Mexico: Chasing Pools & Purple Boulders: A Strenuous Trek Through Cañón Tabor, Loreto (December 2025)

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For travellers docking in the historic town of Loreto, Baja California Sur, the call of the desert is loud. But if you’re looking for something more heart-pounding than a casual stroll, the trek through Tabor Canyon (Cañón Tabor) is a must.

We recently tackled this canyon on December 16, 2025, as a shore excursion from Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam. If you are a cruise passenger looking for a self-guided or guided "off-the-beaten-path" adventure, here is everything you need to know about this rugged Baja gem.

The Terrain: Arid Beauty & Hidden Oases

The landscape of Tabor Canyon is a striking contrast of colors. Imagine towering purplish and orange boulders stacked against a backdrop of arid grasses, wildflowers and crawling wild fig trees.

As you climb higher, the canyon reveals its secrets: hidden pools of water tucked between the rocks, offering a cool reflection of the Baja sun. It is breathtakingly beautiful, but don't let the scenery distract you—this trail demands your full attention.

The Challenge: Ropes, Rocks, and Physicality

This is not your average nature walk. This hike is strenuous and highly technical in sections.


  • The Scramble: You will be clambering over steep rock faces.

  • The Ropes: Several sections require the use of fixed ropes to pull yourself up or navigate sheer drops.

  • Hands-Free is Mandatory: You’ll need both hands for grip and balance. A sturdy backpack or zipped pockets is essential so your hands stay free.

  • Fitness Level: Good hand-eye coordination and solid balance are non-negotiable.

The Stats (Our Experience):

  • Distance: 3.58 km (2.23 miles)

  • Elevation Gain: 254 meters (833 feet)

  • Time: 1.5 to 3 hours (depending on fitness and how many photos you take!)

Essential Tips for Shore Excursionists

1. Hire a Guide (Recommended)

There are no trail markers or confidence markers in the canyon. Because the terrain is a labyrinth of boulders, it’s incredibly easy to lose the path. For cruise passengers on a tight schedule, a guide is vital. We went with Wild Loreto Tours—their expertise made the technical rope sections feel safe and manageable.

2. Don’t Go Solo

Tabor Canyon is in a remote location with zero cell service. If an injury occurs, you are on your own. Always travel in a pack and let someone know your return time.

3. Beat the Heat

The Baja sun is relentless. We started around 9:30am, but aim to start first thing in the morning, the earlier the better to enjoy a cooler climate and extra time. The canyon wasn’t as hot as we anticipated but by 11:00 AM, you can feel the heat rising. 

4. Park Logistics

If you choose to go without a tour company:

  • Pay the Fee: While you're hiking a canyon, the land falls under the Loreto Bay National Marine Park’s (Parque Nacional Bahía de Loreto) jurisdiction. You typically pay fees at the ranger station or visitor center of the marine park.  The National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) website is the official source for current fees, though it can be hard to navigate; local businesses are often more up-to-date. Always carry Mexican Pesos (MXN) in cash for these smaller, on-the-ground payments.  Once you pay the park entrance fee, keep your ticket on you. 


  • Watch the Clock: Check the gate closing times so you don't get locked in! If there is any  construction going on in the park, observe the details and ask questions if applicable. On the day of our hike, work was being done on some ground pipes at the ranger station. After our hike the work was not yet complete and the entrance was closed due to a massive hole in the ground. We had to either wait several hours to pass or find an alternative way out of the park. Our resourceful guide braved an overgrown, old road through the brush that eventually got us to the main highway and had us on our way.


  • Pack Heavy on Water: Bring more water than you think you’ll need and leave some in the car to hydrate after the hike. Pack some high-energy snacks.

Post-Hike Reward: Loreto

Once you’ve conquered the canyon, head back into the "Pueblo Mágico" of Loreto. There is nothing quite like a cold refreshment in the town square to celebrate a successful summit before heading back to the ship.


Tabor Canyon is a reminder that the best views are earned. It’s rugged, it’s steep, and it’s one of the most rewarding land-based shore excursions you can find in the Sea of Cortez.
Location: Loreto Municipality, 23894 BCS, Mexico

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