How to Get to Loreto. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Loreto International Airport (MMLT) is the main airport directly serving Loreto. It is a small, modern facility located just a few kilometers southwest of the city center.

Direct Flight Options

From the United States: Alaska Airlines (LAX), American Airlines (PHX, DFW).
From Canada: WestJet (YYC) during peak winter season.
From Mexico: Volaris/VivaAerobus (TIJ, GDL), Aeromexico Connect/Aéreo Calafia (LAP).

Seasonal Availability & Airport Services

Flight frequency and prices are highest during Loreto's high season (November to April), especially around major holidays.

Airport & Transfer Details

During low season (July-September), flight options may be reduced, and prices are generally lower.
MMLT is a compact airport with basic, yet efficient, facilities including car rental counters, snack bar, restrooms, immigration, and customs.
Transfers to accommodation: Taxis ($25-$40 USD), Shuttles ($10-$20 USD/person), Car Rental (Hertz, National, Avis, Budget, Enterprise).

Flight Deals

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Flight Comparison

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Car Rentals

Explore car rental options at DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Border Crossing & Insurance

Driving from the U.S. Means crossing at Tijuana/San Ysidro, Tecate, or Mexicali, then Highway 1.
A Temporary Import Permit (TIP) is not required for travel solely within Baja California Peninsula.
Mexican Auto Insurance is mandatory; your U.S. Or Canadian policy is typically not valid. Purchase a separate policy.
Highway 1 is generally paved and in decent condition but can be narrow. Be aware of livestock on the road, especially at night.

Bus Options & Driving Tips

No train services in Baja California Sur.
Long-distance Bus: Autotransportes de Baja California (ABC) connects Loreto to La Paz and northern Baja California.
Driving during daylight hours is highly recommended due to reduced visibility and animal hazards at night.
"Topes" (speed bumps) are prevalent in and around towns and often unmarked. Cell phone service can be spotty.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

No direct international ferry services to Loreto. Ferries operate from La Paz to Mazatlán or Topolobampo on mainland Mexico.

Cruise Ports

Loreto has a small cruise ship dock at Puerto Escondido, about 25 minutes south of downtown. It serves smaller expedition or luxury cruise lines.

Immigration & Connections

For cruise passengers, immigration procedures are typically handled onboard. Taxis or pre-arranged shuttles are available from Puerto Escondido to downtown Loreto.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Timing Air

The Mexican departure tax (approx. 687 MXN as of 2023-2024) is usually included in your airline ticket price if you arrived by air.

Airport Departure

If you entered Mexico by land and paid the FMM fee separately, keep the departure portion of your FMM card.
For international flights from Loreto International Airport (MMLT), arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time.
This allows sufficient time for check-in and security procedures. The airport is small, so processes are generally quick.

Timing Bus & Facilities

Loreto International Airport (MMLT) has a small waiting area, snack options, and restrooms. It is a relatively simple airport, functioning efficiently for departures.

Bus Station Departure

If departing by long-distance bus, arrive at the ABC bus station about 30 minutes before departure.
This provides time to purchase tickets or confirm your reservation and board comfortably.
The ABC bus station is also basic, with a waiting area and ticket counter, providing a functional space for travelers awaiting their bus.

Global Hub Connections

Direct flights to MMLT are mainly from specific West Coast and Southwest U.S. Cities (LAX, PHX, DFW) and Calgary (YYC) in Canada.

Connecting Routes

Travelers from other global hubs will typically connect through one of these cities or major Mexican airports.
For example, a traveler from Europe or Asia would likely fly into Mexico City (MEX) or Guadalajara (GDL), then take a domestic flight to MMLT.
This routing is efficient for broader international access.

Driving Safety Tips

Driving in Baja California can be an adventurous experience. Road conditions on Highway 1 are generally good, but vigilance is wise.

Overland Travel Considerations

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h) and must be observed.
Be aware of livestock (cows, goats) on the road, especially in rural areas and at night.

Driving Advisories

"Topes" (speed bumps) are prevalent and often unmarked, slowing traffic.
Cell phone service can be spotty or non-existent outside of major towns.
Carry water, snacks, and have a full tank of gas before long stretches.

Night driving is more risky due to reduced visibility and animal hazards.
Plan your route to arrive at your destination before dark.
Your U.S. Or Canadian auto insurance policy is typically not valid in Mexico; secure Mexican auto insurance.

Departure Checklist

Airport Departure Tips

Ensure a smooth departure from Loreto International Airport (MMLT).

MMLT Departure Process

For international flights, arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
This provides sufficient time for check-in and security.
The airport is small, so processes are generally quick.

Bus Station Departure Tips

ABC Bus Station

Arrive at the ABC bus station about 30 minutes before departure.
This allows time to purchase tickets or confirm your reservation.
The station is basic, with a waiting area and ticket counter.

Departure Tax

The Mexican departure tax is usually included in your air ticket price.

FMM Card

Keep the departure portion of your FMM card if you paid the fee separately upon land entry.

Efficiency

Loreto International Airport provides an efficient departure process for travelers.

Loreto Travel Summary

Airport Transfers

Taxis are readily available directly outside the terminal building at MMLT.

Options from MMLT

Fares are typically fixed to the city center and major hotels ($25-$40 USD).
Book shared shuttles upon arrival for a more economical option ($10-$20 USD per person).
Car rental agencies (Hertz, National, Avis, Budget, Enterprise) have counters at the airport.

Overland Journey Insights

Overland travel offers a different perspective on the Baja California Peninsula.

Driving from the U.S.

Driving from the U.S. Involves crossing at Tijuana/San Ysidro, Tecate, or Mexicali.
The journey down Mexico's Highway 1 is approximately 18-20 hours from Tijuana.
Most travelers break the drive into multiple days.

Sea Travel & Connections

No River Transport

Loreto is on the coast of the Sea of Cortez and does not have river transportation options.

Cruise Ship Dock

Puerto Escondido, south of downtown Loreto, is a small cruise ship dock.

Land Connections from Port

Taxis or pre-arranged shuttles connect cruise passengers from Puerto Escondido to downtown Loreto.

Final Departure Note

Booking well in advance for high season travel to Loreto is recommended to secure preferred vehicles and potentially better rates for car rentals.

How to Get to Loreto