Mulegé is a historic village on the Sea of Cortez, 600 miles south of the California-Baja line. Mexico 1, the major highway on the Baja, has been upgraded every year and is now a very well maintained road. However, there is no fencing on the right-of-way so livestock wander across the road at will. For this reason it is highly encouraged that you do not drive at night. The number of crosses and memorials along the way are testimony to this fact. The drive is beautiful and wonderful, with lots of great places to stop for the night, and gas and diesel are readily available.
Traditionally a small fishing village, Mulegé has seen a recent increase in expat population. Most winter residents are from Oregon, Washington, Idaho, British Columbia and Alberta, and number close to 1000 at peak time. Cold climate avoidance is the reason! Throughout the cooler months (November to March) it is unusual to see rain on the Baja. The temperature in Mulegé averages 72 degrees, with highs reaching into the 90’s and lows at night can be in the upper 50’s. Many expats have a very active social calendar, attending pot-lucks, celebrations and fund raisers. There are many philanthropic groups devoting much effort into enriching the quality of life for the local community.
Mulegé, in central Baja, has a wealth of recreational opportunities for the traveler. The Sea of Cortez draws scuba divers, snorkelers, whale watchers, sailors, fishermen, wind surfers, kite boarders, kayakers and beach walkers. The desert calls those who love to hike, ride atv’s, mountain bike, bird watch or search for treasures with metal detectors. The mountains are home to many ancient cave paintings, fossils and artifacts. Tours can be arranged for any activities, or you can venture out on your own. Evenings are cooler and are perfect for outside dining at one of Mulegés restaurants or a beach fire and picnic.
The Mulegé River (more correctly, Rio Santa Rosalia) flows year round from the western mountains and aquifer, to the Sea of Cortez. The estuary, at the mouth of the river, is a popular resting spot for seabirds and migratory species. The river is the lifeline of the community, the precious liquid that keeps Mulegé a tropical oasis. Agricultural products abound, both fruits and vegetables, thanks to the bountiful aquifer.
A trip to central Baja would not be complete without a day, a week or a month in Mulegé
The Nest in Mulege 