With a vibrant culture and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Mexicali is one of the most prosperous cities in Mexico. Its location on the U.S. border has made it a popular destination for day trippers from the north, lured by its nickname “The City that Captured the Sun”.

Things to do

Interested in the latest alternative energy technologies? Mexicali’s Alternative Energy Theme Park has been created as an educational centre for visitors to learn about solar energy. There are fascinating displays showcasing the latest alternative technologies within a space that is completely run on bioclimatic energy.

Not only is Mexicali home to native Mexicans, American and European settlers, but also a sizeable Chinese community that first immigrated during the height of the cotton industry. La Chinesca neighbourhood celebrates its cultural identity, with characteristic houses, authentic Chinese restaurants and unique shopping boutiques.

If you’re travelling with kids, then be sure to visit the Sol del Nino Museum that is set within an old cotton warehouse. It houses interactive exhibits and activities relating to physics, chemistry, electronics and mathematics, and has a variety of picturesque gardens to explore.

A short drive south-west of Mexicali takes you to the magnificent desert landscapes of Cañón de Guadalupe. Go hiking to discover its waterfalls and cave paintings, then soak in the sulphurous waters of the natural hot springs, surrounded by gigantic granite boulders and palm groves.

Getting around

Mexicali is served by the General Rodolfo Sánchez Taboada International Airport, around 20 minutes’ drive east of the city centre, as well as by long-distance regional and international buses from the Central de Autobuses. Old refurbished school buses and modern metro buses travel throughout the city and taxis are readily available.