Even though I’d never seen an Organ Pipe Cactus, let alone a Saguaro Cactus, I was so excited to explore this place. I am so glad I did, and you will be too once you’ve visited. Much like my beloved Saguaros, each and every Organ Pipe Cactus seems to have its own personality and honestly, they remind me of some sort of sea creature or creature from outer space. They’re amazing. This out of the way spot is remote, gorgeous, rugged, and worth every mile and minute it takes to travel out to it. There are plenty of camping spots wether you choose the Twin Peaks Campground near the Kris Eggle Visitor center, the Alamo Canyon Campground, or the surrounding BLM spots. The main draw of the Monument has to be the two Loop Drives on either side of Highway 85 called Puerto Blanco and Ajo Mountain Drives but there are plenty of hikes and viewpoints and amazing stops along the way.

Even traveling across the border to Sonoyta on foot was an adventure, although, a somewhat sketchy one (don’t forget your passport and be leery of black SUVs filled with young men eyeballing you as you walk down the main drag). But the burritos and Mexican beer lunch was a very welcome break during such a long and wonderful day in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Area.

Also be aware that there are American Border Patrol Agents that fly by in their white trucks on both drives and helicopters that patrol the sky both distant and close throughout the whole area. Many signs say not to leave food or water or pick up hitchhikers as they may be illegal immigrants and you better be sure they will check your car multiple times between the Monument and the nearest big city. The park itself had both the new corrugated iron slats wall and the old simple gate that makes up the border. Despite all that racket though, the place is an amazing gem oasis in a hot, rough, and rugged desert.