//
Region of the Sonoran Desert
Photo: Gcorpart (talk), CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Altar Desert is a sandy region in the north of Sonora; it is part of the Sonoran Desert. The desert extends across much of the northern reach of the Gulf of California, spanning more than 100 kilometres (62 mi) east to west and over 50 kilometres (31 mi) north to south. It constitutes the largest continuous wilderness area within the Sonoran Desert. The region includes the El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar National Biosphere Reserve.
The Altar may be reached from San Luis Rio Colorado, south of Yuma, Arizona.
Read in the guideChoose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Yuma · Regional · YUM
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Altar Desert and Mexico.
Travel tipsFind the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
InspirationExplore the best places to visit in November across autumn foliage, mild desert warmth, southern spring blooms, and off-peak travel bargains.
6 min read
ItinerariesPlan your Isla Holbox trip with our complete Mexico guide. Explore sand streets, Punta Cocos bioluminescence, whale sharks, beach clubs, and ferries.
8 min read
Travel tipsIs it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Compare safety in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Mexico City, and Oaxaca with official travel advisories and local tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.