Getting Around Acapulco. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Bus System Overview

These buses are often older, brightly painted city buses, including many converted Volkswagen Beetles (Vocho buses) and larger vans. They follow specific, fixed routes along major arteries, with La Costera Miguel Alemán serving as the main backbone for many routes.

The Rutas offer a very inexpensive way to get around the main tourist zone and connect to other neighborhoods, offering a glimpse into daily local life.

Features

Route Maps: No detailed universally published maps for tourists. Buses display destination on windshield (e.g., "Costera," "Zócalo").
Important Hubs: La Costera Miguel Alemán is central for most routes, connecting Old Acapulco to the hotel and Diamante zones.
Fares: Very low, around 12-18 MXN ($0.60-$1 USD) per ride. Pay cash directly to the driver upon boarding; exact change is appreciated.
Hours of Operation: Frequent throughout the day, starting early (5-6 AM) and continuing late (past midnight). Frequency decreases late evening.

Accessibility

Public buses in Acapulco generally lack wheelchair accessibility (no ramps/lifts). Passengers need to step up into the bus. This has a challenge for travelers with mobility needs.

Hailing a Bus

Flag down buses from designated stops or by waving from the roadside. Look for your desired destination displayed on the windshield.

Getting Off

Tell the driver your destination ("Baja en [destination]") or yell "¡Baja!" (Bah-ha!) loudly as you approach your stop.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Local Insights

Ask hotel staff or locals which "Ruta" goes to your destination.
Carry small bills for fares; drivers may not have change for large denominations.
Be aware of your belongings, especially during crowded times.

Experience & Benefits

Use local "Ruta" buses for an authentic and inexpensive way to travel along the Costera and beyond.
Locals are usually helpful if you have questions about routes.
Experiencing local transit is part of the cultural immersion.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Look for official taxi stands (sitios de taxi). Taxis typically have a taxi sign on top.

Fare Agreement

Taxis in Acapulco do not use meters. Always agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

Payment

Taxis usually accept cash (Mexican Pesos) only. Have small bills available.

Safety Tip

Use official taxis. Avoid unmarked cars. Your hotel can call a taxi for you.

Ride-Sharing Services

Uber and DiDi operate in Acapulco and are widely used. They often present competitive pricing, and the convenience of knowing the fare and route beforehand.

Benefits of Apps

App displays estimated cost before you confirm the ride.
Apps provide driver details (name, photo, license plate) and track your journey.
This approach adds a layer of safety and accountability.
Always confirm the license plate and driver photo match before getting in.

Airport/Station Pickup

Uber/DiDi pickup points at the airport might be slightly outside the immediate terminal due to local regulations.
For bus stations, ride-sharing typically pick up directly at the station.
Confirm the pickup location within the app before heading out.
This supports a smooth and informed pickup experience.

Rental Options

Car Rental: Requires valid driver's license, passport, major credit card (in your name).
Pros: Offers freedom and flexibility for day trips to areas like Pie de la Cuesta, Laguna de Tres Palos.
Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.

Cons: Traffic can be heavy and chaotic. Parking can be difficult and expensive.
Road conditions vary; some side streets may be poorly maintained.
For most tourists focusing on main resort areas, a rental car is not necessary.

Driving & Other Rentals

Driving Laws

Standard Mexican driving laws apply. Seatbelts are mandatory. Obey speed limits (km/h). Traffic is heavy, especially on the Costera.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common for tourists. Local outfits may offer them, but insurance coverage and safety standards can be questionable. Not generally recommended due to traffic.

Bicycle Rentals

Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure. Bicycle sharing programs are not prevalent. Some resorts offer rentals for guests on grounds or nearby paths.

Walking & Cycling

Acapulco has several pedestrian-friendly areas, ideal for leisurely strolls and exploring on foot.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

La Costera Miguel Alemán: Main boulevard with wide sidewalks, pleasant for walks, especially in the evening.
Old Acapulco/Centro: Walkable for exploring the Zócalo, Cathedral, Fort San Diego, and local markets.
Sinfonía del Mar: Scenic promenade near La Quebrada cliff divers; offers excellent walking paths with stunning ocean views.
Be aware that streets in Old Acapulco can be uneven, crowded, and steep.

Walking Tour Options

Guided Walking Tours: Several local operators offer guided tours, specifically around Old Acapulco and historical sites.
Self-Guided Tours: You can create your own walking tour using a map and information from this guide for main attractions.
Guided tours provide context and insights you might miss on your own.
Enjoy the views at Sinfonía del Mar, especially at sunset.

Cycling & Safety

Bicycle Infrastructure

Acapulco has limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cycling on busy roads like the Costera can be dangerous due to heavy traffic, lack of dedicated lanes, and aggressive drivers.

Generally not recommended for casual cyclists.

Cycling Safety

If you choose to cycle, exercise extreme caution and wear a Helmet.

Stick to quieter streets or dedicated paths if available.

Terrain Challenges

Acapulco is not especially bicycle-friendly outside of dedicated, limited paths due to heavy traffic and hilly terrain.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Nighttime Precautions

Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas, especially off the main Costera Miguel Alemán.
Exercise caution in less touristy neighborhoods after dark.
Always maintain awareness of your surroundings.

Cycling Restrictions

For cycling, avoid busy thoroughfares and hilly, winding roads.
Stick to dedicated paths where traffic is minimal.
Prioritize safety over scenic routes in challenging areas.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses: Double-decker "turibus" options cover major sights, providing a city overview.
Boat Taxis & Water Transport: Popular for exploring Acapulco Bay, seeing marine life, or visiting Isla de La Roqueta.
These services are mainly for tourism and leisure, not daily commuting.
No cable cars or funiculars are widely used for public transport.

Accessibility Services: Acapulco’s general infrastructure is not highly accessible for mobility challenges.
Sidewalks are uneven, and public transport is not adapted.
Pre-arranged private transfers or specially equipped vans are the most reliable accessible options.
For easy movement between attractions along the bay, combine public buses during the day with ride-sharing or authorized taxis for evenings or longer distances.

Transportation Summary

For optimal movement between bay attractions, consider a combination of public buses during the day.

For evenings or longer distances, ride-sharing or authorized taxis support your journey.

Getting Around Acapulco