The upcoming total eclipse is driving a lot of people to seek a place where they can view this phenomenon on April 8, where for some minutes the moon will completely block the sun, plunging everywhere in its path into a semi-darkness. Although total eclipses are not rare, they usually cannot be easily seen since they occur in places like the middle of the ocean.

In fact, this will be the only opportunity to view a total eclipse from Mexico, the U.S. and Canada for many decades to come. If you are thinking about loading up the beach chairs and some sunscreen to view the eclipse on April 8 from our southern neighbor Mexico, here is some guidance on the best spots within driving distance from the border.

Before you leave, make sure you have the necessary Mexican car insurance. Your U.S. insurance is not legal in Mexico. You can find low-cost Mexican insurance online and purchase it before you leave – one less thing to cross off your list before you hit the border.

Don’t forget to bring your safe solar viewing glasses (eclipse glasses) so you watch the entire event!

What is a Total Solar Eclipse?

A total solar eclipse is when the moon “totally” blocks the sun. It happens about every 18 months, but usually in places not easily seen by most people, such as the poles or the middle of the ocean. The next total eclipse you’ll be able to see from Mexico will be many decades away.

The best areas to view the total eclipse are in the “path of totality,” where for different lengths of time viewers will experience darkness in the daytime, as well as be able to see the sun’s corona for up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds. The path will cross through Mexico and into the U.S. People in these countries who do not view the total eclipse from the path of totality will still be able to experience a partial eclipse in most places.

So put on those solar glasses and let’s get dark!

Best Places to View the Total Eclipse in Mexico

The path of totality will enter Mexico first on April 8 a little after 11 a.m. MST – off the west coast at Isla Socorro — and move north and east from there. For those who want to drive to Mexico to experience the spectacle, the best bet is to cross the border in Texas at Del Rio or Eagle Pass.

Keep in mind, these are busy border crossings even when there isn’t an event such as this, so start early or even the day before and bring your patience. The border crossing in Del Rio is Del Rio – Acuña and is open 24 hours, but you can check border wait times here. There are three border crossings at Eagle Pass. The Camino Real International Bridge has 4 lanes to keep things moving, is open 24 hours and average wait times are posted here.

Within driving distance, over the border from Texas in the state of Coahuila, are the following cities that will experience the path of totality.

·       Ciudad Acuña: You can be in Ciudad Acuña in less than 30 minutes once you cross the border. In fact, it’s a favorite border town for people who want to do a little shopping, eat some authentic food and take a day or two off for relaxation. You can drive into the countryside around this small city to experience the total eclipse at roughly 12:28 CST and it is estimated to last for 3 minutes and 26 seconds.

·       Piedras Negras: The drive from the Eagle Pass crossing will take about 15-20 minutes. There are plenty of things to do here and some nice hotels, although you may have trouble booking a room now. Piedras Negras is almost exactly on the centerline of the path of totality, so plenty of time for viewing. It is estimated to be in full total eclipse at 12:27 CST and last for 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

·       Monclova: For those who want to make a mini vacation of the entire experience, Monclova is approximately 3 hours from Del Rio and Eagle Pass. Located on the eastern side of the eclipse, the full visual will being at 12:23 CST and last for a little more than 2 minutes. While in Monclova, take time to visit the Sierra de Zapalinamé, a biosphere celebrating diverse flora and fauna.

·       Torreón: Finally, for those who want to go even further afield to avoid the tourist crowd, Torreón is roughly 7-8 hours from both Del Rio and Eagle Pass. The total eclipse will be in full view at 12:16 CST and is estimated to last for 4 minutes, 8 seconds. There are plenty of Mexican delights to sample and savor during your trip, including authentic flavors in memorable dining experiences, shopping in local markets and exploring the countryside.

So, there you have it. Four great locations to not only watch this amazing celestial spectacle but also take a short trip to our (mostly) sunny southern neighbor. Remember, in and around these named locations are other places ready to welcome eclipse travelers with open arms and cold Cerveza!

Now, for a few other items you’ll need to know before hitting the Texas border.

Do I Need a Passport Drive to Mexico for the Total Eclipse?

Yes. Having a passport is a good idea for when you cross back into the U.S.

What Other Documents Do I Need to Cross Border?

In addition to Mexican car insurance, those who are driving to Mexico will need:

·       Driver’s license

·       Passport

·       Registration or Title of Vehicle

Bring copies of these documents since you may need to leave one with an agency, and making copies at the border can get expensive, not to mention time-consuming.

Find Cheap Car Insurance Quotes Online Before the Sun is Eclipsed!

Taking a little vacation to Mexico to view the total eclipse is a great idea. Let the professionals at Sanborn's Mexico Insurance help you cross one item off your list.   

You can get a quick quote for car insurance online or call 800-222-0158. We also have insurance offices all along the Texas border, so regardless of where you are crossing, you can stop in and get everything you need with an agent’s help. Visit with us today!