last edited Dec 11, 2019
Other practical information for Baja California
Location Map of Baja California
Baja California
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Packing and equipment to bring
Plan lightweight clothing for all seasons and a sweater for evenings or air conditioning. For the mountainous areas, warmer clothes are recommended. Also bring sun protection and good hiking shoes if you plan to hike.
Time difference
Since February 2015, Mexico has had four time zones instead of three, ranging from GMT-5 in the east to GMT-8 in the west.
In practice, the Baja California peninsula, with its two states, has two time zones: "Pacific Time" for Baja California and "Northwest Time" for South Baja California, resulting in a one-hour difference between them. Another regional peculiarity is the neighboring state of Sonora, which, although also on Northwest Time, does not observe daylight saving time, unlike the other states in the same zone. In short, if traveling across the peninsula and neighboring states, it’s best to account for time differences depending on location and season.
Pacific Time
Local time (Tijuana): .
This is the time zone for the state of Baja California, not South Baja California, which follows the neighboring zone. The main city is Tijuana, and the time there is GMT-8 with winter/summer time (as in California across the border). This means 9 hours less than France, give or take a few days during time changes, year-round.
"Northwest Time"
Local time (Cabo San Lucas): .
Applies to South Baja California and nearby states like Chihuahua, Sinaloa, and Sonora. The time is GMT-7 with winter/summer time... except in Sonora, which follows neighboring Arizona’s single time zone. In short, except for Sonora, there are 8 hours less than France, give or take a few days during time changes, year-round.
Opening hours
Opening hours are quite flexible and not strictly regulated by law for private shops and services. In cities, you’ll find a wide range of opening times, including supermarkets open 24/7.
Laundromats
Local tourist offices
The Mexican Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) manages information points in major tourist spots and cities.
French language use
While English is widely spoken near the U.S. border, in tourist areas, and even beyond, French is not. It’s rare to find French speakers in Baja California. It’s best to have some basic Spanish or English to travel independently in the region.