La Rumorosa: driving Baja’s scenic highway
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La Rumorosa is a 25-mile (40 km) pass in the Sierra de Jurez Mountains that connects Tecate and Mexicali, the capital of Baja California. It’s also part of Mexico’s Federal Highway 2D, known for its winding roads and expansive vistas with dramatic rock formations.
La Rumorosa has become a popular tourist spot, thanks to its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and off-road driving. The area is also known for its wind farms, which harness the strong winds that blow through the pass to generate renewable energy.
Driving along La Rumorosa was one of the highlights of my trip to Tecate, and I ended up staying in the village of La Rumorosa for the night to have more time to enjoy its scenic vistas and do some hiking. If you are visiting Baja Norte, add this scenic drive to your itinerary.
La Rumorosa map
Is La Rumorosa safe?
La Rumorosa is one of the most dangerous highways in Mexico because of its sharp curves, rollercoaster-like dips, and dozens of tight switchbacks with a lot of exposure. Always keep a safe distance and follow the posted speed limit when driving along La Rumorosa.
How long is La Rumorosa?
La Rumorosa Highway is 25 miles (40km) long. The highway passes through the rugged terrain of Baja California, known for its winding roads and scenic desert views.
How high is La Rumorosa?
La Rumorosa sits at an elevation of 1,232 feet (3,900 feet) and is known as one of the most dangerous highways in Mexico because of its steep curves and sharp drop-offs.
Why is it called La Rumorosa?
The mountain pass is called La Rumorosa (the whisperer) because of the sounds created when the winds blow through the steep rocky canyons.
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Things to do in La Rumorosa
La Rumorosa is a scenic drive, but besides sweeping landscapes, it also offers several historic sites and overlooks. You can stop in many places along the highway and take incredible photos. There are also several hiking trails and rock climbing routes that attract outdoor enthusiasts.
Besides the Mountain Pass, La Rumorosa is the name is the small town along the highway, which is known for its pan dulce (sweet bread), and tacos.
1. Marvel at Vallecito rock art
One of the cultural highlights is the ancient rock paintings created by the indigenous Kumeyaay people. These prehistoric artworks provide insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage and are considered significant archaeological treasures.
Vallecitos has more than 18 rock art sites, with El Diablito being the most popular one. There’s a 1.2-mile trail that takes you along the loop where you can find five sites that are open to the public.
2. Stop by Campo Alaska
One of the highest point of La Rumorosa Village, Campo Alaska was constructed by the former governor of Baja California, General Abelardo Rodriguez, so the government in Mexicali could escape the brutal summer heat. Today, the buildings house a museum that tells the history.
3. Visit Casa de Piedra (Stone House)
After you cross the toll booth, take a right exit to the entrance to the Geo Parque Casa de Piedra, a quirky house built into a stone formation. Originally built as a glamorous house made of stone in the 1950s, it was abandoned until it was rehabilitated in 2015 as a lookout for tourists to visit.
4. Enjoy other outdoor opportunities
Besides hiking, La Rumorosa offers rock climbing and birdwatching. Adventurous travelers can explore the numerous trails that wind through the desert landscape or test their skills on challenging rock climbing routes.
5. Check out windmills
A different way of enjoying this incredible landscape of eroded stone is by stopping by the Parque Eólico (windmill park). On the visit, you will get an explanation of how these gigantic windmills generate the energy that lights Mexicali and Tecate.
6. Take epic photos
The picturesque landscapes and unique geological features of La Rumorosa make it a paradise for photographers. From sunrise to sunset, there are endless opportunities to capture stunning images of the natural beauty surrounding the area.
7. Stop at scenic overlooks
As you drive along La Rumorosa, you wil find several scenic overlooks where you can take a break and take amazing photos.
Some of the most popular scenic overlooks along La Rumorosa include:
- Mirador La Ventana (Window Viewpoint): This overlook offers panoramic views of the desert landscape and distant mountains. It is named for the natural rock formation that resembles a window.
- Mirador El Mirador: Another popular viewpoint along La Rumorosa, El Mirador offers sweeping vistas of the rugged terrain and winding road below.
- Mirador El Hongo (The Mushroom Viewpoint): Named for a rock formation that resembles a mushroom, this overlook provides stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
- Mirador Cerro del Centinela (Sentinel Hill Viewpoint): Located atop a hill, this overlook offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape, including the winding road through La Rumorosa.
8. Hike La Rumorosa
Exploring scenic trails along La Rumorosa is so much fun!
Best hikes in La Rumorosa
Cerro el Centinela
This is one of the most popular hikes in the La Rumorosa area. The trail leads to the summit of Cerro el Centinela, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert and rock formations. It’s a moderately challenging hike with well-marked trails.
Cerro Colorado
Another hike in the La Rumorosa area is Cerro Colorado. This trail takes you through colorful rock formations and desert vegetation to the summit of Cerro Colorado, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Canon de Guadalupe
This hike takes you through a picturesque canyon with towering rock walls and a seasonal creek. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Keep an eye out for wildlife like birds and small mammals along the way.
La Rumorosa Petroglyphs
For a cultural and historical hike, explore the petroglyphs in the La Rumorosa area. These ancient rock carvings offer a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people who once inhabited the region.
The hike to the petroglyphs is relatively easy, and guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the area’s history.
The history of La Rumorosa
Before the arrival of Spanish colonizers, the area around La Rumorosa was inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Kumeyaay (also known as the Diegueño), Cocopah, and Kiliwa.
These indigenous communities had settlements and trading routes in the region, utilizing the pass as a route through the mountains.
With the arrival of Spanish explorers and missionaries in the 16th century, the region came under Spanish control. The Spanish established missions and presidios (military outposts) throughout Baja California, leading to changes in the indigenous culture.
After Mexico gained independence in the early 19th century, Baja California started seeing changes, but because of its remote location and rugged terrain, development in the area was slow.
The construction of modern roads and highways, including the famous Tijuana-Ensenada Scenic Toll Road (Mexico Federal Highway 1D), which passes through La Rumorosa, started in the mid-20th century.
La Rumorosa Pass became a crucial transportation route, connecting Tijuana and Mexicali with the rest of the country.
La Rumorosa restaurants
1. La Cabaña Del Abuelo
One of the top-rated restaurants in La Rumorosa, La Cabaña Del Abuelo is at the beginning of the scenic highway. It has plenty of delicious food and generous portions, and you can try freshly made flower tortillas, pasta, chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers), beans, and rice.
Address: Km. 71.5, Tijuana-Mexicali, 21505 La Rumorosa, B.C., Mexico
2. Taqueria El Paso
This cozy taqueria is an excellent place to have a filling breakfast and enjoy the cold Mexican beer. Besides delicious tacos, they also have a good variety of food like grilled cheeses and birria at affordable prices.
Address: La Rumorosa c.p.21510, 21510 La Rumorosa, B.C., Mexico
3. Pepe’s Rumorosa
A popular breakfast restaurant in La Rumorosa, Pepe’s is a cozy place to try comfort foods.
Address: Tecate – Rumorosa Libre Carretera Mexicali-Tecate km72, 21510 Manchón Blanco, B.C., Mexico
4. Asadero La Querencia
A restaurant specializing in birria, Asadero La Querencia Very offers friendly customer service, flavorful food, and big portions. They also have chilaquiles, enchiladas, and wonderful hot coffee next to the fireplace.
Address: Carrretera Federal, Tijuana-Mexicali Km 71.1, 21510 La Rumorosa, B.C., Mexico
5. Restaurant Sonorita
One of the best places to eat in La Rumorosa, Sonority is a simple restaurant where you can find dishes with homely flavors like tacos, Hawaiian and Cuban cakes.
Address: Tijuana-Mexicali, 21510 Manchón Blanco, B.C., Mexico
6. Choix Pizza
The best place to grab a slice of pizza in La Rumorosa village, Choix offers different types of pizza and Mexican appetizers such as tostadas and golden tacos.
Address: Carretera Tijuana Mexicali, Tecate, La Rumorosa, B.C., Mexico
Best hotels in La Rumorosa
- La Runa – La Runa is a glamping in the forest of pine trees where you can relax in rustic cabins and use cooking areas, relax in front of the campfire, and a cozy outdoor seating area. Each cabin can fit up to four people.
- Cabañas Bosques del Cóndor – This accommodation offers cozy bungalows with mountain views and a spacious terrace. The property has free private parking, a restaurant, and free wi-fi. Every bungalow comes with a fireplace, fully equipped kitchenette and shower.
- Cabaña La Grulla – A cozy campground along La Rumorosa, this place has a quiet atmosphere, which is perfect if you are looking for a quiet place to relax before continuing your road trip. It has an outdoor fireplace, an outdoor dining area, and a terrace.
What is driving like along La Rumorosa?
Driving along La Rumorosa is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding adventures that you can have in Baja California. La Rumorosa is a fully paved highway that consists of two separate two-lane highways in each direction. Since one highway goes up and another one goes down, they offer different landscapes and driving experiences.
Tips for driving La Rumorosa
1. Slow down
Because of the challenging terrain, driving La Rumorosa requires increased caution, so it’s important to drive carefully and keep a distance from the car in front of you.
2. Drive during the day
If you are not used to driving along steep mountainous roads, it’s best to drive during the day when you have better visibility.
3. Plan extra time for your drive
When driving on this scenic highway, you will most likely want to stop at scenic overlooks and historic landmarks, so be prepared to slow down and pull over.
4. Check the weather forecast
It’s not uncommon for La Rumorosa to see snow in winter, making an already challenging drive even more precarious. Always check weather conditions before getting on the road.
5. Keep your tank full
Make sure to have a full tank of gas before starting the drive. Being stuck in the middle of the treacherous highway is the last thing you want.
6. Always have cash
Many small restaurants in La Rumorosa accept only cash, so always have Mexican Pesos in your wallet.
7. Be prepared to pay for toll
Mexican Highway 2 is a toll road, which means you will need to pay it to be able to continue the drive. Payments for Mexican toll roads are always done in cash.
8. Have plenty of water in your car
La Rumorosa is located in the middle of the desert and it’s not uncommon for the area to see triple digits in summer.
9. Put down your phone
La Rumorosa isn’t the place where you can text and drive. Put down your phone and focus on the drive.
10. Get insurance
Travel insurnace is mandatory for driving in Mexico, and you can get one thorugh Baja Bound, a company that offers comprehensive insurance plans for cars, RV’s and motorcycles.
Other places to visit in Baja California
If you plan on driving south after making the scenic drive along La Rumorosa Mountain Pass, consider visiting some of these places:
- Tijuana: This bustling border city is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food scene, and cultural attractions like the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT) and the Tijuana Cultural Center.
- Ensenada: Located along the coast, Ensenada is famous for its seafood, wineries, and water activities. Don’t miss visiting La Bufadora, a natural blowhole, and the Valle de Guadalupe, where the majority of Mexico’s wine is produced.
- Rosarito Beach: A popular beach destination just south of Tijuana, Rosarito offers beautiful sandy beaches, surfing, and a lively atmosphere with bars, restaurants, and shops.
- San Felipe: A charming seaside town on the Sea of Cortez, San Felipe is perfect for relaxing on the beach, fishing, and enjoying fresh seafood.
- Parque Nacional Sierra de San Pedro Mártir: This national park is home to the highest peak in Baja California, Picacho del Diablo, as well as beautiful forests, meadows, and wildlife.
- Bahía de los Ángeles: This remote bay on the Gulf of California is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.
- Cataviña: A small town surrounded by stunning desert scenery, Cataviña is known for its unique rock formations, ancient cave paintings, and peaceful atmosphere.
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. iVisaa 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 use DiscoverCars for car rentals in Baja and other parts of Mexico, and love their budget-friendly prices and flexible cancellation policy.
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.