Transportation In Mexico

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In this section you will learn everything about transportation in Lake Chapala.
As other information becomes available, this section will be updated, so check back often. Focus would like to make Ask Focus as complete as possible, so if there is something that we have not included, please send us the information by clicking here and going to the Ask Focus content suggestion...
Taxis in Mexico
Taxis are abundant and very affordable, in spite of the high cost of gas. Taxis are either metered, not metered or charged by zones. In the latter, your price will vary depending on which zone you're in and which zone you're traveling to. For the most part, taxi drivers in Mexico don't speak English (a small few might speak a little English) so you will need to be able to speak some Spanish or have a written note to get about.
Taxies around the area

From the Airport

Other Taxies

Taking a taxi from the airport
After you get through customs, you will see a place to buy a taxi ticket at the ticket booth - it is outside the terminal in front of the International Arrival section. You'll see a map on the wall behind the agents which shows the price to the different locations. The agents speak enough English to sell you your ticket to your predetermined location. If you don't know Spanish, however, don't try to get into a long conversation. It's also best to have pesos. While they will accept US dollars, you will be paying a lot more.

After you buy your ticket, go to the curb and give the ticket to the cab driver. Tips are not required but it's not unheard of to give a small tip per suitcase ($5 pesos per suitcase...around 50 cents USD).

Also, ask the hotel or B&B where you are staying to write directions in Spanish for you to give to the cab driver.

Ajijic Plaza Taxi Stand
766-0674
Hours: 7 - 8 pm
Chapala Plaza Taxi Stand
765-3511
Hours: 6 am to 9 pm
Francisco Delgadillo
Taxi Service - 24 Hours
333-174-3718
376-765-2922
Buses, Buses and More Buses...

Mexico has an efficient, effective and low-cost bus system throughout the country. Bus service is composed of three categories in Mexico and differs dramatically from countries north of the border. Not all the routes offer all three categories, especially the shorter distances.

Busing is the main means of transportation for the working class of Mexico. And you can go most anywhere in Mexico by bus. They are safe and reliable.
Bus Lines

E T N

Primera Plus

Other Buses

E T N: Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales
Extremely comfortable executive buses serving 26 locations in central Mexico from the Mexico City to the Pacific. Recently extended service as far north as Monterrey.Also check their Schedules on this site.
Website: http://www.etn.com.mx

Primera Plus

A branch of Flecha Amarilla, with first class and deluxe buses serving many locations in central Mexico. The site is a bit confusing. Takes a bit of work to find info. For schedules, click Tarifas.
Website: http://www.primeraplus.com.mx/

Second Class Buses
Second class buses serve every city and village in Mexico. They may or may not have air conditioning and it is more like riding economy class in an airplane. They are older, make frequent stops and are generally crowded, and very economical. It is not uncommon for entertainers to climb on board, sing a few songs and pass the hat for a donation for the entertainment. This is all part of the fun and we're inclined to tip a couple of pesos.
Small Local Buses
The third category of buses is smaller and run within local communities, up and down the streets picking up and dropping off along the way. They are usually packed (standing room only) with local workers and students and the fare is around 7 pesos between Lakeside villages. They aren't very luxurious but they will get you to where you need to go. However, for long journeys, I'd stick to the first class buses.
Fortunately on the lakeside, we have a very reliable bus system and it is a great experience going from village to village on one of the local buses. When a bus is full and it stops to let someone off, invariably they are at the back of the bus and everyone in front piles off and then back on till the next stop. The experience can have everyone talking and laughing after doing this a couple of times.
TO FIND OUT ABOUT ADDITIONAL BUS LINES IN MEXICO, CLICK HERE...
Service contacts for travel, recreation.
Travel and Tours in Mexico

Tour Guides

Travel Agents

Beatriz de la Garza
email: beatrixlg@yahoo.com
tel: 0133-3615-2030

VIAJES AJIJIC
Talk to: CLAUDIA
Carretera Poiniente # 9 (Next to Post Office) - APDO # 369 - Ajijic
Telephones: 766 0575 or 766 0695
CLAUDIA EMAIL: viajesajijic_claus@hotmail.com
Ajijic Travel Agency
Domestic & international airline tickets, car rentals, hotel reservations, tours.
The best prices on worldwide cruises.
Main Office: Carr. Pte. #9 in Ajijic
766-0575/766-0695/Fax 766-0203
Chapala Branch Hidalgo #217B
765-2645/Fax 765-2906
Amigos Tours & Travel
All travels handled with total care for you!
Best guided tours throughout México.
Federal certified bilingual guided tours
traveling first class in all vehicle types.
Designed escorted tours to unusual places.
Airport & bus pick-up & delivery. Special group discount packages.
Plaza Bugambilias (next to El Torito), Ajijic
www.amigostoursmx.com
766-2157
Ray Travel Resources...the way to go!
Lakeside’s Professional Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)
20 years experience and personalized service for the seasoned traveler...
the difference is in the details. Designated specialist in S. America, Europe, Asia, cruises (river, barge & large ships), rail, air, car & hotel reservations.
Customized itinerary planning to fit your budget
Please visit our website to learn about Julie Ray, the CTC designation, special upcoming tours & read her published articles.
e-mail: julianneray@gmail.com
www.raytravelresources.com
376-766-2795/Fax: 376-766-4402
Charter Club Adventure Tours
Professional Tour Operator Since 1993
Plaza Montaña Centre, Ajijic
www.charterclubtours.com.mx
e-mail: charterclubtours@hotmail.com
Tel/Fax: 766-1777
LCS TRAVEL CLUB: Amigos Tours & Travel
766-1140 / 766-2157 / 766-1035 in Ajijic