In the Footsteps of the Jesuit Missions
In the Footsteps of the Jesuit Missions - Expedition Map Across the Continent In search of Calamajué Mission San Borja Cactus Forest Church by Gustave Eiffel I told you so Loreto and San Javier Forgotten Mission Living on the Beach Cyclone Sandra and Hotel Live Mexico Proper Tequila and Guachimontones Mesoamerican Pyramids Mummies Guanajuato Royal Fourteen Going Home

One of the few still untouched places on Earth; it is the perfect destination for those looking for a real adventure. Unspoiled flora and fauna and the variety of landscapes attract those who are not afraid that this region is a part of Mexico. Baja California, one of the world's longest peninsulas is mystical, untamed, and simply unique. Driving its entire length 1200 km rewards with not only stunning views, but also guarantees endless possibilities in spending nights under a wide, star-scattered sky. A common phrase, the middle of nowhere, takes on new meaning here.

Trip Statistics:

Title of the expedition:
In the Footsteps of the Jesuit Missions
Objective:
To understand missionary efforts in Baja California and its impact on the aboriginal population
Where:
Mexico
When:
November - December 2015
Total distance driven of this expedition:
13,333 km / 8,285 miles
Distance driven off-road:
596 km / 370 miles
Jesuit Missions visited in Baja California:
9
Mesoamerican sites in Mexico:
4   (it was an introduction to our next expedition)
Flat tires:
1   (small puncture, there was no need to change the tire, just inflate it from time to time)
Car ferry crossings:
1   (20 hrs from La Paz, Baja California Sur to Mazatlán, Sinaloa)
Border crossings:
2

Preparations for the expedition:

Preparations for the expedition lasted a very long time. A plethora of nights, countless weekends, and many months spent on improving our expedition vehicle. The major changes included an auxiliary fuel tank in order to increase the driving range, hot shower, which is priceless after days spent on a dusty road, a refrigerator, to keep our drinks chilled, built-in water tanks, to have an easily accessible drinking water supply, and the rooftop pop-up tent for comfortable nights in the wilderness.

Photo Diary:


© 2015 Maciej Swulinski