Kino Mission Tours

More than 300 years ago, a tireless Jesuit priest by the name of Eusebio Francisco Kino made countless forays on horseback throughout much of what is now the northern Mexican state of Sonora and Arizona. Father Kino brought with him ideas and material culture—chiefly the Christian faith, the Spanish language, cattle, and crops—that would change the region deeply and forever.

Join us in retracing the steps of Kino and the missionaries who followed him. You’ll be guided by scholars and enthusiasts who know and love the region and volunteer their time to share it with others. Each tour is unique, depending on who is leading it and their interests—our numbers include historians, anthropologists, folklorists, archaeologists, architects, journalists, and members of families with strong historical roots in Sonora—but whatever the combination, you will soon feel as if you are traveling with a group of very knowledgeable friends.

And, unlike Kino, you need not worry about the vagaries of the weather or the discomfort of 30 miles a day in the saddle. You’ll travel by air-conditioned bus, provided with drinks and snacks along the road. And, you’ll relax each evening in a comfortable motel.

Each tour is limited to 32 people, plus SMRC staff. The cost is $450 per person/double occupancy (two beds), and includes transportation, two nights’ lodging, two margarita parties, all meals (two breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners), and refreshments (beer, water, and soft drinks) on a smoke-free, restroom-equipped bus. The tours take place on selected weekends each fall and spring. An orientation is held at 7:00 p.m. on the evening prior to departure at the tour’s host hotel in Tucson. A $100 deposit is required at the time of registration.

Private groups can be accommodated on other dates. Please contact us for more information.

All tour participants MUST bring a passport to prove nationality. A passport is required for re-entry into the United States.