If you haven't been to Puerto Peñasco, Mexico we are sure you will have many questions. Below is a list of the most popular questions we get asked.
We understand, there are bad things that happen, but one thing to keep in mind is that bad things happen everywhere, especially if you are going out and looking for it. If you are going out to drink then have a designated driver. If you are going to try and do something illegal then obviously the chances of something bad happening is going to get raised up quite a bit. We have been going to Rocky Point for years and we have friends that have gone for even longer and nothing bad has happened. Has the policia stopped us for going a couple of miles over the speed limit, yes. So do make sure to follow all speed limits (in kilometers) and make sure to stop a good 3 to 5 seconds at every Stop (Alto) sign.
It is highly recommended that you get Mexican car insurance before coming to Rocky Point. American car insurance is not guaranteed to be recognized. Mexican car insurance runs around $32/day.
There are many options for Mexican car insurance, you can even buy on your way up. This is the company we have gone with.
We highly recommend you have a valid driver's license and a passport. If you do not have a passport you can come back in with a copy of your birth certificate but you will probably be given a nice speech by the border guard about how you should have a passport.
You will not need a visa unless you plan to travel outside of the free zone.
Many of the areas near to Las Palomas will accept US dollars in addition to the MX pesos. If you fly to Mexico, it is recommended not to exchange your money in the US but rather wait until you arrive in Mexico for a better rate. Many banks in the US will charge you a high commission fee and not give you a very good exchange rate. Wire services, such as Western Union, are also readily available throughout the country though they tend to charge high commission fees and do not always respect the official exchange rate.
If you have driven further into Mexico - past the free zone - be sure to stop in at the office where you purchased the driving permit so it can be removed. If you are driving from Rocky Point you do not need to do this as a permit is not required for that distance. Declare all agriculture items or anything else you may have purchased in Mexico. The following items are prohibited to bring back into the US: sugarcane, potatoes, yams, avocados with seeds, plants and seeds, pork, cold cuts, any raw meats, eggs, and wild and domesticated birds. You are also allowed to bring back 100 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of alcohol per person (over 21), medicine with a prescription only. In addition, some artwork purchased in Mexico must have a stamp declaring "made in Mexico" for which stickers may be bought in some paper supply stores in Mexico.
You may be pulled over for a brief inspection or you may be waved on through. Unless you have a firearm, this is nothing but routine. DO NOT BRING GUNS INTO MEXICO.
None, if you remain in the Free Zone, which includes Puerto Peñasco. But if you are bringing ATVs, Jetskis, boats, or other recreational vehicles, be sure to have the ownership documents.
Yes, but in order to bring them back into the U.S. you will need to have documentation showing a rabies vaccination within the last six months. However, Las Palomas Resort does not allow pets unless you are an owner.
Yes, but in order to bring them back into the U.S. you will need to have documentation showing a rabies vaccination within the last six months. However, Las Palomas Resort does not allow pets unless you are an owner.
