Baja, Mexico, has long been on our bucket list and fortunately, last year, we got to take our Bronco on a Baja 1000 tour with Curt LeDuc that included close encounters with the gray whales in the bays of Guerrero Negro. We had such a great time last year, we couldn’t resist repeating the adventure, this time with some new friends and checking out some new territory, while revisiting the highlights from our previous trip.
One of the topics that is usually discussed when talking about driving into Mexico is the logistics of doing it and how has the border has changed since we have a new administration in office. I have lots of fun to share in my next article, but for now, let’s talk about the “how” of getting there.
We crossed into Baja via Tecate and returned through Calexico East, experiencing both familiar and new aspects of the journey.
Crossing into Baja at Tecate
Entering Mexico through Tecate was remarkably simple. The crossing itself consisted of little more than stopping at a stop sign before proceeding into Mexico. Although there are armed soldiers about, no one stopped us or asked any questions. Last year, we were asked to open the back of our Bronco and explain what we were doing and where we were headed but that too, was a simple process. However, securing our FMM card (Forma Migratoria Múltiple), an up to six-month travel visa, required a few additional steps compared to previous years.
After parking on a nearby street, we entered the immigration office and explained our purpose. We received a badge and proceeded to the tourism office, where the necessary paperwork was completed. Next, we took the forms to a bank across the street to pay the fee, approximately $42 USD per person, which we opted to pay in pesos. Carrying pesos is always advisable, as many businesses in Baja do not accept credit cards. Additionally, dividing your cash among multiple locations is a smart safety measure no matter where you travel.
Once payment was complete, we returned to the immigration office to have our documents stamped. This more structured process marked a difference from previous years, where we had simply paid an official directly, which likely went into his pocket.
Navigating through Tecate required caution, as one-way streets can be confusing. Traffic signs, often small and positioned far to the right, can be easy to miss. Ensuring complete stops at intersections is crucial to avoid fines. We heard several stories about bribing the police and general corruption but again, we had no issues and quickly escaped the city for the beautiful drive through wine country to our hotel, just south of Ensenada.
A Smooth Return via Calexico East
For our return trip, we opted to cross back into the U.S. through Mexicali at the Calexico East crossing. Before heading there, we checked wait times online, confirming that the east crossing was roughly 30 minutes faster than the west option.
Upon arrival, we followed signage for general lanes and found a barrier that required us to go all the way back around and get back into a single SENTRI line, which is for expedited entry. We don’t have a SENTRI card and were nervous that we might get into trouble, but the single line eventually branched out and allowed us to choose a general lane. It’s easy to get stressed at the border but you must remain vigilant about traffic laws, as this area is notorious for corrupt police targeting tourists. We learned that if stopped, always insist on going to the police station for processing rather than paying a bribe on the spot—officers seeking quick payouts will often let you go rather than deal with the bureaucratic hassle.
When we finally got to the border crossing, the agents were not concerned with our FMM visas but did check our passports and ask general questions about our trip. Interestingly, our conversation with the border agent turned into a friendly debate over whether the Ford Bronco or Jeep was the superior off-road vehicle. I think we sold another Bronco….
Essential Travel Tips for Baja
FMM: Think of it as a tourist visa and make sure you have it, otherwise you are in the country illegally and without discussing the political situation at the border, just get it. Although many sites will tell you to simply go online to complete the form, it is tedious and challenging and if you don’t also have proof that you paid online, they will charge you again at the border. Even if you are successful online, you still have to visit immigration to get your document stamped.
Mexican Insurance: Your U.S. auto insurance does not cover you in Mexico. Be sure to purchase Mexican insurance, which can be bought for a day, week, or year. Keep printed copies of all relevant documents and understand the claims process—filing after returning to the U.S. may invalidate your claim.
Passport: Now required so make sure you take into consideration the time needed to get yours. Ours was actually stamped this year compared to last year.
Cell Service & Navigation: A Mexican cellular plan is useful, but having a Starlink Mini proved invaluable. It’s so easy to install in a Bronco. We maintained connectivity even on remote Baja trails, making communication seamless.
Safety Precautions: Avoid driving at night, travel in groups when possible, and always stay aware of your surroundings. Baja remains a welcoming and enjoyable destination, but exercising common-sense caution is key.
Carry Pesos: Although many spots accept U.S. dollars, the farther you get from the border, the worse your exchange rate will be. Also, many remote areas don’t accept credit cards so make sure you have enough cash and don’t keep all of it in the same spot.
Thinking of Baja? Do It!!
Despite some procedural changes at the border, many of which in my opinion are improved, the heart of Baja remains unchanged. If you ever get the chance to go, or are on the fence about it, go ahead and do it. The people are as hospitable as ever, the landscapes are breathtaking, and the off-road experiences and remoteness are second to none. Don’t be deterred—just be prepared. Research your route, follow local regulations, and most importantly, have fun. Baja is still one of the best adventure destinations out there! We can’t wait for our next visit.
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