Updated November 12, 2026. If you’re visiting Los Cabos this week, you picked one heck of a time to be here! The legendary Baja 1000 is bringing incredible off-road machines to San José del Cabo. Here’s how to enjoy the excitement without spending your vacation stuck in traffic.
When does the Baja 1000 start?
- Friday, November 13, 1:00 a.m.: Motorcycles and quads start.
- Friday, November 13, 9:00 a.m.: Cars, trucks and UTVs start.
- Through the weekend: Racers return to San José del Cabo, with event activities continuing through November 15.
These are local Los Cabos times. The course covers approximately 965 miles of Baja California Sur, starting and finishing in San José del Cabo.
Road closures to plan around
Boulevard Centenario is the main trouble spot. Significant traffic restrictions began Wednesday and are expected through Saturday night, with reopening work beginning Sunday. Downtown San José and streets around race staging areas may be crowded.
Arroyo crossings at Las Catarinas, Las Ánimas and Santa Rosa also face scheduled restrictions as racers return, including reported closures from 8 p.m. Friday. The Puerto Los Cabos bridge is expected to remain open. Access and detours may change, so check municipal announcements before driving.
Flying into or out of SJD?
Give yourself extra time, especially Friday. The airport is not the racecourse, but congestion around San José could affect your transfer. Confirm pickup arrangements with your driver rather than assuming your usual route will be clear. Nobody wants to miss a flight because they got caught behind a convoy of Trophy Trucks!
Where can visitors watch?
Thursday’s vehicle inspections along Boulevard Centenario are a great chance to see race vehicles up close. Friday’s daytime start is another exciting option. Stay in designated spectator areas, obey officials and never stand on or cross an active racecourse. Dust can hide fast-approaching vehicles.
Our local Cabo tip
If you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas and don’t need to visit San José Friday, consider enjoying activities closer to your hotel. If you’re going for the race, leave early, bring water and expect crowds. It’s one of those events that makes Baja special.
Fewer decisions. More vacation! — Mexitara Travel
Traffic information is subject to change. Check SCORE International and official Los Cabos municipal traffic announcements for updates. Local reporting: Meganoticias.