Crossing into Mexico via the Anzalduas International Bridge

Here´s a link that says it has videos of bridge cameras (but didn´t seem to work when I tried it): http://www.mcallen.net/bridge-cameras

Thanks! they seem to work when I tried them. I think the Anzalduas bridge operates from 6am to 10pm. I assume the visa and TIP offices are open during the same hours. I'm hoping for some more detailed information and an actual crossing experience to remove some of the unknowns before I go.

You're aware can get both the TIP and FMM online? That might expedite matters. But I can't believe there'd not be a Banjercito kiosk there. You know there's immigration. This is a fairly modern facility.
As far as traffic, what's your proposed route? Anything that takes you in/around/through Monterrey will have traffic. I think I'd take 35 to Montemorelos, then to 85 to Linares and take 58 through the mountains to catch 57; the scenery is impressive. Then take the turnoff that routes you through San Diego De La Union, there's a new blacktop almost all the way to Dolores.

Yes, I just got the TIP application approved and am waiting for them to send the hologram. Also the FMM pre-authorization. Still have to go through immigration at the crossing for the actual one. I'm planning on staying on the toll roads (40D, 57D). I know the way you propose would be more scenic though. Thanks for your input and advice!

I cross at Anazalduas. We live in north McAllen when we are not there. A tip on getting to the bridge.

If you are going on the new Interstate, exit at the Shary Road exit. Go south to Military road, and it is a short distance west to the highway going south to Anzalduas at the first underpass. It may be changed but in the past, it was messy exiting where it tells you to. You may want to park where it tells those with declarations to park. it is convenient to the offices.

Anzalduas is the best crossing for those going west to take the Periferico around Monterrey to the new cuota which makes it easy to hit 57 south. I think that is called the saltillo cuota, and the exit for Matehuala will be the sign for 57 south.

Note I sharply disagree with #3. The Periferico around Monterrey is not that heavily traveled nor has any special problems and leads directly into the Saltillo cuota, which takes you to the Matehuala exit for Hwy 57 south. Be ready to pay tolls in pesos, of course.

If you come back that way do obey the speed signs at the east end. The cops have a radar and like to nail you coming around the sharp turn.

Because Reynosa is considered somewhat dangerous, we use the rest rooms at Anzalduas and try not to stop again until we are on the high speed cuota. There is a Pemex with full facilities around 78 miles after leaving the bridge. It is on the south side of the highway.

Thanks for the good info. I do plan on using the toll roads, 40 and 57 etc. I think I found the Pemex you refer to that's about 78 miles from the bridge - Los Ahijados - looks nice. I'm planning on going to the bridge the evening before and getting my FMM, then head back to my hotel in Mission (area of McAllen). I already have my TIP (came fast from Banjercito online!). I'll cross the next morning when the Anzalduas Bridge opens at 6:00AM and head on to SMA.

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