Navigating Mexico

Mexico is vast! With everything from pristine ski slopes and lush jungles to desert landscapes dotted with cacti and stunning, untouched beaches, you'll need various modes of transport to explore the world’s 13th largest country.

Whether it’s domestic flights, long-haul buses, thrilling colectivos, combi minibuses, or even a scenic old-fashioned train ride, there are countless ways to travel across this North American giant; just a bit of patience is required. Here’s how to get around Mexico.

Affordable and dependable: make the bus your travel companion

Thanks to a robust road network and comfortable, frequent, and budget-friendly bus services linking all cities, buses are your go-to option in Mexico. Each city and town typically has a central bus terminal, known as Terminal de Autobuses, Central de Autobuses, Central Camionera, or La Central (not to be confused with el centro, the city center). Major city stations are generally clean, safe, and highly efficient.

Locally referred to as camiones, these buses offer the most economical way to navigate cities and reach nearby towns and villages. They operate frequently, with fares in cities costing just a few pesos. In many places, modern microbuses have replaced the older, noisier models. Buses usually stop only at designated paradas (bus stops), but in some areas, you can flag one down from any street corner.

Types of buses

Deluxe & Executive: De lujo services, primera plus, and the even more plush ejecutivo (executive) buses primarily operate on busier intercity routes. They are quick and comfortable, featuring reclining seats, ample legroom, air-conditioning, movies on individual screens, minimal stops, onboard restrooms (sometimes separated by gender), and often include snacks, drinks, and even wi-fi. They utilize toll roads whenever possible.

1st-Class: Primera (1a) clase buses offer each passenger a comfortable numbered seat. These buses connect all major towns, providing at least adequate comfort. They feature air-conditioning and restrooms, with infrequent stops. Movies are shown on communal screens, and they primarily use toll roads when available.

2nd-Class: Segunda (2a) clase or económico buses serve smaller towns and villages, offering cheaper, slower travel on select intercity routes. While some can be nearly as fast and comfortable as 1st-class buses, others may be older, slower, and less appealing, often lacking restrooms. These buses take non-toll roads and will stop anywhere to pick up passengers, which might mean standing for part of your journey, especially in remote areas where they are often the only option.

Bus companies

Mexico boasts a multitude of bus companies, with many of the prominent ones belonging to four major groups that dominate transportation across different regions of the country.

• ETN Turistar operates between major cities along the Pacific coast and into central, northern, and eastern Mexico, extending as far south as Oaxaca.

• Grupo ADO connects Mexico City with numerous destinations in the Yucatán, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Puebla, Guerrero, and Veracruz.

• Grupo Estrella Blanca services routes between Mexico City and central, northern, and western regions, including major cities like Guadalajara, Tijuana, Puebla, Monterrey, Puerto Vallarta, and Ciudad Juárez.

• Primera Plus covers destinations around central Mexico, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta, San Luis Potosí, and San Miguel de Allende.

Purchasing bus tickets

For 1st-class, deluxe, and executive buses, it's best to buy your ticket at the bus terminal prior to departure. In some cities, you may also find ticket offices in central locations. Additionally, online purchases are often available, allowing you to receive an e-ticket or QR code for check-in.

For journeys lasting up to four or five hours with frequent services, you can typically arrive at the bus terminal, buy your ticket, and depart with minimal wait. However, for longer trips, routes with less frequent service, or during busy holiday periods, it’s advisable to book your ticket a day or more in advance. When purchasing, you can usually choose your seat—avoid the back of the bus, as it's near the toilets and generally has a bumpier ride.

Many 2nd-class services lack a ticket office; instead, you'll pay your fare directly to the conductor.

Bus travel tips

• While buses can occasionally face delays or even theft, opting to travel during daylight and using deluxe or 1st-class services that primarily use toll roads can significantly reduce this risk.

• Purchasing tickets several days in advance or during off-peak hours can often lead to discounted fares.

• Your luggage will be secure in the baggage hold—just be sure to get a receipt when you hand it over. Keep your most valuable items with you in the cabin.

• Air-conditioned buses can be chilly, so consider wearing long pants or a skirt and bringing a sweater, jacket, or even a blanket. Eye masks and earplugs can be useful if you'd rather not watch videos the entire journey.

Domestic flights can be a time and money saver

Over 60 cities in Mexico have airports with scheduled passenger services, including Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara, Tijuana, Monterrey, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta. Flying can offer good value for longer trips, and regional airlines generally maintain a decent safety record. While air travel has a higher carbon footprint, if you're pressed for time in Mexico, a domestic flight is a better option than a lengthy 48-hour bus ride.

Aeroméxico, along with its subsidiary Aeroméxico Connect, boasts the largest network, but TAR Aerolíneas, Volaris, and VivaAerobus also connect many cities, frequently offering lower fares. Other regional options include Aéreo Servicios Guerrero, Calafia Airlines, and Magnicharters.

Taxis can be surprisingly economical

Taxis are prevalent in both towns and cities, and their rates are quite reasonable. City fares typically range from M$20 to M$25 per kilometer. If a taxi has a meter, feel free to ask the driver if it’s operational (‘¿Funciona el taxímetro?’). If there’s no functioning meter, make sure to agree on the fare before you get in, which may involve some negotiation.

Many airports and major bus terminals offer authorized taxi services—here, you can purchase a fixed-price ticket to your destination from a designated taquilla (ticket window) and then give it to the driver instead of paying cash. This method saves you the hassle of negotiating and helps avoid overcharging, although fares are typically higher than those you might find on the street.

Uber has gained popularity, along with another app-based service, Cabify.

Hop on a colectivo, combi, minibus, or pesero for quick trips around the city

These vehicles act as a blend between taxis and buses, following fixed urban routes typically shown on their windshields. They offer a more affordable option than taxis and are faster than regular buses. You can catch one at any corner along their route—just wave to stop it and let the driver know your destination. Payment is usually made at the end of the ride, with fares slightly higher than bus prices based on distance traveled.

Utilize cars and motorcycles for added flexibility

Having a vehicle in Mexico offers significant flexibility and freedom. With some adjustments to local driving conditions, navigating is comparable to many other countries. The highways are generally well-maintained and relatively fast when traffic permits, featuring over 6,000km of toll roads (autopistas) that are mostly efficient four-lane highways. Tolls typically cost around M$2.50 per kilometer.

To drive in Mexico, you need a valid driver's license from your home country and Mexican liability insurance. If you're involved in an accident, you risk being jailed and having your vehicle impounded while liability is determined. Should you be at fault in an accident causing injury or death, you may be held until you ensure restitution and pay any fines. Proper Mexican insurance is essential as it serves as proof of your ability to pay damages.

Mexican law only accepts Mexican motor insurance (seguro), meaning US or Canadian policies, even with coverage, won't be recognized by Mexican authorities. You can obtain Mexican motor insurance online from established providers like Sanborn’s and others.

It's advisable to avoid nighttime driving due to the prevalence of unlit vehicles, difficult-to-see speed bumps, rocks, pedestrians, and animals on the roads, along with an increased likelihood of encountering drunk drivers. Daytime highway security is generally better. Be aware that some hijackings and illegal roadblocks related to drug gang activities can occur, primarily in the northern regions.

Car rental

Car rentals in Mexico may seem costly compared to US or European rates, but arranging one is quite straightforward. Numerous well-known international rental companies operate across the country. Renters must present a valid driver's license, passport, and major credit card, and are typically required to be at least 21 years old (sometimes 25; those between 21 and 24 may incur an additional surcharge).

Hire a taxi with a driver

Hiring a taxi for a day trip outside the city usually costs about the same as an economical rental car, ranging from M$600 to M$700.

Motorbike rentals

Motorbikes or scooters can be rented at select tourist locations. Typically, you'll need a driver's license and a credit card, but many rental places do not provide insurance coverage.

Take ferries to travel to and from the Baja Peninsula

Passenger and vehicle ferries link the Baja Peninsula to the Mexican mainland, operating routes between Santa Rosalía and Guaymas, as well as from La Paz to Mazatlán and Topolobampo. These ferries not only eliminate the hassle of navigating around the Gulf of California but also often provide overnight options, allowing travelers to save on accommodation costs.

There's just one train route, but it's definitely worth experiencing

The stunning Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico winds through the Sierra Madre Occidental, connecting Los Mochis and Chihuahua (the luxurious Chepe Express operates solely between Los Mochis and Creel). It's a must-do on any trip to Mexico and the country's only remaining passenger train service.

Travel accessibility in Mexico

Although there is a growing number of wheelchair-accessible companies offering tours and trips in Mexico, along with newer resorts and hotels equipped with ramps, dropped curbs, and elevators, independent wheelchair users still face significant challenges. Many city sidewalks are old and uneven, lacking dropped curbs, and most public transportation options aren't designed for accessibility (consider the stairs on the Mexico City Metro and the lack of provisions on buses). However, some taxi services and tour operators can arrange private transfers for wheelchair users if booked in advance.

For further information, visit Dinogo Planet's Accessible Travel page.