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How to Get to Ixtapa

How to Get to Ixtapa

Ixtapa Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Air Travel

Main Airport & Flights

Air travel brings the quickest way to reach Ixtapa for most international visitors. The region has its own international airport.

ZIH & Carriers

  • Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH): Main airport, 15-20 minutes from Ixtapa.
  • International Airlines: American, Delta, United, Alaska, Southwest (US); Air Canada, WestJet (Canada). From major hubs.
  • Mexican Airlines: Aeromexico, Volaris, VivaAerobus. Connections from Mexico City, Guadalajara.

Flight Notes & Services

Direct flights mainly from US/Canada. Most frequent in high season.

Important Info

  • Seasonal Prices: High season (Dec-Apr) sees highest prices, increased frequency. Low season (Jun-Oct) sees lower prices, limited options.
  • Price Fluctuation: Book well in advance for better rates in high season.
  • Airport Facilities: ZIH has currency exchange, ATMs, car rental desks, duty-free, cafes, Wi-Fi.

Official Airport Taxis

Pre-paid taxis (Taxi Colectivo or private) are available just outside the terminal. Purchase ticket inside airport at authorized booth. Fixed rates. Safer, more reliable.

Shuttles & Hotels

Some hotels or independent operators offer shared shuttle services. Pre-book online or through your accommodation. Many resorts offer direct airport transfers as part of package or for fee. Arrange when booking for ease.

Airport Car Rental

Rental car agencies are located directly at the airport. Pick up your vehicle upon arrival. DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

  • Main bus terminal in Zihuatanejo.
  • Major lines: Estrella de Oro, Primera Plus.
  • Regular service to Mexico City, Guadalajara, Acapulco.
  • Economical way to explore beyond the immediate area.

Self-Driving Notes

  • Valid driver's license. IDP recommended.
  • Mexican auto insurance is a rule.
  • Major highways are good. Secondary roads change.
  • Night driving outside urban areas not advised (poor lighting, unmarked Topes).

Road Conditions & Driving

General Conditions

Roads in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are generally in good condition. Traffic can be heavy downtown Zihuatanejo.

Speed Bumps

Speed bumps (Topes) are common and often poorly marked. Drive cautiously and slow down for these to avoid damage.

Local Traffic

Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles. They may not always follow traffic rules. Stay alert.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea Arrivals

Ixtapa itself does not have a cruise port. Cruise ships sometimes visit Zihuatanejo Bay. They dock offshore and tender passengers to the pier in downtown Zihuatanejo.

Cruise Ship Access

  • Cruise ships visit Zihuatanejo Bay.
  • Ships dock offshore, passengers tender to pier.
  • Allows day exploration for cruise passengers.

Port Procedures

Immigration for cruise passengers often onboard or at pier.

Steps

  • Procedures are similar to air arrivals (valid passport, FMM review).
  • From Zihuatanejo pier, taxis and local buses are ready.
  • Connects to Ixtapa or other parts of Zihuatanejo.

No River Transport

The region does not have major navigable rivers for passenger transport.

Coastal Focus

Movement here focuses on roads and the ocean.

No Regular Ferries

No regular ferry services connect Ixtapa to other major destinations along the coast.

Departure Information

Departure Essentials

Understand fees and steps for a smooth exit.

Exit Details

  • Exit Fees: Mexican Tourist Tax (DNI) usually in airline ticket price.
  • Airport Check-in: Arrive at ZIH 2-3 hours before international flight.
  • FMM Surrender: Have departure portion ready. Loss creates delays/fines.

ZIH Departure Facilities

ZIH has dining, duty-free, restrooms. Adequate for its size.

Before You Fly

  • Grab a snack at airport cafes.
  • Last-minute souvenir shopping in duty-free.
  • Confirm airport transfer the day before departure.

Travel Resources

Flight Deals

Find affordable flights.

Dollar Flight Club Skyscanner

Car Rentals

Book your vehicle in advance.

DiscoverCars.com

Travel Insurance

Protect your trip and health.

World Nomads SafetyWing

Smooth Departure

Having all documents ready and confirming transportation beforehand makes your exit stress-free. Allow ample time at the airport for all procedures.