Cross-Border Tours

Our Cross-Border Tours into Mexico are designed to be educational and fun! We partner with local experts to guide you through the region and provide insights about the history, culture, and environment. Whether it is your first time visiting Mexico or you are a regular border-crosser, these tours will be meaningful for you. Come get to know your neighbors!

 
 

Sonora, MExico Day Tours:

  • Social Investment Tour of Nogales Sonora

  • Public Art Tour of Nogales, Sonora

  • Maquiladora Tour of Nogales, Sonora

  • Gastronomy Tour of Nogales, Sonora

  • Tour of Magdalena, Sonora

Mexico Multi-Day Tours:

  • Rio Sonora, Sonora

  • Kino Bay, Sonora

  • Copper Canyon, Chihuahua & Sonora

  • Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

  • Mexico City, Mexico

 
 
 
 

Ready to join us on a tour?

 

To browse and register for our currently available tours, visit our “Tours & Programs” page.

We offer Private Tours to groups. To learn more, visit our “Private Tours” page.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Border Community Alliance is dedicated to championing public literacy in current borderlands issues by learning in place.

    The story of the borderlands is not often told well, as mass media tends to offer narrow snapshots of frightening events rather than give a picture of everyday life. The dominant narrative is often negative, yet life in the region we call the borderlands is frequently positive.

    As a result of this, we realized the importance of offering a cultural exchange resource open to the public for first-hand learning. We like sharing with the public what we consider the often unreported good news of the border. BCA and FESAC seek to balance the negative narrative with stories of ordinary and extraordinary people, places and perspective. We also want you to see for yourself and make up your own mind about this region and its people and to consider partnering with us in future endeavors.

  • After years of leading more than a hundred cultural exchange tours, we have never had an encounter with violence.  Participants on our tours consistently report that while they may have felt apprehension before the tour, those feelings melted away during the journey together.  News media outlets have tended to emphasize violence in Mexico, yet Nogales is considered by many to be as safe as most US cities. Precaution and common sense is always advised, however, as with travel in any city or region. We travel together in vehicles with professional drivers and we are guided by excellent local leaders. Feel free to reach out to us about this!

  • If you are attending a Cross Border Day Tour to Nogales, the following forms of identification are accepted: passport, Real ID (Enhanced Driver's License), SENTRI card, or Global Entry card.

    A passport is requirement if traveling more than 21 kilometers past the international border.

    Border Community Alliance does not assume responsibility for any unforeseen personal issues or complications with migration during international entry or exit.

  • BCA day tours typically cross the border on foot via the pedestrian gate at the DeConcini port of entry. Our van and professional driver will be located no more than a block from the international crossing.

    Multi-day tours typically meet in Green Valley, Tubac, or Nogales, Arizona at a secure parking location. From there we will travel in the BCA van and cross the border at the Mariposa port of entry.

  • Tour groups usually range from 10 to 15 people. This provides a more intimate experience and allows the group to travel together comfortably.

  • Wear what makes you feel comfortable! Layers that can be taken on and off are convenient. While there is not a lot of walking on any of our experiences, we suggest comfortable shoes. We encourage you to bring water in a reusable bottle. You may also wish to bring a hat and wear sunscreen or long sleeves to avoid sun exposure.

  • More details about what is included in each tour can be found by clicking “Learn More” on the Tours & Programs page. It typically includes transportation, some or all meals, and expert guidance.

  • Please write us an email at info@bordercommunityalliance.org or give us a call at (520) 398-3229.