The land that comprises Sonora is currently inhabited by numerous native groups, including the Yaquis, Mayos, Primas, Pápagos, Opatos, Seris and Guarijíos, who still preserve their ancestors´ folkloric customs and traditions found throughout the state. Spanish colonial presence, on the other hand, is now very limited to the Jesuit missions and towns located around the mines.

The state of Sonora offers a wide range of attractions for every type of traveler. It houses wonderful cave paintings, spectacular natural scenery ideal for ecotourism and adventure sports, regulated hunting parks and long beaches and bays perfect for water activities and sport fishing.

Handicraft shopping is also very characteristic of Sonora. The village of Kino Viejo, 65 miles outside the capital city of Hermosillo, is legendary for its Seri work – also showcased at The Museum of the Seri – while gastronomy is well-known for its varied local menus including chimichangas, camarones costa brava, shrimps prepared with Chihuahua cheese and bacon, the popular mochomos and the sweet coyotas for dessert.

The capital city of Hermosillo was founded in 1700 where the Sonora and San Miguel rivers meet – north of a semi-arid zone and just 65 miles away from the Sea of Cortez. The city’s unique location makes its surrounding landscape incredibly varied, offering everything from desert and jagged sierra to crystalline rivers and lush valleys.

As the capital of Sonora State, the city offers a variety of options for travelers. The downtown area includes a Historic Center, featuring wonderful architectural structures, colorful plazas, informative museums and local craftwork. Among the city’s must-sees is Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Cathedral, constructed from 1877 to 1908 in Neoclassic and Baroque styles. Take a guided tour of Sonora’s Government Palace, which houses artistic murals illustrating significant historical events and an original copy of the State Constitution of Sonora. Another worthwhile stop in Hermosillo is the Museum of Sonora, which boasts 18 permanent exhibition halls.

Guaymas-San Carlos, located on Sonora’s southern coast, is a popular stop for visitors who want to experience a unique desert-beach destination offering many activities. Adventure lovers can hike up the symbol of San Carlos, 600-foot Tetakawi Hill, while the less daring may want to view the hill as they drive along the scenic corridor of Highway 15, an international highway which reaches Arizona. Sea lovers will enjoy Marina Real, located on Sonora Bay and beautiful San Carlos Marina, the largest port in Mexico. Another popular spot is Playa Algodones (Cotton Beach), so named because its white sand dunes resemble cotton. Visitors to this beach can snorkel, windsurf and fish in its transparent waters.

The colonial town of Alamos, located in the southern part of state’s mountain range, is also sure to please. The “City of Gates” was born as a silver mine town back in the 1680s; it is considered a colonial jewel because of its unspoiled architecture and the rich history it represents. A tour of Alamos would not be complete without stops at the church in the town’s center plaza, the Chapel of Zapopan, the city government palace, the old jail, and the main square. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate Alamos’ unique hand-carved wooden furniture and numerous articles crafted in tin glass or silver.

Travel to Sonora and travel within the state has never been easier. Sonora has a 17,858-mile highway network with a four-lane route running up and down the state. Sonora’s five airports, located in Hermosillo, Guaymas, Nogales, Ciudad Obregon and Puerto Peñasco, receive both national and international flights. The state also boasts six ports, Guaymas, Puerto Peñasco, Puerto Libertad and P.I.P. Rodolfo Sánchez Taboada, Santa Clara and Yavaros.

From delicious cuisine to abundant natural reserves, no other place combines the beauty of native cultures with modern state-of-the-art infrastructures like Sonora. It is a place of traditions perfect for travelers looking to explore the colorful folklore and stunning historic cities that are characteristic of Mexico.