The “Happiest Race on Earth.”
It is a rolling celebration of what makes off-road racing so eclectic and timelessly powerful. A kaleidoscope of 226 modern trucks, cars, motorcycles, and UTVs is complemented by restored vintage off-road racers, fiberglass Meyers Manx dune buggies, and rally-style Porsche 911s. There is no other gathering like it in the world.
The six-day event covers 1,133 miles from Ensenada, Baja Mexico, to San José del Cabo at the peninsula’s southern tip. It’s a marathon punctuated by daily overnight stops, finish-line parties, easy access for beginner racers, and even a Safari class for production vehicles and everyday enthusiasts.
Since the NORRA Mexican 1000 resurfaced in 2010, its blend of old and new vehicles, along with a rally-style format featuring overnight stops, has quickly secured its place in the desert racing world. It offers a more accessible way to experience Baja racing while encouraging the restoration of historic off-road machines.
For safety, NORRA organizers separate the motorcycle and four-wheel vehicle courses for much of the event. Unlike SCORE International Baja races, there is no pre-running; final route books and GPS files are distributed just days before the green flag. This reduces competition costs and limits spectator numbers, enhancing safety compared to larger Baja events. Most racers also choose to run on pump gas, saving on the high costs of race fuel, which can reach up to $25 per gallon in Baja.
The 2025 edition of the NORRA Mexican 1000 will feature classic cars from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, alongside newer models like the Racer. It kicked off Saturday, April 26, in Ensenada, Baja California, and will cross into Baja California Sur Monday, April 28.
The over-1,000-mile route will conclude in San José del Cabo on Thursday, May 1. According to the Car Rally Organizing Committee, led by Eliseo García, more than 230 teams will participate. On the first day, cars will travel from Ensenada to San Felipe, while motorcycles take the Ensenada–El Rosario route. On Sunday, April 27, cars continued to Bahía de los Ángeles, and motorcycles entered Southern California through Guerrero Negro, beginning their journey through Baja California Sur.
The final stage will be held on Thursday, May 1, with all vehicles departing the capital toward San José del Cabo, where the race will officially conclude. The awards ceremony and official announcement of results will take place on Friday, May 2.
Events like these generate significant economic benefits for the state and promote family-friendly activities. In support of the race’s success, the government is provided assistance and has implemented security measures through the police forces.