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Getting Around Todos Santos

Getting Around Todos Santos

Todos Santos Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Public Transportation: Colectivos

Colectivos are shared vans or cars operating on semi-fixed routes. They run between the Todos Santos town center and surrounding areas like Playa Pescadero or Playa Cerritos. They are inexpensive and a good way to travel short to medium distances.

Colectivo routes are informal; you won't find detailed printed maps. Ask locals or your hotel staff for the "parada" (stop) for your desired destination. You can often simply wave one down on main roads. They typically run along Highway 19, connecting the town center to popular spots.

Usage & Tips

  • Pay fares in cash directly to the driver upon boarding; fares are typically 10-30 MXN.
  • Always carry small bills for convenience.
  • Generally operate during daylight hours, from early morning until sunset, running every 15-30 minutes.
  • Not wheelchair accessible; vehicles are standard vans or cars.

Route Clarity

Informal routes mean asking locals or hotel staff is the best way to determine your stop.

Payment Method

Cash payment directly to the driver is the standard. Small bills are always preferred.

Efficient Navigation

Confirm your destination with the driver before boarding. Expect stops as other passengers get on/off.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • The town center is very pedestrian-friendly, with walkable streets and sidewalks.
  • Explore galleries, shops, and restaurants on foot with ease.
  • Dirt roads lead from town into palm groves for pleasant walking.
Cycling Around Town
  • Several shops in town offer bicycle rentals, typically 200-400 MXN daily.
  • No dedicated bicycle lanes, but unpaved backroads and trails are suitable for mountain biking or casual cycling.
  • Avoid cycling on Highway 19 at night due to lack of lighting and fast-moving traffic.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Available near the main plaza. Agree on fare before starting. Cash preferred.

Typical Fares

In the town limits: 50-150 MXN. To Cerritos: 250-400 MXN.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber/Didi have limited/no reliable presence. Do not depend on them.

Safety Tips

Confirm fare upfront. Take photo of taxi number if feeling uncomfortable.

Car Rental Options

Renting a car offers maximum flexibility for exploring Todos Santos and the wider Baja California Sur region. Large global companies operate at SJD and LAP airports.

Requirements & Booking

  • Valid driver's license (AN international driving priving is recommended if not English/Spanish).
  • Major credit card for security deposit.
  • Mandatory Mexican car insurance.
  • Book in advance, especially for high season, via DiscoverCars.com.

Driving Conditions & Laws

  • Highway 19 is well-maintained; secondary roads can be unpaved.
  • Driving at night is not recommended due to livestock and limited lighting.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory; cell phone use while driving is illegal.
  • Free street parking is typically accessible, but limited in the historic center during peak hours.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Limited availability in Todos Santos; more common in Cabo San Lucas.
  • Not recommended for inexperienced riders due to varying road conditions.
  • Be aware of local traffic patterns.
  • Bicycle rentals are popular and widely available in town.
  • Explore town, palm groves, and dirt roads.
  • Daily rates typically range from 200-400 MXN for bikes.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

No hop-on-hop-off services. Tour operators offer day trips using minivans or small buses.

Boat Taxis

Not applicable in Todos Santos itself. Boat excursions leave from nearby Punta Lobos or larger marinas.

Accessibility Services

Limited general accessibility due to cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks. Newer hotels might offer accessible rooms.

Navigating the Town

Todos Santos is a compact town.

Local Transport Efficiency

  • Colectivos are the main budget-friendly option for short to medium distances.
  • Taxis offer direct service, especially for less common routes or after dark.
  • Bicycle rentals are an excellent way to explore the town and nearby regions at your own pace.
  • The the center of town is easily walkable, making it easy to explore galleries and shops on foot.

Planning Your Routes

  • Ask locals or hotel staff for advice on colectivo halts and routes.
  • Always confirm taxi fares before starting your journey to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Do not rely on ride-sharing apps like Uber or Didi within Todos Santos.
  • For a broader investigation, renting a car at the airport offers the most independence.

Accessibility Notes

Challenging Terrain

Cobbled roads and uneven sidewalks in the historic center.

May pose issues for wheelchairs.

Public Transport

Local colectivos are standard vehicles, not designed for easy access.

Limited accessibility features.

Accommodation

Newer hotels might offer accessible rooms.

Research specific venues beforehand.

Practical Travel Tips

Communication
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases for directions or fares.
  • This aids communication with colectivo cab drivers and taxi operators.
  • Locals are generally helpful and patient with visitors trying Spanish.
Local Navigation
  • Download offline maps of Todos Santos to your phone.
  • This provides navigation capabilities even without cell service.
  • Paper maps from tourist offices may also be helpful backups.

No-Go Areas & Precautions

  • Avoid walking or cycling on Highway 19 at night.
  • Lack of lighting makes traveling at night hazardous.
  • Exercise caution on less-traveled dirt roads after dark.
  • Always remain aware of your surroundings, especially after sunset.
  • Stick to well-lit, populated areas in the evenings.
  • Travel with a companion if possible during nighttime hours.
  • Carry a fully charged phone for emergencies.

Final Tip

Consider downloading an offline Spanish dictionary or translation app before you go.

Getting Around Todos Santos. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental