Thursday, June 12, 2025
Mexico’s Baja California Sur has quickly become one of the most sought-after destinations for stargazing and astrotourism, thanks to its unique combination of pristine, light-pollution-free skies and breathtaking landscapes. As one of the darkest regions in Mexico, Baja California Sur offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the cosmos, with numerous sites boasting optimal conditions for stargazing. The state’s low population density and expansive natural reserves create ideal conditions for observing celestial wonders, making it a haven for both casual stargazers and professional astronomers alike. Coupled with its growing astrotourism industry, Baja California Sur is now drawing global visitors eager to experience the night sky in its purest form, cementing its place as a premier destination for celestial exploration.
Despite these challenges, there is a growing movement dedicated to preserving dark sky sanctuaries. Baja California Sur (BCS), a sparsely populated state in Mexico, is one such region where stargazing thrives.
The Dark Sky Movement
Though BCS has not yet been officially certified by Dark Sky International, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving dark sky areas since 1988, it benefits from its low population density and minimal light pollution. As of 2020, BCS was home to fewer than 800,000 residents, ensuring that the region enjoys some of the darkest skies in Mexico, making it an ideal location for stargazing.
Dark Sky International’s mission has grown in recent years, expanding from 54 certified sites in 2015 to over 230 in 2024. Notable additions include the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, spanning 15,000 square miles across the U.S. and Mexico, making it the largest Dark Sky area in the world. The increasing number of dark sky parks and reserves reflects a larger trend: the growth of astrotourism. This market, valued at $250 million in 2023, is projected to expand to $400 million by 2030, bringing more attention to regions like BCS.
BCS’s Astronomical Legacy
BCS has a long history as a prime location for stargazing. It was selected as one of the observation sites during the 1769 Transit of Venus, a pivotal event in astronomy. Led by French astronomer Abbot Jean-Baptiste Chappe d’Auteroche, a group of astronomers ventured to BCS to measure the distance from Earth to the sun. While the journey was perilous, with only two of the original 28 members surviving the hardships of travel, the event solidified BCS’s importance in astronomical history.
Best Stargazing Spots in BCS
As of 2025, BCS remains one of Mexico’s best regions for observing the night sky. A collaborative study conducted by the astronomical societies Mira and Merak, along with the Consejo Sudcaliforniano de Ciencia y Tecnología, has identified BCS as having the darkest skies in the country. Since December 2023, these groups have been measuring light levels across the state using specialized photometers. The results indicate that 70 sites in BCS offer light measurements between 18 and 21 on the light magnitude scale, which is used to assess stargazing conditions. For the best stargazing experience, locations with a light magnitude above 21 are optimal, and seven sites in BCS meet this standard.
Among the top stargazing spots are Llanito de los Becerros (21.85), La Purísima (21.74), Playa El Coyote (21.73), and Volcán de las Tres Vírgenes (21.57), all located in remote areas of the state. Cañón de la Zorra, located in Los Cabos, is another ideal site, offering a light magnitude of 21.55. This nature preserve, known for its picturesque waterfall, is a popular destination for overnight stargazing trips.
Stargazing is not limited to remote areas—there are also great opportunities in more urbanized parts of BCS. Playa El Tecolote, near La Paz, recorded a light magnitude of 20.88, while La Ribera, home to the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos, recorded 20.84, both of which offer excellent conditions for stargazing.
Stargazing Events in BCS
While stargazing events are relatively rare in BCS, they are starting to make an appearance. La Paz hosted a Noche de las Estrellas event in November 2024 to honor the anniversary of Marie Curie’s death. In early 2025, Loreto, another stargazing hotspot, held the inaugural Cielo Mágico astronomical festival. With a light magnitude of 20.04, Loreto is also an excellent location for stargazing.
Los Cabos, one of the most popular tourist destinations in BCS, offers luxury stargazing experiences. Both Las Ventanas al Paraíso and Grand Velas Los Cabos offer special features for guests interested in observing the night sky. Las Ventanas provides telescopes in every suite, while Grand Velas offers a stargazing package that includes a personal telescope, guide, canapés, and champagne.
Conclusion
Baja California Sur remains one of Mexico’s premier destinations for stargazing, offering numerous locations with minimal light pollution. Whether in remote natural reserves or popular tourist destinations, the region’s clear night skies provide an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with the cosmos and experience the beauty of the universe.
