Transportation in Mexico

ON THE GO

Traveling by plane

The domestic network is good. Aeroméxico (AM) flies to all major cities.

On the way by car / bus

According to youremailverifier, the road network in Mexico covers around 252,000 km. The roads are in good condition. The expressways are operated by Caminos y Puentes Federales de Ingresos y Servicios Conexos and are chargeable. Attention must be paid to both announced and unannounced thresholds.

Breakdown services and first aid facilities are available at the rest stops on the expressways. As a service of the Ministry of Tourism, the Angeles Verdes (Green Angels) organization offers a free breakdown service (Tel.: 078) on the expressways between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (fuel, spare parts and oil for a fee). The mechanics usually speak English.

Sometimes large distances between the petrol stations. Unleaded premium petrol is available at all of the around 3000 PEMEX filling stations.

Long-distance bus:
Mexico has an excellent and inexpensive long-distance bus network. There are 1st class, deluxe and standard buses. There are seat tickets for these and they travel the direct route. On the internet www.ticketbus.com.mx and http://horariodebuses.com/mx is information available about bus schedules for routes in Mexico.

Fares, timetables and information can also be obtained from the bus stations in major cities. Departure from the bus stations, which are mostly close to the city center.

Car rental 
at airports, in larger cities and holiday resorts. Almost all of the major rental companies are represented. In terms of price, it is cheaper to pre-order a rental car in your home country. One-way rentals are not recommended due to the very high repatriation fees. Documentation: International and national driving licenses are accepted. In addition, the tourist card and a credit card (when renting in Germany) are required. The minimum age for renting a car is 25 years. It is advisable to take out insurance; short-term insurance policies are inexpensive.

Speed limits:
within built-up areas: 40 km / h;
on the country road: 80 km / h;
on the highway: 100-110 km / h.

Traveling in the city

Mexico City has a good and inexpensive subway network, standard fares apply (open Mon-Sat from 5 a.m., Sun from 7 a.m.). A tram network and an extensive bus network complement the local transport system. The trolleybuses have recently been modernized, and unit fares also apply here. In all major cities, buses and trams serve as a means of transport.

In addition to the metro, Guadalajara also has public bus lines, trolleybuses and numerous private bus companies. Monterrey also has a metro. Taxis should not be called on the street, especially in Mexico City. Authorized Sitio taxis are marked with an »S« on the license plate and are available either at taxi stands or by phone. Other taxis should be avoided for safety reasons. Tips are at the passenger’s discretion. It is generally advisable to agree the fare in advance. The current prices can be requested from the hotel. A surcharge will be charged between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

On the go by train

After the end of government subsidies, there are only a few passenger trains left in Mexico.

A spectacular route is that of the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway ” El Chepe” (Internet: www.chepe.com.mx). The Chepe travels from Chihuahua to Los Mochis through the famous Copper Canyon.

At the weekend, the Tequila Express (Internet: www.tequilaexpress.com.mx/) connects Guadalajara with Tequila.

The Expreso Maya (Internet: www.expresomaya.com) travels within 5 days from Mérida via Campeche to Palenque (currently closed due to track construction work).

For more information on connections and services, please contact Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Internet: www.ferromex.com.mx).

Children under 5 accompanied by an adult travel for free, children from 5-11 at half price. In domestic transport, intercity buses play a greater role than trains due to the much more extensive route network and shorter travel times.

Out and about by ship

Scheduled ferry service between La Paz (Baja California) and Mazatlán (daily); La Paz and Topolobambo (three to four times a week), Guayamas and Santa Rosalia (across the Gulf of California); as well as Puerto Vallarta and Cabo St. Lucas (twice a week). Regular traffic also between the mainland (Cancún) and the Caribbean islands of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel.

The Pacific ports of Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco are also called on as part of cruises on the west coast.

Transportation in Mexico