10 Awesome things to do in Tecate by a frequent traveler
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Tecate is a border town and home to one of the most famous breweries in Mexico. Although Tecate is only 45 miles from San Diego, it’s still somewhat off the beaten track, and until recently, it was treated as a pit stop by most travelers who would head straight south after crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.
But Tecate is quickly getting discovered, as more tourists are finding out its scenic landscapes, authentic Baja food, and beer culture. If you are thinking about spending some time in this town, before continuing your Baja road trip, keep reading.
I visited Tecate several times on my way to San Felipe, and always had a great time here. In this article, I will tell you about the most fun things to do in Tecate.
Where is Tecate?
Tecate is located in Baja California State along the U.S. Mexico border about 1 hour east of Tijuana. It takes about 1 hour to get to Tecate from San Diego.
Map of Tecate, Mexico
What is Tecate known for?
Tecate is a town along the U.S.-Mexico border known for its eponymous beer and sweet homemade bread.
Best things to do in Tecate: overview
1. Tour the Tecate Brewery (Cervecería Tecate)
Your trip to Tecate isn’t complete without a stop at Tecate Brewery, a sprawling facility less than a mile from the U.S.-Mexico border, where you can try the city’s most famous drink.
Taking a guided tour of the brewery is one of the best things to do in Tecate, and you can also get a free sample of the beer as part of your tour. The brewery is in the center of Tecate, so it’s hard to miss.
Since it’s a popular activity, it’s a good idea to check availability ahead of your trip.
2. Visit the Tecate Cultural Center (Centro Cultural Tecate)
One of the most popular places in Tecate, this cultural center is a perfect place to learn local history and enjoy art exhibitions, workshops, and other events. It also has a museum and a small garden.
Address: C. Tláloc 400, Cuauhtemoc, 21470 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
3. Relax at Parque Hidalgo
Spending time in Parque Hidalgo is one of the best free things to do in Tecate: located in the heart of the city this park offers a chance to see what day-to-day life looks like in this place. Here you can relax, take a stroll, and take in the atmosphere.
If you are visiting Tecate from May through September, Parque Hidalgo is also a great place to escape the heat, as it has plenty of shade thanks to all the trees in the park.
Address: Calle Ortiz Rubio y Callejon Libertad s/n, centro, 21400 Tecate, B.C.
4. Hike Mount Tecate (Cerro El Cuchumá)
If you enjoy hiking, consider tackling Mount Tecate, also known as Cuchuma Hill or Cerro El Cuchuma in Spanish. The summit boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and offers a good opportunity to exercise.
Did you know that this peak also appears on the Tecate beer can? You can reach the top of the mountain by taking a 10-mile walk uphill.
Is Mount Tecate a difficult hike?
I will be honest with you: I hiked only a small portion of the trail, so I can’t tell you how difficult of a climb it is.
If you do some basic research though, you will quickly find out that the summit offers sweeping views of the entire area including Baja Norte and the state of California in the United States.
You can find the beginning of the trail not far from the sign that says “International Border 1,500 Feet” and drive for about 1 quarter mile before you reach a small parking area. That’s where the hike officially starts.
Lock your car, take a hat and plenty of water. It’s an exposed hike, and the dirt road goes along the wall that divides the peak between the United States and Mexico.
5. Feast on authentic Baja tacos
Tecate is known for its delicious street tacos and regional specialties. Taqueria Los Amigos has some of the best burritos and tacos in Tecate, but you can find plenty of taco places all over town where you can enjoy the popular Mexican staple at just 1 USD apiece.
6. Try Tecate sweet bread
One of the most famous specialties from Tecate is Pan Dulce (sweet bread in English). El Mejor Pan de Tecate (the best bread of Tecate) is the best bakery in Tecate that sells mouthwatering pastries, sweet bread, cakes, donuts, and even some vegan specialties.
I visited El Mejor Pan De Tecate on Christmas Eve and they were open, even when most places in town were closed.
They are open 24/7, so you can stop here while you are in town and on your way out to get some sweet bread before going back to the US.
Where is Panaderia Mejor Pan de Tecate?
EL Mejor Pan De Tecate is located at Avenida Benito Juárez 331, Centro, 21400.
7. Try Tecate coffee
A few people know this, but Tecate is also home to the budding coffee scene. The town has numerous coffee shops where you can try coffee from many regions of Mexico like Veracruz, Oaxaca and Chiapas.
One of the most popular coffee shops in Tecate is Acento Tecate Coffee Roasters, which sells phenomenal coffee that you can sip in a shaded courtyard. They roast their coffee in house and prepare a variety of options like cappuccino, mocha, and pumpkin latte.
I’m not a coffee drinker, but I’ve heard very good things about this place.
8. Day trip to Valle de Guadalupe
Tecate is relatively close to Valle de Guadalupe, a wine region of Mexico that’s become a popular alternative to pricey wine destinations in California.
Valle De Guadalupe is just a short drive south from Tecate so you should consider taking a day trip to explore vineyards and taste Baja wines, if you have extra time.
Valle De Guadalupe is a perfect place to enjoy the rolling countryside and relax in the nature, if you want to stay at one of hotels in Valle De Guadalupe, like Entrevalle Hotel Boutique.
✅ Check best tours of Valle De Guadalupe
9. Take a hot air balloon ride
Another great way to experience Tecate is from the air with a hot air balloon ride. Soaring above the mountainous landscape provides an incredible panoramic view of the town and its surrounding natural beauty.
10. Drive along La Rumorosa
La Rumorosa is one of the most famous drives in Mexico famous for its steep curves and scenic desert vistas.
La Rumorosa is one of the most dangerous highways in Mexico, but you can enjoy it as long as you proceed with caution and follow the posted speed limit.
The highway connects Tecate and Mexicali, the capital of Baja California, and it’s a perfect drive if you want to take a quick day trip to this underrated city.
Tecate Pueblo Magico
Did you know that Tecate is also a designated pueblo mágico?
Pueblo mágico is a special title that is awarded by the Mexican government to towns that play a significant role in the culture and history of Mexico. Tecate is among three Pueblos Magicos in Baja California which also include Loreto and Todos Santos.
The Pueblos Magicos Program was started in 2001 to diversify Mexico’s tourism and attract more visitors to the rural, inland areas of the country, and was successful. There are currently 132 pueblos magicos in Mexico.
Best restaurants in Tecate
Tecate has a great food scene, with plenty of taquerias, small hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and some fine dining options, offering predominantly Mexican and some American comfort food.
📍Taquería “Los Panchos”
One of the best-rated restaurants in Tecate, this small local taqueria has delicious Mexican food like tacos made from handmade tortillas and a variety of fillings, as well as burros and quesadillas.
“Los Panchos” is located across the U.S. border, and you can get there on foot after crossing. It’s also not overly touristy, and you can enjoy a taco at just 25 Pesos apiece – an incredible bargain when you consider how much it would cost you in the US.
Address: Pdte. Lázaro Cárdenas, Primera, 21400 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
📍Tacos Casi Miro
Tacos Casi Miri is another popular place for tacos in Tecate that has some of the fish and shrimp tacos in town, according to multiple reviews, as well as ceviche. The tacos here are said to be similar to classic tacos in Ensenada, so if you like authentic Baja tacos, give this place a go.
Address: Gral. Emilio Portes Gil 300, Militar, 21470 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
📍Ensamble 43
A hidden gem of Tecate, Ensemble 43 boasts friendly service, homemade food, and outstanding presentation. This small restaurant boasts hundreds of happy reviews who praise its tasty food and drinks and nice ambiance. The staff speaks English.
Address: Av Revolución 740-744, El Refugio, 21440 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
📍El Cafecito 3 Estrellas
Located off the beaten track, El Cafecito 3 Estrellas is a perfect breakfast spot in nature. Part of the Rancho La Puerta, the restaurant sources its ingredients locally and makes delicious organic food like chilaquiles, omelets, and excellent cappuccino.
Address: Cuchuma Prolongacion Paseo, Cuchuma s/n, Rancho 3 Estrellas, 21478 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
📍Restaurante Amores
If you are looking for fine dining in Tecate, Amores Restaurant is the best place. I haven’t visited it, but a few travelers I talked to told me it has incredible multiple-course options with some vegetarian dishes on request and welcoming staff.
Address: Pdte. Adolfo de La Huerta #63, Pliego, 21400 Tecate, B.C., Mexico
What is the best time to visit Tecate?
The best time to visit Tecate is outside summer when the weather is too hot to enjoy the scenery. Day of the Dead is a great time to visit Tecate when you can participate in festivities, try typical sweet bread from Tecate, and enjoy live music and contests.
What is the weather like in Tecate?
Tecate is located at the altitude of 1,770 feet and has an arid, sunny climate. Summers in Tecate can be very hot and dry, while winters are cooler and more cloudy. Temperatures in Tecate usally range from mid-40’s in winter to high 90’s in summer.
Where to stay in Tecate
Tecate is a small town with plenty of hotels at different price points.
- Hotel Hacienda Santana – One of the most popualr hotels in Tecate that has a continental breakfast, spacious rooms and friebdly staff.
- Santuario Diegueño – If you are looking for a relaxing trip to Tecate, book your stay at Santuario Diegueño, which boasts tranquil setting, an on-site restaurant, a fitness center and free parking.
✅ Is it safe to camp in Baja California?
How to get to Tecate?
The easiest way to get to Tecate is by crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. You can park your car on the US side and take a quick walk to Tecate if you want to take a day trip to this city.
What’s the closest airport to Tecate?
The closest airport to Tecate is Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) 40 minutes away.
Tecate border crossing
The border crossing between Tecate, Mexico, and Tecate, California, is generally less busy than other crossings, and wait times here are shorter. Tecate is the only border town in Mexico without a city on the other side, so it usually doesn’t have a long wait, compared to Tijuana and Mexicali.
The area is also known for its natural beauty and proximity to some of the scenic places in Baja California, like Valle De Guadalupe and La Rumorosa Highway.
Do I need a car in Tecate?
Yes, you need a car in Tecate. Although you can walk around downtown Tecate, you will need a car, if you want to visit scenic areas around the city and drive along the La Rumorosa Highway.
Renting a car for your trip to Tecate
If you are traveling to Tecate from other destinations in Baja, you can rent a car in major cities like Tijuana or Mexicali, that have a good selection of car rental companies.
I recommend DiscoverCars to find good deals on car rentals in Baja. DiscoverCars is an online platform where you can find dozens of car rental companies that fit your needs and budget.
Getting insurance for your trip to Tecate
If you are going to drive your car Tecate, you will need to buy Mexican insurance because U.S. insurance is not valid in Mexico.
You can buy Mexican insurance through Baja Bound, which offers comprehensive insurance plans for cars, RVs, and motorcycles.
Baja Bound is popular with many travelers from the United States and Canada because it offers flexible plans for many types of vehicles and good protection.
I’ve talked to many travelers who used Baja Bound and they praised the company’s great customer service and good coverage.
Can you walk across the Tecate border?
Yes, you can walk across the border to Tecate. You will need a valid passport and other documents like a visa or confirmations of your travel itinerary, depending on your country of residency.
You can park your car on the U.S. side of the border, where you can find several paid parking lots. After you park your car, walk toward the border office on the right to get your passport stamp and declare any goods like food, equipment or large sums of cash.
Tecate border directions
The route to the Tecate border is relatively straightforward. Take Highway 94 southeast from San Diego toward Highway 88 south toward the border crossing. Check waiting times at the border, as holidays and weekends are usually busier.
Things to do in Tecate: FAQ’s
What is the bird on Tecate beer?
Tecate beer features a distinct logo with a black eagle, which can be easily recognized among other brands of beer.
Is Tecate beer owned by Budweiser?
No, Tecate is not owned by Budweiser. Amsterdam-based Heineken owns Budweiser after acquiring it in 2010.
What’s the alcohol content in Tecate?
The alcohol content of Tecate is 4.5 percent.
Is Tecate a German beer?
No, Tecate is a Mexican beer that’s produced in the town of Tecate along the U.S.-Mexico border, where it’s been brewed for more than 60 years.
Best things to do in Tecate: final word
Tecate is a hidden gem of Baja California that offers incredible food, recreational opportunities, and a relaxed lifestyle at reasonable prices. Unlike many popular destinations in the region, it’s not flooded with tourists and offers an authentic taste of Baja.
Baja California travel planner
Do I need a visa for Baja California?
If you are traveling to Baja California from the United States and Canada or Western Europe, you don’t need a visa. Click here to check Mexico visa requirements for your country. iVisa is a website that can help you with a visa to Mexico.
Do I need a car in Baja California?
You need a rental car to see the best of Baja California, as most places aren’t accessible by public transportation. I recommend DiscoverCars for finding rental cars in Baja and other parts of Mexico.
Click here to check prices on car rentals in popular detsinations in Baja.
Do I need a travel insurance in Baja California?
Personal travel insurance in not required in Baja, but it’s a good idea to get one ahead of your trip. Travel Insurance Master will cover you in case of hospital visits, missed flights, lost or stolen belongings and other accidents that could happen on the road.
Do I need a car insurance to drive in Mexico?
A Mexico car insurance is required for ALL vehicles entering the country. Note that your US insurance will not be valid in Mexico. Baja Bound Mexican Insurance is a popular website to find insurance for your car, RV, boat, motorcycles and other types of transportation.
Where can I find the best Baja tours?
the best websites for finding tours all over Baja is Viator. Guided tours are usually available in bigger cities like Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, La Paz and Tijuana.
Where can I book flights to Baja?
Click here to find cheap airline tickets to Baja
Where do I find cheap hotels in Baja?
Booking.com is the best website to find hotels all over Baja, but you can also use HostelWorld to find hostels. VRBO is a perfect place to find apartments and home-style places to stay in Baja.
Can I drink water in Baja California?
While major cities like Cabo and La Paz treat their water, it’s generally not advised to drink water in Baja California. Always carry your water bottle with you, or better yet, buy a water bottle with filtration for your trip.
