Mexico is huge! From fluffy, white ski slopes and thick, steamy jungle to cacti-strewn deserts and sublime stretches of untouched sand, expect to use many transport options to navigate the world’s 13th-biggest country.
Between domestic flights, long-distance buses, hair-raising colectivos, combi minibuses, and – for one spectacular stretch – an old-school passenger train, there are plenty of ways to cross this North American behemoth; you just need a little patience. Here’s how to get around Mexico.
Cheap and Reliable: Make the Bus Your Best Mate
With a good road network and comfortable, frequent, reasonably priced bus services connecting all cities, buses are your best option in Mexico. Most cities and towns have one main bus terminal from which all long-distance buses operate. It may be called the Terminal de Autobuses, Central de Autobuses, Central Camionera, or La Central (not to be confused with el centro, the city center). Stations in major cities tend to be clean, safe, and highly functional.
Generally known as camiones, local buses are usually the cheapest way to get around cities and nearby towns and villages. They run frequently, and fares in cities are just a few pesos. Modern fleets of microbuses have replaced the noisier, older vehicles in many areas. Buses usually stop only at fixed paradas (bus stops), although in some places, you can flag one down anywhere along its route.
Bus Classes
Deluxe & Executive: De lujo services, primera plus, and the even more comfortable ejecutivo buses run mainly on busier intercity routes. They are swift and comfortable with reclining seats, ample legroom, air-conditioning, movies on individual screens, few stops, onboard toilets, and often drinks, snacks, and even wi-fi. They utilize toll roads wherever available.
1st-Class: Primera (1a) clase buses provide a comfortable numbered seat for each passenger. All sizable towns are served, with adequate comfort standards. These buses are air-conditioned, have toilets, and show movies on common screens while using toll roads as much as possible.
2nd-Class: Segunda (2a) clase or económico buses serve smaller towns and villages, providing cheaper, slower travel on some intercity routes. While some are almost as quick and comfortable as 1st-class buses, others are older and lack proper amenities. These buses typically take non-toll roads and pick up passengers anywhere along their route.
Bus Companies
Mexico has hundreds of bus companies, with four large groups dominating bus transportation in different areas of the country.
- ETN Turistar: Serves major cities along the Pacific coast, central, northern, and eastern Mexico, including destinations as far south as Oaxaca.
- Grupo ADO: Connects Mexico City with numerous locations in the Yucatán, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Puebla, Guerrero, and Veracruz.
- Grupo Estrella Blanca: Operates routes between Mexico City and various regions to the center, north, and west of Mexico, including cities such as Guadalajara and Tijuana.
- Primera Plus: Covers central Mexico destinations like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Mazatlán.
Buying Bus Tickets
For 1st-class, deluxe, and executive buses, it is advisable to purchase tickets at the bus terminal prior to departure; in certain cities, tickets can also be acquired from central bus office locations. However, for shorter trips, you can generally buy your ticket right before heading out. For longer trips or during busy holiday seasons, buying in advance is recommended.
Domestic Flights Can Save You Both Time and Money
More than 60 Mexican cities have airports with scheduled passenger services, making air travel an attractive option for longer distances. While flying may have a higher carbon footprint, if time is limited, a domestic flight is preferable to a long bus journey.
Major airlines like Aeroméxico offer extensive networks, alongside carriers such as TAR Aerolíneas, Volaris, and VivaAerobus, often with competitive fares.
Taxis Can Be Surprisingly Cheap
Taxis are common in towns and cities and offer an economical way to get around. A typical city ride costs around M$20 to M$25 per kilometer. If using a taxi with a meter, it’s a good idea to check whether it’s functioning. In cases where the meter is inoperative, it is prudent to agree on the fare beforehand.
Many airports have authorized taxi services; a fixed-price ticket can usually be bought from a taquilla (ticket window) for convenience. Uber and similar app-based services like Cabify are also gaining popularity in larger cities.
Using Collectivos, Combis, and Minibuses for Short Trips
Collectivos and combis are vehicles that function between taxis and buses, following fixed routes usually indicated on the windshield. They are cheaper than taxis and quicker than conventional buses, picking you up and dropping you off at various points along their route.
Utilizing Cars and Motorcycles for More Flexibility
Having a vehicle in Mexico provides significant freedom. With some adjustment to local road conditions, driving can be straightforward. Highways are generally good, with over 6,000 km of well-maintained toll roads (autopistas) at reasonable tolls.
A valid driver’s license from your home country and Mexican liability insurance are required to drive. It’s essential to have proper insurance, as only Mexican policies are recognized. Various companies, such as Sanborn’s, offer online purchasing of Mexican motor insurance.
Car Hire
Renting a car can be more expensive than in the US or Europe but is generally manageable with many international companies available. A valid driver’s license, passport, and credit card are usually required, with a minimum age often set at 21.
Using Ferries to Explore the Baja Peninsula
Ferries connecting the Baja Peninsula with the mainland save travelers the lengthy route around the Gulf of California and are often overnight trips, providing both transport and accommodation in one journey.
Accessible Travel in Mexico
Accessibility is improving, with many companies offering wheelchair-friendly tours and accommodations. However, independent wheelchair users still face challenges due to uneven pavements and public transport that is not wheelchair accessible. Some taxi and tour companies can arrange private transfers with advance booking.
This article was first published on October 6, 2022, and updated on October 10, 2023.
