For MAC or anyone thinking of taking it south of the border: I've made about 20 trips down to Ensenada and the like area over the last 3 years...and have had no problems. I think it comes down to 2 issues; the environment and the human factor.
The environment. I drive down to San Diego and then enter at Tijuana. From there I continue south on a toll-road known as highway 1. This road is smooth and runs like the autobahn. It'll cost ya about 1.60 per gate, and there's only about 4 gates to pay at. I then stay at a hotel that has an inside parking court with a guard. No problems, very safe...wish our roads were as nice as that Hwy 1 toll-road.
Beyond Ensenada your on the original road. Gas stations can be sparse and I've heard a common trick is you'll be told they have gas coming in the morning and your forced to stay the night at their hotel. If traveling distance, I'd plan on carrying additional can of gas!
There's lots of good 'wheelin' to do with great landscape to enjoy. You'll be hailed as a GOD in every town you enter...and don't be surprised when kids try to climb on/in your rig. I almost blended in with my old '87 Jeep...but a Hummer is downright insane decadence...they'll expect money to freely fall with each step you take. Keeping to this issue...no problems with the terrain, you'll be fine and your tires won't fall apart.
The Human factor. Lots of cars are stolen there. Your American Insuarnce MAY NOT APPLY the moment you cross the border; check it out first! Mexican insurance is available....but on a limited basis: I never had a problem, but my buddy says the more expensive cars are often unable to find coverage...it's like a given that they'll be stolen! I've not yet taken my Hummer south....but I've thought of it.
The stories you hear about crooked cops and fraud down there is somewhat true! The H2 is probably the dream-rig of any skumbag down there. I have friends who have had things 'planted' on their vehicles and were hosed-down for what cash they had in thier pockets. I'm not trying to scare you...but if they 'find' something, or you vilate some law...they'll impound your rig and then it can get ugly. I've never had that problem...but it does happen....just keep yourself clean. DO NOT CARRY A GUN; you'll be imprisoned for years!
On the flip side...they want tourism and don't want rumors of this such thing from getting out and spoiling their potential future income.
Hope that helps! I'm gonna head to Taco Bell...all this south of the border talk has made me hungry!
I would be interested in being part of an Ensenada run come this spring. I can get us an awesome rate on a secure hotel right in town. We can charter our own boat and nail the yellowtail, and then we could explore as a group offroad. Safety in numbers amigo's!! [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img] [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img] [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]
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