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kca87's avatar
kca87
Explorer
Jun 13, 2013

Baja Trip Report - La Paz, BCS to Tecate

Roads are better than ever and not a single detour. There are still some places near Puerto Escondido where the road washed out and has been temporarily fixed with gravel. But these are well marked in advance.

The most surprising part of the trip was the military inspection just north of Loreto. we were immediately directed to back into a spot and exit the vehicle and accompany the inspectors. My husband accompanied several to empty out our garage while I accompanied several to go through the inside of the 5th wheel.

In all cases, the officials were polite and professional - but they were very thorough. The most memorable part of the inspection was dissuading them from opening up our holding tanks to verify there were no drugs on guns in them. They finally understood when I came out, pointed to the black water tank and said "caca de el bano". They all laughed and decided to skip that.

Again - all were friendly, polite, and professional - it was no big deal, but it did take about 45 minutes.

In two places we were asked for documentation and they took down our names - something they seem to be doing with everyone who passed. we used our FM2s for identification.

At the ag station just outside of La Paz, was a federal police officer checking that we had proper documentation - and our FM2 did the trick. So, I guess, no more illegal US citizens in the Baja.

As always it was a beautiful drive, the winter in La Paz amazing, the people were friendly and we made many new friends that we look forward to seeing when we return in the fall.
  • It would be good to see you!

    I forgot to mention in our trip report that the border crossing took about 45 minutes (from getting in line to finishing up in secondary). We were given a printout of what we are allowed to bring into the US from Mexico. It is dated 2009 and I guess the confiscation of dog food and certain other things is a thing of the past. We were even able to bring our limes across and I was sure that citrus would have to go.

    The border guards seem more polite and professional than in the past. In fact, they were more helpful than ever. They acknowledged our long drive and said they would do their best to be quick so we could be on our way and they were.
  • Thanks for the trip report. Was about to PM you to see how you were doing. Have a great summer and still may see you this next winter.

    rocmoc n AZ/Mexico