Lukeville Border Crossing: Hours, Wait Times, and What to Expect Going to Rocky Point
Last reviewed
The Lukeville, Arizona port of entry (across from Sonoyta, Sonora) is the crossing nearly every Arizona visitor uses to reach Rocky Point. Southbound crossings into Mexico are usually quick. Northbound waits back into the U.S. vary from a few minutes to a couple of hours depending on the day and time. Here is what to expect, based on official sources and our own trips.
Last verified: October 2026.
Check Lukeville Port of Entry Hours and Status
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, according to CBP's Lukeville port page. In 2025, Friday hours were extended to 10 p.m. from March 1 through October 10 under an agreement between Puerto Peñasco's mayor and CBP. Confirm current hours before you go.
- Live wait times: bwt.cbp.gov
- Port page and closures: cbp.gov, Lukeville, Arizona (port 2602)
Hours and status can change. The port closed for about a month in December 2023 with little notice, so always check before you leave, and plan to cross well before closing.
Cross into Mexico (Southbound)
Heading south, you drive through Lukeville into Sonoyta. Since 2025, Mexico has stationed additional National Guard troops at the border, including in Sonoyta, and more vehicles are inspected. Some travelers have reported southbound waits of over two hours at busy times. Keep your documents and Mexican car insurance handy. If your trip requires an FMM tourist permit, get it at the INM office here. See our document guide.
Come Back to the U.S. (Northbound)
Expect These Typical Wait Times
| When you cross northbound | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Weekday mornings | Usually the shortest waits |
| Saturday | Moderate |
| Sunday morning | Moderate, rising through the morning |
| Sunday afternoon | Often the longest waits of the week |
| Last day of a holiday weekend | Long waits are common |
Check CBP's live wait times at bwt.cbp.gov before you leave Rocky Point.
Answer What CBP Will Ask
Expect questions like: Where are you coming from? How long were you there? What are you bringing back? Every person in the vehicle needs an approved document.
Know What You Can and Cannot Bring Back
- Declare everything, including food, alcohol, and purchases.
- Seafood for personal use is generally allowed.
- Many fresh fruits, vegetables, and some meats are restricted.
- Alcohol and tobacco have duty-free limits.
- Medications should be in original packaging with a prescription.
Check CBP's current rules before you shop (search "CBP Know Before You Go").
Cross at the Best Times
- Best: early mornings, especially before 9 a.m.
- Worst: Sunday afternoons and the last day of holiday weekends.
- Tip: if you can, stay through Monday on a regular weekend and cross early.
Use Alternate Crossings If Lukeville Is Closed
If Lukeville is closed, the nearest options are San Luis (near Yuma) and Nogales. Both add hours of driving, and the U.S. Consulate has strongly advised U.S. citizens not to use alternate routes through Sonora to reach Rocky Point. If Lukeville is closed, consider postponing.
Use This Border Day Checklist
- Approved documents for everyone in the vehicle
- Mexican car insurance
- Receipts for purchases
- Food and alcohol ready to declare
- Snacks and water for the line
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours at the Lukeville border crossing?
As of October 2026, CBP lists the Lukeville port as open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, with extended Friday hours in some seasons. Hours change, so check CBP before you leave.
How long is the wait at the Lukeville border?
Waits are often short on weekday mornings but can be long on Sunday afternoons and holiday weekends heading north. Check CBP's live wait times and cross early when you can.
Can I bring shrimp back from Rocky Point?
Seafood for personal use is generally allowed into the U.S., but you must declare it. Many fruits, vegetables, and meats are restricted. Check CBP's current guidelines before you shop.
Which border crossing do I use for Rocky Point?
Most travelers from Phoenix and Tucson cross at Lukeville, Arizona into Sonoyta, then drive about an hour south on Highway 8 to Rocky Point.