CEDO (Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans)

Edif. Agustín Cortés S/N Fracc, Las Conchas

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Hours

Open generally Monday - Saturday  10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Be sure to check their activity calendar for Cedo Xperiences

Cost

There is no cost to visit CEDO, though donations are welcome.

Phone +52 638-382-0113
WebsiteVisit Website

About

If you’re passionate about desert and ocean ecosystems and the incredible wildlife they support, add CEDO to your Rocky Point must-do list. Short for the Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans, this nonprofit focuses on environmental conservation through research, education, and hands-on experiences. Their engaging museum and programs make learning about the region both fun and meaningful.

Getting There

Nestled in the peaceful Las Conchas community, CEDO welcomes visitors with classic Mexican architecture, ocean views, rounded arches, dark wood accents, and vibrant tilework that brightens its bright white walls. The campus includes interactive exhibits, a botanical garden, student dormitories, a laboratory, a library, local artwork, and a well-stocked gift shop filled with apparel, coffee mugs, glassware, and books on the Sea of Cortez, Pinacate Biosphere, and seashells.

You can’t miss it — a dramatic 65-foot fin whale skeleton, recovered from the Morúa Estuary in 1984, stands proudly out front. Inside, you can also view a vaquita skeleton. Bring your camera for great photo opportunities!

Non-Profit Efforts & Research

CEDO is a binational nonprofit partnership between organizations in Mexico and the United States. For more than 40 years, it has studied the rich ecosystems of the Upper Gulf of California, the Sea of Cortez, and the Sonoran Desert. Its mission is to protect biodiversity while building a community that actively cares for these environments.


Research shows that rapid growth in population and tourism has dramatically impacted the local ecosystem and wildlife habitats. With thousands of residents relying on fishing and tourism, CEDO has helped implement sustainable practices, including regulated shrimping seasons and protections for the critically endangered vaquita porpoise (now fewer than 15 individuals remain).

CEDO’s work is guided by five main pillars:

  • Community Well-being
  • Citizen Action for Species & Ecosystems Conservation & Monitoring
  • Sustainable Fisheries & Aquaculture
  • Education, Outreach, & Communication
  • Academic Services & CedoXperiences

Excursions through CEDO

In addition to seminars, CEDO offers guided excursions that highlight the best of Rocky Point’s natural wonders, including:

  • Pinacate & Grand Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve
  • San Jorge Island Adventure
  • Estuary Exploration
  • Tidepool tours
  • Oyster Experiences and more.

Booking a tour with CEDO directly supports their conservation and research efforts — so you can enjoy an unforgettable adventure while helping protect the ecosystems you love.

Local Tips

  • Anyone interested in sharing their knowledge can volunteer as a tour guide through CEDO.
  • Visit their website for donation opportunities or volunteer information.

Location

Edif. Agustín Cortés S/N Fracc, Las Conchas

Frequently Asked Questions

Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) is in northwestern Sonora, Mexico, on the Sea of Cortez, about 1 hour from the Lukeville Port of Entry in Arizona at the US/Mexico border.

Rocky Point is about a 4-hour drive from Phoenix, approximately 220 miles away, and a similar 4-hour drive from Tucson, at a distance of 215 miles.

The Lukeville border crossing operates daily from 6 am to 8 pm, with occasional extended hours. It is the most popular entry point for travelers driving from Arizona.

The best times to visit Rocky Point, Mexico, are from March to May and September to November, when the weather is more comfortable, and the town is bustling with activities. For beach enthusiasts who love warm weather, October is ideal, with average highs around 88°F.

Seasonal Activity Tips:

  • Spring (March-May): Perfect for beach outings, water sports, and exploring tide pools. Spring break also brings lively events and entertainment.
  • Fall (September-November): Great for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying local festivals like the Shrimp Festival.
  • October: A prime month for swimming and sunbathing, as the sea remains warm and inviting.
  • Winter (December-February): While cooler, it's a fantastic time for whale watching and quieter beach strolls.
  • Summer (June-August): Though hot, it's ideal for diving, snorkeling, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

Rocky Point is home to the Mar de Cortes international airport, which currently serves private and charter planes exclusively.

Though commercial airlines have previously operated flights to destinations like Tijuana and Hermosillo, there are currently no commercial air services available.

More questions

More questions?

Feel free to send us an email with any and all questions you might have regarding the start of a Casago Franchise!

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