An Artist’s Take on the ‘Pueblo Magico’ of Todos Santos

Maximiliano Uranga, a locally born 35-year-old artist, describes himself as an “intercultural agent,” an unusual appellation. But if you’re looking for an immersive experience in Todos Santos, the historic ‘Pueblo Magico’ on the shores of the Pacific, Max is your man. With his outgoing personality and storehouse of knowledge, Uranga’s tours enable visitors to plumb the depths of the town’s art, culture, and gastronomy.
“Todos Santos is a place full of magic and beauty that will leave its mark on you from the first moment,” Max enthuses. “We are a town with 300 years of history, a place where nature, art, and culture intertwine uniquely.
“We are considered the art capital of Baja California Sur,” he says. “Our small town is home to a vibrant community of artists from all disciplines: painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, literature, poetry…and much more! Creativity flows among our picturesque streets, art galleries, craft shops, and cultural centers, making Todos Santos the epicenter of regional culture.”
For Uranga, every corner in Todos Santos inspires. “The presence of so many artists creates an explosion of festivals and cultural events throughout the year, making this place one of the most dynamic and exciting destinations in the state. We are the town with the most festivals per year in all of Baja California Sur.” These festivals celebrate art, film, music, literature, food, wine, and, in mid-July, mangos.
Part of the charm of Todos Santos is the artistic maturity that permeates the artworks on display. Most of the town’s galleries are managed by the same artists who have dedicated decades of their lives to refining their vision and perfecting their techniques. Uranga, who believes each work of art has a story to tell, also feels that the inspiration for these works (including his own) flows directly from the town’s magical energy.
A strong intercultural phenomenon exists in Todos Santos, a settlement where traditions and customs from different cultures are continuously mixed. Travelers cannot only admire art, but also experience a diverse, multinational community. It’s an ideal place for those seeking to reconnect with nature--and immerse themselves in an authentic cultural milieu.
Straddling the Tropic of Cancer and set between the Sierra de la Laguna mountains and the sea, Todos Santos, located 45 minutes north of Cabo San Lucas, has a unique quality of light that has long attracted artists. Surfers, too. San Pedrito and Los Cerritos are two of the finest surf spots on the Pacific side.
Accented by colonial-era brick buildings, narrow streets, and hand-painted signs, Todos Santos is a former sugarcane capital. It’s also a walker’s town chockablock with art galleries, private studios, sidewalk cafes, taco stands, quaint inns, farm-to-table restaurants, eclectic shops, and the famous Hotel California (apparently no relation to the Eagles’ song).
The town’s gastronomic offerings are exceptional. More than 80 restaurants invite visitors to enjoy eclectic flavors from around the world, from the richness of traditional Mexican cookery to the influences of French, Italian, and Asian cuisine. The bounty of the sea, carne from local ranches, and produce from organic farms make every dish special.
Finally, Todos Santos is a natural refuge for health and wellness. The town’s tranquility has inspired the establishment of numerous wellness centers and gyms that offer yoga, meditation, tai chi, aerial yoga, and dance. These spaces are designed to connect body and mind in a beautiful place that has evolved from a Jesuit mission founded in 1724 into a welcoming beacon of art, culture, and multiculturalism.
For more information on Max Uranga’s programs, visit: https://www.visionbcs.org/en/blank-2-1