How Many Border Crossings Are There In Nogales?

Panorama of Ambos (both) Nogales with the community divided down the middle by an international boundary.

Embarking on a cross-border adventure can be an exciting and enriching experience, and Nogales offers the perfect gateway to Mexico. Borderlandia is here to guide you through crossing the border at Nogales, Arizona, and Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.

In this how-to guide, we'll explore the three different ports of entry in Nogales, provide essential crossing tips, and invite you to join our tours or hire us to help you have a meaningful experience in the borderlands.

Morley Pedestrian Gate looking from the west to the east.

Understanding the Ports of Entry

Nogales boasts three main ports of entry, each offering its own distinct experience:

Mariposa Port of Entry vehicle crossing entering the U.S. from Mexico.

1. Mariposa Port of Entry (Vehicle & Pedestrian)

Open 6 AM - 10 PM

Situated just to the west of Ambos Nogales, Mariposa Crossing is the most modern port in the border town and the primary crossing point for vehicles looking to avoid the traffic of downtown Nogales, Sonora.

When traveling on the I-19 South freeway, look for the Mariposa Exit and the new overpass with a repeating butterfly design. There are also separate gates here designated not only for semi-trailer trucks - representing the billions of dollars in cross-border trade in fresh produce - but also for cattle, an important industry in the region since the 1600s.

Butterfly design on the Mariposa overpass.

As at any border crossing, follow designated lanes, present your travel documents, and undergo necessary inspections and customs procedures.

Please note that if you choose this crossing, there are toll booths on the Mexican side. This is the price of the advantage of saving much time on this Nogales bypass route to shoot down to the beautiful Sea of Cortez beaches and other destinations beyond the border community.

Location of the Mariposa Port of Entry in Nogales.

2. DeConcini Port of Entry (Vehicle & Pedestrian)

Vehicles crossing from Mexico into the United States at the Dennis DeConcini Port of Entry.

Border Crossing Time Nogales

“Is the Nogales border open 24 hours?”

Yes, but only the DeConcini Gate is open 24 hours.

Nogales’ main gate is named after former Arizona Senator Dennis DeConcini and is situated downtown. Prepare your travel documents, proceed through the designated pedestrian or vehicle lanes, and comply with security protocols and customs regulations.

“What time does the Nogales border close?”

Nogales’ Mariposa Gate closes at 10 PM 7 days a week and opens back up at 6 AM daily.

Nogales’ Pedestrian only Morley Gate: 10:00 am–6:00 pm (Monday–Saturday) 10:00 am–4:00 pm (Sunday)

“Do you need a passport to go to Nogales?”

Short answer: Yes. You need a valid travel document when you enter a foreign country be it a passport card or regular passport. It is what will be asked of you in any encounter with Mexican law enforcement.

3. Morley Gate (Pedestrian Only)

Open 10 AM - 6 PM

The Morley Gate is unique in that it is a pedestrian-only port. Located where the namesake Morley Avenue intersects with the international line, Morley is the oldest crossing of the three and this entry point offers a more intimate and lesser-known experience.

The name, which also graces the avenue, derives from William R. Morley, the railroad engineer who selected Nogales as the natural place for a railroad linking the United States and Mexico to pass through in 1882. It was his daughter who nailed in the golden spike linking the two rail systems just a few meters from the gate.

Please note that this gate is open 7 days a week but only from 10 am to 5 pm. Present your travel documents, follow pedestrian guidelines, and immerse yourself in the borderlands' unique ambiance.

Curious about “Border Crossing Time Nogales”?

Check out CBP Border Wait Times.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Crossing

Carry valid travel documents. Ensure you have a valid passport or other approved identification documents required for border crossing. Check the latest travel requirements and carry any necessary visas or permits.
Be prepared for inspections. Familiarize yourself with customs regulations and be ready for inspections. Declare any items as required and be truthful in your responses to questions from border officers. For example, if you are bringing in more the $10,000 in cash to Mexico, you must declare it with U.S. Customs.
Familiarize yourself with the list of forbidden things to cross into Mexico and into the United States. Possession of firearms and ammunition is illegal in Mexico.

Crossing from Mexico to the U.S. via the pedestrian only Morley Gate.

An Invitation to Borderlandia

For a truly immersive and educational experience, Borderlandia offers guided tours and private immersive Nogales experiences tailored to your interests and preferences. Our knowledgeable guides will accompany you, providing insightful commentary, historical context, and local insights as you navigate the borderlands.

If you're not fluent in Spanish, don't worry! Borderlandia can provide language assistance and translation services to help facilitate smooth communication during the border crossing process. Discover the vibrant culture, art, cuisine, and history of Nogales while building a deeper understanding of this unique region. Write us today.

A view near the later location of the Morley Gate in 1910 during the Mexican Revolution.

Crossing the border at Nogales opens the door to a world of cultural richness, historical significance, and cross-border connections. With Borderlandia as your guide, you can navigate the borderlands with confidence, understanding, and appreciation.

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Take the fast track to understand Nogales in person on Borderlandia’s Nogales Past & Present Tour.

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Where to Cross the Border at Nogales