The Missions of Father Kino

Dates are available for groups.

$540 per person double, $679 per single

Over 300 years ago, the Jesuit priest Father Kino, initiated the arduous process of evangelization that resulted in a cultural impact in the Pimeria Alta (Northern Sonora and Southern Arizona) bringing together the strength, struggle and pain of the surroundings as well as the success and profound emotions.

The Priest on horseback, as the natives called him, used his gifts to open a new way of life for the natives he encountered. While the now crumbled missions constructed by indigenous craftsman under his supervision forged an indelible trail which the Franciscans continued in this region of the Sonoran Desert.  A region now comprised of progressive and productive cities that has elevated the standard of living and strengthened the regional economy.

DAY 1  
Early departure from Phoenix or Tucson.  Our first visit on the tour will be to the Mission of San Xavier del Bac founded in 1700 along the bank of the Santa Cruz River. This mission housed the largest indigenous population and for centuries this was the training place for hechiceros and medicine man of several tribes.

We will cross the border into Mexico at Nogales and after a short drive we will stop to visit Cocospera situated in the valley of the same name.  This mission, now in ruins, was witness to the rise and fall of an empire.  Apaches used this valley as a natural route to attack the people of the Pimeria.

Now to San Ignacio de Caborica.  This mission preserves its large original architectural elements such as its main door and staircase, both made out of wood and carved by hand.  Our next stop will be at Magdalena de Kino were Kino’s presence can be felt on every corner of the city.  We will visit the plaza and the mausoleum where the remains of the “priest on a horseback” can be viewed.  He passed away in 1711 at the edge of 66.   One of the highlights of this building is the plastered murals of the master painter Nereo de La Pena. This evening we will arrive to Caborca to enjoy the Sonora cuisine for dinner.   Overnight.  (L –D)

DAY 2 
Breakfast at the hotel.  Our first visit today will be the Mission of Tubutama located in a rich agricultural and ranching region.  This church was constructed in 1788 by the Franciscans and still maintains many details of its glory in the rich ornamentation of the front altar piece and various oil paintings on its interior.

Afterwards, we will visit Atil, A mission now in ruins built by the Jesuits in 1756.   Then to Oquitoa and Pitiquito.  In Oquitoa we will admire the sobrierity of this church’s interior preserved on its old choir chairs, original paintings and baptismal font along with the church’s old wooden beams that cover the entire main ceiling.

Our last visit will be at Pitiquito.  In this mission church the ceiling and the interior walls preserve works of folkloric art.   Before returning to Caborca, we will have the opportunity to see and purchase the artisan creations of leather goods producers selling fine jackets, vests and bags.

This afternoon we will explore the main plaza of the city of Caborca and admire the church of the Purisima Consepcion.  This old structure draws the visitor’s attention with its large windows, balconies and grand wooden door.  This building is also considered a National Monument as the citizens defended this Plaza from the 1857 invaders led by Henry Crabb.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel (B-L-D)

DAY 3
This morning we will have an easy treat.  Today we will visit the agricultural fields where tomatoes, cucumbers, asparagus, melon, wheat and grapes are cultivated.  On a short drive we arrive to the Sea of Cortez at Desemboque and enjoy this pristine, virgin beaches.  Afternoon at leisure.  Dinner and overnight. (B-L-D)

DAY 4
After a leisured breakfast, we will depart for home crossing the border to the USA at Sonoita.( B)            

Tour includes 3 nights accommodations, 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, deluxe motorcoach transportation, entry fees, sightseeing, tour director. Minimum of 20 people required!

Proof of citizenship will be required (passport or drivers license & original or certified copy of your birth certificate).

Synergy Tours offers a Trip Cancellation/Medical Travel Insurance. Insurance to protect your travel investment is highly recommended; it is the responsibility of the passengers to purchase the optional insurance, includes medical insurance in Mexico.  Call us for a quote.

Full refund if canceled more than 45 days before tour. 50% refund if canceled 45-21 days before tour. No refunds for no-shows or cancellations with less than 21 days notice. If Synergy Tours & Cruises cancels the tour for any reason all paid participants will receive a full refund.

Synergy Tours & Cruises reserves the right to make changes in the itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if deemed necessary for the best interest of the group, safety or due to conditions beyond control. It is understood and agreed that, Synergy Tours & Cruises and their representatives act only as agents for the suppliers and will not be responsible for any damage or loss (monetary or personal) occurred from any cause what so ever.

Call us at 602-276-9008

Synergy Tours & Cruises

2320 E. Baseline Rd. Ste 148 - 468 Phoenix, Arizona 85042-6951

mike@SynergyTours.com    Registration form