cars, and you can pay for it when you book your car online.
This way, when you arrive at the car rental office, your insurance will be ready.
➡️ CHECK PRICES ON RENTAL CARS IN LORETO
Where to buy Mexican car insurance?
If you are driving you own car to Mexico from the United States, you need to purchase Mexican car insurance before your trip. Several companies offer Mexican car insurance including Baja Bound, which offers the most comprehensive insurance for driving in Mexico.
If you are renting a car in Mexico, you can buy insurance from your car rental company.
Can I buy Mexican auto insurance at the border?
You can’t buy Mexican car insurance at the border, and to enter the country, you need to have proof of Mexican car insurance.
I recommend Baja Bound, a popular car insurance company among Mexico travelers that’s used by many visitors from the United States and Canada.
Driving to Loreto
Driving to Loreto is an adventure in itself, as you get to enjoy some of the most unspoiled landscapes along Baja’s Transpeninsular Highway.
Some roads around Loreto might not be in perfect condition, which is why you should rent a 4X4, especially if you want to go on an adventure or try off-roading. Renting a car is also a great idea if you want to explore popular beaches near Mulege.
To get to Loreto from La Paz and Los Cabos, take Highway 1 ( aka Transpeninsular Highway) north. It’s one of the busiest routes in Baja with good signage and fairly good cell phone connection.
If you are driving to Loreto from San Diego or Los Angeles, take Highway 1 south. The journey to Loreto is one of the most scenic drives in Baja California.
Is it safe to drive to Loreto, Mexico?
Driving to Loreto is safe, as long as you stay on main highways and avoid driving at night. Always check the weather because some roads in Baja get flooded during the rainy season, and keep your gas tank full.
✅ Read: Is Baja California safe?
What documents do I need to enter Tijuana?
Tijuana is the most popular point of entry to Baja California. All U.S. citizens entering Mexico by car through Tijuana or any other border crossings must have a valid passport, a driver’s license, a vehicle registration, Mexican car insurance, and an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).
What to know about Mexico car insurance?
Car rental insurance is mandatory in Mexico, and you can choose from basic, medium, and full coverage when filling out your paperwork.
If you are going to rent a car in Loreto for the first time, I recommend a full coverage that will protect you in the event of any damages, and will cover the cost of the vehicle if it’s stolen or totaled.
Check my article about renting a car in Mexico to find out more about Mexico car insurance, since it’s a pretty big topic.
Tips for driving in Baja California
After you rent a car, it’s time to get on the road. Before you start exploring the area around Loreto, you should know that driving in Mexico is different than driving in the United States or other countries.
I drove around Baja California many times on my road trips, and here are my top tips for staying safe on the road:
📍Drive during the day
As in the rest of Mexico, it’s best to limit your driving to daytime. Highway 1, which leads to Loreto is poorly lit which can make it difficult to drive, especially since Baja has many winding roads with steep curves.
📍Watch out for potholes
It’s not uncommon to experience potholes and bumps on Baja roads, so you should always drive with caution, espcially on secondary roads.
📍Watch out for livestock
When driving around Baja, watch out for cows, donkeys, and other animals that often roam near the roads. This is one of the reasons why driving in Baja at night is not recommended, as the risk of an accident is higher on dark, winding roads.
📍Slow down
The Transpeninsular Highway that takes you to Loreto is a 2-lane road that is used by RV’s and big trucks, which travel very fast. The highway has many curves making it dangerous to drive at high speeds.
📍Stay on main highways (quotas)
For safety reasons, it’s best to stay on main highways as they are better maintained and have more police presence. Secondary roads in Baja can have poor conditions, few amenities, and spotty cell phone service. They are also less safe than major highways in Baja.
📍Keep your tank full
You should always keep your tank full when driving in Baja. It’s not uncommon to drive long distances in Baja without seeing a gas station, so you should always fill up your car before getting on the road.
📍Be ready for military checkpoints
When driving to Loreto, you will pass through several military checkpoints where you might get some questions about your travel plans. In some cases, military personnel who work at these checkpoints might ask you to open your car for a quick inspection.
Always remain calm, answer questions, and be ready to show your documents like your driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and registration.
📍Always have cash on you
When traveling around Baja, you should always have cash, because many restaurants, vendors who sell food on the side of the road, and even some gas stations in Baja might not accept cash.
📍Bring paper maps (or download offline maps)
Cell phone service can be spotty or might disappear entirely in parts of Baja, even if you stay on major highways. It’s best to download offline maps or have paper maps ready before your trip.
Is it safe to drive from Cabo to Loreto?
The drive from Cabo to Loreto goes along the Transpeninsular Highway in Baja California and is considered fairly safe, as it’s a busy highway with plenty of traffic and police presence.
What to do in case of an emergency when driving in Baja?
If you have an emergency while driving in Baja, contact the Green Angeles (Angeles Verdes), a government organization that patrols toll roads in Baja and other parts of Mexico and provides minor assistance to travelers.
Green Angles can help you to fix flat tires, jump start your car, and help with small issues, that don’t require extensive mechanical work. They can also call a tow company, in case you need to have your car transported to a repair shop.
➡️ You can reach Green Angles by dialing 078
How long does it take to drive from La Paz Mexico to Loreto Mexico?
The distance between La Paz and Loreto by land is about 358 kilometers, or 4-5 hours on average, along the Transpeninsular Highway in Baja California. It’s a fantastic road trip with incredible sights, so spare some time to enjoy the scenery.
Getting to Loreto by plane
Taking a flight to Loreto is the quickest way, if you don’t want to drive or take a public bus. Loreto Airport is located very close to town, which makes it easy to get to and from your hotel.
What airport do you fly into to go to Loreto Mexico?
To go to Loreto, you need to fly to Loreto International Airport, which has direct flights to several destinations in the United States and Mexico.
What airlines fly to Loreto, Mexico?
Loreto Airport is serviced by several international airlines including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and WestJet, as well as Mexican airlines, like Aero Califa and Viva, that offer direct flights from Loreto to Cabo, Tijuana, and Hermosillo.
Loreto Mexico flights
There are several daily flights to and from Loreto, including Cabo San Lucas, Tijuana, and Culiacan in Mexico and Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas Fort Worth, and Phoenix in the United States. It also has flights to Calgary, Canada.
What do airlines fly to Loreto, Mexico from LAX?
The direct flight to Loreto from Los Angeles International Airport is serviced by Alaska Airlines and is less than 2 hours.
Getting to Loreto by bus
Taking a bus to Loreto is the most economical option that’s great for budget travelers. Buses to Loreto depart from several destinations in Baja including Cabo San Lucas and La Paz. The route is served by Aguila, the main bus company in Baja California.
Another option is Eco Baja Tours, which also offers bus service to Loreto.
Is there a bus from La Paz to Loreto?
Yes, there is a direct bus from La Paz to Loreto that operates several times per day and takes about 5 hours.
You can get your tickets online or at the ticket office on the spot, just make sure to have cash, as credit cards are not always accepted.
The main drawback of taking a bus to Loreto is that it’s much slower than other types of transport. Once you get to Loreto, you will have to rely on taxis and public transport, which might not be ideal, if you want to explore the area at your own pace and have the most freedom.
➡️ If time is short, rent a car once you get to Loreto.
Getting to Loreto from San Diego
San Diego is 740 miles from Loreto, and the journey takes about 14 hours after crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.
Additionally, you can fly to Loreto from Tijuana Airport with Calafia Airlines or Volaris, which operates flights to Loreto several times a week.
Is there a ferry to Loreto, Mexico?
You can catch a ferry Loreto from Los Mochis in Sonora. It’s NOT a direct ferry, as it brings you to Santa Rosalia, about 2 hours north of Loreto.
Planning your trip to Loreto
Loreto is a small town, but it offers plenty of things to do. If you are in Loreto from January through March, you can visit nearby locations like Bahia De Magdalena, where you can spot the incredible gray whales that migrate to Baja from Alaska during the winter months.
📍Check: best guided tours in Loreto
Best hotels in Loreto
- Hotel Oasis – Located along the beach in Loreto, this popular hotel is also within walking distance from the center. It boasts one of the best beach clubs in Loreto and a big swimming pool.
- La Mision Loreto – Located next to the waterfront and about 10 minutes from the airport La Mision is one of the most popular hotels in Loreto that has a free airport shuttle, on-site parking and delicious breakfast.
- Hotel 1697 Loreto – One of the best rated hotels in town, this place boasts a nice quiet atmoshere and central location near main plaza.
➡️ Check: best hotels in Loreto, Mexico
What are the best months to visit Loreto Mexico?
The best times to visit Loreto are the shoulder months of May and October when the weather is mild and sunny, so you can spend time outside and get better deals on hotels and tours.
Is the water warm in Loreto?
Loreto is located in the desert and has a dry arid climate with mild winters and hot summers, when it’s not uncommon for temperatures to climb into triple digits. Temperatures usually stay in the 60’s during winter and rarely go below 50’s.
How to get to Loreto: FAQ’s
What is Loreto Mexico known for?
Loreto is known for its history, incredible beaches, and outdoor opportunities like hiking, diving, and off-roading. If you are looking to enjoy the scenery and get away from the crowds, Loreto is one of the best places to visit in Baja California.
Where to stop between La Paz and Loreto?
The drive from La Paz to Loreto takes you through the inland part of Baja California, but if you have time, you can stop in several places along the way including Magdalena Bay, which is known for surfing and Scorpion Bay, that boasts some of the best surfing conditions in Baja California.
How many days do you need in Loreto?
Plan between 3-5 days for your trip to Loreto to enjoy some of the best things like hiking, wildlife watching, and scuba diving. Many people end up staying in Loreto longer after they fall in love with this scenic destination along the Sea of Cortez.
Can tourists drive in Mexico?
Tourists can drive in Mexico, as long as they have the required documentation including a driver’s license, Mexican car insurance, and required permits.
Is Loreto better than Cabo?
Loreto is more authentic than Cabo and offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and get away from the crowds. Loreto is also more budget-friendly than Cabo, with prices on hotels, tours, and food significantly lower.
Is Loreto better than La Paz?
While Loreto and La Paz are both known for their landscapes and outdoor opportunities, Loreto has more culture and history than La Paz, and is easier to get around, due to its small size. Outside downtown, La Paz is not really walkable and you will need a car to get around.
Where can I see whales in Loreto?
You can see whales in the Sea of Cortez just off the coast of Loreto. Many tour companies in Loreto offer whale watching tours that you can join during the the whale season, which runs from January through March.
How to get to Loreto: final word
Whether you want to rent a car, catch a flight or take a bus to Loreto, I hope that this article was able to provide answers to your questions. Loreto is one of the most incredible destinations in Baja California, and no matter what type of transportation you choose, you will have a fantastic time in this place.
