Uruapan to Morelia: 4 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Uruapan to Morelia?

Most people would immediately think of renting a car or taking the bus, but there are actually several options available to you.

The best way for you will depend on your budget, how long you’d like to spend in Uruapan, and what you’re planning to do while you’re there.

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

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

Why Should You Visit Uruapan?

Uruapan is the second-largest city in Michoacán and it’s located roughly in the center of the state, around 65 miles south-west of Morelia. The word Uruapan derives from a Purépecha word meaning something approximating “flowering and fruiting plants”.

The city is a major distribution center in the agricultural heartland of Michoacán. Although it isn’t as well-known as many other Mexican states, Michoacán is a major food producer in Mexico. In fact, in 2022, 73% of avocados produced in Mexico were produced in Michoacán, a staggering 1.8 million metric tonnes. To put that in perspective, around 80% of all avocados consumed in the United States are imported from Michoacán.

Part of the reason that agriculture is so successful in the state is because of the richness of the volcanic soil in the region. The area remains volcanically active, and the Parícutin volcano, which is only 30 miles away from Uruapan, is a great example.

In 1943, a farmer noticed that a hole in one of his cornfields had begun to smoke and the ground had begun to shake. Within 24 hours, a volcanic cone 180 feet high had developed and within a week, it was 500 feet high. The volcano continued to erupt periodically for over nine years before becoming dormant.

But there’s more to Uruapan than volcanoes, and within the city, there are a few different things to see and do. Uruapan is well-known in Mexico for its beautiful national park, Barranca del Cupatitzio. It’s the second-most visited in the whole of Mexico and is situated along the river Cupatitzio with several waterfalls and beautiful stone riverside pathways.

The city also claims to be home to the narrowest house in the world, although this is no longer the case according to Guinness Book of Records. In any event, it’s a quirky shoebox-sized 4.6 ft by 25.2 ft and you can take a tour for 20 Mexican pesos.

And the city is also home to La Huatápera, the first hospital for Indians in Latin America, which was constructed in 1533 as a beautiful courtyard colonial building. It now serves as a museum and showcases handcrafts in respect of each of Michoacán’s four main indigenous groups: the Purépecha, Nahua, Mazahua and Otomí.

Best of all, the town is only 65 miles from Morelia, so you can easily visit it as a day-trip if you don’t want to spend the night.

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

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

Why Should You Visit Morelia?

Morelia is a large city of over one million people and is the capital of the state of Michoacán, Mexico. It was founded in 1542 and is known for having some of the most beautiful colonial architecture in Mexico.

Its architectural beauty comes at least in part from the very distinctive rose-colored stone called cantera used in many of its buildings. The pink stone was quarried locally and was easily cut and shaped, and historically it was often used as a building material in the city as a result.

The imposing Morelia Cathedral is the best example of both the colonial architecture and the beauty of the cantera stone. The cathedral was constructed during the late 16th and early 17th centuries and is a wonderful example of the Spanish baroque architectural style.

Another beautiful example of architecture in the city is the 18th century Morelia aqueduct. It runs for over a mile through the historic center and features 253 graceful arches and two square tower-like structures known as “water boxes”.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Morelia is also known as the food capital of Michoacán. Typical dishes that you can find in Morelia include uchepos, a type of very sweet, creamy tamales; corundas, which are cheesy triangular tamales; and gazpacho, which is a wild combination of chopped fruit, cheese and chili.

And if you want to explore a little farther afield, some of Michoacán’s “magic towns” (pueblos mágicos) like Pátzcuaro are within easy reach and make a great day trip from the city.

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

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

1. Rental Car To Morelia

Renting a car to go from Uruapan to Morelia is a great option that offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Uruapan to Morelia

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 2 to 3 gallons to get to Morelia and back.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival.

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Uruapan on the same day, then you’ll pay around US$50 per day plus gas. The price increases to about US$60 plus gas if you decided to spend the night in Morelia and drive it back the next day.

If you’re looking to drive it one way and then drop it off in Morelia, you’ll be looking at about US$100, as there is an additional one-way fee.

What Is The Best Route From Uruapan to Morelia?

The route from Uruapan to Morelia starts by heading east on highway 14D for about 40 miles, until it becomes highway 14.

You’ll then take highway 14 for the last 25 miles into Morelia.

What’s Great About Driving to Morelia?

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

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 Uruapan to Morelia

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Uruapan to Morelia?

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Uruapan on the same day, then you’ll pay around US$50 per day plus gas. If you spend the night in Morelia, the price increases to about US$60 plus gas.

If you’re looking to drive it one way and then drop it off in Morelia, you’ll be looking at about US$100, as there is an additional one-way fee.

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 Uruapan to Morelia?

The route from Uruapan to Morelia starts by heading east on highway 14D for about 40 miles, until it becomes highway 14.

You’ll then take highway 14 for the last 25 miles into Morelia.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 1 hour 30 minutes, assuming you drive straight through without stopping.

What is the Distance From Uruapan to Morelia?

The total distance is approximately 67 miles (102 km) from Uruapan to Morelia.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Uruapan?

You can rent a car at Uruapan International Airport. Hertz, Thrifty and Dollar all have branches in the terminal.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

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

The car rental providers in Uruapan 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.

What do I need to rent a car?

You’ll need to be at least 21 years old and you’ll need to have held your driver’s licence for at least a year before you rent a car.

You’ll also need to bring a credit card in your own name and your passport.

Will I have Any Liability?

If you book through DiscoverCars, the deductible on the included insurance is usually zero for damages to bodywork from a collision.

However, sometimes not all parts of the car are covered, so check the terms of the policy before you book and consider upgrading the insurance package for greater peace of mind.

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

2. Bus To Morelia

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

Fast Facts: Bus From Uruapan to Morelia

Where Can I Book A Bus From Uruapan to Morelia?

The biggest providers of bus routes from Uruapan to Morelia are Futura and Parhikuni.

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 to be one of the cheapest options.

It’s definitely the best choice if you’re working with a tight budget.

2. quick Journey

In light of the short distance that you need to travel, the travel time won’t be much slower than if you took a rental car.

The rental car will be a little quicker, but the difference isn’t really all that great.

3. Local Experience

The bus is the most authentic Mexican method of travel, used by Mexicans all across the country.

If you’re looking to try to get the local experience, taking the bus is the way to do it.

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Uruapan to Morelia

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

How Much Is The Bus From Uruapan to Morelia?

A round trip on the bus starts at around 240 Mexican pesos (US$14) per person per trip.

Which Buses Run From Uruapan to Morelia?

The biggest providers of bus routes from Uruapan to Morelia are Futura and Parhikuni.

Is There a direct Bus from Uruapan to Morelia?

Yes, there is a bus service that can take you the whole way from Uruapan to Morelia without a stop in between.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is just over 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the time of day you’re traveling.

What is the Distance From Uruapan to Morelia?

The bus route is approximately 67 miles (102 km) long.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Uruapan, the pick-up point is Central de Autobuses de Uruapan, just to the north of the historic center.

In Morelia, the drop-off point is Terminal de Autobuses Morelia, 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 Uruapan to Morelia

3. Carshare To Morelia

Another option you can use to get from Uruapan to Morelia is a carshare.

Car-sharing is very popular on the Uruapan to Morelia route and it’s a great cheap way to travel while getting to know new people.

Fast Facts: Carshare From Uruapan to Morelia

Where Can You Book A Carshare From Uruapan to Morelia?

The easiest way to find a reputable carshare service is on BlaBlaCar.

There are different options available and you can choose a ride with a verified driver with lots of positive reviews.

What’s Great About A Carshare?

Although you won’t be able to take full control like you could with a rental car, there are some benefits of using a carshare rather than driving yourself.

1. Cheap Way to Travel

Car-sharing is often much cheaper than any other option.

Similar to Uber, the car-sharing model is unregulated and costs are lower than the taxi as a result.

2. Easy to Organize

Arranging a car-share is very easy through online platforms like BlaBlaCar.

You’ll be able to see the pick-up and drop-off points at the time of booking and you’ll then pay when you’re picked up.

3. No Responsibility for the Vehicle

Similar to the other options where you’re being chauffeured, you won’t be responsible for what happens to the car while you’re on the road.

You’ll only be responsible for paying the agreed price and your liability ends there.

FAQs: Carshare From Uruapan to Morelia

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Uruapan to Morelia by carshare.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Uruapan to Morelia?

A carshare starts at around 100 Mexican pesos (US$6) per trip for one person.

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

What is the Route From Uruapan to Morelia?

The route from Uruapan to Morelia using a carshare will follow the same route as you would take if you rented a car.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is the Distance From Uruapan to Morelia?

The total distance is approximately 67 miles (102 km).

Are The Carshare Cars Comfortable?

Drivers with good reviews will have comfortable vehicles. Contact the driver ahead of agreeing to a carshare ride to confirm.

Is It Safe To Travel By Carshare?

Yes, but you should be aware that some people may try to use the platforms to run scams.

You should be able to easily avoid this by choosing drivers who have verified profiles and lots of positive reviews.

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

4. Taxi To Morelia

Another option to mention is the good old taxi.

There are better options available, but if you’re in a hurry or you haven’t had time to plan, they’re a great option.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Uruapan to Morelia

Tip: Make sure that you agree the price with the driver before setting off so that there are no misunderstandings.

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Uruapan to Morelia?

If you want to book a taxi, you’d ideally try to find a reliable driver. The simplest way to do that is to get a recommendation from your hotel.

If you don’t get a recommendation, you can also hire a taxi from the street. In either case, make sure that you agree the fare before you set off.

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

FAQs: Taxi From Uruapan to Morelia

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Uruapan to Morelia?

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

You can expect to pay around US$70 to US$90, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Uruapan to Morelia?

The route from Uruapan to Morelia should be the same as you would take if you rented a car or booked a carshare.

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

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Uruapan to Morelia?

The total distance is approximately 67 miles (102 km).

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Yes, you’ll be able to rent a comfortable taxi for the 90 minute journey to Morelia.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

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

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

What Are The Best Things To Do In Morelia?

Morelia is a hidden gem in Mexico with plenty of great things to do. Despite its size and its location just a few hours’ drive from Mexico City, it’s a city that few tourists think to visit.

The central point of the city is the beautiful Morelia Cathedral, and it’s a great place to start your sightseeing. The cathedral was constructed during the late 16th and early 17th centuries and was designed in the baroque style. Its interior is breathtaking, featuring arched ceilings with lavish gold decorations and enormous artworks hanging above the pews.

Another beautiful example of 18th century architecture in the city is the Morelia aqueduct. It runs for over a mile through the historic center and was constructed to bring water to the city after a brutal two-year drought.

Beyond the architectural beauty of particular buildings, the city and its streets themselves have something enchanting about them. You can easily spend a few hours visiting beautiful streets like Callejón del Romance (Romance Alley), lovely public squares like the Jardín de las Rosas (the Rose Garden) and lively markets like the Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías (the candy and crafts market).

And if you wan to explore outside the city, one of Michoacán’s “magic towns” (pueblos mágicos), Patzcuaro, is just 35 miles to the south-west. Patzcuaro dates back to around 1320 and is known for its nearby Lake Patzcuaro, which has five remarkable islands accessible only by boat. One of these, Janitzio, is known for its enormous statue of José María Morelos, one the key leaders in Mexico’s push for independence.

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

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Morelia?

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

The great news is that prices in Morelia are a lot cheaper than many other destinations, and you can find some great options for any budget.

Within the historic center, the top luxury option is Cantera 10 Hotel Boutique. It’s a beautiful luxury spa hotel with Spanish colonial architecture and a top location right across from the Morelia Cathedral.

Hotel de la Soledad is another luxury option just to the north of the Plaza de Armas. In addition to beautiful colonial architecture, it also features an absolutely stunning manicured interior courtyard garden area.

In the mid range, the NaNa Vida Hotel Morelia is a great traditional, artistic option in a great location one block to the south-west of the Plaza de Armas. Hotel Casino Morelia is another mid-range option that features rooms with cute balconies with views of the Morelia Cathedral.

For more wallet-friendly options, you can try the 3-star Hotel Morelia Callejón, which is a cute traditional Mexican hotel a few blocks south of the Plaza de Armas. Another budget option is Hotel Atilanos, a simple but quite leafy hotel just a block west of the NaNa Vida Hotel Morelia.

Regardless of your budget, you’ll find lots of great places to stay in Morelia.

How to Get From Uruapan to Morelia

When is the Best Time to Visit Morelia?

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

Instead, in Morelia, 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.

Morelia also has an altitude of 6,299 ft (1,920 m), which is higher than Denver, Colorado. Its climate is a subtropical highland climate, and because of the high altitude, its temperature can fluctuate daily by more than 64°F (18°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 Uruapan to Morelia

What Should I Pack To Go To Morelia?

Morelia is at a high altitude, which means that the temperature fluctuates quite a lot throughout the day.

In Morelia, people deal with this by dressing in layers and progressively stripping layers off as the temperature increases throughout the day. What you pack for both cities 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 Morelia will fall as low as 41°F (5°C) in the evenings and then get up to 72°F (22°C) during the day.

The wet season months are generally a little warmer. In May, which is the warmest month of the year, it gets up to 84°F (29°C) during the day and then falls to 55°F (13°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’re not going to be out too long.

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 Morelia, 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 Uruapan to Morelia

Final Thoughts

Thanks for reading, and I hope I’ve been able to help you with some ideas for traveling from Uruapan to Morelia beyond just renting a car or taking the bus.

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 Uruapan to Morelia are many, and all of them are great. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Morelia!