To get around Oaxaca, you can use a variety of transportation options, including buses, colectivos, taxis, and rental cars, as well as domestic flights and trains, although the latter two are limited.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) is the primary airport serving the city of Oaxaca, with direct flights to major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Cancun, as well as some international connections to the United States. You can also enter Oaxaca overland from neighboring states like Chiapas, Veracruz, and Puebla, with several highway and bus options available. The airport is located about 6 kilometers south of the city center, and you can get to your destination by taxi, bus, or rental car.
If you're coming from other parts of Mexico, you can take a bus or drive to Oaxaca, with several major highways connecting the city to other parts of the country. The airport also offers car rental services from companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, as well as shuttle services to nearby hotels and destinations. Additionally, you can take a taxi or colectivo from the airport to get to your destination, with colectivos being a more affordable option for short distances.
Domestic Flights
For domestic flights within Mexico, you can use airlines like Aeromexico, VivaAerobus, and Interjet, which offer flights from Oaxaca to major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Cancun. You can book your flights online through the airlines' websites or at a local travel agency, with prices varying depending on the time of year and demand. A one-way ticket from Oaxaca to Mexico City can cost around $100-$200 USD, depending on the airline and time of booking.
Trains & Rail
Oaxaca has a limited rail network, with no high-speed trains available. However, you can take a train from Oaxaca to other parts of Mexico, such as the Tequila Express tourist train that runs from Oaxaca to the town of Teotitlan del Valle. The train ride offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular tourist attraction. You can book your train tickets online or at a local train station, with prices varying depending on the route and class of service.
Buses & Coaches
For intercity bus travel, you can use companies like ADO, Estrella de Oro, and OCC, which offer routes to major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Puebla. The buses are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from around $10-$20 USD for a one-way ticket. You can book your bus tickets online or at a local bus station, with some companies offering online check-in and seat selection.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Oaxaca City | $0.50 | Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2-$5 | Available at taxi stands or by street hire |
| Ride-Hailing | Oaxaca City | $3-$6 | Uber and Didi available, with cash payment options |
| Colectivo | Oaxaca City | $1-$2 | Shared vans that run on fixed routes, affordable and frequent |
| Bicycle | Oaxaca City | $10-$20 per day | Rental shops available, with scenic bike routes |
Driving
- To drive in Oaxaca, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- Road conditions in Oaxaca can be moderate, with some highways and rural roads in poor condition.
- Fuel costs are generally lower in Mexico than in the US, with a liter of gasoline costing around $0.80 USD.
- Car rental companies like Hertz and Avis have offices in Oaxaca City, with prices starting from around $40-$60 USD per day.
- When driving in Oaxaca, be aware of potential hazards like potholes, speed bumps, and aggressive drivers.
- It's also a good idea to purchase car insurance, which can be bought at the rental office or online.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams like overcharging taxis or fake tour operators, and always agree on a price before setting off.
- Use reputable bus companies and book your tickets in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
- Download ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi to get around Oaxaca City.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate and communicate with locals.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like bus stations or markets.
- Use cash instead of credit cards for small purchases, as not all vendors may accept card payments.
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected during your trip.