Getting around Mexico
Aeroméxico operates a wide domestic network, while low-cost carriers such as Volaris and Viva Aerobus provide frequent connections between major cities and tourist destinations.
Flight times are generally manageable. For example, Mexico City to Cancún takes about 2 hours, while Mexico City to Guadalajara is just over 1 hour. Services are frequent on key routes, making air travel a practical option for itineraries covering multiple regions.
Domestic flights also connect to smaller regional airports near popular destinations, including Mérida (MID) for the Yucatán Peninsula, Oaxaca (OAX) for southern cultural regions and Los Cabos (SJD) for Baja California.
Travelling by road is a common way to explore Mexico, offering flexibility to visit cities, archaeological sites, beaches and rural areas. The country has an extensive road network, with major highways linking centres such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla and Cancún.
Toll roads (cuotas) are generally the fastest and best-maintained routes, with multiple lanes and higher safety standards, while free roads (libres) are more variable in quality and often pass through towns and rural areas. Fuel stations are widely available along major routes.
Road travel allows access to scenic routes and lesser-visited regions, but distances can be considerable and driving conditions vary. Careful planning is advisable, particularly when travelling in remote areas or at night.
Road quality in Mexico is generally good on major highways, particularly on toll roads (cuotas), which are well-maintained and connect key cities and tourist destinations. These roads are usually multi-lane and offer the most reliable driving conditions.
Free roads (libres) vary more in quality and may pass through towns, rural areas and mountainous terrain. In some regions, hazards such as potholes, livestock, pedestrians and limited lighting can occur, so extra caution is advised, particularly at night.
Mexico's road network includes federal highways, state roads and local routes. Federal highways form the backbone of the system and are divided into toll roads (cuotas) and free roads (libres). Toll roads are generally faster and better maintained, while free roads are more scenic but slower and less predictable.
Car hire is widely available at major airports and in large cities, with both international and local companies operating throughout the country. Renting a car can be a practical option for exploring regions such as the Yucatán Peninsula, Baja California and parts of central Mexico.
When hiring a car, it is important to check insurance coverage as liability insurance is mandatory in Mexico. Travellers should also confirm what is included in the rental agreement, including excess levels and any restrictions on driving in certain areas. It is advisable to obtain emergency contact details from the rental company before setting off.
There is no single nationwide standard colour for taxis in Mexico, though many cities have locally regulated schemes with identifiable markings. In Mexico City, for example, registered taxis are typically pink and white, while other cities use different colour combinations.
Street hailing is common in many urban areas, but for safety reasons it is generally recommended to use authorised taxi ranks (sitios) or request a taxi through a hotel or official service. Not all taxis use meters, particularly outside major cities, so fares should be agreed in advance where a meter is not in operation.
Shared taxis (colectivos) operate on fixed routes in many parts of the country, particularly in smaller towns and tourist areas. These are usually minibuses or shared cars and are widely used by locals due to their low cost, though routes and boarding practices may be unfamiliar to first-time visitors.
Ride-hailing services are widely available in major cities, including Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Platforms such as Uber, Didi, and Cabify are widely used and often preferred by visitors, as fares are set in advance and payment is handled through the app. Availability is generally good in urban areas, though it may be more limited in smaller towns.
Cycling is possible in certain parts of Mexico, particularly within cities and along designated routes, but it is not widely used for long-distance travel between destinations. Traffic conditions, road quality and limited cycling infrastructure in many areas can make intercity cycling challenging.
Some cities, including Mexico City and Guadalajara, have introduced bike lanes and public bicycle-sharing schemes, making short-distance travel more accessible. Cycling is also popular in specific regions for recreational use, particularly along coastal routes and in tourist areas.
Long-distance coach travel is one of the most efficient and widely used ways to travel around Mexico. The country has an extensive bus network connecting major cities, towns and tourist destinations, often providing a comfortable alternative to flying.
Major operators include ADO, ETN and Primera Plus, offering different classes of service ranging from standard to executive coaches with reclining seats, air conditioning and onboard facilities. Services are frequent on major routes, and advance booking is recommended for popular journeys.
In Mexico City, one of the main transport hubs is Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (TAPO), which serves routes to eastern and southeastern destinations. Other major terminals in the capital and across the country handle regional and long-distance services.
Traffic in Mexico drives on the right-hand side of the road. General speed limits are typically 50–70 km/h (31–43 mph) in urban areas, 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph) on secondary roads, and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on major highways, unless otherwise indicated by signs.
Speed enforcement is in place, and road conditions can change quickly, so drivers should follow posted limits and remain alert. Seat belts are compulsory, and drink-driving laws are enforced, particularly in major cities. As elsewhere, local traffic signs and instructions from authorities should always be observed.
Mexico does not have a single nationwide automobile association equivalent to those in some other countries, but roadside assistance is available through various providers and toll road operators. Many toll roads offer emergency services, including patrol vehicles and assistance points.
For travellers using hire cars, the first point of contact should be the rental company, which will provide guidance on breakdown procedures and emergency support. Before setting off, it is important to have the relevant contact numbers and understand what is covered under the rental agreement.
Foreign drivers should carry a valid driving licence at all times. Licences from many countries are accepted for short visits, though an International Driving Permit is recommended, particularly if the original licence is not in Spanish or English.
Drivers should also carry their passport, rental agreement if applicable, and proof of insurance. If driving a foreign-registered vehicle, additional documentation such as a temporary import permit may be required, depending on the region.
In Mexico City, getting around involves a mix of transport options, including the extensive metro system, buses, trolleybuses, taxis and ride-hailing services. The metro is one of the largest and busiest in the world and is often the fastest way to travel across the city.
Elsewhere, urban transport varies by city. Guadalajara and Monterrey both have metro or light rail systems, supplemented by buses and taxis. In many cities, buses and colectivos form the backbone of public transport, though services and comfort levels can vary.
In practice, many visitors use a combination of metro systems (where available), ride-hailing services and organised transport to move around cities efficiently.
Passenger rail travel within Mexico is limited and is not a primary means of transport for most visitors.
One notable exception is the Chihuahua al Pacífico Railway (known as "El Chepe"), which runs through the Copper Canyon region in northern Mexico. This route is primarily a scenic journey rather than a practical transport option, offering access to dramatic landscapes and remote areas.
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