Huatulco To Oaxaca: 7 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Huatulco to Oaxaca?

You’ve really got three options: plane, car, or bus. It’s too far to walk or cycle, there’s no train, and unless you want to go via Panama, you can’t go by boat.

By plane, you can fly commercially or (if you can afford it) you can also fly privately. If you travel by car, you can drive yourself, hire a private driver or take a taxi. You can also take the bus or the minibus.viat

I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Huatulco to Oaxaca cheaply, simply and safely.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Huatulco to Oaxaca

Why Should You Visit Huatulco?

Huatulco is a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

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 beautiful clear waters and some of the best beaches in Oaxaca. There are great surfing beaches like Playa La Bocana and Barra de la Cruz, beaches with a more tranquil vibe like Bahía Organo, 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.

So, why should you visit Huatulco? Well, basically because it’s a slice of heaven! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Why Should You Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is worth visiting for so many reasons!

It is known for its rich cultural heritage, its beautiful colors everywhere, and its wonderfully friendly people.

There are breathtaking landscapes that will captivate you, and you’ll fall in love with its mouthwatering cuisine.

It has beautiful buildings that are centuries old and breathtaking ruins that are thousands of years old.

Each year it holds unique traditional festivals such as Day of the Dead, La Guelaguetza, and Noche de Rábanos.

There is a vibrant artistic scene, wonderful markets and brilliant artisans of all kinds.

And if that isn’t enough, real wonders of the world like Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree are just a short drive away from Oaxaca City.

You’ll struggle to find a region as richly diverse as Oaxaca.

There are just so many things for you to do that you will wish you could stay longer!

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

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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1: Fly to Oaxaca

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

For those same reasons, it’s also one of the more expensive options.

Fast Facts: Flying From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Where Do I Book A Flight From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

Your best bet is to book with Aerotucán. They’re a very small airline, but they’re the only one that flies non-stop from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

They fly once per day, so you’ll need to book well in advance. Their website isn’t great, so your best bet is calling them (and you may need someone who can speak Spanish to help you).

Their contact details are below:

What’s Great About Flying?

Flying has a bunch of obvious advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Huatulco to Oaxaca is very quick at around 45 minutes, which is a huge time saving compared with the 8 hour long bus trip.

If you’re short on time, every hour you lose travelling is time that you could spend soaking up the sun in Huatulco.

2. Great Views From The Plane

Even after years of flying, I still like to stare out the window of a plane at the city as we’re taking off and getting ready to land.

Flying will also give you the chance to see the mountains and sprawling valleys of Oaxaca from above as you head north away from the sea.

3. safest Way To Travel

Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel in the world, and this holds true in Mexico.

Since 1919, Mexico has only had 158 air travel deaths in total, an average of about 1.5 people per year. By comparison, there were around 107 million air passengers in Mexico in 2022 alone.

That puts your chances of dying on a flight from Huatulco to Oaxaca at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the WHO suggests based on 2019 data on Mexican road deaths that the odds of dying per year were 1 in 7,813.

That means that you are more than 9,000 times safer flying than taking the bus!

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Flying From Huatulco To Oaxaca

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Huatulco to Oaxaca by air.

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 From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season, but are typically around US$200 (MX$3,400).

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

There are four airlines servicing the route from Huatulco to Oaxaca. These are Volaris, Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobus and Aerotucán.

However, of these options, only Aerotucán offers direct flights. The others will fly you to Mexico City first (in the wrong direction!) and you’ll need to change.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around 45 minutes if you take the direct flight offered by Aerotucán.

If you fly to Huatulco with Volaris, Aeroméxico or Viva Aerobus, then at best it will take you around 3.5 hours with changing at Mexico City.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 155 miles (250 km) from Huatulco Airport (HUX) to Oaxaca Airport (OAX).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) to depart and you’ll land at Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez when you arrive.

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

Oaxaca Airport is 5.8 miles (10km) south of the Oaxaca de Juárez city center.

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

You can get a taxi, a private shuttle, the colectivo or the public bus to the city.

A taxi will cost around US$25 (MX$400), a private shuttle around US$50 (MX$800), the colectivo will cost around US$5 (MX$100), and the bus will cost around US$1 (MX$10).

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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2: Private Jet to Oaxaca

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

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

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Private Jet From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

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 Oaxaca route.

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying privately as well.

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

1. Glamour

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive in Oaxaca 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 travelling 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.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Flying From Huatulco To Oaxaca by Private Jet

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

How Much Is A Private Jet From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

If you want to fly privately to Oaxaca, you’re looking at around US$4,000 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$20,000 for a larger jet seating up to 14 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 20 minutes.

The overall travel time will probably be a little quicker than flying commercially. You’ll 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 is approximately 155 miles (about 250 km) from Huatulco Airport to Oaxaca Airport.

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Huatulco International Airport (HUX) to depart and you’ll land at Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez when you arrive in Oaxaca.

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

Oaxaca Airport is 5.8 miles (10km) south of the Oaxaca de Juárez city center.

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

You can get a taxi, a private shuttle, the colectivo or the public bus to the city.

A taxi will cost around US$25 (MX$400), a private shuttle around US$50 (MX$800), the colectivo will cost around US$5 (MX$100), and the bus will cost around US$1 (MX$10).

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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3: Bus To Oaxaca

If you want a more scenic experience while getting from Huatulco to Oaxaca, the bus is an option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Bus From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Huatulco to Oaxaca are ADO and OCC (Omnibús Cristobal Colón).

Check out fare comparison sites like Busbud or Guatego to check availability.

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 wind through the approximately 160 miles (257km) to Oaxaca, you’ll get to soak in the natural beauty of Mexico’s southern countryside.

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

If you take the bus from Huatulco to Oaxaca, you’ll be dropped off in the middle of Oaxaca City not far from the Templo de Santo Domingo.

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

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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

How Much Is The Bus From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

Prices typically range between US$40 – 60 (MX$700 – 1100).

Which Buses Run From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

ADO and OCC (Omnibús Cristobal Colón) are the two largest operators in Oaxaca.

Check out fare comparison sites like Busbud or Guatego to check availability.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is 7 -8 hours depending on the trip.

What is the Distance From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The bus route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Huatulco, you’ll use the ADO Bus Terminal in La Crucecita, the beachside center of Huatulco.

In Oaxaca, you’ll be dropped off at the ADO Terminal in Barrio Jalatlaco, which is a few blocks north-east of Parque El Llano.

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 basis precautions.

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

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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4: Minibus To Oaxaca

If you are keen to keep the costs down and don’t mind a few bumps or being a little cramped, then the minibus could be a good option for you.

Fast Facts: Minibus From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Where Do I Book The Minibus From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

There are various minibus companies offering services to Oaxaca.

Two of the major operators are Espressos Colombo Huatulco and Transportes Huatulco 2000. Contact details for these providers are below:

Espressos Colombo Huatulco

Transportes Huatulco 2000

What’s Great About Taking The Minibus?

Although it’s a budget option, the minibus has some advantages.

1. The Minibus Is Cheaper Than The Bus

The minibus is hands down the cheapest way to travel short of hitchhiking.

At just US$20 per person, it really is dirt cheap.

2. The Minibus Is Faster Than The Bus

The minibus makes the same trip in around 6 hours that the standard bus will do in 7 – 8 hours.

That’s a decent time saving.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off At Your Hotel

Most minibuses will drop you off directly at your hotel. The standard bus on the other hand will just drop you at the terminal.

You may need to be patient, as the minibus may have to drop off a few people before you, but door service is still a big plus.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Taking The Minibus From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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

How Much Is The Minibus From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

Prices are around US$20 (MX$300) per person.

Which Minibuses Run From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

There are lots of minibus companies but two well-known ones in Oaxaca are Espressos Colombo Huatulco and Transportes Huatulco 2000 (see contact details above).

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 6 hours.

Depending on how many people need to be dropped off in Huatulco at their hotels, you may need to add on a half hour for the minibus to drop them all off.

What is the Distance From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The minibus route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

Will The Minibus Take Me To My Hotel?

Yes, the minibus service is usually a door service, although you should confirm (or ask your hotel in Huatulco) to confirm when you make your booking.

Are The Minibuses Comfortable?

The minibuses are known for being a little cramped.

If you are lucky enough to get a seat with some legroom, you might be a little more comfortable, but don’t expect much space.

Is It Safe To Travel By Minibus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

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

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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5: Rental Car To Oaxaca

A road trip from Huatulco to Oaxaca 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 Oaxaca

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

The best place to get a rental car is at Huatulco International Airport. I recommend using DiscoverCars to find the best deal.

What Is The Best Route From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The route from Huatulco to Oaxaca sets off heading west towards the airport and then north-west to a town called Santa Maria Huatulco.

From there you’ll continue heading north-west to a town called Copalita where you’ll join highway 175, and then you’ll follow that north all the way to Oaxaca.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

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

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 travelling 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.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Rental Car From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

A rental car that you pick up in Huatulco and drop off the next day in Oaxaca will cost around US$450 (MX$8,000).

That’s made up of about US$250 for the rental plus a one-way fee of US$200. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Huatulco, then the rate is much cheaper (around US$40 per day) 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 Oaxaca?

The route from Huatulco to Oaxaca heads north-west through Santa Maria Huatulco before joining highway 175 at a town called Copalita.

After you join highway 175, you’ll follow that the rest of the way north-west to Oaxaca.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are lots of little towns along the way like Santa Maria Huatulco where you can stop and buy some great local food.

What is the Distance From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Oaxaca?

You can rent a car in Huatulco Airport, so you’ll need to take a taxi there first.

Europcar, Keddy and Fox each have branches in the terminal. Book in advance using DiscoverCars to get the best deal available.

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 Airport 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, travelling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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6: Private Transfer To Oaxaca

If you’re keen on a road trip from Huatulco to Oaxaca but aren’t so keen to do the driving, you can arrange a private transfer.

It’s more expensive than renting a car and driving yourself, but it lets you relax and enjoy the scenery or even catch up on some sleep.

Fast Facts: Private Transfer From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Where Can You Book A Private Transfer From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Viator. You can book online and you can choose providers that have high reviews from recent customers.

If you would prefer to meet your driver in person before booking, speak to your hotel and ask for a recommendation and then go and visit them at their offices in Huatulco.

What’s Great About A Private Transfer?

Although it is more expensive than a rental car, there are some benefits of getting a private driver rather than driving yourself.

1. No Need To Focus On The Road

The best thing about being chauffeured is that you don’t need to worry about driving.

Watching the road for six hours or more is exhausting and means that you won’t be able to completely relax until you reach Oaxaca.

2. Great For Groups

A private transfer is great if you’re travelling as a group.

You get to share the cost and just focus on having fun and let the driver bring you to Oaxaca.

3. Capped risk

The other big benefit of having a private driver is that you don’t bear the risk of having an accident and damaging the car.

Your insurance would likely cover any damage, but having a driver just avoids the risk altogether.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Private Transfer From Huatulco To Oaxaca

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Huatulco to Oaxaca by private transfer.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

A private transfer starts at around US$450 per trip for a group.

Most services cap the number of passengers, so make sure you check this before you book.

What is the Route From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The route from Huatulco to Oaxaca by private transfer will follow the same route as you would take if you rented a car.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

The private transfer will usually plan for one stop to eat, unless you need to stop more often to use the bathroom.

What is the Distance From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

Are The Private transfer Cars Comfortable?

Yes, the private transfer services offered on Viator use comfortable modern vehicles.

Is It Safe To Travel By Private Transfer?

If you travel with a reputable provider such as those arranged via Viator, you will be perfectly safe travelling by private transfer.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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7: Taxi To Oaxaca

The last land option to mention is the good old taxi.

However, unless you have an emergency, I wouldn’t recommend it. There are just better options available.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Huatulco To Oaxaca

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

If you want to book a taxi, you will need to try to find a reliable driver. The best way to do that is to get a recommendation from your hotel.

You may find that your hotel recommends that you instead book a private transfer, and I would also recommend this.

City taxis aren’t made for long distance trips the same way as a bus is. You won’t get air conditioning, reclining seats or a bathroom.

You also won’t be able to get up to stretch your legs, and your driver may not want to stop as often as you do.

I also don’t recommend just hiring a taxi from the street to take you from Huatulco to Oaxaca. You should only travel with a reputable driver, and you won’t be able to confirm that from hailing a taxi on the street.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

FAQs: Taxi From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

You’ll need to negotiate your fare, and you should always do this upfront.

You can expect to pay anywhere from US$200 – 300, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The route from Huatulco to Oaxaca should be the same as you would take if you rented a car or booked a private transfer.

However, you should confirm the route with the driver before you set off.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Taxis aren’t made for long distance passenger travel like a bus or a plane.

If you’re going to travel by taxi, you should ask driver to stop for a few minutes every hour so that you can stretch.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

In all likelihood, you will be safe enough travelling by taxi from Huatulco to Oaxaca. This is particularly the case if you are travelling in a group.

However, one of the reasons that I don’t recommend travelling by taxi is that you just won’t be able to vet the driver at all unless he is recommended to you.

That increases your risk, and you don’t need to do it, because there are other options available to you.

How to Get From Huatulco To Oaxaca

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Final Thoughts

So, you now know how to get from Huatulco to Oaxaca using various methods. Travelling from Huatulco to Oaxaca is an experience you won’t quickly forget.

You’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially as you go through mountain ranges outside of Huatulco and descend into the valleys leading to Oaxaca.

Your options to get there are many, and all of them viable.

Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Oaxaca!