Insider tips and all the crucial details about RV camping in Baja California, demystified for the apprehensive traveler
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the deserts, beaches, and vibrant communities of Baja, Mexico, with Baja Amigos, the longest-running and most established caravan company in the region.
Taking the Helm
Baja Amigos has recently taken over as operators of Baja Amigos, a specialist in small-size RV caravan tours through Baja. With a focus on affordability, professionally planned itineraries, and guidance, Baja Amigos offers a unique opportunity for RVers to explore the wonders of Baja in a smaller group setting.
Navigating Baja's Terrain
Baja is a desert peninsula, boasting long stretches between towns and villages where cellular service may not be expected. The roads tend to be narrow, often without a shoulder, and in various states of repair or disrepair. But fear not, as Baja Amigos' wagonmasters are all incredibly helpful in assisting guests who experience issues related to terrain or climate.
Embracing the Mexican Culture
It is always important to recognize and respect local customs and norms and to try to assimilate into Mexican culture while traveling. This includes understanding and following the rules and regulations set by Mexican customs, such as declaring all items properly to avoid fines, confiscation, or vehicle impoundment.
Experience the Best of Baja
Traveling with Baja Amigos, RVers can look forward to a host of unique experiences. During the peak travel season, between November and early April, the temperatures are typically mild, making for comfortable exploration. The biggest attractions in the busy RV season are the whale watching opportunities, particularly gray whale "petting" in the northern part of Baja California Sur and watching humpbacks breach and play in the waters near Cabo San Lucas along the East Cape.
Exploring the Pacific and Gulf Coasts
Many RV travelers are attracted to warmer weather and water, where they can explore and stay on a variety of beaches on either side of the peninsula. The Pacific side offers surfing, fishing, and whale watching, and great artistic communities such as San Juanico (Scorpion Bay), and Todos Santos and Los Cerritos. On the other hand, the warmer winter waters of the Sea of Cortés [Gulf of California] in places like Bahía de San Luis Gonzaga, Bahía de Los Ángeles, Bahía de Concepción, and the beaches that stretch between La Paz and Cabo San Lucas along the East Cape, are popular destinations for RVers seeking a warmer climate.
Beachside Camping
Baja is known for its primitive desert camping experience, particularly at any number of beaches that line both sides of the peninsula. Campers can either camp for free or for a minimal fee and wake up with million-dollar views outside their door. Examples of campgrounds with amenities in Baja include Clam Beach Resort near Ensenada, Pete's Camp in San Felipe, and Campestre Maranatha in La Paz.
Essential Border Crossing Tips
Before crossing into Baja, RVers must ensure they have the necessary paperwork, including a valid Mexican tourist permit called the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), Mexican auto insurance, current vehicle registration, and permits for any towed trailers or additional vehicles. RVers crossing into Baja are also required to have the FMM, Mexican auto insurance, and vehicle registration valid for up to 180 days.
Safety and Comfort
Traveling in a group is typically more fun, and there is always safety in numbers. Baja Amigos travels at safe speeds and in the smallest group sizes of any company operating caravans in Baja, so guests can feel comfortable knowing that they will receive adequate assistance in the event of traveling incidents.
Upcoming Baja Amigos Caravan Tours
Baja Amigos offers multiple caravan departures during the peak travel season, with the next one departing on November 7 for a 40-day fall adventure. The itineraries are constantly improved each year based on guest feedback and the changing opportunities in Baja.
Preparing for Your Journey
Before crossing into Baja, RVers are advised to inspect and replace any tires that are on their last legs and carry at least one full-size spare. Tire-repair shops are numerous along the highways in Baja because tire repairs are such common issues, and tires can typically be patched or installed easily. It is also recommended that every traveler invest heavily in preventative maintenance for their vehicle(s) before they cross into Baja.
Important Changes Ahead
Effective in 2025, there may be special immigration officers checking tourists for their FMMs. If traveling without an FMM or the mandatory liability insurance on your vehicle, you are breaking the law. Travelers with pets must have up-to-date rabies vaccinations good for the duration of their travels, up to 180 days. The CDC now requires an additional fee-free form to be completed upon returning to the U.S.
Join Baja Amigos for an unforgettable adventure through Baja, where you'll create new friendships, lifelong memories, and experience the wonders of this unique peninsula.
- Baja Amigos offers a unique opportunity for RVers to explore the wonders of Baja in a smaller group setting, focusing on affordability, professionally planned itineraries, and guidance.
- Baja Amigos' wagonmasters are all incredibly helpful in assisting guests who experience issues related to terrain or climate, making the journey more enjoyable.
- When traveling in Baja, it is important to recognize and respect local customs and norms, such as understanding and following the rules and regulations set by Mexican customs.
- During the peak travel season, RVers can look forward to experiencing whale watching opportunities, particularly gray whale "petting" in the northern part of Baja California Sur.
- The Pacific side of Baja offers surfing, fishing, and great artistic communities, while the warmer winter waters of the Gulf of California are popular destinations for RVers seeking a warmer climate.
- Baja is known for its primitive desert camping experience, where campers can either camp for free or for a minimal fee and wake up with million-dollar views outside their door.
- Essential items for RVers crossing into Baja include a valid Mexican tourist permit called the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), Mexican auto insurance, current vehicle registration, and permits for any towed trailers or additional vehicles.
- Effective in 2025, there may be special immigration officers checking tourists for their FMMs, up-to-date rabies vaccinations for pets, and an additional fee-free form to be completed upon returning to the U.S.
