The 714,566 hectare site comprises two distinct parts: the dormant volcanic Pinacate Shield of black and red lava flows and desert pavements to the east, and, in the west, the Gran Altar Desert with its ever changing and varied sand dunes that can reach a height of 200 metres.

The site comprises 244 islands, islets and coastal areas that are located in the Gulf of California in north-eastern Mexico. The site is home to 695 plant species and 891 of fish; has a striking natural beauty in a dramatic setting formed by rugged islands with high cliffs and sandy beaches, which contrast with the brilliant reflection from the desert and the surrounding turquoise waters.

Twelve centuries ago, a mountain enabled a thousand farmers, craftsmen and leaders to establish a city in the Sonora desert. They levelled out more than 900 hillside terraces, raised walls of river stones, built a plaza on the peak and marked out a shell form. Its traces still remain.

The INAH Regional Museum for the state is in an old prison building of the Porfiriato in Hermosillo, dating to 1908. Its purpose is to display the archeology, history and culture of the region in its 18 permanent and five temporary exhibition galleries.

Popularly known as the “city of arcades” due to the porticoes of its buildings, this mining town was very prosperous during the viceregal period and in the 19th century. Its natural landscape, architecture and cultural wealth make it a jewel of Sonora.