THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT GETTING THERE
Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) is just over four hours by car from either Phoenix or Tucson.
Click here to see specific driving directions from:
At this time, the only air service is by private plane or charter. Commercial flights are being planned to come into the Rocky Point airport soon. The rumor mill says they hope to have flights coming in from Phoenix soon. The exact date is unknown. If you fly into either Phoenix or Tucson there are rental car agencies that will allow their cars to be driven across the border. Since Rocky Point is in a free zone, no visas or special immunizations are required. There is a checkpoint as you cross the border. Officials may (or may not) conduct routine checks of vehicles entering Mexico. If they do, it usually only takes a few minutes. Just be polite and cooperative and you won’t have any trouble.
It is a crime in Mexico to drive without Mexican auto (liability) insurance. It is highly recommended you get it. You can do this at insurance agencies in Phoenix, Tucson, Ajo, and Lukeville. It can also be purchased at multiple locations in Why and Ajo. It's also sold at various other agencies just across the border in Sonoyta and in Puerto Peñasco. They sell the required Mexican liability coverage as well as additional coverage for your vehicle. Some US agencies cover your vehicle while in Mexico, so you may need only Mexican Liability. Check with your U.S. insurance carrier before you leave. Mexican insurance can also be purchased on the web before you even get in the car!
Once you cross the border, you're in the town of Sonoyta. Excellent restaurants, campgrounds, curio shops, and pharmacies are available there.
From Sonoyta a straight, well-paved road leads to Puerto Peñasco, about 65 miles southwest. If you are the curious sort, about 30 miles South of Sonoyta, a small, unpaved road leads off to the right to the Pinacate National Park and Wildlife Refuge. This is where the U.S. Apollo astronauts trained for moon landings. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for this area!
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Mileage from Rocky Point to: |
Lukeville, AZ |
65 miles |
| Ajo, AZ | 98 miles | |
| Why, AZ | 88 miles | |
| Tucson, AZ | 212 miles | |
| Phoenix, AZ | 212 miles | |
| Yuma, AZ | 260 miles | |
| Flagstaff, AZ | 350 miles | |
| San Diego, CA | 439 miles | |
| Las Vegas, NV | 501 miles | |
| Los Angeles, CA | 540 miles |
This page was updated on 07/04/2005