Columbus
24 hours, 7 days
Columbus is a small, RV-friendly crossing into Puerto Palomas. The Banjercito keeps limited morning hours, so plan your vehicle permit around them. Duty-free and parking are available before the crossing.
What's where?
Marker positions are approximate — confirm exact locations on the day.
Mexican customs checkpoint just south of the border where vehicles may be inspected.
Immigration office at the Palomas port for FMM tourist permit stamping — this is a one-stop crossing where all Mexican agencies are co-located.
El Sinaloense is a friendly Mexican restaurant near the crossing, popular with day-trip visitors.
Step by step, southbound
From Columbus, NM, follow NM-11 south to its terminus at the Columbus Port of Entry.
Cross the border into Palomas, Chihuahua; the road continues south into town.
Since all Mexican agencies are co-located at this small port, stop at the INM/Banjercito offices right at the crossing to complete your FMM and vehicle permit before continuing.
Continue south toward Ascención or Nuevo Casas Grandes on the state highway once paperwork is complete.
What travelers report
We're gathering real wait times and crossing reports from travelers. Detailed border intelligence for this port is coming soon — it appears here automatically as verified reports come in.
Your US auto policy won’t cover you in Mexico
US, Canadian, and other foreign policies aren’t recognized in Mexico. Without coverage, even a minor accident can mean your vehicle is held and you’re detained until a valid policy is confirmed.
- You must have cover to legally drive anywhere in Mexico
- Liability or full coverage options available — valid instantly
- Takes about 15 minutes to buy online, and is accepted at all border crossings and checkpoints
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