Las Cruces

Nestled in the sun-drenched Mesilla Valley in southern New Mexico, Las Cruces attracts travellers with its vibrant blend of Mexican heritage and American comfort. This city, spread out at the foot of the majestic Organ Mountains, serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the region's natural wonders, including the famous white sands. Getting here is straightforward: thanks to its proximity to major transport hubs, you can easily plan your journey by plane, car, or bus.

Since the city of Las Cruces itself does not have a large passenger airport handling regular commercial flights, the primary hub for tourists is the international airport in the neighbouring city of El Paso (ELP). It is located just 67 km away and receives numerous flights from major US cities, providing convenient connections for your onward journey.

Alternatively, you could consider flying via the Mexican city of Ciudad Juárez or the small airport in White Sands; however, the Texas option remains the most popular and logistically simple. Upon arrival at any of these airports, travellers can quickly reach their final destination via rental car or transfer.

There is no direct rail service to the city itself, as Las Cruces does not have an active station for long-distance passenger trains. Enthusiasts of rail travel are advised to book a ticket to the station in El Paso, which is an important hub on the southern Amtrak route.

From the station in El Paso, located approximately 67 km away, you can easily reach your destination by ground transport. Railway lines also pass through Ciudad Juárez and the White Sands area, but these are less convenient for the average tourist due to logistical specifics regarding transfers.

Bus services in the region are quite well-developed, offering a budget-friendly travel option. The fastest and most popular route runs from White Sands: the bus covers the 55 km distance in approximately 1.4 hours, allowing you to enjoy the desert landscapes.

Buses also run regularly from the neighbouring state of Texas: the trip from the city of El Paso (about 78 km) will take around 1.8 hours. For those coming from across the border, there is a route from Ciudad Juárez, although travel time here is significantly longer—about 4 hours—due to the distance and potential delays.

Travelling by car is perhaps the most comfortable way to get to Las Cruces, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of movement on American highways. The quickest route is from White Sands: the 43 km road takes only about 35–40 minutes (0.6 h).

The route from El Paso via the interstate highway is very convenient: the 73 km journey flies by unnoticed, taking approximately 50 minutes (0.8 h). If you are driving from Mexico, the path from Ciudad Juárez (about 90 km) will take just over an hour, though you should allocate extra time for border crossing procedures.

When planning a visit to Las Cruces, it is worth considering the specifics of the Chihuahuan Desert climate and the local cultural atmosphere. Here are a few practical tips to make your journey comfortable and safe:

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is arid with hot days and cool nights. It is recommended to dress in layers: light, natural fabrics for the day and a fleece jacket or windbreaker for the evening. Be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, and reliable sunscreen.
2. Transport. Public transport is not widely developed, so renting a car is the best way to get around, especially if you plan to visit the natural parks in the surrounding area.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, from hotels to small cafes, but having some cash (small bills) for tipping and markets is useful.
4. Health and Safety. The main danger is dehydration and heatstroke. Always carry water with you. The city is generally safe, but as elsewhere, it is better not to leave valuables in plain sight in your car.
5. Communication. The primary language is English, but due to the proximity of the border, many locals speak fluent Spanish. Knowing a few phrases in Spanish will be warmly received.
6. Local Etiquette. A relaxed and friendly style of communication is the norm here. It is customary to leave tips of 15–20% in restaurants and taxis, as this makes up a significant part of the staff's earnings.
7. What to Avoid. Do not go hiking in the desert alone or without a supply of water at midday. Also, be mindful of local wildlife (snakes, scorpions) when walking in nature.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to try dishes with Green Chile—this is the region's gastronomic signature, added to everything from burgers to pizza.

Following these simple recommendations will help you fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the American Southwest and ensure your trip leaves you with only positive emotions.