Getting Around Mexico by Bus

Bus travel in Mexico is generally efficient, economical, and comfortable. However, the great distances involved should be seriously considered when planning to navigate the country. For those covering extensive areas, traveling by air could be more advantageous. Mexico is vast, and spending considerable time on a bus isn’t always ideal, despite the stunning landscapes. On the other hand, driving yourself offers more flexibility but may introduce some challenges. Understanding driving in Mexico can prepare you for this option.

Classes of Service

Different classes of bus service range from luxurious coaches equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning, video screens, and Wi-Fi, to the vibrant, often retired Bluebird school buses colloquially known as “chicken buses.” Below are the various categories of bus services:

• Luxury “De Lujo” or “Ejecutivo”: This represents the pinnacle of bus service, offering all first-class comforts plus additional amenities. In select cases, seats may fully recline and there might only be three seats across instead of the usual four. Refreshments may also be provided, and passengers often have the option to listen to videos through headphones.
• First-class “Primera Clase”: Buses in this category feature air conditioning and reclining seats. Many show videos and are equipped with toilets at the rear. They typically provide non-stop services on federal toll highways and connect popular destinations and cities, although they often do not reach smaller towns.
• Second-class “Segunda Clase”: These sometimes operate from different bus stations than first-class services. While some can offer direct or express travel, they generally stop for pickups and drop-offs along the route. Typically, there are no reserved seats, which may lead to standing passengers when the bus is crowded. Second-class buses provide access to destinations that first-class buses may not serve, making them an excellent option for short trips. They are colorful, often decorated by the drivers, and you may even experience local life as vendors frequently board and disembark. It’s not uncommon for passengers to share the space with a chicken!

Mexican Bus Lines

Various bus lines operate across Mexico, covering different geographical areas and offering distinct service levels:

• ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales): Comfortable “ejecutivo” class buses serving central and northern Mexico. Visit their website: ETN
• Estrella de Oro: Connects Mexico City with the Pacific Coast (Ixtapa, Acapulco), as well as Cuernavaca and Taxco. Visit their website: Estrella de Oro
• Omnibuses de Mexico: Serves northern and central Mexico. Visit their website: Omnibuses de Mexico
• ADO: Catering to central and southern Mexico, offering various classes of service from Primera Clase and GL (Gran Lujo) to Platino, their most luxurious option. Check schedules and fares at: ado.com.mx

Tips for Bus Travel in Mexico

During weekends and holidays, it is advisable to secure your ticket a few days in advance as buses tend to fill up quickly. Typically, booking 48 hours ahead should suffice. Purchasing your ticket early ensures your spot is reserved, and you often have the opportunity to select your seat. Be cautious about choosing a seat at the very back if toilet facilities are present; avoiding unpleasant odors can enhance your travel experience. Moreover, if the bus features TV screens, your seating choice can impact your viewing experience.

When obtaining your ticket, you’ll usually be asked for your name. If your name is non-Hispanic, it might be beneficial to write it down in advance to simply present it to the ticket seller rather than spelling it out.

Air conditioning on buses can sometimes be excessively cold, so it’s prudent to bring a sweater or an extra layer. On occasion, air conditioning may malfunction, making layered clothing preferable.

For longer journeys, always remember to carry food and water as stops may be brief and infrequent.

Historically, films shown on long-distance buses often included poor quality or violent B-movies from the U.S.; however, there seems to be an improving variety of movie selections.

While most towns feature a primary bus terminal, some might differentiate between first and second-class services. For instance, Mexico City has four terminals catering to different destinations across the country.

Safe travels!