The mining town of Aduana, 8 km west of Alamos, is rich in history from the times when Aduana’s mines made Alamos rich. The historic church dates from 1630. A “miracle cactus” grows high on the west wall of the church. The stones beneath are saturated with wax from offering candles. Aduana’s Fiesta de Nuestra Senora de la Balvanera is in late November.This area also offers a variety of hiking and exploring possibilities, that take you to abandoned mines, ghost towns, and through beautiful forest.

A visit to Aduana is not complete unless you stop at the “Cooperativa Artesanal” located on the east side of the church. The Cooperative is staff by the local ladies who make and sell the handicrafts, folk art and sell mineral specimens. Historical guided tours are available.

Surrounded by one of the few remaining pristine stands of Pitayal or Organ Pipe forest on the Sonoran coast, the Estero de Agiabampo is also a vast mangrove system.Virtually all of the wintering herons, egrets, ducks, pelicans and shorebirds of North America can be found in the estuary. Birds of special note include Elegant & Gull-billed Terns, Blue-footed Booby, Mangrove Swallow, Mangrove Vireo, and Mangrove Warbler. Crested Caracara, Harris’ Hawk, and White-tailed Kite are abundant in the surrounding Pitayal forest.

Pangas can be hired and kayaks are available to explore the mangrove system and beach comb on the Sea of Cortez. Dolphins abound.

The Alamos Wildlife Alliance operates a research station here.

The river’s course is rich with natural and human history, ancient cultures and scenic beauty. Float through a wild, sparsely inhabited valley, stopping to hike in lush canyons, and explore hidden arroyos, some lined with ancient petroglyphs. Bird life on the river ranges from coastal and tropical species to northern migrants. David MacKay at Solipaso (Tel. (647) 428-0466) provides excellent guides, transportation, high quality equipment, as well as a gourmet lunch and a well stocked cooler.

A Mayo village only two miles west of Alamos. Handmade pottery is made by the ladies. An interesting process to observe.

Local indigenous Mayo villages a short distance from Alamos. The Mayo are a proud people, who have successfully fought to retain their language and customs. Today, the Mayo earn their living mainly in agriculture and craft sales. A visit to these villages will offer an insight into the Mayo culture and an opportunity to see artisans at work. Of particularly note, are the masks which continue to be used for religious ceremonies. Blankets and rugs are made of wool dyed with local plants. Horse’s manes and tails are woven into rope products. Willow and mesquite furniture as well as wooden sculptures will be found on this excursion.