I'm considering driving to the southern tip of Baja, Mexico in February. Perhaps I've seen too many movies, but I can't help picturing being kidnapped and robbed by corrupt Mexican police while my car is being stripped of parts...

I'm sure it would be insane to try driving in a place like Mexico City, but I know lots of people from California go down to Baja.

So, I was wondering if anyone has had any actual experience driving in this part of Mexico... Is it safe? Well signed? How are the roads? How remote is it (with regards to finding diesel fuel, food, mercedes parts, etc)? Let me know if you have any advice...

__________________

1989 250TD Wagon 5-speed, 160,000mi ::: Dark gray metallic / black cloth
1984 190D-2.2 5-speed, 287,000mi ::: Silver-blue metallic / black MB-tex ::: SOLD

Can't resist this little piece of movie stereotyping . . .



badges, badges, we don't need no stinkin' badges

I have not driven it myself, but, a business associate has done it several times.

It's not a bad ride, but, give yourself plenty of time, and

Do not drive at night.

missed this somewhere but this is an interesting topic to me since that's one of the things i would really like to experience in my 4x4. i'll ask a few people i know that have been there for more info but from what i gather from my bare research is that do not go in one vehicle unless you can survive some harsh environs. it's a 1000mi from Mexicali to La Paz on harsh desert roads. lot's of dirt tracks.. maps and signage suck.. i think for the most part it's safe but gotta watch the federales, there are ways to totally avoid them (bypass).. as to car parts: lol.. your best bet is a beat up Toyota 4x4. this is pretty much 3rd world so gas comes in 55gal drums and has to be re poured to 5gal cans and FILTERED (you provide your own).. camping is really the way to go there too. it's pretty remote desert/mountains but supposed to be beautiful. don't drink the water. cervesa is cheap so are the fish tacos. i'll post up more of what i find out.. please do the same..

__________________
72 W114/M130

RedMeat cartoon

Si
A "Bug" an a "Bus" with walkie talkers

__________________
89 300E
79 240D
72 Westy
63 Bug sunroof
85 Jeep CJ7
86 Chevy 6.2l diesel PU

"The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane."
Marcus Aurelius

That's great information; I really appreciate it! It sounds like this drive would involve a lot more adventure than I'm prepared for. I think flying would be a better option, especially since I will be under some time constraints...

Thanks for all of the advice!

__________________

1989 250TD Wagon 5-speed, 160,000mi ::: Dark gray metallic / black cloth
1984 190D-2.2 5-speed, 287,000mi ::: Silver-blue metallic / black MB-tex ::: SOLD

Two comments -

1. Make sure you get insurance for Mexico.

2. Make dead sure that you don't take any firearms or even a single bullet into Mexico.

Other than that, what the others have already said......

Crash, you probably see as much danger from those passing through as you would going to Baja.

averaging 35-40mph is doing good.


wes, why no guns? what's the deal?

__________________
72 W114/M130

RedMeat cartoon

It's a no-no to have guns or ammunition in Mexico if you are not a part of the Mexican government. There have been instances where a search turned up a solitary .22 cartridge in a vehicle and the driver was immediately arrested. Here in AZ there are signs alerting motorists to the fact.

Yeah, I'd feel safer with my carry gun, but I would be in violation of their laws. Just don't take guns or ammo into Mexico.

didn't know that and would be in vialotion if i go. thanks

__________________
72 W114/M130

RedMeat cartoon

I've had many trips into Baja without incident. The roads aren't great but you certainly don't need a four wheel drive unless you go off road. Sammy Hagar's Porsche Turbo doesn't seem to mind the roads, eh?

The signage sucks compared to what we are used to in the USA. AND ANIMALS WALK THE ROADS WITH IMPUNITY !! Spanish language skills help but aren't necessary. I have never failed to find a Pemex station open during daylight hours and I carry a couple of sock filters that slip over the pump nozzles, just in case.

GET MEXICAN INSURANCE ! I use AAA but I never had a problem.

DON'T bring a firearm or ammo, period.

On two occasions I drove a 911 all the way to Panama City and had the car air lifted into Bogata. After a couple of days of red tape I was able to drive all through Colombia, Equador, and Peru. El Salvador and Equador have really BAD roads. IF you drive at night, drive slowly so you don't over run your headlights. Squishing a possum or koatamundi isn't too bad but a close encounter with a burro, horse, or 2,000 pound oxen wouldn't be much fun. Ever see an ox in person?

As far as spare parts go. Take what you might need or be prepared for a wait.

__________________
You can get farther with a smile and a gun than you can with just a smile.

1984 300D
1985 300CD
1980 300SD
1993 SL500

no you don't need 4x4 but that's kind of like going to HI and swimming in the hotel pool.

__________________
72 W114/M130

RedMeat cartoon