Last Updated on April 28, 2022
Indeed, driving to Baja California is intimidating the first time around. What are the roads like? Is driving in Baja California safe? Do I need insurance? Does my vehicle need a permit for driving in Mexico? Perhaps you have done research and are still wondering what to expect.
Throw in a possible language barrier, unfamiliar rules of the road, odd traffic patterns and you have a white-knuckle drive waiting for you! Use our tips to prepare yourself for an exhilarating Baja drive while enjoying stunning countryside. Of course, read this before getting behind the wheel!
Table of Contents
Baja Mexico or Baja California?
Note: The entire peninsula is often referred to as Baja California, the Baja Peninsula, Baja Mexico or simply Baja – we call it each of these in this article. There are two states on this peninsula: Baja California and Baja California Sur. Again, mention of Baja driving in this article indicates driving in both states, or the entire peninsula. Distinctions in this article between the two states, where applicable, are obvious.
Driving to Baja California (Or Baja Mexico!)
This article covers driving in AND driving to Baja California. We’ll discuss vehicle insurance in Mexico which is required by law, although proof of insurance is not required to enter Baja California. This article will cover, in brief, the T.I.P. or Temporary Importation Permit and where this requirement is and isn’t needed. Look for much more on these topics below.
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Where Will Your Baja Mexico Drive Bring You? Need More Ideas?
- Coming down for sea, sand and sleeping under the stars? If so read our article on Baja camping: 12 great beaches for roughing it.
- No visit here is complete without our guide on how to make the perfect Baja road trip on a budget.
- From Ensenada to La Paz we’ve eaten the best Baja fish tacos; know exactly what to expect and where to find them.
- Many Baja missions are difficult to reach, however we think these five are quite easy to get to – no 4×4 needed!
You’ll also learn about certain driving habits, military checkpoints and practical safety tips for driving in Baja Mexico – this isn’t a difficult journey but be aware of some very important things. Don’t let these scare you; driving here is an experience you won’t ever forget! So, consider each of our Baja driving tips, then hit the road and have a great time!
Listen Up! This Is Your Responsibility!
This article does not cover the process of getting yourself into Mexico. This article does not cover bringing in watercraft, trailers, off-road vehicles, etc. Furthermore, this article does not cover customs regulations regarding money, tobacco or alcohol.
Finally, this post will not cover your FMM Tourist Card and any fee(s) this may include. These are all considerations the visitor (You!) must research prior to visiting Mexico – these things can, will and do change with little notice.
Do I Need a Vehicle Permit for Driving in the Baja?
No. You do not need a vehicle permit (Temporary Importation Permit, or T.I.P.) for driving in Baja Mexico as a tourist. There is no fee for driving here as a tourist, either. This includes the entire states of Baja California (B.C.) and Baja California Sur (B.C.S.).
Not needing a T.I.P. extends to certain parts of Sonora state, which borders the state of Baja California. Note: I AM ONLY SPEAKING OF DRIVING YOUR AUTOMOBILE IN THE BAJA WITH NOTHING IN TOW. Also, look into requirements for international travel with your lien holder.
Need a Place to Stay While in Baja California?
You’ll always find somewhere special to stay through Airbnb. From rural getaways to luxury spots in the city, Airbnb’s Baja Mexico listings offer something for everyone. Find your ideal place to stay and wake up ready for more Baja adventures!
For a good selection of conventional accommodations at the best prices we recommend Hotels.com on the peninsula and throughout Mexico. Choose from familiar national chains in the bigger cites or smaller independent hotels.
The areas of Mexico not requiring a T.I.P. (certain parts of Sonora state included) have chosen to extend what is known as the Free Zone. This is a perimeter extending south of the U.S./Mexican border meant to facilitate tourism and commerce through reduced customs requirements.
Mexico has extended the free zone to include the entire states of Baja California and Baja California Sur. YOU DO NOT NEED A T.I.P. TO ENTER OR DRIVE IN BAJA MEXICO (AND THE FREE ZONE OF SONORA STATE) AS A TOURIST.
Are you leaving the state of Baja California and entering the state of Sonora? If so, know exactly what the free zone is and where it ends. Consult a map of the Sonora Free Zone and abide by this if you don’t have a T.I.P.
Keep in mind you certainly do need a T.I.P. for driving beyond the extended free zone in Sonora state. The consequences of not having the proper permit beyond this zone is quite severe. This may even include vehicle confiscation by Mexican authorities.
Do I Need Insurance for Driving the Baja Peninsula?
MEXICAN LAW REQUIRES AN INSURANCE POLICY VALID IN MEXICO FOR AUTOMOBILES BROUGHT IN BY FOREIGN TOURISTS. Likely, this will not include your insurance policy from back home. Again, you will not be asked to prove insurance coverage upon entering Baja California.
Proof of insurance may be required if you are pulled over for a traffic violation. We were pulled over once but proof of insurance was not asked for; our experience in this case must not be seen as typical in all cases. However, insurance is needed if you’re involved in an accident. DO THE SMART (AND LEGAL!) THING AND GET AN INSURANCE POLICY COVERING YOU IN MEXICO!
Again, your own vehicle insurance policy at home likely won’t cover you on your Baja drive or anywhere else in Mexico. Your auto insurance provider at home may recommend a company they have an agreement with.
A policy purchased for driving in Mexico is totally separate from your existing policy at home. Also, you’ll be doing business with a Mexican insurance company who may or may not have agents based in the U.S. or Canada.
Choosing a policy through a group recommended by your insurance provider may offer very handsome rates. A policy from a provider recommended by our insurance company in the U.S. covered us for one year at $175. That policy provided bare-bones coverage on a 1999 vehicle; this was enough to meet minimum insurance requirements for driving in Mexico.
Make sure you know the minimum insurance requirements for driving down the Baja Peninsula and ALL of Mexico.
Is It Safe to Drive in Baja Mexico?
The real danger of Baja driving, even on the highway, is the total isolation. If needed, help from paramedics may be quite far away. This isolation, compounded by the many miles of both paved and dirt roads is the most immediate danger of driving through Baja California.
Indeed, many people visit Baja to experience this isolation and enjoy boundless adventures. Even if your plans only include driving the Transpeninsular Highway you must consider the loneliness of driving here. Based on our experience there’s one other safety consideration aside from isolation while driving here: the few other drivers you will see! So, is it safe to drive in Baja California?
Mexicans are the most laid back, friendly and kind people you’ll ever meet. However, put a gas pedal beneath their feet and they suddenly become aggressive contestants who believe cars are designed with a maximum speed for a reason. They look frightened as they launch past you in their vehicles, seemingly paralyzed by the amount of g-force overcoming them! Simply put, be aware of yourself and others on the road.
What are Baja Road Conditions Like?
Driving the Transpeninsular Highway takes getting used to. Almost the entire stretch of this two-lane highway lacks a shoulder, or breakdown lane. Potholes are numerous and rather formidable. The Transpeninsular Highway, filled with blind curves and ghastly drop-offs, offers few guard rails.
Road conditions represent a different level of standards from back home. Below we address specific things to keep in mind before your Baja drive – the occasional pothole and sharp curve are just the beginning of a white-knuckle ride you’ll never forget!
Without further ado…
Baja Driving Safety 101: Signal Left Turns With Caution!
Indicating a left turn has two meanings in Mexico: turning left (genius!) or telling the driver behind you it’s fine to pass on the left! This is curiously the norm in much of the world. When signaling to turn left, make sure the driver behind you doesn’t attempt to pass you instead!
We were nearly run off the Baja highway by a U.S. driver likely explaining to his buddy what a left turn signal really means down here. My left turn signal was, to him, an indication to pass me on the left. I turned left just as he attempted to pass us – a very close call, indeed!
This happened in a no passing zone while approaching a blind curve along the coast. I couldn’t think of a place this lousy on the entire 1000-mile Transpeninsular Highway to pass another vehicle! His gross miscalculation provided me the most frightening moment I’ve encountered while driving. So, keep this rather strange custom of multi-purpose turn signals in the front of your mind at all times!
Be Careful When Driving Baja California Roads at Night!
TRY TO AVOID LONG DISTANCE DRIVING AT NIGHT WHENEVER POSSIBLE! Many vehicles trundle down the road without working headlights in Mexico. Also, the Transpeninsular Highway has no lighting. One other possibility awaits drivers at night…
Cattle often lay on the pavement at night to keep warm, making the prospect of a nocturnal drive a suicidal idea! Plenty of desiccated, crumpled cows line the highway here, best viewed during daylight hours! Stay off the roads in Baja Mexico at night!
I’ve driven on the open range many times in the American west, yet there is something about the livestock here on the peninsula…a look in their eyes as you pass by. They express a sort of contempt as you speed by them on their roads.
The goats you see shuffling across the highway during the day are sending warnings with each tinkle of their bells: livestock own these roads and they’re waiting to claim them as the sun sets. You are just merely passing through. Again, driving in Baja is best done during daylight hours!
Be Prepared for Military Checkpoints on the Baja Peninsula
Face it, military checkpoints can cause a fright for anyone not accustomed to them. Driving Baja California means dozens of military checkpoints, set up either before major settlements or often in the middle of nowhere! Don’t fear these routine checkpoints – the kind soldiers will wave you through before you know it.
We received further scrutiny once as a soldier gave our vehicle a baffled visual inspection. He asked us to open the vehicle and a minute later we were idly conversing in broken Spanish and English. After a few hearty laughs we were on our way.
Be courteous and respectful to these gentlemen and they’ll likely wave you on after a few questions. If you don’t understand Spanish it helps to know what they’re asking and what you should be saying, Almost always in this order:
- Them: ¿Donde vienes? – Where are you from?
- You: Estados Unidos – The United States. Or Irlanda if from Ireland, and so on.
- Them: ¿Donde va? – Where are you going?
- You: San Quintin, La Paz, Todos Santos or wherever.
Pat yourself on the back for speaking some Spanish and motor on, amigo! There’s no need to worry about the next military checkpoint, likely another 100 miles away. These friendly guys are just doing their job and want you to have a great time in Mexico.
Don’t Ignore That Gas Station!
Keeping fuel in your vehicle while driving in Baja California is very important – get it whenever you can! Ignoring this means you might run out and the next station may be over 100 miles away! Running out means buying marked-up fuel from roadside vendors or calling the Green Angels (see below).
Filling up with fuel requires a bit of protocol. Gas stations in Mexico are full-serve and not knowing Spanish in this case is daunting. Simply pull up and wait for an attendant. Say Lleno, por favor (YAY-no, por-FA-vor) to have the attendant fill the tank. Then indicate the grade of fuel you want: Magna for regular unleaded; Premium for premium and Diesel for… diesel!
The attendant will indicate the pump meter is set to zero prior to filling. They often clean your windows and even wipe down your side-view mirrors – how swanky! Include a small tip of 10 or 20 pesos (50¢ – $1) while paying for your gas, and off you go!
Note: Unit prices for fuel are per liter, not per gallon. Also, the Mexican state-owned petroleum company (PEMEX) was, for years, responsible for all extraction, refining and retailing of oil and gas. PEMEX stations were once the only place in Mexico to get gas. This is very slowly changing and you’ll see other gas stations as you drive in Baja Mexico. However, all filling stations are full-serve.
The Green Angels in Mexico
Foreigners driving Baja California roads are surprised to learn Mexico has a free service for stranded motorists. Los Ángeles Verdes, or the Green Angels, patrol all federal and toll highways in Mexico offering free service during mechanical breakdowns, accidents or medical emergencies.
The bilingual Green Angels, provided by Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, patrol at all hours in over 275 vehicles country-wide. Although basic service and repairs are free you must pay for any needed parts. If you break down while driving simply pull over and raise the hood to signal the Green Angels. Likely, you’ll be waiting several hours for them to arrive; they have a long and lonely highway to patrol in Baja Mexico!
The 24 hour toll-free number for the Green Angels in Mexico is 01.800.987.8224. For an emergency dial 078. The Ministry of Tourism in Mexico provides this service for ALL motorists and tips are greatly appreciated. The Green Angels even provide tourists with maps and information on all sorts of destinations! What a great service!
What Is a Llantera?
Baja driving is tough on tires so you’ll notice plenty of Llanteras along the way. A Llantera (yahn-TERA) is a road-side tire shop specializing in used tires along with quick service. These makeshift shops fill a need along the Transpeninsular Highway; this road simply eats tires. Don’t expect anything more than a scruffy looking shack with a dusty hydraulic floor jack and an equally dusty assortment of tires.
Expect to pay at about 300 pesos ($15) for an experienced tire or slightly more for a newer one. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a lower price. Llanteras pop-up in the most remote areas alongside the Transpeninsular Highway, often right after a section of heavily damaged road! In fact, llanteras may be the only sign of life for miles around!
Crossing Into Baja California Sur
Baja Mexico, as mentioned, has two states: Baja California and Baja California Sur. When crossing from B.C. to B.C.S. you must prepare for three things:
- You enter Mountain Time from Pacific Time, going forward one hour
- Mercifully, you’ll see a drastic improvement in the surface of the Transpeninsular Highway – the pot holes (mostly) disappear!
- You must pay 20 pesos ($1) for the silliest of silly gimmicks ever. More on that below…
At the border from B.C. to B.C.S. you must drive through a strange checkpoint where a fee is collected. Here, you pass over a mist which magically appears from the surface of the road and bathes the underside of your vehicle.
The collected fee is official, complete with a receipt from the ministry of agriculture or some such agency. This special mist (likely steam) is meant to protect against wayward insects from the northern state of Baja California. We, of course, have our suspicions….
As much as we love Mexico we cannot believe any agency is putting up an ecological stance by blasting your undercarriage to eradicate invasive bugs. Mexico and environmental stewardship just don’t go together!
In Conclusion…
Although driving in Baja Mexico requires the same skill and concentration as driving anywhere, you must consider a few extra things. Knowing these things beforehand puts you at an advantage, therefore allowing you to focus on the joy of this amazing road trip. Your biggest concern should simply be where you’ll get your next fish taco!
The ease of driving to Baja California (no permit required) along with the beauty, tranquility and climate make this a great place for your next epic road trip, so get out there and enjoy it!
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You two are so personable. It feels like talking to old friends. I agree with everyone else this is the place to be to learn about Baja. I will always return here.
Hi Lance.
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! We miss Baja Mexico as it’s been about five years since our last trip there. Just yesterday we talked about maybe visiting again soon.
Take care, Lance!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
anyone driving down to La Paz BCS during this time of the year April 2023????
greatly appreciate a quick response and thank you ….
Hi there! Great information. Thank you so much for posting.
What in your opinion is the best vehicle to drive down to BCS? We’re looking at an F150, a 4Runner or taking our Audi Q5 (too flashy?)
Gracias!
Xoxi
Hi Xoxi – thank you for reaching out to us.
Our first piece of advice is to avoid being flashy at all, if possible… anywhere. Keep that in mind when it comes to the vehicle you’ll be driving. In our opinion, a vehicle with good suspension and sturdy tires which can handle dirt roads is a good choice – we wish the vehicle we had during our trips fit into that category!
If we ever return to Baja, a more sturdy vehicle than what we’ve used in the past would be an absolute must for us – much of the peninsula is bypassed by vehicles (like ours) which aren’t suited to some of the peninsula’s rougher roads. For us, it’s a shame learning about all the remote spots we could’ve explored with a more robust vehicle!
It sounds like your F150 or 4Runner would be a good choice. Keep in mind that even the highways on the peninsula may be tough on regular cars, especially vehicles with low clearance – giant potholes will sneak up on you as you zoom down the road and hard-to-see speedbumps are a reality, especially coming into and going out of towns.
Keep in mind that new, attractive and highly-customized vehicles fall into the flashy category, in our opinion. Flashy goods are tempting targets for opportunists throughout the world – Baja is no exception.
Enjoy your road trip in Baja!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
I’m planning to drive from Los Angeles to La Paz in January with my dog. I guess my question is… should I book all of my stays along the way or just look around when I get to a town? In the US I always wing it being I love to be spontaneous and I’m not sure when I’ll tire of driving. I just jump on hotel.com or booking.com and find a place last minute here. But I’m not sure if that’s a great idea in Baja in January with my pooch in tow.
Hi Caren.
We apologize for such a late response – we’ve been working in Alaska since June and internet was very unreliable for us!
We’ve never taken a trip like this in Mexico with a dog, nor have we ever booked a hotel online in Mexico – we love winging it too, in a different sort of way! We cannot say if pet-friendly hotels are as much of a thing in Mexico as they are in the United States. However, we can still give you some advice.
The beginning of January can be busy due to the end of Christmas/New Year holidays – things may be less busy after that. If you aren’t used to booking too much in advance, perhaps doing this for your first night in Mexico would help you ease into the trip?
Booking hotels in Mexico often depends on the level of comfort/amenities you expect, along with the class of hotel and what you are willing to spend. Many less-expensive hotels on Baja (400 pesos per night or less) simply aren’t suitable for some folks coming from north of the border. Also, the majority of these cheaper hotels aren’t on booking sites at all, but they may take pets. We stayed at a very clean but basic hotel in Guerrero Negro (Hotel la Posada de Don Vicente, 350 pesos/night) which did take pets – they asked us at check-in if we had any. If we remember correctly, it was either a 50 peso deposit or the rate was an extra 50 pesos per night. Keep this place in mind if you stay in Guerrero Negro.
I (Jerry) love booking sites, but I only use them as a reference. With booking sites I can see what the property looks like, what types of amenities are on offer, read reviews and get a good idea of rates. I also use Google Maps to see what is available in a city or town, and then we just take it from there.
In our opinion, looking around online last minute for a hotel in Mexico which accepts pets may be difficult. Often, the next town down the highway is hours away and there won’t be much (if anything) in between – this includes lodging.
Another option: If you spot a hotel online at the last minute which doesn’t mention accepting pets, just call and ask if they do.
Enjoy your Baja road trip in January!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
great content, keep up the good work~
Thank You!
I have driven in Baja for years–since the early 1980’s. The main road is, naturally far better now than back then! But one thing has not changed– and I simply cannot advise any people planning to drive in Baja more strongly on this point–the roads are still dangerous in the dark. Please do NOT even think about “making time” by driving at night in Baja. Everything mentioned in this site about this matter is true! Cattle DO sleep on the highway and, if you hit one of them at 70 or 80 mph, that is going to be a major collision in the middle of the night and you might not even survive it.
It’s also true about the vehicles on the highway at night without any lights whatsoever. This is more common as you approach towns but, since it can happen anywhere, don’t risk your life running into a light-less 1968 Ford pickup truck going 35 mph! Keep in mind that night is also when the drunks drive home and, again, this is more dangerous the closer you are to a town.
Driving at night? Please don’t even think about it!
Hi Roger,
Thank you very much for your comment urging folks to drive during daylight hours only – hopefully others will heed this advice! Aside from this tip we really like stressing that very large stretches of the Transpeninsular Highway are extremely remote – that can present a challenge as well both during the day and especially during the night. There are so many reasons to NOT drive very long distances at night on Baja Peninsula – thanks again for your very good advice to others!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Wow! What a great sight! Plan on driving from San Diego to LaPaz. We will take your advise and travel only during the day. Which 3 cities would you visit/stay overnight on a such a trip? Thanks in advance.
Hi Jorge,
We have quite a few favorite places to stop during drives down the the peninsula!
San Quentin is a good place to stop for us because there’s an inexpensive hotel with a great taco stand out front: Hotel Uruapan and Tacos Los Poblanos.
Guerrero Negro is also a great place to stop – Hotel Posada de Don Vicente is another good hotel and there is so much good food in town.
If you have time, the beaches about 10 miles south of Mulege are stunning and they’re very easy to access from the highway. The town of Mulege itself is a pleasant place with a mission church. We really like Mulege.
Loreto is a very nice town with a mission church and plenty of hotels, restaurants and service for road trippers.
Ciudad Constitucion gets overlooked by many but we absolutely love this place! It’s also a good spot to stop for a day or two and get whatever you need. From there, La Paz is the next stop.
We have a great article which lists the mileage from each border town to each major city/town along the way. This article also lists some of our recommended hotels, restaurants and even some things to do/day trips.
https://www.acoupleofdrifters.com/baja-california-road-trip-on-a-budget/
Enjoy your road trip, Jorge!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
How long does it take to drive from Ensenada to Loreto
Hi Albert,
According to Google, it takes about 14.5 hours to drive from Ensenada to Loreto. If you have the time, we suggest staying a night or two somewhere along the way. Enjoy the drive and stay safe!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
I am prepping for my first time driving my own car, to an Airbnb just south of Rosarito (30?) miles north of Ensenada.
One Mexican insurer I called stated that, even on the peninsula, I need a TIP if I stay longer than 7 days. I can find no other references to this and the host says she’s never heard of it. On your site (excellent, btw) you are so emphatic that no permit is required on the peninsula I am ready to dismiss the claim made by the insurer. BUT… it was an insurance company (mexpro) so I would like to hear your opinion on this.
Thanks.
“One Mexican insurer stated…I need a TIP if I stay longer than 7 days.”
This sounds more like a requirement for the FMM, or visitor permit – not the TIP. Unless Mexican policy has changed suddenly regarding driving your car (I’m assuming it’s plated from somewhere in the United States?), then no TIP is needed. Banercito (who issues the TIP) would list any updates regarding this policy on their official website(s), if such an update to the policy exists.
In fact, Mexpro states the opposite on their website regarding A TIP while on Baja California Peninsula: https://www.mexp/mexico/vehicle-import-permit.html
From the Mexpro website (see link above): “You do NOT need a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit for driving in any part of the Baja California Peninsula, Quintana Roo, the northwest portion of Sonora (the area west of the 15D and north of Guayamas), and within 25 kilometers of the borders.”
I very strongly encourage you to get official information, however without confirming this myself I am quite skeptical of the need to obtain a TIP for a car on the Baja Peninsula – have you shopped around with other insurance providers and if so, what do they say regarding this?
Thank you for the comment – and the very kind compliment!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Please note while driving at night from the San Jose airport to Cabo San Lucas I encountered three horses on the road while in a dark blind curve. Unfortunately, I hit one of the animals and injured it severely. The vehicle experienced severe damage but all the occupants in my minivan were OK. I was informed that this is common on that stretch of road at night. I would not drive Baha roads during the night for this simple reason.
Hi Marc Anthony,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience – we hope other readers take to heart your warning. We, and many others, strongly advise against driving at night/early morning almost anywhere in Mexico for this very reason and more. Your story is an unfortunate one for the horse and your minivan but luckily you and your occupants were uninjured.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Hi, we recently purchased a 2020 map of the Baja. It’s showing Hwy 53 from Insurgentes north to San Ignacio as a paved 2 lane road? I know it was partially paved and the rest dirt. Do you know if it has been completely paved in the last 2 years?
Thank you
Hi Greg,
We suggest checking with a few facebook groups in order to get the most up-to-date road conditions on Baja Peninsula. Check out groups like On the Road in Mexico, or Talk Baja and post your question there – you’ll meet loads of group members who can help shed some light on current road conditions.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Hi – really great post! I wanted to ask a question because my friends and I were planning on driving to Ensenada/Valle de Guadalupe next weekend – do you know if we need a negative COVID test to get back into the states? I know you need one when traveling by air, but the official information on the land border seems murky. Thank you!!
Hi Alejo,
We ‘re happy you liked the post! As far as we know, there is still no testing required at all to enter back into the United States by land from Mexico – this applies to U.S. Citizens but we don’t know how this applies to non-citizens.
We know this from past experiences and current reports from motorists crossing the borders, which we follow on a daily basis. We are in Mexico ourselves and will cross back into the U.S. this Saturday; we’re fully confident this process will be exactly the same as it was during our last crossing – no testing required. However, always keep this in mind: Things can change with little or no warning.
Although we recommend getting this information online from official sources, we’ve also found facebook groups which focus on the topic of driving in Mexico to be helpful. One group in particular, On the Road in Mexico, is very active with members who cross both borders frequently. These group members are always eager to help and share their experiences; consider joining groups like this, skimming through the posts, reading responses to questions or starting your own thread.
Have a great trip next weekend!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Please forgive me if this is already asked, and if so, just tell me and I’ll go find it . . .
Can one get their TIP if already IN BC or BCS or the free zone of Sonora, for continuing further into Mexico?
Thanks!
Hi Kevin,
That’s a good question; unfortunately, we cannot answer it. We never had to get a TIP before at all. I’ll recommend some facebook groups that we find very helpful for all sorts of things. There are loads of people ready to answer any questions you may have.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ontheroadinmexico
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TalkBaja
We’re members in these facabook groups and are quite sure these will be a great resource for you. Have a great trip!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Hi there, thanks for the info!
We will be driving from Loreto to LaPaz. How is that portion of the highway?
Hi Lisa,
The highway from Loreto to La Paz is quite good for the most part. In our experience, the highway in the state of Baja California South is much better than Baja California state. Of course, exercise all the usual cautions – and have a great journey!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Hi, love this blog! We are interested in heading to Valle de Guadalupe and parts south along Sea of Cortez either this month or sometime before March. Wondered if you had any advice re Covid. Has it been an issue in who can cross the border into Mexico? Are all the normal motels and eateries and camping spots all open? How are the numbers there? Any advice greatly appreciated!
We have a converted camper van, a 2018 Promaster Dodge. It’s not 4×4, so nervous how many camping areas will be accessible for us.
Mucho gusto!!
Janine
Hi Janine,
We’re both happy to hear you love our blog – thank you!
Please understand the following statements in no way indicate what you, or anyone else, will find upon attempting to enter or drive through Mexico in regard to the pandemic. Things change frequently and it’s always advisable to check official information online, or businesses themselves closer to the date of your trip…
If you haven’t already, see our articles on Baja beach camping and Baja road trips. For cheap grub check out our favorite budget restaurants in Baja and, of course, our favorite fish tacos.
Has it been an issue regarding who can cross the land border into Mexico? We suppose there must be isolated incidents of foreigners entering Mexico by land who are denied entry, for a host of reasons. As of now we aren’t aware of Mexico requiring COVID tests for entry into the country or anything of the sort. By and large, the vast, vast majority of people entering Mexico at the moment, by land, have been doing it successfully throughout year 2020. It’s easy for many people to think that the land border into Mexico is closed, however that simply has never been the case at any point in 2020, however that can change.
Are all the normal motels, eateries and camping spots open? We cannot say for certain. Some businesses on the peninsula, like in many other parts of the world, haven’t survived the impact of the pandemic – that could include hotels, motels and eateries. However given the number of foreigners crossing into Baja California at this time of year leads me to believe at least some motels, hotels and eateries are open. As for campgrounds, we never visited any formal campgrounds during our trips to Baja. All of the camping we did was either boondocking, or first-come-first-served spots on the beach. Some of these spots on the beach were free, others were not, however these were all very unofficial spots, leading us to believe they could likely still be open. Keep in mind many folks head to these Baja beaches in their RVs in winter months, like they’ve been doing for years – many spots will likely be taken already. Having said that, some of the annual RV crowd aren’t there for a number of reasons regarding COVID – some decided not to go this year and some simply cannot make it, for a number of reasons.
As for your camper van: We didn’t have a 4×4 either; many roads were off limits to us, but we still did A LOT of beach camping and boondocking out in the desert or on our own stretch of coast. Follow your nose, so to speak and you’ll discover plenty of camping opportunities.
We hope you make it down soon! It sounds like you’re better suited to camping in Baja than we were – all we had was a van with a pull-out bed! Still, we loved each of our trips there and we know you’ll enjoy it, too.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Any advice on whether to take the toll Road from Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe or Hwy 3 from Tecate to Guadalupe? Much Appreciated!
Joseph,
Taking Highway 3 from Tecate lets you see much more of the scenery along the wine route through Valle de Guadaloupe. If you’re interested in many of the wineries along the way, this is a good choice.
Are you returning north after that? If so, take Highway 3 all the way south to El Sauzal and drive the toll road back to Tijuana, stopping off for some seafood along the way.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Thanks for your blog. What is the quickest , safest way to drive from California to SanJose Cabo? Is it the trand-peninsular highway? Are there any good places to break the journey considering your advice about driving at night.
Hi Annie,
The quickest, safest and pretty much the ONLY way to get to San Jose del Cabo from California is the Transpeninsular Highway. From the border, plan on a a three-day drive to San Jose del Cabo – don’t rush it and enjoy the road trip.
For breaking your journey, each of these cities/towns make good stops because they have services such as hotels, restaurants, gas, shops and mechanics (in order from north to south): Ensenada; San Quentin; El Rosario; Guerrero Negro; San Ignacio; Mulege; Loreto; Ciudad Constitucion; La Paz.
Have a great trip and drive safe!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
This is super helpful, thank you! I keep reading about the 1 hiway vs. the 5. Can you take the 5 to La Paz and is it better? If so, where do the hiways intersect? Lastly, are there a lot of mountain climbs for the car when you drove it? My car is old! Thank you!
Hi Elaine!
Thank you very much for the compliment – we’re happy you found the article informative!
No, you can’t take Highway 5 as far south as La Paz. Highway 5 runs from Mexicali on the border all the way to the tiny locale of Chapala, seemingly in the middle of nowhere – this is where it connects to Highway 1. When you connect to Highway 1 and head south, you’ll still have about 2/3 of the peninsula left to drive until you reach La Paz.
The last time we drove Highway 5 in 2018, work crews were busy extending and connecting it to Highway 1 – the connection of the two highways wasn’t finished and the last 30 miles or so (the southern end) was a gravel road in good condition. The only downside was the extra time it took versus being on the paved portion of the highway.
As for mountains: The very highest pass is on the east-to-west Highway 20 – the stretch between Mexicali and Tecate might be difficult in your case. It’s a very steep and twisting climb heading west from Mexicali. It doesn’t sound like your plans involve this road, but we just want you to be aware of it. We didn’t find the rest of the peninsula bad however there are elevation gains here and there, but nothing serious in our opinions.
Good luck Elaine and let us know how your drive goes!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Hi, you didn’t mention anything about the danger of crime when driving at night, something one hears about a lot of in other Mexican states.
Hi Mike,
As you say, the danger of crime while driving at night seems to be spoken of more when it comes to other states in Mexico – is it more common in other states? I realize situations change and crime may happen anywhere at anytime, however there was simply no chatter regarding areas or roads to avoid at night due to crime during both of our trips up and down the peninsula. However, a lot of the advice against driving at night in Mexico has a lot to do with the potential of crime; perhaps I’m assuming (too much) that most people already know this. It wouldn’t hurt to mention it anyway, so thanks for bringing this up.
Again, things certainly can happen anywhere and that seems to be the mentality that most, if not all people have before hitting the roads south of the border. Regarding this type of crime, our own opinion is that it’s best for people to gather up-to-date information, ideally from official sources or at the very least current information from people with first-hand knowledge themselves? Perhaps I should mention that as well.
Have you any first-hand experience or knowledge at the moment regarding crime while driving at night in the Baja states? Have any areas recently become bad?
Thanks for the comment, Mike!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Thanks you so much for your helpful article. I am planning a trip down the Baja peninsula in October. I was wondering if you could suggest some must see towns along the way. Also, did you go down one side and up the other or is there only one road to traverse?
Hi Stephanie,
Towns and cities which interested us include San Quintin; Guerrero Negro; Mulege; Loreto; Ciudad Constitucion and La Paz. Two of those – San Quintin and Ciudad Constitucion – rarely figure into the equation with most visitors, however we found some good-value hotels and excellent food in these towns; this was the perfect antidote to beach camping and sleeping in our van!
Only one road traverses the entire length of the Baja Peninsula. The upper 1/3 (more or less) of the peninsula has a good paved road; you’ll find this on the right side of the peninsula when looking at it on a map. Go through this article again as I believe we’ve linked to another of our other articles with much more information on this other route. If you cannot find the link just search for Baja California Road Trip on a Budget in the search box to the right of our menu which is located at the top of any page on our website.
Thanks for the comment – and have a great trip in October!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Great article. We just recently completed the drive southbound down the peninsula, stretching the trip over 6 days. Your description matches exactly our experience- although fortunately no left turn signal scares. This way of communicating between vehicles is good to know and at times can be very helpful but there are huge inherent risks.
One other thing we learned was that if a car ahead of you came across livestock or another hazard, they would put on their blinking hazard lights. At times we saw this happen like “telephone” It proved helpful.
We loved our drive so much and look forward to doing a repeat. One thing we have been trying to learn about – overnighting in Pemex stations if the need was there for some reason. It has been suggested to us by a Mexican friend, but would like more input from anyone’s experience with that.
JoAnna,
Thanks for the great comment! I’am pretty happy to hear it was of good use to you – that means quite a bit to me! You mention the Pemex stations – THAT would be good info to add to the article…
We did boondock at one Pemex station in Ensenada; we got hit up for a “fee” by the overnight boss. This particular Pemex also had an OXXO or 7-11 on the property and we asked in the shop if it was fine to park overnight. They said yes and never asked for a fee. Well, shortly after falling asleep one of the Pemex employees knocked on the window looking for some cash. So, always ask before assuming it’s fine to park and know there should be NO FEE to overnight there.
We also had luck boondocking in casino parking lots – they are often open 24 hours so you can scramble in at any hour if you need anything. We also camped for free on many of the beaches from Mulege to La Paz.
We hope you make it back soon and get to see some more places as well as some old favorites from your last road trip down the peninsula!
Thanks again for reaching out and letting us know the Baja Peninsula is STILL one crazy drive! See you there one day?
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
I love this blog… This is the best hands down! I am taking this full drive next week from Ensenada to Cabo!!! I live in the USA; however, relocating out here!
I need all the information you can give!!!
Hi Tracy,
It seems you are replying to a past comment from JoAnna. Is there anything we can help you with in the meantime?
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Great info! Thank you.
Barb,
Thanks for the comment and for reading! Planning a trip down the Baja soon?
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Many thanks – step by step posts are always so useful… We all have questions we’re afraid to ask and details we don’t think through. Love the part on the Green Angels!
Coralie,
The Green Angels offer a great service, indeed. One hopes to never rely on that great service though!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
I need to know what is required to bring my six pound yorkie dog with me?
Hi Joanne,
We cannot comment on what’s required for bringing pets across the international border into Mexico; we’ve never done this ourselves.
We can suggest some specialized groups on facebook; a group called Talk Baja is a great place to ask your question, as is a group called On the Road in Mexico. There are plenty of folks in those groups that are in Mexico right now with their pets – they’ll be happy to answer questions for a fellow pet owner.
Good luck and enjoy your trip!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Good advice here in this post. We’ve driven in central Mexico, and didn’t have too many problems on the road. However, we are planning to visit Baja soon, so this post will definitely come in handy.
Astrid,
Have a great time in Baja Mexico! Watch out for the potholes!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
I haven’t been to this part of Mexico but I have been to Mexico City and I really loved it and like you I like the Mexicans are so friendly and laidback. I definitely want to go back and explore more of the country. Think this would be a great idea driving in Baja Mexico, especially as my close friend lives in LA and she is always asking me to do a road trip down that way. You have some good tips and I am definitely going to forward on your post to my friend. Btw that is crazy about the crash at McDonalds so random…
Mel,
A car is needed if you visit Baja. We hitchhiked the length of the peninsula in 2013 and vowed to return with a vehicle next time. Buses are expensive here and cannot get you to the great secret beaches that Baja has in abundance.
Mexico City kept us busy for 5 weeks. I am very happy there is no need to drive there! The Metro is a great way to get around.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
Excellent advice here, especially for people who don’t speak Spanish and/or have never visited Mexico. I’ve driven through Baja a couple of times and these tips are so important! My favorite part of the article, however, has to be the photo of the person who “parked” next to that McDonald’s window. 😛
Cristina,
That driver at McDonalds’s was lucky they didn’t go through the building. They came wicked close, though. Keep an eye out for that person on your next drive down the peninsula!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
This is a great guide, full of useful tips for drivers. And I love how you set up the right expectations about what a reader can and can’t find in your article. It’s a big time saver when you’re looking for something else. I wish more people did this.
Travel Bunny,
I am very happy you thought my advice to readers was to the point as far as expectations. That is a very nice complement, indeed. Are you ready for a Baja road trip yet?
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
I haven’t been to this part of Mexico and it sounds like you’ve developed a great post for those considering driving in Baja. I would totally be unnerved by a cow warming up in the road in the middle of the night! That could cause some serious accidents! Good to know the Green Angeles are there to help people who break down. That could come in super handy since it sounds like there are very few people on the roads.
Lara,
Wintertime sees loads of Canadian and American RVs pack the beaches and towns Baja Mexico. Although there are a few things to consider before driving here it is a great all-around experience.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
It does sound a little more intense than driving in the US or some other places but as long as I have these tips I think I’d be good to go!
Angela,
A good suspension system on the vehicle is a must – do not forget this final bit of advice!
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona
This is really great and useful advice. Driving in a foreign country is always intimidating and can be confusing too with new signage and rules. It’s so easy to get caught out even if you think you are driving correctly!
Hey Nic,
You are correct – yourself and Shorty know all about driving in foreign lands! We would drive in Baja Mexico again and we certainly encourage anyone to give it a go. Baja Mexico is a part of the country many Americans and Canadians experience each year. Driving in mainland Mexico is something quite different and this post celebrates the crazy things that make driving in Baja Mexico so unique.
Your Drifters,
Jerry and Fiona