Huatulco to Guadalajara - Playa La Entrega and Guadalajara Cathedral

Huatulco to Guadalajara: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara?

Most people would immediately think of taking a commercial flight, but there are actually several options available to you.

The best way for you will depend on your budget, how long you’re going to spend in Mexico, and how quickly you need to be in Guadalajara.

I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara simply and safely in five fantastic different ways.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

Why Should You Visit Huatulco?

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa in Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico
Image credit: Expedia.com

If you love stunning beaches, awesome waves, and a relaxed vibe, you absolutely need to visit Huatulco. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a coastal paradise tucked away in the beautiful state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

Huatulco is known for having nine bays and 36 beaches with beautiful clear waters, hence its formal name, Bahías de Huatulco. There are great surfing beaches like Playa La Bocana, beaches with a more tranquil vibe like Bahía El Órgano, and famous romantic beaches with sunsets you won’t forget like Bahía de Cacaluta.

You don’t need to love the beach to enjoy the lazy seaside atmosphere of Huatulco. Many of the best hotels in Huatulco have fantastic sun-decks where you just can relax on a sun lounge by the pool.

And for nature-lovers, Huatulco is a nesting ground for sea turtles. You can even participate in turtle releases, which is a heartwarming experience you won’t forget.

Before we jump into getting from Huatulco to Guadalajara, let’s look at why you should consider visiting Guadalajara in the first place.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

Why Should You Visit Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is a large city of over five million people and is the capital of the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It’s the second-largest city in Mexico by metropolitan area, with lots of great attractions in and around its beautifully preserved historic city center.

Like all major Mexican cities, Guadalajara is home to a stunningly beautiful cathedral in its historic center, the Guadalajara Cathedral. The Guadalajara Cathedral was originally constructed during the 16th and early 17th centuries in the Spanish renaissance style. However, its two newer gothic towers that were built after the original structure was destroyed in an earthquake in the 19th century make it truly spectacular.

Nearby Tlaquepaque is a colorful Mexican “magic town” (pueblo mágico) where you can enjoy a more relaxed pace and explore some great local artisanal cafes, art studios, and street art. You can also walk down the Andador Turístico de Tlaquepaque (the “tourist walk”) and see the beautiful colorful umbrellas creating an artificial rainbow above you.

And if you’re an aficionado of tequila, you will be in heaven. The birthplace of tequila itself is just 40 miles away in the town of Tequila, where you can tour the famous Jose Cuervo Distillery and taste some of the freshest Tequila you’ll ever find.  You can also follow the tequila trail (la ruta de tequila) through over 150 registered distilleries that, together, make 100% of the tequila in the world today.

So let’s look at how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

1. Fly to Guadalajara

Gate seating at an airport with a glass wall beside it, outside of which a plane is taking off, similar to the trip from Mexico City to Zipolite

If you think even briefly about how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara, it won’t surprise you that flying is the quickest and most convenient option.

This is the case even when you add in any layover time and the time it takes to get to the airport before you fly.

Fast Facts: Flying From Huatulco to Guadalajara

  • Starts at around US$85 one way
  • Flight time starts at around 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Several flights per day
  • Departs from Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX)
  • Arrives at Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)

Where Do I Book A Flight From Huatulco?

I recommend that you use Expedia.com to book your flights. You can check flights using the Expedia search box below:

You’l be able to see the best deals available on different dates and flying with different airlines.

How Do I Get From Huatulco To The Airport?

View of aircraft wing and land below from interior window of aircraft

You have a few options to get to Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) from La Crucecita, which is the main town in Huatulco.

I’ve set these out in detail below for you.

1. Rental Car

If you have a rental car already, you can usually drop it off at Huatulco International Airport before you fly.

All reputable providers have kiosks at the airport, and you’ll just need to make sure that you return it to the designated parking area for rental cars.

Tip: If you didn’t book the car at the airport, you’ll need to check that you can drop it off there and you may need to pay an additional one-way fee.

2. Private Transfer

Your hotel should be able to arrange a private transfer to Huatulco International Airport for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, I recommend using Viator, which has hundreds of different options.

Private transfers will start at around US$25 and will take about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on where your hotel is located and the time of day that you need to travel.

Tip: Check whether the transfer is shared with other passengers. If the driver needs to collect other passengers, the trip will be longer and you’ll need to allow more time.

3. Taxi

Taxis are easy to find in La Crucecita. If you’re staying at one of the resorts, I recommend that you ask the front desk to book you a taxi before you check out, and it will be waiting for you as soon as you’ve settled up.

There’s nothing to stop you hailing your own taxi, although I think letting the hotel arrange it is better so that you focus on getting packed and ready to travel.

If you do hail a taxi on the street, you’ll need to agree the fare with the driver before you go, but you can expect it to be around US$25 to US$30, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

4. Colectivo

Another option is to use a colectivo, which is somewhere between a shared taxi and a public bus.

You won’t find much online about them, but they’re used by locals who need to travel around Huatulco. Basically, they’re a shared minivan or covered pick-up truck that makes stops like a bus along the way.

While they’re perfectly safe to use and definitely the cheapest option, the drivers often need to wait until they fill up before making a trip. That means that you can’t be sure exactly when they’ll depart.

On that basis, I’d recommend using a taxi or getting a private transfer unless you’re really on a budget. If you decide to use the colectivo, make sure you give yourself plenty of time so that you don’t miss your flight.

FAQs: Flying To Guadalajara

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara flying commercially.

But if I haven’t answered your question yet, take a look at the FAQs and their responses below.

How Much Is A Commercial Flight To Guadalajara?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season and it depends on how far ahead you book, but prices typically start at around US$85 to Guadalajara.

Check out Expedia.com for the best deals available.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Guadalajara?

Volaris, VivaAerobus and AeroMexico fly to Huatulco, but only Volaris makes direct flights and there is only one a day on some Thursdays and Sundays.

If you can’t make the direct flight, you’ll need to take a connecting flight in Mexico City.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight starts at around 1 hours 45 minutes on a direct flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance from Huatulco to Guadalajara is approximately 567 miles (around 912 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) to depart and you’ll use Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara when you arrive.

If you don’t take the direct flight, so you’ll need to get a connecting flight in Mexico City. You’ll use either Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) or Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) for your connecting flight.

How Far Is It From Guadalajara Airport To The City Center?

Guadalajara International Airport is about 13 miles (21 km) to the west of the historic center of Guadalajara.

How Can I Get From Guadalajara Airport To The City Center?

Guadalajara is a large city with a well-developed transportation system. You can get a taxi, a private transfer, an Uber, or the public bus to the city.

Taxi

You’ll be able to get a taxi from the airport. A taxi will cost around US$10 to US$15 and you can get one in front of the airport when you exit.

Private Transfer

If you’re staying in any of the major hotels, the concierge will be able to arrange an airport transfer service for you.

If you want to arrange it yourself, check out your options on Viator. Prices start at around US$30.

Uber

Uber is also available in Guadalajara and works the same as it does in the US. Uber is usually a little cheaper than a taxi, and you can expect to pay around US$10 for a ride into the city.

Bus

The cheapest way to travel from the airport to your hotel is to take the public bus, and it will cost you 9.50 Mexican pesos (less than US$1.00).

You’ll need to take the Ruta T13-A bus from the airport to into the historic center of Guadalajara. The trip will take around an hour.

Can I Rent A Car At Guadalajara Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

2. Rental Car To Guadalajara

A road trip from Huatulco to Guadalajara is a great option that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Huatulco to Guadalajara

  • Starts at about US$965 plus gas, driving one-way
  • Travel time starts at around 18 hours
  • Huatulco (various locations)
  • Guadalajara (various locations)

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 15 to 16 gallons to get to Guadalajara.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. Assuming you’re driving one way and dropping off your car in Guadalajara when you arrive, you can expect to pay around US$965 plus gas.

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Huatulco, then you’ll pay around US$25 per day plus gas.

What Is The Best Route From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

The route from Huatulco to Guadalajara starts by heading west along highway 200. You’ll turn north after Huatulco Airport toward Santa María Huatulco and follow highway 175 to Oaxaca City.

From Oaxaca City, you keep heading north along highway 190, which then becomes highway 135D after about 10 miles. You then follow that for another 140 miles or so to a town called Cuacnopalan before turning west on highway 150D towards Puebla.

After about 60 miles, you turn north onto Arco Norte, which takes you on a 150 mile arc around Mexico City. When you reach highway 15D, you’ll take it west for another 250 miles until it becomes highway 90D as it takes you into Guadalajara.

What’s Great About Driving to Guadalajara?

There are some great advantages to renting a car and driving to Guadalajara.

1. Freedom

Of all of the options, driving literally and figuratively puts you in the driver’s seat.

You get to choose every aspect of your journey, from departure time to the speed you travel to how often and where you stop.

2. Privacy

One of the best things about driving is that you don’t have to share your journey unless you want to.

If you’re traveling as a family, driving also means that you can have your familial privacy whilst you travel.

3. Convenience

Driving is the ultimate convenience. All you’ll need to do is book the car and pick it up whenever you’re ready to go.

This is particularly helpful if you have a family and it might take a little longer than expected to get everyone ready.

FAQs: Rental Car From Huatulco to Guadalajara

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara by rental car.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

A rental car that you pick up in Huatulco and drop off the next day in Guadalajara will cost around US$965. The price is high because it includes a one-way fee. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Huatulco, then the rate is much cheaper (around US$25 per day) and you’ll just pay the daily rate and the gas.

Most providers don’t charge you per mile travelled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

What is the Route From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

The route from Huatulco to Guadalajara starts by taking the highway north through Santa María Huatulco that takes you along a 140 mile run through the mountains into Oaxaca City.

From Oaxaca City, you keep heading north for another 140 miles or so to a town called Cuacnopalan before turning west on highway 150D towards Puebla. After about 60 miles, you turn north onto Arco Norte, which takes you on a 150 mile arc around Mexico City.

When you reach highway 15D, you’ll take it west for another 250 miles until it becomes highway 90D as it takes you into Guadalajara.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 18 hours, depending on traffic and how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

The total distance is approximately 781 miles (1,256 km) from Huatulco to Guadalajara.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Huatulco?

There are only a few places to rent a car in Huatulco. If you’re driving it one way to Guadalajara, then you’ll need to rent the car in Huatulco International Airport, otherwise you won’t be able to drop it off.

If you’re planning to bring the car back to Huatulco, then you can also rent a car in La Crucecita.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

The short answer is yes, you will be able to rent a comfortable modern vehicle in Huatulco. However, the level of luxury that you enjoy depends very much on your budget.

The car rental providers in Huatulco have a range of vehicles that you can choose from, ranging from compacts up to luxury limousines.

Is It Safe To Travel By Car?

Yes, it is safe to travel by car provided you take basis precautions such as wearing your seatbelts, traveling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

3. Bus To Guadalajara

Internal bus seating, similar to on a trip from Huatulco to Guadalajara

If you can’t or don’t want to fly and don’t want to drive yourself from Huatulco to Guadalajara, the bus is a great option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Huatulco to Guadalajara

  • Starting at around US$150
  • Travel time is around 24 hours, depending on the trip
  • Multiple trips per day
  • Terminal ADO, Huatulco
  • Change buses in Mexico City
  • Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara, Guadalajara

Where Can I Book A Bus From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

In Mexico, different bus companies service different parts of the country.

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Huatulco to Mexico City are OCC (Omnibus Cristobal Colón) and Autobuses Altamar.

For the route from Mexico City to Guadalajara, the two biggest providers of bus routes are Futura and Elite Select.

I recommend using Busbud to find the best deal.

Tip: there’s no WiFi in the bus, so download anything you need at the hotel. You might also want to bring a neck pillow to help you sleep and Benadryl or Dramamine if you get carsick.

What’s Great About Taking The Bus?

Okay, so it’s not a private jet and never will be. Still, there are some positives to taking the bus.

1. The Bus Is Cheaper

Taking the bus will usually work out a little cheaper than flying.

That’s especially the case if you are planning to take a taxi to and from the airport each time.

2. Buses Take Their Time

It might seem like a strange thing to say, but buses are a bit like slow-food.

As you travel the approximately 781 miles (1,256 km) from Huatulco to Guadalajara through the mountains, you’ll get to soak in the diverse natural beauty of Mexico.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off In The City Center

If you take the bus from Huatulco to Guadalajara, you’ll be dropped off close to downtown Guadalajara.

When you get off the bus, if you’re staying in the town center, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to your hotel.

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Huatulco to Guadalajara

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara by bus.

How Much Is The Bus From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

Prices start at around US$150 per person per trip.

Which Buses Run From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

For the route from Huatulco to Mexico City, OCC (Omnibus Cristobal Colón) and Autobuses Altamar are the largest providers.

For the route from Mexico City to Guadalajara, the two biggest providers of bus routes are Futura and Elite Select.

I recommend using Busbud or ClickBus to check availability for your dates and to find the best deal.

Is There a direct Bus from Huatulco to Guadalajara?

No, there is no bus service that can take you the whole way from Huatulco to Guadalajara without a stop in between.

Most of the buses will stop in Mexico City, although you can also find buses that make a stop in Puebla if you would prefer to stop over there.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time starts at around 24 hours, depending on the time of day you’re traveling, the provider you use and the layover time between connecting buses.

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

The bus route is approximately 781 miles (1,256 km) long.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Huatulco, the pick-up point is the ADO Bus Terminal in the south end of the city center, just a few hundred metres from the beach.

In Mexico City, you’ll usually be dropped off at Central de Autobuses del Norte in the north of the city. The connecting bus to Oaxaca usually departs from Central de Autobuses del Norte, TAPO, or Terminal de Autobuses del Sur.

You can reach TAPO or Terminal de Autobuses del Sur by using the Metro. The stop next to Central de Autobuses del Norte is called Autobuses del Norte on Línea 5, and the stop next to TAPO is called San Lázaro on Línea 1 and Línea B. The closest stop to Terminal de Autobuses del Sur is Tasqueña on Línea 2.

In Guadalajara, you’ll be dropped off at the Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara, just a few miles south-east of the historic center.

Are The Buses Comfortable?

The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the seats are comfortable semi-recliners.

There is no WiFi, though, so download everything you need before you leave the hotel.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basic precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

4. Private Jet to Guadalajara

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Huatulco to Guadalajara, even though it is a relatively short distance.

And yes, it is monstrously expensive, but can’t be beaten for comfort and convenience.

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Huatulco to Guadalajara

  • Starts at around US$11,500
  • Flight time is around 1 hour 30 minutes direct
  • Departs from Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX)
  • Arrives at Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)

Where Can I Book A Private Jet from Huatulco to Guadalajara?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend taking a look at AlbaJet, which sets out various options for the Huatulco to Guadalajara route.

How Do I Get From Huatulco To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) from Huatulco. The options and prices are broadly the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

There are obviously some big positive aspects of flying with a private jet.

1. Glamour

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive in Guadalajara than in a private jet.

If you want to feel like a rockstar when you arrive, there’s no better way to do it.

2. Convenience

If you need to travel urgently on short notice, flying on a private jet is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Special Occasions

If you’re traveling as a group for a wedding or for a stag or hens night, a private jet is a great way to ensure that everyone arrives at the same time.

With a large group, the prices per person aren’t quite so eye-watering, although your wallet will still take a good beating.

FAQs: Flying From Huatulco to Guadalajara by Private Jet

If you still have questions about how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara by private jet, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Private Jet To From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

If you want to fly privately from Huatulco to Guadalajara, you’re looking at around US$11,500 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$37,000 for a larger jet seating up to 16 people.

Extremely glamorous and wonderfully convenient, but not for those of us with weak wallets.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a private jet is around 1 hour 30 minutes.

You’ll also get through security faster and will be able to board and get off more quickly than on a commercial flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance from Huatulco to Guadalajara is approximately 567 miles (around 912 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) to depart and you’ll use Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara when you arrive.

How Far Is It From Guadalajara Airport To The City Center?

Guadalajara International Airport is about 13 miles (21 km) to the west of the historic center of Guadalajara.

How Can I Get From the Airport To The City Center?

The options are the same as for a commercial flight, which I’ve set out in detail in the section above.

Can I Rent A Car At Guadalajara Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

5. Helicopter to Guadalajara

If you would consider taking a private jet from Huatulco to Guadalajara, a similar option is to take a helicopter. Helicopter taxi services are definitely the transport of the future, so if you can afford it, why not start now?

While a helicopter is slower than a private jet and not as luxurious due to the limited space, you’ll have much more time to sightsee on your way to Guadalajara. On that basis, I definitely think it is an option that you should have on your list.

Fast Facts: Helicopter From Huatulco to Guadalajara

  • Starts at around US$8,500
  • Flight time is around 5 to 6 hours
  • Departs from Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX)
  • Arrives at Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)

Where Can I Book A Helicopter From Huatulco to Guadalajara?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend starting with Patriot Aviation or Meicer Aviación, each of which can offer you a personalized quote on request for the Huatulco to Guadalajara route.

How Do I Get From Huatulco To The Airport?

In most cases, you’ll take off from Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) in Huatulco when you’re flying by helicopter.

The options and prices for getting from downtown Huatulco to the airport are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying By Helicopter?

Most of the advantages of flying privately apply to flying by helicopter as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a helicopter below.

1. Better For Sightseeing

While flying by helicopter is much faster than traveling by land in a car or a bus, it is still a lot slower than flying commercially or privately.

That might be a downside if you’re in a hurry, but if you’re not, you’ll have a much better opportunity to enjoy the scenery as you fly.

Basically, because you’ll be flying lower and slower, you’ll see more for longer.

2. Convenience

As with a private jet, if you want to travel quickly, a helicopter flight is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Better if You Fear Flying

It might sound like an odd thing to say, but if you’re keen to fly yet have a fear of flying, a helicopter flight is likely to be a better bet than a flight on a jet.

Helicopters take off vertically so there’s no dramatic acceleration that bothers many people when flying. They also fly lower and don’t use pressurised cabins, which means that you won’t have the discomfort from the change in pressure like you do in a plane.

All in all, a helicopter flight is a “lighter” version of flying, if you like. So if you’re not really keen on flying but need to travel quickly, this is a great option for you.

FAQs: Flying From Huatulco to Guadalajara By Helicopter

If you still have questions about how to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara by helicopter, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Helicopter from Huatulco to Guadalajara?

If you want to fly by helicopter to Guadalajara, you’re looking at around US$8,500 for a helicopter seating six to eight.

The price will go up for the larger, heavier models that require more crew members to pilot them.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time on a helicopter will be around 5 to 6 hours in total.

You won’t be able to fly that in one journey, because the maximum range of most helicopters is around 400 miles. You’ll need to either stop and refuel at Puebla or split up your trip into two or more flights.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance from Huatulco to Guadalajara is approximately 567 miles (around 912 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) to depart and you’ll use Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara when you arrive.

If you don’t take the direct flight, so you’ll need to get a connecting flight in Mexico City. You’ll use either Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) or Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) for your connecting flight.

How Far Is It From Guadalajara Airport To The City Center?

Guadalajara International Airport is about 13 miles (21 km) to the west of the historic center of Guadalajara.

How Can I Get From the Airport To The City Center?

The options are the same as for a commercial flight, which I’ve set out in detail in the section above.

Can I Rent A Car At Guadalajara Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

What Are The Best Things To Do In Guadalajara?

Although it may not be the first Mexican destination that you think of, other than Mexico City itself, there’s no bigger city in Mexico than Guadalajara. Unsurprisingly, it’s full of Mexican history and culture and there are plenty of things to see and do.

The heart of the historic center of Guadalajara is the Plaza de Armas, also known as the zócalo of the city. It’s a great place to start your exploration of the city, because it’s very close to lots of great attractions.

Guadalajara’s stunningly beautiful cathedral is the most obvious of these and it’s right opposite the zócalo. It’s a blend of early 17th century Spanish renaissance architecture, but with two distinctive yellow neo-Gothic spires constructed after an earthquake that make the cathedral truly unique.

Just a few blocks east of the zócalo, you can visit the 19th century Degollado Theater (Teatro Degollado) designed by Jacobo Gálvez with classical Corinthian columns, marble sculptures and extensive murals. It’s home to the state philharmonic orchestra (Filarmónica de Jalisco) and you can also see regular opera and ballet performances in its 1,027 visitor capacity.

A few miles south-east of Guadalajara’s historic center is a colorful area called Tlaquepaque. It was designated as a Jalisco magic town (pueblo mágico) in 2018. You can walk down the colorful Calle de la Independencia, watch a mariachi show with a tequila cazuela in El Parían, or admire the locally produced pottery, clothing and glass products in the many unique shops.

And if you’re an aficionado of tequila, you will be in heaven. The birthplace of tequila itself is just 40 miles away in the town of Tequila, where you can tour the famous Jose Cuervo Distillery and taste some of the freshest Tequila you’ll ever find.  You can also follow the tequila trail (la ruta de tequila) through over 150 registered distilleries that, together, make 100% of the tequila in the world today.

All in all, Guadalajara is loaded with great things to do and you can easily keep yourself entertained over a few days.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Guadalajara?

Image credit: Expedia.com

When you make it to Guadalajara, the next obvious question will be where do you stay?

The city is geographically huge and you can choose to stay in the historic center or in neighbouring areas like Chapalita. Wherever you decide to stay, there are lots of great options.

Within the historic center, Hotel de Mendoza is a beautiful luxury option a stone’s throw from the Teatro Degollado. If you’re looking for something a little easier on the wallet, Hotel Frances is a beautiful hotel in a building dating back to the early 17th century and One Guadalajara is right opposite the Guadalajara Cathedral.

In Chapalita, which is just a few miles to the south-west of the historic center, I’d recommend Hotel Boutique La Mansión Guadalajara. It’s a beautiful hotel with some real Mexican character with a pool, onsite restaurant and even a squash court. If you’re looking for something more traditionally modern, then the Riu Plaza or Becquer Hotel are also great options.

If you’re looking for hostels, Hostel Hospedarte Centro is just a few blocks to the south-east of the Guadalajara Cathedral. Art House Hostel is another great option with beautifully painted murals just a few blocks to the north-east of the historic center.

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

When is the Best Time to Visit Guadalajara?

If you live in northern latitudes, you’re probably used to four defined seasons.  However, the more equatorial parts of the world like Guadalajara don’t really follow this model. 

Instead, in Guadalajara, there are really only two distinctive seasons, which are a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season runs from November to the end of April and is cooler except for March and April, where the maximum temperature is quite high. The rainy season runs from May through to October, which are all warm months.

Guadalajara also has an altitude of 5,138 ft (1,566 m), which is about as high as Denver, Colorado. Its climate is a subtropical highland climate, and because of the high altitude, its temperature can fluctuate daily by more than 61°F (16°C). You’ll get cold nights and warm days, with the extremes in the temperature depending on part of the season in which you’re visiting.

The dry season is the most popular time for tourists, although there are also some spikes at other times such as the end of October during the Day of the Dead festival. The greater demand during the tourist season means that prices of flights and hotels increase as well.

The rainy season typically has fewer tourists, meaning that prices are lower, so its definitely the time to travel if you’re on a budget. Most of the time, it only rains in the afternoons, so if you plan to explore in the mornings, you can still have a great trip during the rainy season. 

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

What Should I Pack To Go To Guadalajara?

Woman sitting on a pink suitcase in an airport

Guadalajara is at an altitude of 5,100 feet (1,550 metres), which means that the temperature fluctuates quite a lot throughout the day.

In Guadalajara, people deal with this by dressing in layers and progressively stripping layers off as the temperature increases throughout the day. What you pack depends a little on when you’re expecting to visit.

During the cooler dry season months of November to March, temperatures are cool enough that you might want a warm jacket in the evenings. At its coolest in January, the temperature in Guadalajara will fall as low as 54°F (12°C) in the evenings and then get up to 77°F (25°C) during the day.

The wet season months are generally warmer. In May, which is the warmest month of the year, it gets up to 91°F (33°C) during the day and only falls to 63°F (17°C) in the evenings. You’ll still need warm clothes in the evening, but you can get away with warm jumpers rather than needing coats.

If you travel during the rainy season, you’ll want to bring a light, waterproof jacket or buy a fold-up umbrella when you arrive.  The run isn’t usually too extreme, but you should also have a few more changes of clothes in case you get caught in a downpour.

Even though the public transport system is great, you’ll still do a lot of walking in Guadalajara, so bring or buy a comfortable pair of walking shoes. A hat for protection against the sun is also a good idea if you’re visiting in the late part of the dry season or in the wet season. 

How to Get From Huatulco to Guadalajara

Final Thoughts

Thanks for reading, and I hope I’ve been able to help you with some ideas for traveling from Huatulco to Guadalajara beyond just flying or renting a car.

There’s obviously nothing wrong with those options, and frankly they’re probably your best bet most of the time. But I think it’s helpful to understand the other options so that you don’t miss out on a great experience you wish you’d had.

Your options to get from Huatulco to Guadalajara are many, and all of them are great. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Guadalajara!

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