Mexico - Transportation

By Taxi

There are different types of taxis available including "Sitio", "Libres", Radio and Tourist Taxis, but the taxi recommended (especially at night) is the Radio Taxi. The radio taxis are identifiable by the radio antenna. These taxis are dispatched by radio but will occasionally pick up a fare on the street. Their fare is higher, but they will pick you up at the door and will be waiting at a prearranged time. The radio taxi company always keeps a record of the car and driver that provides the service and for security purposes at night the taxi service is the safest. The telephone directory will list this taxi under "Sitios de Automóviles" or "Taxis". Never take a street taxi at night. Most taxis do not have a meter , so it is recommended that you set a price beforehand.

In Town Bus Service

Bus stops are marked with a big sign with a drawing of a bus. To be sure you have the right bus, state your destination in a quizzical tone and wait for a SI or NO from the driver. Buses cover most of the city. The sign in front of the bus indicates the final destination. You should have small change available for bus fare. Ring the buzzer over the back door prior to your desired stop.

Collectives or Peseros

These are microbuses or V.W. vans that are white with red stripes or gray and green. They have fixed routes and fixed rates depending on the distance traveled. They take as many passengers as the car will hold and drop them anywhere along the route for a fixed price. The driver will hold out his hand, indicating the number of seats available. Peseros can be found on most main avenues. 

Trolley Buses

Trolleys run on electricity and are attached to overhead cables. The rate is currently the same as buses and the Metro. You can purchase an "abono de transporte", which is a unique ticket valid for the buses, trolleys and metro.

By Car

Rental cars are available at the airport and at hotel desks. Unless you plan on exploring outlying areas, you're better off taking taxis or using the easy and inexpensive public buses.