Mexico City to Zipolite: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Mexico City to Zipolite?

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

Just because flying is quicker, doesn’t mean it is the option that you take. 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 Zipolite.

To help you decide, I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Mexico City to Zipolite simply and safely in five fantastic different ways.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

Why Should You Visit Mexico City?

Mexico City is the capital city of Mexico and the country’s largest city. It is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity and should be a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

The list of things to do in Mexico City is enormous. You can go to the Zócalo and see the imposing Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, which houses Diego Rivera’s iconic murals. You can also see world class art at the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Belles Artes.

The ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán is within the city limits at the Templo Mayor archaeological site and the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán are an easy day trip from the city.

And of course there is the amazing Mexican cuisine that you can enjoy from street vendors or from the many high end restaurants in the city. All in all, having a great time is pretty much a foregone conclusion.

Being the biggest city in Mexico and also being geographically quite centrally-located, it’s also easy to get to other amazing destinations within Mexico like Zipolite.

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

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

Why Should You Visit Zipolite?

Zipolite is sandwiched between Mazunte and Puerto Ángel, about 35 miles south-west of Huatulco along the idyllic Oaxaca coastline.

Zipolite is known principally for its main beach, Playa Zipolite, which is Mexico’s only legal nude beach. It’s also known for having some fantastic hotels, such as Hotel Nude, which offer rooms that open right up onto Playa Zipolite.

While Mazunte and Puerto Ángel are known for being laid-back and attracting visitors interested in wellness and yoga activities, Zipolite is also known for its party vibe and great nightlife. Everything is within a stone’s throw of the beach, and there’s no cover charge unless there’s a live act performing.

Beyond enjoying the great bars and restaurantes in Zipolite, it’s perfectly located for you to easily reach the attractions of Mazunte. You can watch the sunset at Punta Cometa, visit beautiful Playa del Amor, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even book a tour to visit the nearby crocodile sanctuary.

Whether or not the nude beach is for you, Zipolite is a great base on the Oaxaca coastline that offers you loads of options, depending on what you want to do. Whatever you’re keen on, you’re going to have a wonderful time here.

So let’s look at how to get from Mexico City to Zipolite and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

1. Fly to Zipolite

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

This is the case even when you add the time it takes to shuttle you from Huatulco or Puerto Escondido to Zipolite after you land, which you’ll need to do as there is no direct flight available from Mexico City to Zipolite.

Fast Facts: Flying From Mexico City To Zipolite

Where Do I Book A Flight From Mexico City To Zipolite?

You’ll need to book a flight from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido or to Huatulco, because there is no airport in Zipolite. Once you arrive, you can easily get from the airport to Zipolite, and I’ve explained how to do this below.

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

You’ll be able to see the best deals available on different dates and options where you’re flying with different airlines.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

How Do I Get From Mexico City To The Airport?

You have a few options to get from Mexico City to Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX).

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 Mexico City Airport (MEX) 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 with your provider that you can drop it off at the airport 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 Mexico City Airport for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, I recommend using Viator, which has over 100 different options.

Private transfers will start at around US$30 and will take between 30 minutes and an hour, 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 Mexico City, especially if you’re staying at a large hotel. 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$15 to US$20, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

4. Uber

Uber is available in Mexico City and it’s perfectly safe to use. If you don’t already have the Uber app installed on your phone, you’ll need to install it before you can call a driver using Uber.

The app works the same as it does in the US, so you’ll pay up front using a credit card and the driver will then pick you up. The app will send you the details of the driver and the vehicle picking you up ahead of its arrival.

An Uber from Mexico City to the airport should cost you around US$15 to US$20, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

Tip: Uber drivers aren’t allowed to accept tips in Mexico City, so don’t be surprised if they decline if you offer them any extra money!

5. Public Transport

According to Statista, Mexico City had a population of 9.3 million at the end of 2022, so it’s not surprising that the city has a sophisticated public transport network to help you move around.

Traveling on the Metro or on a Metrobús is simple enough, although you’ll need to buy a rechargeable travel card (Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada), which you can get in a Metro station, many Metrobús stations, or in newstands around the city.

Once you have the card, you use it to tap in when you board a train or a bus, and you can use it to pay for others too if you’re traveling as a group. When you run low on credit, you can recharge the card at machines available at the Metro or Metrobús stations.

Metro line 5 (the yellow line) stops at Terminal Aérea, which services both of the terminals at Mexico City Airport. If you’re traveling with the Metrobús, you can take line 4 right to the terminal 1 and terminal 2 buildings. You can find a map of the CDMX Metro and Metrobús lines here.

Both the Metro and the Metrobús lines operate from early in the morning until late in the evening. You can expect to pay between US$1 – US$2 per trip per person.

Tip: Make sure that you have your Mexican pesos handy when you are buying your recharge card or when you’re topping it up.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

How Do I Get From The Airport To Zipolite?

After you land, you have a few options to get from either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport to Zipolite.

1. Rental Car

You can get a rental car at either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport. Europcar and other reputable providers have kiosks in both airports.

The daily rate will start at around US$25 in Puerto Escondido and at around US$35 in Huatulco. Gas is on top.

Use DiscoverCars to book a deal on a vehicle online that you can then pick up at the airport.

Tip: Bear in mind that there is no place to drop your rental car off in Zipolite, so you’ll need to plan to return it to the airport when you leave.

2. Private Transfer

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Guatego.

Private shuttles will start at around US$150 and will take just over an hour to reach your hotel in Zipolite.

3. Taxi

You can also take a taxi from the airport after you leave the terminal.

You’ll need to agree the fare with the driver before you go, but you can expect it to be around US$50 from Puerto Escondido Airport and around US$30 from Huatulco Airport.

4. Colectivo

You can also take the colectivo (basically a shared van or small utility vehicle) from either Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) or Huatulco International Airport (HUX) to Zipolite.

There’s no direct colectivo to Zipolite. You’ll need to first take one to San Pedro Pochutla and then take a second colectivo that makes a loop on highway 175 through Puerto Ángel, Zipolite and Mazunte.

The colectivo is basically the local form of public transport and while they don’t look all that pretty, they’re perfectly safe to use and will definitely be the cheapest option. They’ll also be the longest and most uncomfortable option, but they’re great if you’re on a budget.

5. Bus

You can also get the first-class ADO or OCC bus from Puerto Escondido to Zipolite. Like the colectivo, there’s no direct service to Zipolite, so you’ll need to take the bus to San Pedro Pochutla and then take a colectivo or a taxi from there to Zipolite. The bus will cost around US$13 and the colectivo will be around US$2. A taxi will cost around US$10.

You can also arrange a package deal with Guatego that includes transport from San Pedro Pochutla to Zipolite. It costs around US$65, though, so the other options are likely to be cheaper.

Tip: I recommend renting a car at the airport. A rental-car makes it much easier to get around Zipolite and to see all of the great nearby attractions as well.

If you’re looking for more detail, take a look at my guides on the routes from Puerto Escondido to Zipolite and Huatulco to Zipolite.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

What’s Great About Flying from Mexico City to Zipolite?

Flying from Mexico City to Zipolite has a bunch of obvious advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Mexico City to Huatulco or Puerto Escondido is very quick at around 1 hour 20 minutes, which is a huge time saving compared with a 18 hour long bus trip. Even when you take into account the transfer time to Zipolite, it’s still much quicker.

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

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 Guerrero and Oaxaca from above as you head out toward 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 Mexico City at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the World Health Organisation 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 Mexico City to Zipolite

FAQs: Flying From Mexico City to Zipolite

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Mexico City to Zipolite by 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 From Mexico City?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season, but typically start at US$45 (MX$760) to Puerto Escondido and US$55 (MX$930) to Huatulco.

You can’t fly direct from Mexico City to Zipolite, so you’ll need to use one of those two airports.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Mexico City?

Each of Volaris, Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobus fly direct from Mexico City to Huatulco and to Puerto Escondido.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around 1 hour 20 minutes to Huatulco and around 1 hour 15 minutes to Puerto Escondido.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is 278 miles (447 km) from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) and 313 miles (503 km) to Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX).

Which Airports Do I Use to fly from Mexico City to Zipolite?

You’ll use Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) in Mexico City to depart.

You’ll land at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) or Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), depending on which one you choose. You’ll need to use one of these airports as there is no airport in Zipolite itself.

How Far Is Zipolite From Puerto Escondido and Huatulco?

Zipolite is about 45 miles east of Puerto Escondido and about 36 miles west of Huatulco.

How do I get to Zipolite from the airport?

You’ll need to rent a car, take a taxi or arrange a private transfer, or take the bus or colectivo. Take a look at the section above for more details on your options here.

How Long does it take to get to Zipolite from The Airport?

Once you land, the shuttle to Zipolite will take around 1 to 1.5 hours in a taxi, rental car or a private transfer.

If you take the bus or the colectivo, it will take around 2 to 2.5 hours.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

2. Private Jet to Zipolite

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Mexico City to Zipolite.

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

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Mexico City To Zipolite

Where Can I Book A Private Jet From Mexico City to Zipolite?

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 Mexico City to Huatulco and Mexico City to Puerto Escondido routes, which you’ll need to take, because there’s no airport in Zipolite itself.

Important: Even if you fly privately, there is no airport in Zipolite, so you will need to be shuttled from the airport to Zipolite after you land.

How Do I Get From Mexico City To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) from Mexico City.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

How Do I Get From The Airport To Zipolite?

You have a few options to get from either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport to Zipolite.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

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 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 Mexico City to Zipolite

FAQs: Flying From Mexico City to Zipolite by Private Jet

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

How Much Is A Private Jet From Mexico City?

If you want to fly privately to Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, you’re looking at around US$8,000 to US$8,500 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$30,000 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 50 minutes.

The overall travel time will probably be a little quicker though, because 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 278 miles (447 km) from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) and 313 miles (503 km) to Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) in Mexico City to depart.

You’ll land at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) or Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), depending on which one you choose.

How Far Is Zipolite From Puerto Escondido and Huatulco?

Zipolite is about 45 miles east of Puerto Escondido and about 36 miles west of Huatulco.

How do I get to Zipolite from the airport?

You’ll need to rent a car, take a taxi or arrange a private transfer. Take a look at the section above for more details on your options here.

How Long does it take to get to Zipolite?

Once you land, the shuttle to Zipolite will take around 1 to 1.5 hours in a taxi, rental car or a private transfer.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

3. Helicopter to Zipolite

If you would consider taking a private jet from Mexico City to Zipolite, 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 Zipolite. On that basis, I definitely think it is an option that you should have on your list.

Fast Facts: Helicopter From Mexico City to Zipolite

Important: Even though a helicopter can land in Zipolite with the permission of the property owner, a chartered helicopter will likely only fly you to another airport.

Where Can I Book A Helicopter From Mexico City?

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 route from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido or to Huatulco.

How Do I Get From Mexico City To The Airport?

In most cases, you’ll take off from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) in Mexico City when you’re flying by helicopter.

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

How Do I Get From The Airport To Zipolite?

You have a few options to get from either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport to Zipolite.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying By Helicopter?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially 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 travelling 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.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

FAQs: Flying From Mexico City to Zipolite By Helicopter

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

How Much Is A Helicopter from Mexico City To Zipolite?

If you want to fly by helicopter to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco, you’re looking at around US$4,000 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 3 hours in total.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is 278 miles (447 km) from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) and 313 miles (503 km) to Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) in Mexico City to depart.

You’ll land at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) or Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), depending on which one you choose.

How Far Is Zipolite From Puerto Escondido and Huatulco?

Zipolite is about 45 miles east of Puerto Escondido and about 36 miles west of Huatulco.

How do I get to Zipolite from the airport?

You’ll need to rent a car, take a taxi or arrange a private transfer, or take the bus or colectivo. Take a look at the section above for more details on your options here.

How Long does it take to get to Zipolite?

Once you land, the shuttle to Zipolite will take around 1 to 1.5 hours in a taxi, rental car or a private transfer.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

4. Rental Car To Zipolite

A road trip from Mexico City to Zipolite 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 Mexico City To Zipolite

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 9 to 10 gallons to get to Zipolite.

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 Puerto Escondido or Huatulco when you arrive, you can expect to pay around US$500 plus gas.

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

Where Can I Drop Off The Rental Car?

There’s no place to drop the rental car off in Zipolite. The closest place to drop it off will be Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport.

What Is The Best Route From Mexico City To Zipolite?

The route from Mexico City to Zipolite sets off east on highway 1500 and passes through Puebla to the south-east.

From there you’ll head further east toward Córdoba, turning south on highway 1350 toward Tehuacán after about 50 miles. Around 10 miles outside of Oaxaca, highway 1350 turns onto highway 190, which takes you the last few miles south-east into Oaxaca.

From there, you’ll need to take highway 175 south out of the city past the airport, through the valley and then up into the mountains. You’ll stay on highway 175 as it passes through San Pedro Pochutla and then Puerto Ángel before you finally reach Zipolite.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

There are some great advantages of 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 Mexico City to Zipolite

FAQs: Rental Car From Mexico City to Zipolite

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Mexico City to Zipolite?

A rental car that you pick up in Mexico City and drop off the next day in Puerto Escondido or Huatulco will cost around US$500.

That is made up of a daily rate of US$25 plus a hefty one-way fee of US$475. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Mexico city, then you’ll pay a lower daily rate (around US$25) 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 Mexico City to Zipolite?

The route from Mexico City to Zipolite starts off heading east on highway 1500 before turning south on highway 1350 after about 130 miles.

After that, you follow highway 1350 south into Oaxaca and then take highway 175 south into the mountains of the Sierra Madre del Sur. You then follow highway 175 through San Pedro Pochutla and on to Zipolite.

What is the Travel Time from Mexico City to Zipolite?

You’ll be driving for at least 12 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are lots of great places along the way like Puebla and Oaxaca where you can stop to see the sights and buy some great local food.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Zipolite?

The total distance is approximately 445 miles (716 km) from Mexico City to Zipolite.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Mexico City?

There are lots of places in Mexico City where you can rent a car, including Benito Juárez International Airport and on Avenida Paseo de la Reforma in the Juárez district of Mexico City.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

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

The car rental providers in Mexico City 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 Mexico City to Zipolite

5. Bus To Zipolite

If you want a more scenic experience while getting from Mexico City to Zipolite, the bus is an option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Mexico City To Zipolite

Where Can I Book A Bus From Mexico City To Zipolite?

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Mexico City to Zipolite are OCC (Omnibus Cristobal Colón) and Autobuses Altamar. I recommend using Busbud or ClickBus to find the best deal.

However, the OCC and Altamar buses can only take you as far as San Pedro Pochutla, not all the way to Zipolite. When you get off in San Pedro Pochutla, you can take a taxi or the colectivo to Zipolite. The taxi will cost around US$10, and the colectivo will cost around US$2.

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 wind through the approximately 445 miles (716 km) from Mexico City to Zipolite, you’ll get to soak in the natural beauty of Mexico’s southern countryside.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off Right in Zipolite

When you arrive in Zipolite, you’ll be dropped off at or very close to your hotel in the center of Zipolite.

The colectivo stops on highway 175 in Zipolite and you’ll be able to walk to your hotel from the drop-off point.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Mexico City To Zipolite

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

How Much Is The Bus From Mexico City to Zipolite?

The OCC or Altamar bus will cost around US$105. The shuttle costs will be between US$2 and US$10, depending on whether you take a taxi or the colectivo in San Pedro Pochutla.

Which Buses Run From Mexico City to Zipolite?

OCC (Omnibus Cristobal Colón) and Autobuses Altamar operate between Mexico City and San Pedro Pochutla and you can take a taxi or the colectivo from there to Zipolite.

Use Busbud or ClickBus to find the best deal.

What is the Travel Time from Mexico City to Zipolite?

Travel time is around 18 hours to San Pedro Pochutla plus the trip from there to Zipolite.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Zipolite?

The total distance is approximately 445 miles (716 km) from Mexico City to Zipolite.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Mexico City, the pick-up point depends on the provider.

For Altamar, most services use Terminal de Autobuses del Sur in the south of the city. The OCC services use Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (more commonly known as TAPO).

When you arrive in San Pedro Pochutla, you’ll use Terminal ADO Pochutla, which is on highway 175. The colectivos depart on highway 175 as well not far from ADO terminal.

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 Mexico City to Zipolite

What Are The Best Things To Do In Zipolite?

Zipolite is loaded with brilliant things to do, and you’ll have no problem occupying your time.

As a beach town, spending some time at Zipolite’s beautiful beaches is a must, and you have a few to choose from. The most obvious choice is Playa Zipolite, which is the main beach in Zipolite in front of all of the major hotels. Beyond being a gorgeous beach, it’s known for being Mexico’s only legal nude beach, so if you’re feeling free-spirited, you’re free to bare it all to the world.

Another Instagram-able beach option is nearby Playa del Amor. It’s at the eastern end of Playa Zipolite just past the Zipolite sign and it’s tucked in between a few lumpy hills that remind you a little of smaller versions of the Brazilian sugarloaf mountains. It’s not as busy as Playa Zipolite and it’s more sheltered, so it’s better for swimming and splashing around.

You should also visit the very quirky and colorful Avenida Roca Blanca, which is Zipolite’s main shopping street. There are some great little places to grab a drink or something to eat and lots of unique street art, so even if you’re not buying anything, it’s great just for a relaxing morning stroll.

If you really want to get into holiday-mode, a great way to do it is to stop by Spa Shanti, at the western end of Playa Zipolite in El Alquimista Yoga & Spa, for a massage. Previously known as Espacio Shanti, Spa Shanti offers massage, facials, body exfoliants and cupping in a beautiful position right on the beach.

If you feel like venturing farther afield, you can rent a scooter for the day and explore neighbouring Mazunte and Puerto Ángel, each just a few miles away. Mazunte is known for being one of the main sea-turtle breeding grounds in Mexico and also for beautiful sunsets at Punta Cometa, Oaxaca’s southern-most point. Puerto Ángel is a little smaller and quieter but has a gorgeous hidden beach called Playa Estacahuite, which is definitely worth a visit.

Even though it is a small beach town, you won’t be short on entertainment in Zipolite.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Zipolite?

When you make it from Mexico City to Zipolite, the next obvious question will be where do you stay?

Even though Zipolite is a very small beach town, it still has some great hotels for you to choose from. Whatever your budget, you’ll find something great in Zipolite.

Probably the most well-known hotel in Zipolite is Hotel Nude (pictured above). It’s right on Playa Zipolite and it has a beautiful onsite pool area and bar, an onsite restaurant and a DJ from 2:00pm to 10:00pm each day.

Another great option is El Alquimista Yoga & Spa, which is at the eastern end of Playa Zipolite. In addition to having beautiful rooms with ocean view, it also has the best spa and wellness offering in Zipolite and also has daily yoga classes. Hotel Noga, Naked Zipolite and Hotel Playa Zipolite are also great options at the higher end.

If you’re looking for options that aren’t as rough on the wallet, Ballelita and Zipolite One provide great beachside accommodation at a very fair price.

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

When is the Best Time to Visit Zipolite?

The best time to visit Zipolite is in the dryer, cooler months from December to April.

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

Instead, in Zipolite, 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 the rainy season runs from May through to October.

The average maximum temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year.  You can expect a fairly constant maximum of 91°F (33°C), with lower temperatures during the dry season.

Unsurprisingly, the dryer, cooler weather of the dry season means that it’s the most popular time for tourists. If you can put up with the occasional deluge, you’ll get better rates in the rainy season. 

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

What Should I Pack To Go To Zipolite?

Your packing list will depend a little on the time of year that you’re going to visit Zipolite.

Zipolite has warm days all year round, averaging a maximum of 91°F (33°C) fairly consistently. However, the average low temperature in the evenings fluctuates a little throughout the year. It will get down to 70°F (21.0°C) during the coldest months of December and January, but in May it will be a fairly warm 77°F (25.0°C) at its lowest.

So if you’re visiting during November to March, you might want to bring a light jacket for the evenings. Otherwise, you can leave the warm clothes that you packed for Mexico City in your suitcase. 

If you travel during the rainy season from June to October, you can expect some rain, so you’ll want to bring a fold-up umbrella or buy one when you arrive.  After a downpour, it can get a little humid, so you should also have a few more changes of clothes in case you get sweaty.

If you’re planning on doing a bit of sightseeing while you’re in Zipolite, you should bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes. In any case, definitely bring a hat for the sun in addition to your swimwear, because you’ll spend at least a few days just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

You should also be aware that there are also mosquitoes in Zipolite and it will be too hot to cover up entirely.  Mosquito repellent and anti-itch creams can be hard to come by, so I recommend that you bring some with you.  

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

Final Thoughts

Thanks for reading, and I hope you now have a few different options to get from Mexico City to Zipolite.

However you travel, you’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially as you make your way through or over the mountain ranges on your way south.

Choose the option that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Zipolite!