How to get from San Cristobal to Puerto Escondido
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!
How to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido?
The bus is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 619 kilometre (385 miles) from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido. The journey takes around 13 hours to 13 hours 30 minutes, and ticket prices start from 1,340 MXN ($76).
Where to stay in Puerto Escondido?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Puerto Escondido at the bottom of this page.
San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido by Bus
Buses from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido depart in the afternoon and evening, meaning most of your journey will be overnight. This is a great way to save both daytime hours and a night’s worth of accommodation.
Two bus companies operate on this route: ADO GL and OCC
ADO is the most popular bus company in Mexico. For this route, you can book the ADO GL bus, which offers semi-reclining seats, extra legroom and separate toilets. You’ll also have access to reading lights, shared entertainment screens, USB ports and power outlets for added convenience.
OCC is also a sub-branch of ADO. It offers standard first-class buses with basic features like AC, reclining seats and an onboard restroom.
You can expect the bus to make a few stops for food and bathroom breaks, so take advantage of these to stretch your legs.
Since the journey takes 13 hours to 13 hours 30 minutes, we recommend choosing ADO GL. For the extra comfort, it’s well worth the price.
Departure and arrival stations
Buses from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido depart from San Cristobal de las Casas Central Bus Station in the city centre. This terminal is within walking distance of many hostels and hotels, as well as easily accessible by taxi.
When you arrive in Puerto Escondido, the bus will drop you off at ADO Bus Terminal, which is very close to the city centre and just a couple of blocks from the main beach.
You can walk to your accommodation if it’s nearby, or take a taxi if it’s further away. Taxis are available from right outside of the bus terminal. Rates start from 50 MXN ($2.80).
Bus schedule from San Cristobal to Puerto Escondido
Buy your ticket online in advance for a better chance of securing a seat on your desired date and time.
Best places to stay in Puerto Escondido
Villas Carrizalillo - Treating Yourself
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 per night
Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel - Mid Range
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 per night
Casa Losodeli & Coworking - Mid Range
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 per night
Casa de la Gente Nube - Budget Friendly
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 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido
What is the distance from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido?
The distance from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido is 619 kilometre (385 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido?
The fastest way to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido is by bus and takes 13 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido?
The cheapest way to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Puerto Escondido is by bus with ticket costs starting from 1,340 MXN ($76).
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.
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
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.
