Los Algodones is a 5-minute walk from the Andrade Port of Entry near Yuma, Arizona. Crossing on foot is fast, safe and free. Here is exactly what to expect.
6 min read·Updated 2026-04-27·By Dental Inzunza
Where exactly is the border?
The Andrade Port of Entry is located in Andrade, California, just across the Colorado River from Yuma, Arizona. From central Yuma it is a 15-minute drive west on the I-8. Park on the US side and walk into Mexico — there is no need to bring your car across.
Hours of operation
The Andrade crossing is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM Pacific Time. The pedestrian gate often has shorter waits than the vehicle lanes — especially in the early morning. Plan your dental appointment between 8 AM and 11 AM to give yourself a relaxed crossing window in both directions.
Documents you must carry
US and Canadian citizens need one of: a valid passport book, passport card, US Enhanced Driver's License, NEXUS card, SENTRI card, or a US Permanent Resident Card. A regular driver's license is not sufficient. Take a picture of every document on your phone as backup.
Walking into Mexico
Heading south, Mexican border officers rarely ask anything — sometimes a wave, sometimes a question about the purpose of your visit. Have "dental appointment" ready as your answer. There is no Mexican entry stamp required for stays under 7 days within the border zone.
Walking back to the US
Returning, you join a covered pedestrian line. Have your passport open and any new prescriptions or receipts handy. The CBP officer may ask what you bought (declare honestly — there is no duty on personal-use dental work or up to $800 in goods per person every 30 days). Allow 20–60 minutes depending on the season; midday in winter is the busiest window.
What you can bring back
Personal-use prescription medication (with prescription) and dental work are duty-free. The general personal exemption is $800 USD per person per 30 days. Alcohol limited to 1 liter per adult, no Cuban products, no fresh fruits/vegetables, no firearms. When in doubt, declare it.
Money, language, safety
Spanish is universal and English is widely spoken in clinics and shops. US dollars are accepted everywhere; pesos and credit cards also work. Algodones is one of the safest spots in northern Mexico — it is essentially a 6-block tourist district with a heavy local police presence.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a passport book or is a card enough?
A US Passport Card or Enhanced Driver's License is sufficient at the Andrade land crossing. A passport book is only required if you fly. Canadian citizens need a passport book.
Can I drive into Algodones instead of walking?
Yes, but it adds 20–40 minutes of waiting on the way back at the vehicle lane. Walking from the Andrade parking lot is almost always faster.
How long is the wait coming back?
Typically 20–45 minutes for pedestrians on weekday mornings. Saturdays and holidays can stretch to 90 minutes. Avoid the noon–1 PM window in winter.
Do I need a Mexican tourist permit (FMM)?
Not for trips under 7 days within the Algodones border zone. If you plan to drive deeper into Mexico, yes — but for dental work, no.
Can I cross with my dog?
Yes, but you need a current rabies certificate. Mexican customs may inspect. Most patients leave pets in Yuma to keep things simple.
What time should I cross for a 9 AM appointment?
Park at Andrade by 8:30 AM, walk through, and be in the dental chair by 8:55. Returning the same afternoon, plan to cross back before 4 PM if you can.
