Bacadehuachi

Bacadéhuachi is located in the upper area of ​​the Sierra Madre Occidental, 277 km east of Hermosillo, the state capital, 295 km south of the border city of Agua Prieta, and 409 km northwest of the port city of Heroica Guaymas.

Bacadéhuachi is the head of the municipality of Bacadéhuachi, and according to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), in 2010 it had 1,251 inhabitants, being the most populated town in the municipality.

The town of Bacadéhuachi is located in the northeast of the state of Sonora, at an average height of 702 meters above sea level.

Its territory is surrounded by the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental, with rugged, flat, and semi-flat areas, highlighting the Bacadéhuachi, 8 Azul, and Los Mojones mountains.

The Bavispe River, which constitutes the upper current of the Yaqui River, enters the jurisdiction of Bacadéhuachi from the municipality of Granados, receives the waters of the Bacadéhuachi stream, and continues to Tepache and Divisaderos.

Weather

Bacadéhuachi has a semi-dry and warm climate.

The average annual temperature of 20.6 ° C, the average annual maximum of 30 ° C, and the average annual minimum of 11.2 ° C. The hottest temperature that has occurred in the last 50 years is 49 ° C while the coldest has been -9 ° C.

The rainy period occurs in summer, in the months of July and August with an annual average rainfall of 483 millimeters and with occasional frosts from January to February.

The meaning of its name comes from the indigenous language of the Opatas.

“Bacadeguatzi” comes from the linguistic roots “baca” which means “reed”, “degua”, which means “entrance or door” and “tzi” which means “place”. In other words, Bacadéhuachi means “At the entrance of the reed”.

In times prior to the year 1600, this area was inhabited by Opata indigenous settlements. It was until the year 1645 that it was founded by the Jesuit missionary Cristóbal García, as a mission and named San Luis Gonzága de Bacadéhuachi.

Soon it became an important population center in its early years, due to the essays given by various evangelists.

After the Independence of Mexico, a justice of the peace was in charge of the administration of the town.

Later, in the second half of the 19th century, the municipal category was obtained for the municipality of Bacadéhuachi, which was attached together with the District of Moctezuma (today Municipality of Moctezuma).

On November 1, 1916, while the Yaqui war was being fought in the state, the town was attacked by the Yaqui tribe, but General Gilberto R. Limón came out in defense of the settlers, remaining a local hero.

In 1930, the municipality of Bacadéhuachi was incorporated into the municipality of Bacerac, but a year later, on May 20, 1931, it was rehabilitated as an independent and definitive municipality, and this town of the same name was named as head municipal.

Church of Our Lady of Loreto (“Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Loreto”) was built in the 17th century (approx. between 1709-1740). The church was partially rebuilt in 1887, after being damaged by an earthquake.

Its architecture shows gold stews and New Spanish paintings, it consists of 88 figures in its interior.

All figures go from the 17th to the 20th century and were included in the inventories carried out by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) through the Registry of the National Identification Program and Furniture Catalog of Historical Monuments.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, Bacadéhuachi beckons with its untamed allure, promising an extraordinary and soul-enriching journey for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Unique Indigenous Culture: Bacadéhuachi is home to the indigenous Pima and Rarámuri communities, who have preserved their rich cultural heritage throughout the years.

Engaging with the local communities offers a unique opportunity to learn about their traditional customs, arts, crafts, and culinary delights. Visitors can witness vibrant festivals and rituals that celebrate their ancestral traditions.

Authentic Culinary Delights: Immerse yourself in the flavors of traditional Sonoran cuisine. Bacadéhuachi offers delicious and authentic dishes, often prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor regional specialties such as birria, machaca, and gorditas.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities: For adventure seekers, Bacadéhuachi offers an array of outdoor activities. From challenging mountain treks to serene nature walks, there are hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness.

Exploring the Sierra Tarahumara and the nearby Basaseachi National Park, home to Mexico’s second-highest waterfall, promises unforgettable experiences for nature lovers.

Stargazing Heaven: The town’s remote location and limited light pollution make Bacadéhuachi a fantastic destination for stargazing. The clear night skies offer a breathtaking celestial spectacle, making it an ideal spot for astronomy enthusiasts and romantics alike.

Warm Hospitality: Bacadéhuachi’s friendly and welcoming locals add a special charm to the visit. Visitors will find themselves embraced by the warmth and hospitality of the residents, creating an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the natural wonders of the region.

Preserving an Ecological Treasure: Visiting Bacadéhuachi supports sustainable and responsible tourism. By venturing to less-visited destinations like this, travelers contribute to the preservation of the region’s ecological and cultural treasures.

A Place of Reflection and Serenity: Bacadéhuachi offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots. Here, you can find solitude and tranquility, allowing for moments of reflection and a deeper connection with nature.

Ethereal Sunrises and Sunsets: As the sun rises and sets over the rugged landscape, the colors dance across the sky, creating breathtaking moments. The beauty of Bacadéhuachi’s sunrises and sunsets is an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Bacadéhuachi is a journey of discovery, unearthing Mexico’s hidden gem, where the beauty of nature, the richness of culture, and the warmth of its people come together to create an unforgettable and authentic travel experience.

May 3: feast of the Holy Cross
September 8-10: patronal feast of the Virgin of Loreto
September 25-27: Sierra Alta festival