Score Baja 1000
The SCORE International Baja 1000 off-road race will take place November 10-16, 2025. The race will be a loop race this year, beginning and ending in Ensenada. This is a busy time on the peninsula, so be sure to book hotel reservations in advance. Starting next year in 2026, the Score Baja 1000 will begin and end in Cabo for the first time ever. The race will alternate every three years between a loop course beginning and ending in Ensenada, a loop course beginning and ending in Cabo, and the full peninsula course beginning in Ensenada and ending in La Paz.
FMM Reminder
A reminder that FMM tourist permits are required for travel in Baja. You must stop at the border when crossing into Mexico to fill out the form and pay the fee. For stays of less than 7 days, Discover Baja members can obtain their pre-filled FMMs through Discover Baja, but must still stop at the border to get the FMM stamped and validated when crossing the border. For more information, please visit our FMM page.
Baja Sur’s Michelin Keys
The famous Michelin guide has introduced Michelin Keys (a guide to recognize the most outstanding hotels) in Mexico. Establishments can earn a one, two, or three key distinction. Twenty five hotels in Baja Sur earned recognition and a number of them earned one or two keys. The full list can be found on the Michelin website.
Insurance Coverage
Discover Baja insurance policies cover vehicles, boats, and ATV’s/UTV’s for full coverage while being driven, in storage, or not in use (not only just while driving). This knowledge comes in handy when it’s hurricane season. Please note, however, that insurance does not cover the contents inside your insured vehicle, boat, or ATV/UTV.
San Felipe Blues and Arts Festival
This year’s San Felipe Blues and Arts Festival will take place October 24-25, 2025. This is the 19th annual festival, which is not only a get-together of Musicians and Artists; it is also a charity event where 100 percent of the donations are given to the community. For tickets and more information, please visit the website.
Expansion of the Binational Ferry Route
The San Diego – Ensenada ferry route that is expected to be in operation by the end of 2025 is now planning the next phases of expansion. Planning is underway for what officials are calling the second and third phases of the binational ferry initiative. The next stage would introduce service from Popotla (south of Rosarito), followed by a potential third phase with departures from Playas de Tijuana. The ferry service will be operated by Azteca Ferries.
Military Checkpoint Reminder
There have been numerous complaints recently about the San Ignacio military checkpoint. Please keep the following in mind:
-If they ask to look in the back of your vehicle, you should get out with them to open up the back and to keep an eye on them while they are looking through your belongings.
-These items are illegal and should not be brought to Mexico: vapes and paraphernalia, shells, coral, pepper and bear spray, guns, pocket knives, drugs including marijuana and edibles (while these may be legal in the U.S., they are not legal in Mexico).
-Fishing knives must be locked in a tool box or not within hand reach.
-Be courteous and polite in answering their questions. Let them know you are on “vacaciones.”
Tourism Assistance Hotline
A reminder that in the state of Baja California (norte), the Secretary of Tourism has created a system for reporting any negative experiences with one of the state’s tourism service providers.
Travelers affected should send an email to: assistance@baja.gob.mx
Please include the following information:
-A detailed description of what happened
-Names and data of people or agencies involved
-Badge number, ID card, or patrol vehicle number if applicable
-Location, date, and time of the incident
-Any proof or evidence (receipts, messages, contracts, photographs, etc.)
-Your contact data (full name, phone number, and e-mail)
Through the Directorate of Tourism Assistance, comprehensive support will be provided to people affected by the state’s tourism service providers, channeling cases to the appropriate agencies. This initiative reaffirms Baja California’s firm commitment to tourism excellence. The department of tourism ensures that all cases will be addressed promptly with the appropriate measures in accordance with the law. To learn more or to receive direct support, travelers can call the number 011-52-664-624-2020 ext. 6418.
Update on the Amigos de los Californios Health Center
In December we included an article in the newsletter about Amigos de los Californios. For 20 years this nonprofit, volunteer group provided dental clinics for the communities in the Sierra de San Francisco in Baja. The final project for Amigos is to build a Health Center in San Francisco. We asked if anyone would be willing to contribute to this project. The response from DB members was overwhelming. Several of you are even giving monthly donations. Work progresses. It is really looking like a Health Center!! The community is beyond excited. They still can’t believe it’s coming to life. Gracias for your generosity in making this all possible.