Information checked October 13, 2026.
The Sasabe crossing connects Sasabe, Arizona, with El Sásabe in Sonora, Mexico. Altar is an onward destination in Sonora, not the town immediately across the border. This is a rural crossing reached from Arizona State Route 286.
Passenger crossing hours
CBP’s Sasabe port listing gives the following passenger-processing hours in Mountain time:
- Monday–Thursday and Saturday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Friday and Sunday: 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
These are the published U.S. passenger-processing hours, not a guarantee of Mexican immigration or vehicle-permit office hours. CBP’s page was last modified September 25, 2025. Recheck the official Sasabe port listing before departure, particularly around holidays or temporary operating changes. The listed passenger-processing telephone number is 520-823-4230.
Getting to Sasabe
Arizona State Route 286 runs approximately 45 miles from State Route 86 near Robles Junction/Three Points to the international border. From Tucson, the approach uses State Route 86 west and then State Route 286 south. Allow time for a rural drive and arrive comfortably before the port closes.
See the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Sasabe–Robles Junction Highway description for route background.
Immigration and vehicle paperwork
Do not assume that border opening hours also apply to an INM immigration office or a Banjercito vehicle-permit counter. We have not confirmed current passenger-service hours or permit-counter availability on the Mexican side at Sasabe. Confirm where you will complete the paperwork required for your trip before choosing this route.
Carry your passport and vehicle documentation, and check the requirements for your nationality, itinerary and vehicle. Read our Mexico vehicle permits and fees guide and Banjercito’s official temporary import permit guidance. Crossing at Sasabe does not by itself establish whether your onward journey needs a vehicle permit.
Plan the onward journey
Check current road conditions and the advisory for the specific parts of Sonora on your itinerary. Review the Government of Canada’s Mexico travel advice or the U.S. State Department’s Mexico travel advisory before travel. An open border does not establish that every onward route is suitable.
Arrange Mexican auto insurance
Review your Mexican auto insurance before crossing. Compare coverage, limits and deductibles for your vehicle and travel dates.