Cueva Pintada (Gran Mural)

The Sierra de San Francisco rock paintings re just east of the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve in Baja California Sur. The biggest biosphere in the country, it is also likely home to the oldest art work in the Americas. The Cueva Pintada - sometimes called El Gran Mural - is a monumental work, but it is one of some 250 separate artworks found throughout the many caves and canyons in this part of the Sierra.  

Walking into the area is generally cited as a transcendental experience, but it is not for newbies. The environment is famously imposing and silent, and will try the skills of those with less experience. The site was one ceremonial and narrative space of great importance but visitors will usually take in a number of the caves in the area. Artwork that can be viewed is believed to be the work of the Cochimi people. The pictographs were made between the first century BCE and roughly 1300 CE. The group largely disappeared in the 19th century, but they were documented by Jesuit missionaries in some detail from about the 18th century.  

As the site is a UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site, access is strictly regulated to protect this and other sites in the area. Visits should be made with a certified guide who can also advise on the planning, necessary supplies and access. 

The desviación a San Francisco de la Sierra is simply the highway turnoff. One needs to exit Mexico Highway 1 still inside the Biosphere. The deviation, or turn off, is roughly 103 kms southeast of Guerrero Negro. Kuyima offers regular guided tours and can advise you about the necessary permits for visiting.