Baja California has taken center stage at Punto México in Mexico City, offering a comprehensive showcase of its rich cultural and tourist offerings. Accompanied by Andrea Nayeli Peña Puga, the representative of the Government of Baja California in Mexico City, the Secretary of Tourism of Mexico, Miguel Torruco Marqués, emphasized the diverse attractions and unique experiences awaiting visitors in this northern state.
During the opening event, Torruco Marqués highlighted the significant role Baja California plays in Mexico’s tourism sector, notably as the country’s leading wine producer. He invited visitors to explore the state’s vast gastronomic and artisanal wealth, including exquisite products made from beads, leather, plant fibers, and suede, which will be available throughout September at Punto México.
In addition to the artisanal displays, the exhibition features an exclusive showcase by the artist Jorge Sánchez, whose previously unpublished photographs capture the essence of Baja California’s indigenous peoples. This artistic presentation aims to offer a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.
Baja California’s Tourist Gems
Torruco Marqués underscored Baja California’s reputation as a premier tourist destination, known for its natural wonders and cultural landmarks. He highlighted several key attractions, including:
- La Bufadora: A spectacular marine geyser that is one of the state’s most visited natural phenomena.
- La Rumorosa: An impressive natural setting renowned for its dramatic landscapes.
- Beaches: Including the paradisiacal stretches of Rosarito, San Felipe, and Punta San José.
- The Wine Route: A celebrated trail that weaves through more than 60 wineries, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
- Tecate: A picturesque Magical Town, recently reaffirmed in 2023 for its unique charm.
- La Chinesca: A neighborhood that received the distinction of a Magical Neighborhood in 2023, recognized for its vibrant history and cultural fusion.
Torruco Marqués also announced forthcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s tourist appeal. In Tecate, an extensive project will see 10,000 square meters of house facades painted, while La Chinesca will be adorned with 15 artistic murals as part of the Magical Color Routes strategy. These efforts are expected to draw more national and international tourists, boosting the local economy.
Innovative Tourism Projects
Baja California’s tourism offerings will soon be enriched by a new “anchor” project in the Guadalupe Valley, Ensenada: Sassi del Valle. This ambitious infrastructure project is inspired by the ancient city of Matera in Italy, known for its historical buildings and unique urban ecosystem. The project aims to create a similarly unique experience, blending history and innovation to attract visitors from around the world.
Strategic Location and International Connectivity
Thanks to its strategic location, Baja California remains a top destination for tourists, particularly from the United States. The state draws visitors from major U.S. cities such as Dallas, Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, New York, Miami, and Phoenix. Torruco Marqués also noted that Baja California serves as a gateway for tourists from Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, underscoring its global appeal.
In 2023, Baja California saw significant air traffic growth, with 45,691 flights, a 4.7% increase from the previous year. Tijuana International Airport emerged as the state’s busiest hub, offering connectivity to 40 national airports, comparable to the activity levels of Monterrey and Guadalajara airports. Furthermore, the port of Ensenada recorded 320 cruise ship arrivals, carrying over 1 million passengers—a 35.3% increase from 2022.
Tianguis Turístico México 2024
Reflecting Baja California’s growing prominence in the tourism sector, the state will host the 49th edition of the Tianguis Turístico México. This prestigious event is expected to yield substantial results, with numerous business meetings, buyers, exhibitors, and participating countries. The event will further contribute to the growth of Baja California’s tourism sector, solidifying its position as a key player in Mexico’s tourism industry.
A Cultural Experience in Mexico City
The Secretary of Tourism of Baja California, Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to showcase Baja California’s rich culture in the nation’s capital. “I am thrilled to share a part of Baja California in Mexico City, where visitors will have the chance to explore the rich culture of the Yuman people, marvel at our impressive natural landscapes, and taste ‘The Most Revolutionary Gastronomy in Mexico,’” he said.
Aguíñiga Rodríguez extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism of the Government of Mexico for facilitating this platform, which allows Baja California to present its diversity and charm to a wider audience.
Special Guests and Exhibition Details
The presentation of Baja California at Punto México was attended by notable figures, including Huishuang Ma from the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Mexico, representing Ambassador Zhang Run; Carlos Gutierrez Vidal, Undersecretary of Community Culture of the Secretariat of Culture of Baja California; José de Jesús Quiñonez Ramírez, Undersecretary of Tourism of Baja California; Rocío López Gorosave, elected federal deputy of Baja California, among other distinguished guests.
The exhibition, titled “Baja California in Masaryk,” will be open to the public until September 26 at Punto México, located at Av. Presidente Masaryk No. 172, corner with Hegel, in the Bosques de Chapultepec neighborhood of Mexico City. Visitors can explore the exhibition Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.