Introduction

Mexico’s second-largest state, arid and rugged Sonora is one of out-standing natural beauty. Its rocky, cactus-strewn Sea of Cortez littoral offers beautiful beaches, where the cobalt-blue waters lap the mountainous coastline, and has been a long-time favorite of snowbirds from the US southwest and Canada.

The state is home to the Yaquis, Guaymas and Triquis, ethnic groups with distinctive features, much taller than the indigenous peoples of central and southern Mexico. The northern Seris continue their nomadic ways and can be seen in the capital, Hermosillo, or up and down the coast, in places such as Bahia Kino, which, along with Puerto Peñasco and San Carlos, is one of the state’s beach resorts.