Obregon – Mazatlán

DRIVING TIME: 7.47 hours
KILOMETERS: 632
MILES: 393
HWY: 15

I had some bad vibes on this road. I stopped at what appeared to be a federal inspection station (some of the upper states have inspection roadblocks when entering or leaving the state—I didn’t run across any in the lower states after Puerto Vallarta). Two men looking somewhat official came to my passenger-side door and opened it. After some introductions, one of the two men opened the glove compartment and started rummaging around.

By this time, I realized that this so-called official was not so official. Thus I ended the conversation. However, this individual had already taken my flashlight and thanked me for the regalo (present). I noticed that the other gentlemen standing around all had guns strapped to their sides. For this reason, I gave the so-called present without objection.

As a side note, the toll road before Mazatlán is the best road of the entire trip and also the most expensive. Most tolls in Mexico cost between $2 and $4. However, this road costs $20. There is talk that this road is full of banditos because of the area’s remoteness.

AAA has issued an advisory on this stretch of road and lists it as one of the most dangerous in Mexico. You have the option of a free road. Turn left before the toll road at Guamuchil, thus bypassing the toll road. This takes you through a much more populated area than the pay road. Although it takes longer, it is considered safer.

Hotel & Eats

Upon entering Guamuchil, you will find Hotel Davimar on Boulevard Antonio Rosales. It is a secure hotel with free parking, nice clean amenities, and a great restaurant. Remember that the drive from Obregon to Mazatlán will be long, so choosing a hotel near the plaza and convenient to the shopping and events center will guarantee a relaxing stop.

When you reach Mazatlán, treat yourself to a pleasant stay at the Park Inn by Radisson Mazatlán. It is an exquisite-looking beachfront hotel with great views of the ocean from your room. Because it is a bit out of town or the city part, you can have a quiet evening enjoying the sound of the waves.

Learned Lessons

You can’t be overcautious. At no other time did anyone of official status approach my vehicle from the passenger side. Most, if not all, federal officers will have some kind of identification or a distinguishable uniform. Use caution and common sense, and never pull over unless solicited by an official.

Special Directions

When you enter Mazatlán, head toward the coast, and you will find both camping and hotel facilities. Most hotels have guarded parking. Notwithstanding, always take your valuables into your room with you. You might want to stay a day or two here, the beach is beautiful, and the nightlife is especially good. Upon leaving, follow the signs for Puerto Vallarta. You have a long day ahead, so plan to rest well the night before your departure.

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