In Mexico, there are various options for transportation, both public and private, that you can use to get around. From the traditional long-distance buses and transfers, to ferries that take you to the islands, and airplanes that make travel convenient and comfortable for all kinds of travelers. In this article, you’ll discover the different means of transportation available in Mexico and how to use them effectively and safely to explore the country.
Best Travel Insurance for Mexico
Most popular routes in Mexico
In the next section, you will find information about the most common transportation routes in Mexico. Further below, I will provide details on the various transportation methods available for traveling within the country, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
How to get to OAXACA by bus, plane and car | Mexico
How to get to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico city (CDMX) by bus, tour & plane
how to get to Teotihuacán from Mexico City (CDMX) to see the pyramids
How to get to COZUMEL from CANCÚN & PLAYA DEL CARMEN by ferry, bus or car
How to get to Chacahua Lagoons & What to do (Oaxaca)
Travel to Mexico with Unlimited Data
Shuttles: The most comfortable transportation for traveling in Mexico
One of the main benefits of using SHUTTLES (👉company) as a means of transportation in Mexico is the comfort they offer. With this service, you have the ability to book in advance and even choose the type of vehicle you prefer to travel in. Furthermore, you will have more space and privacy during your trip since you won’t have to share the vehicle with other passengers.
Another advantage of transfers is their safety. Unlike unregulated taxis, transfer drivers are typically professionals who work for a company and possess a valid license to operate their vehicles. Many transfer companies also accept credit card payments, which provides travelers with an additional level of security.
However, one of the potential drawbacks of using transfers is their cost. The prices for this service are often higher than other forms of transportation, such as long-distance buses.
Shared and Private Transfers
In Mexico, there are shuttle services available for both shared and private shuttles. Shared shuttle services usually consist of minivans that pick you up from your hotel and take you (along with other passengers) to your destination. This way, passengers can split the cost of the ride. Shared shuttle services are generally more affordable than private shuttles.
Private shuttles, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive, but offer the advantage of traveling alone or with your friends and family. Another advantage of private shuttles is that you can customize your experience, since you’ll have a dedicated driver who will pick you up at the requested time and take you directly to your destination.
Where to book a shuttle?
You can use the following SEARCH ENGINE to find available shuttles for traveling throughout Mexico. This is a trustworthy, professional, and specialized transportation company.
Airplane: the fastest mode of transport
AIR TRAVEL (👉cheap flights) is a popular and convenient way to get around Mexico due to its speed and efficiency. With numerous airports both nationally and internationally, it’s easy to fly to different parts of the country.
The largest airport in Mexico is the Benito Juarez International Airport, located in Mexico City. It caters to both national and international flights. Other noteworthy airports include the Cancun International Airport, a popular tourist destination, the Guadalajara International Airport, the second-largest in the country, and the Monterrey International Airport.
Flying within Mexico is an excellent option if you want to save time and avoid long road trips. Additionally, flight prices are relatively affordable, making air travel an accessible alternative for intercity
Here you can check the available flights
If you’re looking to check availability and pricing between cities, you can use the search engine below to make an initial comparison among the major airlines. It’s a quick and easy way to get an idea of which airlines are offering flights and at what prices.
Car: the right transportation in Mexico for explorers
Mexico boasts an extensive network of highways that connects major cities and tourist attractions, making traveling by car an enjoyable and exciting experience. While the main highways are in good condition, the secondary ones may not be as well-maintained.
One of the advantages of traveling by car is the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. You can stop anytime, anywhere, take in the sights and sounds, and visit the towns and cities along the way.
However, if you decide to take a road trip by car in Mexico, it’s important to take some safety precautions into consideration. Some areas of the country may be unsafe due to criminal activity, so do your research before embarking on the trip. It’s also important to stay alert and take security measures such as avoiding driving at night, carrying minimal cash, and keeping the windows and doors of your car closed while driving.
Renting a car in México
Exploring Mexico by car is a great adventure, and with a wide range of vehicles available at different pickup locations. If you decide to RENT a CAR, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.
Keep in mind that you also have the option of picking up and dropping off your car at different locations. For example, you can pick up your car in Mexico City and return it in Cancun.
To check available vehicles, use the search engine below:
Ferry and Boat Transportation in Mexico
Ferries are a great transportation option, especially for visiting the islands and coasts of the country. Fortunately, Mexico has several ferry routes that connect different tourist destinations and coastal cities.
One of the most popular routes is the one that connects the city of Playa del Carmen with the island of Cozumel, located in the Riviera Maya, and the route that connects the city of Mazatlán with the Baja California peninsula on the west coast of Mexico is also a common route.
In addition, there are several ferries that connect different tourist destinations in Quintana Roo, such as the ferry that connects Chiquilá with the island of Holbox (in this case it is more like a boat, but it serves the same purpose).
When traveling by ferry, it is important to keep in mind that schedules may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
¿Dónde comprar billetes de ferry o barco?
To check the schedules and availability of ferry, boat or water taxi routes in Mexico, you can use the SEARCH ENGINE provided below. This transportation company is reliable, professional and specialized in their services.
Bus: the perfect way to save money
The bus is a great transportation option in Mexico if you want to travel long distances at a reasonable price, as Mexico has an extensive network of buses that connect the main cities and tourist destinations of the country.
One of the main advantages of traveling by bus is the low prices. Bus tickets are usually much cheaper than airplane, train or transfer tickets. In addition, many buses in Mexico are equipped with amenities such as reclining seats and air conditioning, making the journey comfortable and pleasant.
Continuing with the theme of savings, some people choose to travel on overnight buses, thus saving a night of hotel expenses since they arrive at their destination in the morning.
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider when traveling by bus. One of them is travel time, as buses can take longer than airplanes or trains to reach their destination. It can also be uncomfortable for those who have trouble sitting for long periods of time.
Another disadvantage to consider is safety. Although most buses in Mexico are safe, it is important to take precautions to avoid being robbed on the way to the station, especially during hours when there are fewer people on the street. In addition, some destinations may be dangerous due to criminal activity, so it is important to take security measures while traveling.
Where can I buy bus tickets?
You can use the following SEARCH ENGINE to check the schedules and availability of bus routes in Mexico. It’s a reliable, professional, and specialized transportation company.
Colectivos: Keep Saving on Transportation in Mexico
The colectivo is a popular transportation option in Mexico if you need to travel short distances within cities. These are medium-sized vehicles (like minibuses) that can transport several people at the same time and have fixed routes where they pick up and drop off passengers along the way.
One of the distinctive features of colectivos is that they are shared vehicles and provide a very economical way of getting around. As colectivos are popular among locals, they can be a great opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience everyday life in Mexico.
However, it’s important to note that colectivos may be less comfortable than other means of transportation, as the conditions of the vehicles can sometimes be quite basic.
Tours and activities in Mexico
In Mexico, there’s a wide variety of activities and tours to enjoy, from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to swimming with whale sharks, learning about gastronomy, and sunbathing on the beach.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
Mexico is a country where violent crime, such as robbery, homicide, and kidnapping, is common. There are states that it is not recommended to travel to ecause of safety reasons. Bellow, you’ll find a list of the places that you should avoid.
The following states are not recommended for travel: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, and Tamaulipas. And take extra precautions in Baja California, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Mexico State, Morelos, Nayarit, Sonora, and Zacatecas.
Remember to follow these recommendations:
- In case of robbery, do not resist physically.
- Do not show a high purchasing power, that is, do not go with jewels, bags, etc … that are expensive.
- Be careful if you go out at night, and stay in crowded places where you are surrounded by other people.
- Thefts are usual (at guntpoint and during daytime), so don’t go with the camera or mobile in your hand or hang out of your neck.
- Try to avoid carrying the backpack on the back. Put it in front of you, or use a belt pouch or a cross bag.
I, personally, spent 4 months solo traveling around Mexico (I was in Puerto Escondido + Chacahua, Huatulco, Mexico City, Holbox, Merida, Valladolid, Tulum, Bacalar, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen) and I didn’t find myself in any dangerous situation.
Although in most of these places murders took place in the middle of the street and people staying in the same hostel as me were robbed at gunpoint. But don’t let this scare you! Traveling to Mexico is totally possible, in fact it is a country with a lot of tourism.
In any case, it is always a good idea to have a TRAVEL INSURANCE that can compensate you economically and help you if a medical emergency arises.
If you are interested in traveling alone, I recommend this article on the reasons and benefits of solo traveling and this other article with tips for traveling alone as a woman. I encourage you to try it as it is a great and very beneficial experience for oneself.
FAQs about transportation in México
Mexico offers a range of transportation options including airplanes, shuttles, buses, and ferries. Each mode of transportation has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to keep them in mind while planning a trip in Mexico.
The best mode of transportation in Mexico largely depends on factors such as distance, destination, budget, and personal preferences. Airplanes and shuttles provide comfortable travel for long distances, while cars offer more independence, and buses are a cost-effective way to explore the country.