Introduction
Mexicali serves as the capital city of the Mexican state of Baja California. Situated along the Mexico–United States border, the city sits directly adjacent to the U.S. city of Calexico, California.
As the seat of the Mexicali Municipality, the city functions as a regional economic and cultural hub for the border region of The Californias.
Before you go
Prepare for a cosmopolitan atmosphere where you will encounter a diverse population including residents from across Mexico, as well as Asian, European, and South American communities. While the local language is Spanish, you can easily find people who speak English, and you may hear other languages such as Chinese, Japanese, German, and French used for business throughout the city. You should be prepared for a climate that features pleasant mild winters but becomes very hot during the summer months with scarce rainfall and clouds.
When navigating the city, keep these practical tips in mind:
- The Mexican peso is the legal currency, though US dollars are widely accepted.
- Be mindful of the metric system; distances are measured in kilometers and speed limits are posted in kilometers.
- Avoid carrying any weapons, including small pocket knives or ammunition.
- Do not attempt to bribe police officers, as this can lead to imprisonment.
- Refrain from using a cellphone or radio without a hands-free device while driving to avoid fines.
- To stay safe, do not give money to people on the street or purchase items from street vendors.
Getting there
You can reach Mexicali by car via several routes from the United States. Highway 111 provides access from El Centro, while I-8 connects the city to Yuma and San Diego. If you prefer a scenic route from Tijuana or Tecate, you can take Mex-2; however, this toll road is longer and considered more hazardous than the interstate option. For those traveling by plane, the local international airport serves both private and commercial flights from various Mexican cities, while a nearby airport across the border offers connections to other major hubs.
If you prefer to travel on foot, you can park at several lots on the U.S. side of the border and walk across following the posted signs. For those driving into Mexico, ensure you have purchased Mexican insurance before your trip. When crossing back into the United States, be prepared for potential delays during evening rush hours or holiday weekends. The city features two main crossings, Mexicali East and Mexicali West, both of which include a SENTRI lane.
Getting around
You can navigate the city using a variety of transportation options, including both taxis and public buses. Taxis are abundant throughout the area; you can choose between site taxis, which you call ahead to take you to your specific destination, or route taxis that follow established paths similar to bus lines.
Public buses provide another way to travel, offering a range of experiences depending on your preference for comfort. These options vary from older refurbished school buses with no air circulation to modern metrobuses equipped with air conditioning and television screens.
Where to stay
You can find a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly motels to upscale convention centers. For those seeking a more modest stay, you might choose a motel featuring earthy ochre tones or one with Middle Eastern motifs that evokes the feel of an Arabian palace. Other practical options include motor lodges that offer a continental breakfast or properties located conveniently near the border crossing.
If you prefer mid-range comfort, several hotels feature wood beam architecture, on-site restaurants, or swimming pools. For a more luxurious experience, you can stay at high-end convention centers equipped with gyms, hot tubs, and fusion cafes, or choose a property with a relaxed atmosphere featuring a lush pool and garden-filled courtyard.
- Motel Samil
- Motel Alves
- Motel El Moro
- Hotel Cosmos Don Carlos
- Hotel Del Norte
- Hotel Posada del Sol
- Hotel Posada Inn
- Capital O' Hotel Regis
- Hotel Lucerna
- Araiza Hotel and Convention Center
- Calafia Hotel and Convention Center
- Fiesta Inn
- Hotel City Express Mexicali
- Hotel Colonial
- Hotel Siesta Real
Food & drink
Experience a diverse culinary landscape where traditional flavors meet international variety. You can sample local staples like carne asada and find various Mexican dishes, such as chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, or carne asada tampiquena. For seafood lovers, the area offers options for ceviche, deluxe shrimp cocktails, and assorted seafood platters. If you prefer a global palate, you can choose from German architecture-inspired dining featuring wurst, Spanish tapas with paella, or Brazilian fare served in both buffet and select styles.
The city is renowned for its unique Chinese cuisine, which is considered a staple of the local culture. You can find an extensive variety of Cantonese dishes, particularly within the historic La Chinesca neighborhood. Beyond these specialty cuisines, you can enjoy high-quality wines produced in the Mediterranean climate of Baja California or explore the local beer tradition, where small breweries produce a wide range of flavors. For those seeking a lively atmosphere, nearby venues offer live music and table dancing.
What to see and do
Explore the cultural heart of Mexicali by visiting the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the city's oldest cathedral, or the Asociación China de Mexicali to view portraits and murals celebrating Chinese heritage. You can immerse yourself in the local arts scene at the Centro Estatal de las Artes, Instituto Municipal de Arte y Cultura, Casa de la Cultura, or Bellas Artes, all of which host exhibitions and performances. For a deeper look into regional history and community, visit the UABC Museo, the Salon de la Fama, or the Museo Wok, which focuses on the local Chinese community and its cuisine.
Experience the outdoors through diverse landscapes ranging from the expansive Bosque y Zoologico de la Ciudad to the modern Juventud 2000 Sport Center. Adventure seekers can navigate the rugged Sierra de Juarez to see the high monolith of Trono Blanco, explore the prehistoric rock carvings at Vallecitos, or head to the sand dunes for off-road riding. If you prefer water activities, visit the Morelos Dam, the tranquil Hardy River, or the coastal areas near San Felipe to enjoy fishing and beach scenery. For a taste of local tradition, attend large gatherings like Fiestas del Sol or Agrobaja, or listen to live norteño and mariachi music in the La Chinesca area.
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Asociación China de Mexicali
- Museo Interactivo Sol del Niño
- Plaza de Toros Calafia
- Bosque y Zoologico de la Ciudad
- Parque Vicente Guerrero
- Centro Estatal de las Artes
- Instituto Municipal de Arte y Cultura
- Teatro del Estado
- UABC Museo
- Casa de la Cultura
- Salon de la Fama
- Bellas Artes
- Juventud 2000 Sport Center
- Museo Wok
- Centro Cívico
- Morelos Dam
- Sierra de Juarez
- Vallecitos
- Hardy River
- Arroyo Hondo
- Sand Dunes
- Laguna Salada and La Rumorosa
- San Felipe
- Los Algodones
When to go
Winter provides the most comfortable time to visit Mexicali, as the weather remains pleasantly mild. If you travel during the summer months, prepare for extremely hot and dry conditions with minimal rainfall throughout the year. The intense heat of the summer season can make outdoor activities challenging.
Three days in Mexicali
Day one, explore the local area of the Mexicali Municipality to experience the culture of Baja California. You will find yourself situated in a region where Mexican and American influences meet.
Day two, your journey continues through the region as you navigate the landscape near the border. You can observe the surroundings while staying within the local area.
Day three, conclude your time in Mexicali by experiencing more of the unique atmosphere of this part of Mexico.