If you’re planning a trip to Mexico and wondering how best to get around, we’ve got you covered. Important considerations include budget, time constraints, comfort, ease and which of Mexico’s stunning destinations you wish to explore. Whether you choose to fly, sail, rent a car, embark on a scenic train journey or use taxis, each mode of transportation has its pros and cons. To get the lowdown, read on for our guide to the transport in Mexico.
By plane
Travelling by air is usually the quickest mode of transport in Mexico. The country boasts an extensive network of domestic flights, making air travel a convenient option for covering long distances. Major hubs like Mexico City, Cancun and Guadalajara have well-connected airports, with numerous airlines offering domestic flights. Although planes are ideal for travellers with limited time or those wishing to explore different regions efficiently, it’s important to note that domestic flights can be relatively expensive, especially during peak travel seasons. Fortunately, our team know how to score the best deals and availability, meaning you can sit back and enjoy the view as you explore this colourful country with ease.
By boat
Mexico’s extensive coastline and diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination to explore by boat. Hop between picturesque beach towns like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres and Baja California, and gain access to ancient ruins and historical sites, including Palenque and El Tajin. Wildlife encounters become more exciting too when seen from the water. Picture yourself sailing through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve or exploring the Sea of Cortez, where you can spot dolphins, manatees, sea lions, whales and countless birds.
By bus
For locals, buses are the most popular and cost-effective mode of transport in Mexico. An extensive network connects cities, towns and remote areas. Visitors will find that Mexico’s bus system is well-developed, with various classes of buses catering to different budgets and comfort levels. Luxury buses, such as ADO Platino and ETN, provide spacious seating, air-conditioning, on-board WCs and sometimes even WiFi. For shorter distances, local buses – known as colectivos – are available too.
By car
If you enjoy the freedom of the open road and travelling at your own pace, we can arrange for you to use a hire car during your trip. Driving in Mexico can be challenging at times, especially in busy cities or rural areas with limited signage, and road conditions can also vary. But if you’re keen to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations or embark on road tips along Mexico’s splendidly scenic routes, this is by far the best way to get around.
By taxi
Taxis provide all the freedom of having a car, while allowing you to sit back and relax. Hiring private transportation for a few hours or a few days will also make your life easier. Regular taxis are readily available in most Mexican cities and towns, providing a convenient way to navigate urban areas. It’s advisable to use authorised taxis, or those recommended by your accommodation, and to negotiate the fare before starting the journey (a common practice in Mexico). In recent years, ride-hailing services like Uber and Didi have become increasingly popular in major cities, offering a reliable and affordable alternative to traditional taxis. These services provide convenience, transparency in pricing and the ability to track your journey, making them a popular choice of transport in Mexico.
By train
While Mexico’s national rail network is not as extensive as other modes of transportation, there are several scenic train routes that offer a unique and nostalgic travel experience. Popular tourist trains operate in several regions and perfectly showcase Mexico’s stunning scenery. The most famous is the El Chepe train, which traverses the Copper Canyon in the state of Chihuahua. This breath-taking journey takes passengers through rugged canyons, towering cliffs and pretty villages, providing a glimpse into Mexico’s rural beauty. Additionally, the Tequila Express in Jalisco offers an enchanting excursion through the agave fields, with stops at distilleries for tastings.
By bike
It’s hard to beat the simple pleasure of two-wheel travel, and Mexico is a great place to hire a bike or join a cycling tour. Once you get outside the major cities, the roads are usually quiet and pleasant to cycle along and even minor roads are often paved in asphalt. If you’re keen to rack up some miles, it’s possible to join organised cycling tours, or, if you just fancy hiring a bike for a day or an afternoon, that’s easily done too, and Mexico is awash with scenic half-day and full-day tours across cities, countryside and coast.
