BajaNomad

First timer headed to BOLA and possibly Mulege

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 11:21 AM

First off, thanks ahead of time to all of you for sharing your knowledge. If I listened to all of my friends, I would never do this trip! I have heard everything from me being killed to turning my family into cartel sex slaves.

Planning a trip for Thanksgiving week. This will be my first time driving down. Planning on crossing at Mexicali and will have our offroad camper with us. We want to go to at least the Bay of LA, and hopefully to Mulege if time allows. We will have 10 days to get from Las Vegas and back. I'd like to do as much off road as possible and be able to mix in some hotel/shower stops every few days. Also looking to beach camp as much as possible.


So a few questions:

I hear one crossing in Mexicali is easier than the other with the camper. Which one? Also, I understand we need to get our FMM stamped at the crossing. Is this correct?

Is Mulege and back possible in ten days or should we cut off at Bay of LA?

What is the best place along the way for a cool street market?

Thanks again for the advice!

MMc - 4-26-2015 at 11:41 AM

There will be a bunch of people the will say 10 to Mulege isn't enough time, it's your trip do what you want. We drive to SQ and make Mulege the next day. I have driven Mulege to the Boarder in a day. We always cross SY as we live in LA.
Both Bay of LA and Mulege are both great places. If the wind is blowing they both aren't a east place to be.

Many towns have markets on Saturdays.

Are you looking to off-road and drive or do you want to post up a few days and then hotel then post up? What you you want to do on this trip? Camp? Fish? Explore?
There is plenty to see, lots to do, give us a clue and we'll try to help.

Pescador - 4-26-2015 at 11:57 AM

Street markets here go by the name segundas. One of my favorite segundas is in Vizcaino which serves the farm workers so the prices seem to usually be pretty reasonable. For a general street market like you would find in Tijuana or Mexicali. You indicate that you like off road, so the back road through Puertocitos and San Felipe would be my first option. Lots of camping places through that whole area and as long as you are around a few other people, you should be safe. I used to camp solo all the time but less so now. Shore fishing can be very good from San Felipe on down, try to concentrate on areas that have rocky outcroppings on the shore.
Try going with the flow and see how much distance you want to cover in a day. It is more about the experience than logging miles. I much prefer the Mulege area but that is probably why I live here. I did explore BOLA a lot before making a final decision as to where to live but you may make different connections and relate to things that work better for you.
You have one day to the border from Vegas, another for crossing and getting to San Felipe, BOLA will probably be day 4, so now you are really short of time to make Mulege as you are up to 8 days with little rest time.

rts551 - 4-26-2015 at 12:14 PM

Plan for Mulege...if you don't make it.. oh well. A lot of your time will be spent traveling...but since it is all new, also interesting. Drive slower than you would in the US. Mexican highways just not the same as North of the border. Do not drive at night. Too many animals and obstacles.

Gulf side is nice that time of year so enjoy. Depending on when in November, avoid areas like Ensenada because of the Baja 1000 off-road race. You can get the course ahead of time. You got time for planning...have fun...you will get lots of input since everyone has their favorite places.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 12:16 PM

Being this is our first trip, I just want to casually explore off road. I haven't surf fished since the 80's. :) We really just want to get away and disconnect from Vegas life and explore off road. I lead a big ghost town expedition every year here in Nevada and would like to explore some of the missions and such in Baja. We want to enjoy local food and drink and bring home some great pieces to remember our trip by.

I agree about the miles! This is surely just about the experience of traveling SOTB and being able to do it safely. My initial thoughts too were that 10 days might not be enough. I know we could hit pavement to make up lost time but I am sure there is much to be missed in doing so.

This is our rig.



[Edited on 4-26-2015 by BajaNomad]

David K - 4-26-2015 at 12:20 PM

Yes, the border is the ONLY sure place to both get the FMM and get it stamped... Just park where you can after crossing the border and walk to the INM office with you valid passports. Always put the southern tip of Baja (Cabo San Lucas) down as your destination, so you are covered if you change your plans... and 180 Days, for the max. time (the price is the same 8-180 days!).

Yes, it is possible and common to go to Mulege and back in 10 days... it is a easy 2 day drive back to the border... one if you push it and begin early.

The other Nomads before me covered street markets. L.A. Bay is a very small town, so San Felipe will be your last 'city' until Guerrero Negro, Santa Rosalia, Loreto... but that is beyond your goal of Mulegé.

woody with a view - 4-26-2015 at 12:27 PM

Your first sentence is awesome the part about being killed or turning your family into cartel sex slaves. Bring along a friend that you don't really like just in case and use him for barter. With that rig you've got you'll get anywhere in Baja almost. LA bay is awesome that time of year the wind also blows for two or three days at a time and you'll wish you were anywhere else. Figure out the logistics first and then decide on your way as you're heading south where you want to go. If there's a high pressure over the great basin that means the Northwinds will be roaring through the golf side and parts of the Pacific side.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 12:30 PM

Woody, I told them that I was going down to test it out and if I didn't come home then they know not to come down! :biggrin:

Awesome weather tips! We'll adjust accordingly.

We also carry a 12 gallon aux tank so I am guessing we'll be ok between gas stops. That was my other concern.

rts551 - 4-26-2015 at 12:37 PM

Listen to Woody. He is known to bring a stripper or two down as trade bait.:lol:

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 12:38 PM

David, I understand that I can get the form ahead of time through discover Baja Travel club. Is that incorrect?

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 12:42 PM

Quote: Originally posted by rts551  
Plan for Mulege...if you don't make it.. oh well.


That is pretty much how I am looking at it. I know that we will turn this into an annual trip so we won't try to see it all in one trip.

rts551 - 4-26-2015 at 12:44 PM

The Pacific coast can also be nice that time of year.....depending.

woody with a view - 4-26-2015 at 01:01 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
David, I understand that I can get the form ahead of time through discover Baja Travel club. Is that incorrect?


that is correct. you still need to get it stamped at Migra. easiest option the first time.

desertcpl - 4-26-2015 at 01:09 PM


if your coming from LV,, much easer to cross at San Luis
come down HWY 95, first street after you cross take a right

then an easy drive to HWY 5 south to San Felipe

you will find any thing you want along the way to LA Bay

keep Mulege as an option, so much to see so little time

David K - 4-26-2015 at 01:13 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
David, I understand that I can get the form ahead of time through discover Baja Travel club. Is that incorrect?

Yes, if you are a member... and going through San Diego when they are open. Otherwise, it is really no additional time to just get it at the border, since you need to stop there anyway to get then thing stamped.

The big advantage to the pre-paid FMM from Discover Baja is if there is any problem getting the INM officer to take your money if the bank window next door is closed. Since 2012, INM has been authorized to accept the fee, before you had to pay the bank teller there at the border.. or find an open bank to pay, then come back to the border to get the final stamp (a most ridiculous bit of bureaucracy).

edit... I see Woody also answered... Lot's of help from many on Baja Nomad!

Alm - 4-26-2015 at 01:20 PM

I'm with the majority - this is a lot of driving. The highway is difficult and tiresome at some places, and boring in others.
Yes, you can make it all in 10 days, with Mulege. The question is - Will it be fun doing it this way.

Cool street market? Baja is a sanitized/americanized version of Mexico. Shopping here isn't an exotic experience. Segunda tent in BOLA is selling things that we throw away or donate to Salvation Army, like coffee mugs with slogans that are either stupid or were bought for some special occasion, that you don't need anymore.

Roadside fruit stands are common, and again, there is nothing extraordinary about them. Local produce like oranges and tomatoes is cheaper than in the US, other items are expensive.

Bring your own food, at least non-perishables - canned meat, dry fruits etc. This will save you both time and money. You will always get there some fresh fruits and basic stock like rice, pasta and some canned food if you run out of it.

I don't know what you are expecting from Mulege. The town itself has a little more historical remnants than BOLA or Sta Rosaila though. There are no camps on the beach within the general area of Mulege - for this you would have to go to either Punta Chivato or Bahia Concepcion. Mostly, the problem is that it is a full day drive from BOLA to Mulege. I would leave it for another trip.

PS: Prepaid Tourist card from travel clubs. There is no such thing.
They are selling you a blank, not a valid tourist card. You have to stop at the border and get it stamped anyway (and pay for this, additionally to what the blank cost you). And, since you have to stop, I don't know why not getting the blank for free. Yes, David K is right - there is a chance that the window with blanks will be closed, but it's always open in daytime.

[Edited on 4-26-2015 by Alm]

David K - 4-26-2015 at 01:21 PM

Quote: Originally posted by desertcpl  

if your coming from LV,, much easer to cross at San Luis
come down HWY 95, first street after you cross take a right

then an easy drive to HWY 5 south to San Felipe

you will find any thing you want along the way to LA Bay

keep Mulege as an option, so much to see so little time




There is a short section of toll highway (second small arrow) that will avoid city traffic... will be signed Hwy. 2-D (vs. Hwy. 2) Cuota (toll).

[Edited on 4-26-2015 by David K]

BajaTed - 4-26-2015 at 01:37 PM

A couple of pointer from a fellow newbie for the road trip to Muelege

Have everybody not driving looking out for the TOPES (speed bumps) on the road.
Don't drop a wheel off the highway pavement, the road berms are vey steep and tall, worst of all don't yank the steering wheel Bad things happen.
IF YOU DRIVE @ NIGHT, The big trucks have lights on their side mirrors, focus on only them when passing.
Count the crosses on the side of the road all the way there, should be around 100.
Take an expired drivers license and present it if you sense a crooked cop is gonna pinch you.
If a crooked cop wants money, ask him if he has children, tell him your gonna rat him out to the Sindicturas and remind him his wife will kill him for losing his job. works every time for me:lol:

DENNIS - 4-26-2015 at 02:09 PM

Quote: Originally posted by BajaTed  
Have everybody not driving looking out for the TOPES (speed bumps) on the road.



Baches too. Some of the potholes have their own zip code.

Oh, yeah....DON'T drive at night. Just don't.



.


[Edited on 4-26-2015 by DENNIS]

Alm - 4-26-2015 at 02:40 PM

Quote: Originally posted by soulpatch  

Heck, you could easily have just as much fun hitting Gonzaga Bay and then heading down to LA Bay and not spend nearly as much time driving

Yes. Coming from some place East and crossing at Mexicali this makes sense. There isn't much to do or see in Tijuana and Ensenada if your mindset is wilderness and offroading. Don't know how well their rig will handle those 40 miles dirt road from Gonzaga to Hwy 1 - probably alright when it's dry.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 03:12 PM

Wow! Thank you all for your responses.

Mulege was just mentioned as an area that is "must see" by another FJ owner that lives in TJ. If it doesn't really hold any more value of things like we mentioned so far such as beach views/camping, missions, etc then we may consider turning west towards Guerro Negro after Bay of LA.

willyAirstream - 4-26-2015 at 03:16 PM

If you do make it to Mulege, be aware that most of the town roads are one way and narrow, making it almost impossible to navigate with a trailer. You can park on the highway, near the arch, and walk into town for supplies and to see the sex slave market.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 03:20 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Alm  

Yes, you can make it all in 10 days, with Mulege. The question is - Will it be fun doing it this way.

Cool street market? Baja is a sanitized/americanized version of Mexico. Shopping here isn't an exotic experience.

[Edited on 4-26-2015 by Alm]


And that is it. I want it to be that experience that makes us want to come back for more!

My wife will disheartened to hear about the shopping. :lol: She is one that likes to gather all sorts of trinkets. Hopefully we find that "experience" for her.

basautter - 4-26-2015 at 03:28 PM

So a few questions:

Is Mulege and back possible in ten days or should we cut off at Bay of LA?

It is very possible with not too much driving. Conception Bay (south of Mulege) is on of my favorite places in Baja. Gonzaga Bay is anther with BOLA in third place.

What is the best place along the way for a cool street market?
San Felipe has the best street market I have been to. That would mean crossing at San Luis or Algodones. Both are easier than Mexicali. San Luis has a place where you can get tourist permits.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 03:51 PM

Quote: Originally posted by willyAirstream  
If you do make it to Mulege, be aware that most of the town roads are one way and narrow, making it almost impossible to navigate with a trailer. You can park on the highway, near the arch, and walk into town for supplies and to see the sex slave market.


Thanks! It will be great to see where I could be employed if all goes south. :lol:

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 04:19 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Alm  
Don't know how well their rig will handle those 40 miles dirt road from Gonzaga to Hwy 1 - probably alright when it's dry.


we have put more dirt miles on that rig that asphalt. :biggrin: Just came back from two days in the Mojave. everything from rock crawling to river crossings that camper in tow.

So Hwy 5 down to Gonzaga is all dirt/gravel? Looks like a night there is a must!

David K - 4-26-2015 at 05:54 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
Quote: Originally posted by Alm  
Don't know how well their rig will handle those 40 miles dirt road from Gonzaga to Hwy 1 - probably alright when it's dry.


we have put more dirt miles on that rig that asphalt. :biggrin: Just came back from two days in the Mojave. everything from rock crawling to river crossings that camper in tow.

So Hwy 5 down to Gonzaga is all dirt/gravel? Looks like a night there is a must!


NO... the pavement south is now reached a dozen miles south of Gonzaga/ 10 miles north of Coco's Corner + 13 more to Hwy. 1... total unpaved miles= 23. They are 2WD graded dirt miles... it just had lots of rocks in the bed of the road, and not all smooth and fast. Campers and trailers won't have fun driving so slow for 23 miles... but I think saving 200 and all the town traffic on the west coast is well worth the slow drive for a couple hours.

fandango - 4-26-2015 at 06:17 PM

Vn:
Nice rig, you'll have a great time.

Be sure to get insurance and put your trailer on the policy.

The other thing to consider regarding insurance is the minimum liability amount is different for baja and baja sur. mulege is in baja sur.

David K - 4-26-2015 at 06:32 PM

Quote: Originally posted by fandango  
Vn:
Nice rig, you'll have a great time.

Be sure to get insurance and put your trailer on the policy.

The other thing to consider regarding insurance is the minimum liability amount is different for baja and baja sur. mulege is in baja sur.


Important indeed... If your truck is insured (annually or ?) for Mexico, but pulling a trailer is a new deal, you must alter the policy to include towing for the policy to by valid.

As for the different liability, I sure hope that either Discover Baja or Baja Bound only sells policies that would work in all of NW Mexico! I wouldn't go cheap, and have the premium plan with legal aid included.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 10:03 PM

Quote: Originally posted by soulpatch  
Do the baja trip and then, next time, head down the mainland side.... you would hit some baja style desert and ocean and then you could pop into Mazatlan or other places on the way down if your wife really wants to experience a tianguis.
I am guessing from Vegas it's a toss up as to which would involve more driving.
They are an experience.:cool:


I have been told the area of Copper Canyon on the mainland is one to be seen for sure.

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 10:28 PM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  

NO... the pavement south is now reached a dozen miles south of Gonzaga/ 10 miles north of Coco's Corner + 13 more to Hwy. 1... total unpaved miles= 23. They are 2WD graded dirt miles... it just had lots of rocks in the bed of the road, and not all smooth and fast. Campers and trailers won't have fun driving so slow for 23 miles... but I think saving 200 and all the town traffic on the west coast is well worth the slow drive for a couple hours.


Sign me up! I am great for that! I have taken two days to make 140 miles, so rambling along on a dirt road is fine! We built the camper just for this kind of travel.

Alm - 4-26-2015 at 10:49 PM

Insurance:
I don't recall any difference in liability insurance btw Baja and Baja Sur. At least, those few times when I bought it through Bajabound and Discover Baja. Normally they sell short-term coverage for "all Mexico", and sometimes for "North West" which means the entire peninsula of Baja California.
Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
If it {Mulege} doesn't really hold any more value of things like we mentioned so far such as beach views/camping, missions, etc then we may consider turning west towards Guerro Negro after Bay of LA.

You are confused.
There is a little old mission in Mulege, restored and well preserved.
There are no views other than the view of the river delta from surrounding hills or from the lighthouse (if the tower is still there after all the floods and if the road is not washed out as it usually happens).
There is no beach, the town is tucked upstream on the river.
There are camps in town, nice and shady with date palms, but there is no view of any kind on those camps.
There are beaches North of town around P. Chivato, and South of town in Bahia Concepcion.
(IMO, there is no real view on Concepcion beaches either because there is no horizon - all you can see is the bay and mountains 3-4 miles across, like on some mountain lake. But the water is warm, and beaches are nice - some of them).

[Edited on 4-27-2015 by Alm]

Alm - 4-26-2015 at 10:57 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  

I have been told the area of Copper Canyon on the mainland is one to be seen for sure.

You can do next trip to Mulege - though I would spend there 1 day at most and headed South to beaches of Concepcion Bay.
Then you take the ferry from Sta Rosalia to Guaymas on the Mainland, less tiresome than driving around. The cost for a car with trailer can be disastrous though: Tarifas. I can't figure out the cost for a small trailer, but you'll pay 300 bucks or more for a truck+driver alone.



[Edited on 4-27-2015 by Alm]

VegasNick - 4-26-2015 at 11:05 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Alm  
Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  

I have been told the area of Copper Canyon on the mainland is one to be seen for sure.

You can do next trip to Mulege - though I would spend there 1 day at most and headed South to beaches of Concepcion Bay.
Then you take the ferry from Sta Rosalia to Guaymas on the Mainland, less tiresome than driving around. The cost for a car with trailer can be disastrous though.

[Edited on 4-27-2015 by Alm]


That sounds like an even better plan. I have no doubt that this will just be the beginning of many trips down that way!

David K - 4-27-2015 at 06:42 AM

Baja California (the first Califrornia) is home to 27 missions, founded from 1697 to 1834... several were made of stone and many are still intact and used today as parish churches. Others are in ruins or have vanished but they give a connection to the past when visited.

I have posted much on the missions here on Baja Nomad and I maintain web pages to inform on the missions: http://vivabaja.com/bajamissions

In 2012, I helped history author Max Kurillo produce the first book that correctly catalogs all 48 California missions in the order they were founded, with brief history, photos and maps: http://oldmissions.com

All previously published books only deal with missions on one side of a line that didn't exist when the missions were founded and built!

Mission Santa Rosalia de Mulegé, founded in 1705 as the 4th California mission:

VegasNick - 4-27-2015 at 09:11 PM

Thank you David! That adds a LOT of help to my trip planning.

I'll post up somewhat of a map this week and let you guys pick it apart. :)

willyAirstream - 4-28-2015 at 06:01 AM


Mulege lighthouse after rain

willyAirstream - 4-28-2015 at 06:31 AM

Ck out these links

Bahia Conception and off roading near Mulege

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=44194#pid4932...

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=72247#pid8855...

mtgoat666 - 4-28-2015 at 06:45 AM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
First off, thanks ahead of time to all of you for sharing your knowledge. If I listened to all of my friends, I would never do this trip! I have heard everything from me being killed to turning my family into cartel sex slaves.

Planning a trip for Thanksgiving week. This will be my first time driving down. Planning on crossing at Mexicali and will have our offroad camper with us. We want to go to at least the Bay of LA, and hopefully to Mulege if time allows. We will have 10 days to get from Las Vegas and back. I'd like to do as much off road as possible and be able to mix in some hotel/shower stops every few days. Also looking to beach camp as much as possible.


So a few questions:

I hear one crossing in Mexicali is easier than the other with the camper. Which one? Also, I understand we need to get our FMM stamped at the crossing. Is this correct?

Is Mulege and back possible in ten days or should we cut off at Bay of LA?

What is the best place along the way for a cool street market?

Thanks again for the advice!


Too many questions! Just go! Figure it out when you get there.

My first trip we had a map, a surf guide, and lots of ignorance. We had a feeling of exploration. There was no internet, no online mommies to answer our questions.

If you have too much info, you will not have an adventure.

Quit asking questions, get out of here and just do it!



[Edited on 4-28-2015 by mtgoat666]

chuckie - 4-28-2015 at 06:58 AM

Amazing!!! For once I agree with the goat....Seems as if people have lost their cojones when it comes to do anything that isn't choreographed for them...Need GPS coordinates to the cheapest taco stand .....Sad state of affairs....

woody with a view - 4-28-2015 at 07:15 AM

Words of wisdom.....

Jaybo - 4-28-2015 at 08:33 AM

On our drive down in 2013 to deliver a friends Jeep Cherokee we made lots of plans. We reserved in advance and missed out on going to see Juan and Sheri's place at BA. While planning was good in that we did get to see and pet the whales with Sheri I would have loved to have spent a day or two on the Pacific side as well It was still an epic trip for us, We took 10 days to get to Cabo and while not rushed, I could have spent 2 or 3 more days on the road down.

Gonzaga was a bit overrated to me, but part of that was having to sleep in a double bed with the wife. We just don't fit in one for comfortable sleeping ;) Mulege was nice, we stayed at Cliff's place which was fantastic, but we really loved Coyote Bay much more. So beautiful! BOLA was OK, but I don't get the allure that many have for it. Maybe I missed something? People told me to stop planning so much and while I dismissed them, I totally get why they told me that :) We know now for our next trip, and will NOT plan accordingly! LOL

..Jay

David K - 4-28-2015 at 09:41 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Jaybo  
On our drive down in 2013 to deliver a friends Jeep Cherokee we made lots of plans. We reserved in advance and missed out on going to see Juan and Sheri's place at BA. While planning was good in that we did get to see and pet the whales with Sheri I would have loved to have spent a day or two on the Pacific side as well It was still an epic trip for us, We took 10 days to get to Cabo and while not rushed, I could have spent 2 or 3 more days on the road down.

Gonzaga was a bit overrated to me, but part of that was having to sleep in a double bed with the wife. We just don't fit in one for comfortable sleeping ;) Mulege was nice, we stayed at Cliff's place which was fantastic, but we really loved Coyote Bay much more. So beautiful! BOLA was OK, but I don't get the allure that many have for it. Maybe I missed something? People told me to stop planning so much and while I dismissed them, I totally get why they told me that :) We know now for our next trip, and will NOT plan accordingly! LOL

..Jay


We all have different 'favorites' for various reasons. Sometimes you just switch places to go due to 'conditions'. In Baja you have to be flexible and that is while rigid planning and reservations may really reduce your experience enhancement. Have some target ideas of what you would like to see, but be free to make some discoveries that are not on the itinerary.

The only place we have ever made reservation I think was Baja Cactus (El Rosario) as it now fills up regularly (it's just that good). We just wing it other places, but we mostly tent camp.

I have always enjoyed Bahia de L.A., perhaps because so much history is nearby, but Baja Angel sees it just as a fisherman's destination. It used to be fun to camp/ cabin with other Nomads at Camp Gecko, but that feature ended after our 2005 stay there when Doc understandably converted the camping place to leased lots.

Gonzaga Bay is special to me, as it was the first Baja destination my parents had when they bought the Jeep in 1965. I find it both beautiful and has history and geology nearby that interests me. Stayed at friends in Alfonsina's or at Campo Beluga, nearby. With the highway there now, I think for camping we will stick with Shell Island, now just 75 easy miles away.

Bahia Concepcion, now there's a special place... even with the highway close by... it is so beautiful to camp next to the water at El Requeson or La Perla (or many other spots), that any trip into Sur will include time there.

Bahia Asuncion... now that is like Bahia de L.A. in being a fisherman's destination! However, the good friendship we have with Juan and Shari makes staying at their place a special treat. Exploring the desert and looking for fossils was so much fun, we can go there without fishing or surfing as a reason!

VegasNick - 4-28-2015 at 10:40 AM

Quote: Originally posted by chuckie  
Amazing!!! For once I agree with the goat....Seems as if people have lost their cojones when it comes to do anything that isn't choreographed for them...Need GPS coordinates to the cheapest taco stand .....Sad state of affairs....


I wasn't asking anyone to choreograph the trip for us. Just asking for experience from people that have been there is all. :mad:

I as much wanted to see if there were anyone had a "don't go there" place. I am all about adventure, but that adventure doesn't include having my rig jacked.

[Edited on 4-28-2015 by VegasNick]

VegasNick - 4-28-2015 at 10:48 AM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  

We all have different 'favorites' for various reasons. Sometimes you just switch places to go due to 'conditions'. In Baja you have to be flexible and that is while rigid planning and reservations may really reduce your experience enhancement. Have some target ideas of what you would like to see, but be free to make some discoveries that are not on the itinerary.



Certainly not looking at reservations anywhere. We have sleeping quarters and food with us. :lol: The ocean provides a good bath when you need it! I am thinking it will just be all about the drive and exploring and we'll know when turn back north. Our plans are for 14 days of vacation (just in case we really just have to keep going south, but we will see where we can get in ten.

Alm - 4-28-2015 at 03:30 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  

I as much wanted to see if there were anyone had a "don't go there" place. I am all about adventure, but that adventure doesn't include having my rig jacked.

After all those pages does it still need to be said in plain words? There is no such a "no go place" in Baja. You won't have you rig jacked under gunpoint.

A common sense is still advisable. Don't hang around where your guts tell you not to, ex. you don't like the looks of the place or the looks they are giving you. Things do get stolen. Don't wander away for hours where you don't see your rig, unless you're on a safe camp - and even then lock everything up. Pretty much same precautions as in Ca or Az.

There were a few recent armed robbery incidents in Baja Sur - in La Paz and Cabo, but you don't plan on going there. I don't recall this happening before, but consider that those towns were literally devastated by hurricane in September 2014 and there are no fat wellfare checks out there.

David K - 4-28-2015 at 03:39 PM

I too think Baja is safer than the USA in many places, like Baltimore...

However, as a camper, you should have a good sense of what's a safe place and get a 'feeling' if something's not quite right. Get away from the highway and cities, except if using an RV park.

I think if you are traveling solo, I would avoid setting up camp anywhere you can be seen from the highway or major access roads... except in an established camp area or next to someone's rancho or fish camp if you made an effort to greet them and get an okay to camp there.

Anyplace that requires 4WD to get to is always a good place to camp. 'Banditos' don't cruise off road looking for targets. Otherwise, camp in an established camp area, near other campers, but give them some space (locals camping tend to play loud music all night long, and are generous with sharing their music with you).

24baja - 4-28-2015 at 03:41 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
Quote: Originally posted by chuckie  
Amazing!!! For once I agree with the goat....Seems as if people have lost their cojones when it comes to do anything that isn't choreographed for them...Need GPS coordinates to the cheapest taco stand .....Sad state of affairs....


I wasn't asking anyone to choreograph the trip for us. Just asking for experience from people that have been there is all. :mad:

I as much wanted to see if there were anyone had a "don't go there" place. I am all about adventure, but that adventure doesn't include having my rig jacked.

[Edited on 4-28-2015 by VegasNick]




Nick,

Don't take these guys too serious. Just go out and have fun, don't try to plan too much and see where you end up. We have driven thru Gonzaga and though it is beautiful we have never spent time there. We fell in love with Bahia de Los Angeles and made our home there and when the hubby retires in a year we plan on spending mucho time there and traveling to other parts of the Peninsula. Our advise to first time travelers is be aware of your surroundings and do not drive at night. If your gut feels something is not right then it probably isn't ok. Enjoy yourself, the people and the country!!

Alm - 4-28-2015 at 05:13 PM

The best plan for such a trip is a no plan. Have an approximate itinerary, like Gonzaga-BOLA-Westcoast-Concepcion, but be prepared to change any part of it. Carry enough canned food, fresh water and stove fuel, so you'll have more freedom.

I wouldn't drive at night - there can be cows, or topez, or just poor road.

Head south from BOLA

AKgringo - 4-28-2015 at 05:49 PM

My suggestion for some memorable driving would be to head south from Bahia de Los Angeles, with a stop at Las Animas, Bahia San Rafael, or Bahia San Francisquito, which ever fits into your schedule best. Heading out through El Arco to Vizcaino gets you back to Highway 1, and you can head north or south, or west to Bahia Asuncion, depending on your next place of interest.
I love that stretch of road, and traveled it last October after Hurricane Odile, pulling my camp trailer with a less capable rig than yours. That stretch is used by the Baja 1000 race, which should be over by the time you get there.

Alm - 4-28-2015 at 10:03 PM

Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo  
My suggestion for some memorable driving would be to head south from Bahia de Los Angeles, with a stop at Las Animas, Bahia San Rafael, or Bahia San Francisquito, which ever fits into your schedule best. Heading out through El Arco to Vizcaino gets you back to Highway 1,

You're reading my mind.
Didn't want to choreograph this too much, but - yes, with a good car I would go down there. Possibly, spending the night at Pancho's "camp" in San Rafael. Quiet, on the beach (on the bluff), no showers, very few other campers, if any. He'll make a good dinner if you're tired of living off the can. Then lunch stop at San Francisquito, - or again spend a night in their camp on the beach if you feel like. The actual SF "village" of 6 or 7 homes is in the bay, and the camp is on the open beach South of the point.

[Edited on 4-29-2015 by Alm]

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 06:14 AM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  
I too think Baja is safer than the USA in many places, like Baltimore...

However, as a camper, you should have a good sense of what's a safe place and get a 'feeling' if something's not quite right. Get away from the highway and cities, except if using an RV park.

.


I could get car jacked in North Vegas almost any night of the week!:lol:

I have gotten used to the music. LOL

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 06:17 AM

Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo  
My suggestion for some memorable driving would be to head south from Bahia de Los Angeles, with a stop at Las Animas, Bahia San Rafael, or Bahia San Francisquito, which ever fits into your schedule best. Heading out through El Arco to Vizcaino gets you back to Highway 1, and you can head north or south, or west to Bahia Asuncion, depending on your next place of interest.
I love that stretch of road, and traveled it last October after Hurricane Odile, pulling my camp trailer with a less capable rig than yours. That stretch is used by the Baja 1000 race, which should be over by the time you get there.


You know, I have been doing some reading about many of the towns you mentioned and some side trips to abandoned mining camps and such. The more I read, the more I think I need to take three weeks off.

I met a fellow FJ owner up in TJ that has the route maps for the race. We thought about seeing how much of it we could follow.

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 06:20 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Alm  
The best plan for such a trip is a no plan. Have an approximate itinerary, like Gonzaga-BOLA-Westcoast-Concepcion, but be prepared to change any part of it. Carry enough canned food, fresh water and stove fuel, so you'll have more freedom.

I wouldn't drive at night - there can be cows, or topez, or just poor road.


Sounds like a plan! That is kind of what I want to do. Mapping it out is more of a "suggestion". I do that out here in the desert all the time. You know when you pass a dirt road and go "I wonder where that goes; let's find out".

In my side business we sell the Mountain House foods so we eat well from dehydrated goodies. :lol: We'll surely go down there with more than we think we will need.

ehall - 4-29-2015 at 07:32 AM

If you want to follow some of the race course here is a good place to start.
http://rlhcomm.com/bfg.html Go to race history. Lots of nice maps.

[Edited on 4-29-2015 by ehall]

David K - 4-29-2015 at 07:45 AM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo  
My suggestion for some memorable driving would be to head south from Bahia de Los Angeles, with a stop at Las Animas, Bahia San Rafael, or Bahia San Francisquito, which ever fits into your schedule best. Heading out through El Arco to Vizcaino gets you back to Highway 1, and you can head north or south, or west to Bahia Asuncion, depending on your next place of interest.
I love that stretch of road, and traveled it last October after Hurricane Odile, pulling my camp trailer with a less capable rig than yours. That stretch is used by the Baja 1000 race, which should be over by the time you get there.


You know, I have been doing some reading about many of the towns you mentioned and some side trips to abandoned mining camps and such. The more I read, the more I think I need to take three weeks off.

I met a fellow FJ owner up in TJ that has the route maps for the race. We thought about seeing how much of it we could follow.


Check out photos at Pozo Aleman from my 2012 visit or other Nomads. The painted cave of El Carmen and Mission Santa Gertrudis are close by, too. On the graded road between El Arco and Punta San Francisquito along the border between the two states.

2012 Trip Report: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=61576 (Day 13 for the mentioned sites)

David K - 4-29-2015 at 07:47 AM

Quote: Originally posted by ehall  
If you want to follow some of the race course here is a good place to start.
http://rlhcomm.com/bfg.html Go to race history. Lots of nice maps.

[Edited on 4-29-2015 by ehall]


Yes, a nice collection! Thanks Ed!!
http://rlhcomm.com/BFG/RACES/archives.htm

AKgringo - 4-29-2015 at 08:14 AM

Nick, the places I mentioned are not towns! There is an air strip and a restaurant on the beach at San Francisquito, but gas is a crap shoot.
The fish camp at the north end of the strip caters to sport fishermen with rooms and meals, but he has a few campsites available, and showers. I also re loaded my ice chest there.
As Alm mentioned, Pancho and his dogs are at San Rafael, but unless some commercial fishing is happening, that is the population.
You will want to spend a couple of days on that route, hope you have the time.

Jaybo - 4-29-2015 at 09:09 AM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
You know, I have been doing some reading about many of the towns you mentioned and some side trips to abandoned mining camps and such. The more I read, the more I think I need to take three weeks off.


If you can take 3 weeks that would be great! That would be a great amount of time to be able to say screw it, this place is awesome, lets stay another day or 3. My plan for our next drive down was to take 2 weeks to get to SJDC (where we have a friend who lives there) and meander a little bit, before staying at her place and visiting and sit by the pool for a few days before going home. I just hope she needs another Jeep brought down soon :)

woody with a view - 4-29-2015 at 10:06 AM

Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo  
Nick, the places I mentioned are not towns! There is an air strip and a restaurant on the beach at San Francisquito, but gas is a crap shoot.
The fish camp at the north end of the strip caters to sport fishermen with rooms and meals, but he has a few campsites available, and showers. I also re loaded my ice chest there.
As Alm mentioned, Pancho and his dogs are at San Rafael, but unless some commercial fishing is happening, that is the population.
You will want to spend a couple of days on that route, hope you have the time.


stock up in LA Bay on all essentials, ice, fuel, beer, stripper poles, etc.... heading south from there are close to zero places to buy important things like beer and fuel until you hit pavement again.

oh, bring tire plugs. I travel with 30 plugs just because. I actually used 12 on one tire once and then aired back up to barely survive a donation to the cartel sex slave industry.....:cool:

Alm - 4-29-2015 at 11:25 AM

Yep. No stores from BOLA to Hwy 1 through El Arco. You will get fresh water, and this is it. Don't forget to leave a few pesos "propina", they have to buy fresh water many miles away.

Consider all this a cursory trip, no matter if it's 2 or 3 weeks. It won't be perfect the very first time even if you take 6 weeks. Next time you'll know the area better and spend more time where you like.

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 11:39 AM

Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo  
Nick, the places I mentioned are not towns! There is an air strip and a restaurant on the beach at San Francisquito, but gas is a crap shoot.
The fish camp at the north end of the strip caters to sport fishermen with rooms and meals, but he has a few campsites available, and showers. I also re loaded my ice chest there.
As Alm mentioned, Pancho and his dogs are at San Rafael, but unless some commercial fishing is happening, that is the population.
You will want to spend a couple of days on that route, hope you have the time.


I guess I should be clear. This is my idea of being in "town":



[Edited on 4-29-2015 by VegasNick]

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 12:35 PM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  

Check out photos at Pozo Aleman from my 2012 visit or other Nomads. The painted cave of El Carmen and Mission Santa Gertrudis are close by, too. On the graded road between El Arco and Punta San Francisquito along the border between the two states.

2012 Trip Report: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=61576 (Day 13 for the mentioned sites)


That in itself just made my entire trip! I could spend a lot of time around Pozo Aleman! Thanks for the great post and photos.

chuckie - 4-29-2015 at 12:52 PM

Just frickin GO! and dont drink all the Pacifico......Ah WTH, there is always Tecate Roja.....ENJOY

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 01:16 PM

Quote: Originally posted by chuckie  
Just frickin GO! and dont drink all the Pacifico......Ah WTH, there is always Tecate Roja.....ENJOY


Find a way to make November get here faster! :lol:

David K - 4-29-2015 at 02:07 PM

Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
Quote: Originally posted by David K  

Check out photos at Pozo Aleman from my 2012 visit or other Nomads. The painted cave of El Carmen and Mission Santa Gertrudis are close by, too. On the graded road between El Arco and Punta San Francisquito along the border between the two states.

2012 Trip Report: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=61576 (Day 13 for the mentioned sites)


That in itself just made my entire trip! I could spend a lot of time around Pozo Aleman! Thanks for the great post and photos.


I am glad you like the kind of Baja exploring that we like! Cool to find the 1910 photos in books and see the same building or cave houses 112 years later!

PS>> Nomad has a photo size limit of 800 pixels to prevent distorting the page, if you can set your upload size to that, would save Doug from manually fixing the photo as he does with the few here who don't respect his request. I think you can easily just add 800x600 in the img tag like this [img=800x600 ] (but no space after the last 0 in 600)...

[Edited on 4-29-2015 by David K]

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 02:44 PM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  
Quote: Originally posted by VegasNick  
Quote: Originally posted by David K  

Check out photos at Pozo Aleman from my 2012 visit or other Nomads. The painted cave of El Carmen and Mission Santa Gertrudis are close by, too. On the graded road between El Arco and Punta San Francisquito along the border between the two states.

2012 Trip Report: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=61576 (Day 13 for the mentioned sites)


That in itself just made my entire trip! I could spend a lot of time around Pozo Aleman! Thanks for the great post and photos.


I am glad you like the kind of Baja exploring that we like! Cool to find the 1910 photos in books and see the same building or cave houses 112 years later!

PS>> Nomad has a photo size limit of 800 pixels to prevent distorting the page, if you can set your upload size to that, would save Doug from manually fixing the photo as he does with the few here who don't respect his request. I think you can easily just add 800x600 in the img tag like this [img=800x600 ] (but no space after the last 0 in 600)...

[Edited on 4-29-2015 by David K]


Fixed the photo!

Yep, I try to do that on a lot of our outings. I look for original photos. That town site was once home to several thousand people and one of the largest gold mines in Nevada.

Off to perfect my time machine! Come on November!

David K - 4-29-2015 at 03:24 PM

You are going to go crazy if you have to wait until November!!! Specially if you keep looking at our trip reports, maps and photos! Why not take a 4 day quicky weekend trip just to check out Gonzaga and L.A. Bay in advance of your big trip?

Oh, I know it wasn't mentioned, but Mission San Borja, just 60 minutes drive from L.A. Bay and a side trip to Montevideo painted cliff off the San Borja road are like a must do!

Alm - 4-29-2015 at 08:43 PM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  
You are going to go crazy if you have to wait until November!!!

Doctor - I think it's too late :biggrin:

VegasNick - 4-29-2015 at 09:30 PM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  
You are going to go crazy if you have to wait until November!!! Specially if you keep looking at our trip reports, maps and photos! Why not take a 4 day quicky weekend trip just to check out Gonzaga and L.A. Bay in advance of your big trip?

Oh, I know it wasn't mentioned, but Mission San Borja, just 60 minutes drive from L.A. Bay and a side trip to Montevideo painted cliff off the San Borja road are like a must do!



I would love to be there now, but the Director of Planning and Finance has to have back surgery in a few weeks. That is why we pushed it out to November to give her time to heal. We also have a big ghost town trip to lead here in August.

VegasNick - 5-4-2015 at 10:08 AM

Making the crossing at San Luis, is there parking ample for getting to imigra if I am towing the small camper?

Quote: Originally posted by David K  
Quote: Originally posted by desertcpl  

if your coming from LV,, much easer to cross at San Luis
come down HWY 95, first street after you cross take a right

then an easy drive to HWY 5 south to San Felipe

you will find any thing you want along the way to LA Bay

keep Mulege as an option, so much to see so little time




There is a short section of toll highway (second small arrow) that will avoid city traffic... will be signed Hwy. 2-D (vs. Hwy. 2) Cuota (toll).

[Edited on 4-26-2015 by David K]

VegasNick - 5-4-2015 at 10:11 AM

And I guess I should ask if it is the same office to stop at for the FMM stamp either coming or going?

chuckie - 5-4-2015 at 10:51 AM

No

VegasNick - 5-4-2015 at 11:29 AM

Quote: Originally posted by chuckie  
No


No I shouldn't ask???:lol:

desertcpl - 5-4-2015 at 12:39 PM


personally I am not sure where the office is when Crossing San Luis

I always get mine in Algodonas,,

but sure some one here will know

desertcpl - 5-4-2015 at 12:45 PM


I just googled it

should be a snap, its just to the right after you pass thru the border


https://www.google.com/maps/@32.484749,-114.782795,17z

VegasNick - 5-4-2015 at 01:39 PM

Quote: Originally posted by desertcpl  

I just googled it

should be a snap, its just to the right after you pass thru the border


https://www.google.com/maps/@32.484749,-114.782795,17z



Looks like I'll have to park and walk unless two spots are open. That or park at Friendship Park and walk across then back maybe.

David K - 5-4-2015 at 03:25 PM

Just go with then flow... and let us know how it was... BECAUSE things change from day to day or from officer to officer at the border... Just enjoy the adventure, smile a lot, and think of what a cool story the events will make to tell around the campfire... or back here on Nomad!

Just have you passports, and money, all else will work out!

VegasNick - 5-4-2015 at 08:00 PM

David, if the wife was well, we'd be there now!

David K - 5-5-2015 at 07:47 AM

I wish her a speedy recovery!!!