Mexico City to Puerto Escondido

How to Get From Mexico City to Puerto Escondido

2Options
2h 15mFastest
$51From
MaartenElaFayeWritten by Maarten · Reviewed by Ela, Faye

Flight · Bus

Puerto Escondido is a surf town on Oaxaca's Pacific coast, 446 kilometres (277 miles) from Mexico City. Zicatela beach draws serious surfers, and the nightlife is easygoing. Flying is the quickest way to get from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, taking 2h 15m - 2h 30m. The bus costs $70 (1,200 MXN) and takes 11-17h, so it is an overnight haul.

DISTANCE

Distance from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido

Mexico City and Puerto Escondido are about 446 km (277 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 655 km by road. The quickest way to get from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido is by taking the flight, which takes around 2h 15m - 2h 30m.

~446 km
Straight-line distance
~655 km
Route distance
2h 15m
Fastest
COMPARE

2 ways to travel from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido

There are two ways to travel from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido. You can choose between the flight and bus. The journey takes 2h 15m–11h and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by flight with tickets starting at $51 (870 MXN).

FlightWith transfersDuration2h 15m+incl. transfersPricefrom$51870 MXN

Mexico City to Puerto Escondido by Flight

Taking a flight from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido is the fastest and easiest option. Total travel time is only 2h 15m - 2h 30m, and that includes airport transfers. Plus, if you book early, you can find fares for less than half the price of a bus ticket!

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Step 1: City Centre to Mexico City Airport

45m$1.70 (30 MXN)

Your flight departs from Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX), 10 km east of the city centre. The best ways to get there from the city centre are a 45-minute Metrobus and a 30-minute taxi/Uber.

For a combination of budget and convenience, we recommend taking the Metrobus, which only costs $1.70 (30 MXN). Take Line #4. You can ask the assistance of your hotel for the nearest bus stop or you can board one at Republica de Argentina, the closest bus stop to the main square.

If you prefer a private and fast ride, we recommend hailing an Uber with rates from $6.40 (110 MXN). But if you want to book in advance, a 3-seater private transfer costs $37 (640 MXN) on BookAway.

Why we don’t recommend taking the Metro to Mexico City Airport

Although the Metro is the cheapest option at $0.30 (5 MXN), it is not ideal if you have luggage. Large bags are not allowed, and the trains can get extremely crowded, especially during peak hours. Plus, no direct line goes from the city centre to the airport, so you may need to make multiple transfers.

You can check our Mexico City Airport page for a more detailed guide.

Step 2: Mexico City to Puerto Escondido

1h 25m$38 (650 MXN)

Flights from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido depart about 4x a day and flight time is approximately 1 hour 25 minutes.

Three airlines fly daily for this route: Viva Aerobus, Volaris, and Aeromexico. If you're looking for the cheapest fares, go with Volaris or Viva Aerobus.

Airfares can go as low as $38 (650 MXN) when you book at least a few weeks ahead. Regularly check Skyscanner for the cheapest flights!

Step 3: Puerto Escondido Airport to the City Centre

5-20m$12 (200 MXN)

Puerto Escondido International Airport is within the city, just 5-20 minutes minutes by taxi from the beach area and the town’s centre.

If your accommodation is nearby you can consider walking, but the best option may be to take a taxi right from outside Puerto Escondido Airport. Rates start from $21 (350 MXN), but increase depending on the distance.

Looking for a cheaper ride? Taxis are more affordable from the main road. Fares start at $12 (200 MXN).

the City Centre
BusWith transfers · 7 departuresDuration11h+incl. transfersPricefrom$701,200 MXN

Mexico City to Puerto Escondido by Bus

Taking a bus from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido is a good option if you prefer travelling overnight, because you won't lose daytime in the journey. This also saves you a night on accommodation.

However, with rates from $70 (1,200 MXN), bus fares can be twice the price of a direct flight, which only takes about two hours. The journey by bus takes around 11-17h.

But if you prefer travelling by land, we highly recommend bringing a lot of water, some snacks as well as a good book or a fun playlist to make the journey more pleasant.

Step 1: Getting to the bus station in Mexico City

15-30m$0.30 (5 MXN)

There are a number of bus terminals in Mexico City, but to travel to Puerto Escondido, you will be departing from Terminal de Autobuses de Oriente. Commonly known as TAPO, this bus station is 6 km east of downtown Mexico City. You can access it by public transport or taxi/Uber.

With public transport, you can take either the Metrobus for $0.30 (6 MXN) or the Metro for just $0.30 (5 MXN).

Not sure about the difference? The Metro is a train that goes underground, the Metrobus is a big bus that has its own lane on the roads and has set stops so it’s normally faster than regular buses. To decide which one is best, check whether your accommodation is near a Metrobus stop or a Metro station.

To get to TAPO Station by Metro, use Line #1. If you’re taking the Metrobus, use bus Line #4, which comes from the city centre. In both cases, you’ll need to get off at San Lazaro Station.

If you don’t want the hassle of finding your way to bus and train stations, then you might be better off taking a taxi or Uber for around $7 (120 MXN).

Step 2: Mexico City to Puerto Escondido by Bus

10h 30m - 16h 30m$67 (1,140 MXN)

The bus companies operating from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido are ADO, OCC and Altamar. You can get bus tickets for $67 (1,140 MXN).

Most buses offer basic amenities like air conditioning, onboard toilets and Wi-Fi, although connection is not always guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a jacket because air-conditioned Mexico buses get really cold.

10h55mADOStandardMexico City Calz TaxquenaPuerto Escondido Bus Station21:00$671,140 MXNTickets
10h40mADOStandardMexico City TAPO San Lazaro Bus StationPuerto Escondido Bus Station19:1021:00$701,200 MXNTickets
11h40mADOStandardMexico City Eje Central Lázaro CardenasPuerto Escondido Bus Station18:0020:00$701,200 MXNTickets
13h35mAltamarFirst ClassCentral de Autobuses del Sur Terminal TaxqueñaTerminal de Autobuses OCC19:0021:31$731,260 MXNTickets
15h6mAltamarFirst ClassCentral de Autobuses del NorteTerminal de Autobuses OCC17:3020:00$731,260 MXNTickets
Show all 7 companies
10h55mOCCFirst ClassCentral de Autobuses del Sur Terminal TaxqueñaTerminal de Autobuses OCC21:00$741,260 MXNTickets
11h40mADOFirst ClassCentral de Autobuses del NorteTerminal de Autobuses OCC18:0020:00$781,340 MXNTickets

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To

Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

Book your tickets online beforehand via BookAway for a better chance of getting a seat on your desired date and time.

Step 3: Puerto Escondido Bus Terminal to the City Centre

5m$2.90 (50 MXN)

The bus will drop you off at Puerto Escondido Bus Station in the city centre, a few blocks from the main beach.

Many accommodations are within walking distance of the bus station. Check if yours is nearby.

If it’s not close, the most convenient option is to take a taxi from right outside of the bus terminal. The rate will depend on the distance but starts at around $2.90 (50 MXN). If you're heading to the main beach, Playa Principal, taxi rates start at $8.70 (150 MXN).

the City Centre

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STAY

Our favourite places to stay in Puerto Escondido

Here are our favourite places to stay in Puerto Escondido for every budget.

Villas Carrizalillo
Treat Yourself

Villas Carrizalillo

Villas Carrizalillo are the epitome of luxury. Every detail of this hotel – from the pool to the rooms – will make you want to say wow. The hotel views should be enough to convince you to stay here. It overlooks one of the best beaches in the whole of Mexico! You even have your own private staircase down to Playa Carrizalillo.

All of the rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated and clean, with most of them offering balconies. You’ll also receive a delicious continental breakfast every morning and can enjoy the excellent food prepared in the hotel’s restaurant at night. It’s one of the most popular hotels in Puerto Escondido, so make sure to book in advance.

  • Some of the best views in Puerto Escondido
  • Private staircase to Playa Carrizalillo
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Delicious breakfast included

Double rooms start from $90 (1,540 MXN) per night

Check availability
Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel
Mid-Range

Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel

Casa de Olas is one of those hotels you see on Instagram and instantly want to stay in. It’s stunning and has all the facilities you could ever need — a dreamy swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis courts, bar and tropical gardens.

There’s so many peaceful spots to just hang out in, that you’ll leave the hotel completely relaxed and rejuvenated. It’s the little touches that make this place special like the yoga classes, free breakfast and friendly staff. The rooms are spacious, modern and all include a private bathroom.

  • Relaxing swimming pool
  • Bicycles for rent
  • Fitness centre and tennis courts
  • Incredible breakfast included

Double rooms between $50-$90 (860-1,540 MXN) per night

Check availability
Casa Losodeli & Coworking
Mid-Range

Casa Losodeli & Coworking

Whether you’re a digital nomad or not, Casa Losodeli is a great choice in Puerto Escondido. It’s a beautiful hostel that creates a friendly community amongst the guests, something often lacking in hotels.

If you are not here to work, you can spend the day lounging around the pool below one of the many mango trees. Casa Losodeli also has a well-equipped communal kitchen. Although there are plenty of restaurants and bars only steps away. You’ll never want to leave this place!

  • Refreshing swimming pool
  • Co-working space
  • Communal kitchen
  • Close to bars, restaurants and Carrizalillo beach

Double rooms between $50-$90 (860-1,540 MXN) per night

Check availability
Casa de la Gente Nube
Budget

Casa de la Gente Nube

Casa de la Gente Nube is only a 5 minute walk from the beach. It’s so close, you can see it from your private balcony! And if you are very lucky, you can even see whales whilst eating your breakfast on the balcony during Puerto Escondido’s whale season (Dec-Feb).

Every room is spacious and brightly coloured, perfectly matching Puerto Escondido’s vibrant vibe. The hosts will start your day right with their friendly smiles and delicious breakfast. Puerto Escondido accommodation isn’t the cheapest, so Casa de la Gente Nube is a real steal.

  • Incredible sea views
  • 5 minutes from Zicatela beach
  • Friendly and welcoming hosts
  • Delicious breakfast included

Double rooms between $15-$50 (260-860 MXN) per night

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Puerto Escondido?

Puerto Escondido is fast becoming a well-known surfing location within Central America. Its famous Mexican Pipeline is one of the longest continuous surf breaks in the world. Many experienced surfers flock to Zicatela Beach, and those still learning can spend their days trying to ride a wave at La Punta.

If surfing isn’t your thing, you can relax on the golden-sand beaches, soak up the vibrant nightlife or explore the surrounding areas. The coastal town's welcoming bohemian vibe will quickly make you forget about all your pre-holiday stress and live every day in the moment. Exactly the reason why it‘s so hard to leave Puerto Escondido!

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, roughly 446 kilometres (277 miles) apart. In all, there are 2 ways to make the trip. The cheapest non-flight fare is $70 (1,200 MXN), though if you're lucky with timing you might find a flight ticket for even less. The quickest trip takes 2h 15m.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido?

The distance from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido is 446 kilometres (277 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido?

The fastest way to get from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido is by flight and takes 2h 15m - 2h 30m.

What is the cheapest way to get from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido?

The cheapest way to get from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido is by flight with ticket costs starting from 870 MXN.

About the Authors

Maarten
Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Ela
ElaReviewer

Senior Travel Writer

Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.

Faye
FayeReviewer

Travel Writer

A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.

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