MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Manzanillo

How to Get to Manzanillo

Manzanillo Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Air Travel to Manzanillo

Airport & Airlines

Manzanillo is served by Lic. Miguel de la Madrid Airport (ZLO), also known as Playa de Oro International Airport. It is a smaller, regional airport located approximately 30 minutes north of the Manzanillo city center.

Flight Information

  • Domestic: Major Mexican airlines like Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus offer flights mainly from Mexico City (MEX).
  • International: American Airlines provides flights from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Phoenix (PHX). United Airlines operates routes from Houston (IAH), and Alaska Airlines flies from Los Angeles (LAX).
  • Seasonal flights may operate from other U.S. Cities or Canada during peak tourist periods. Direct international flights are limited.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

ZLO is a compact, modern airport. Its facilities include car rental desks, taxi stands, shared shuttle services, a few food and beverage options, and duty-free shops. ATMs are available for withdrawing local currency.

Getting to Your Accommodation

  • Authorized Airport Taxis: Purchase tickets at a designated counter inside the airport. Generally the safest and most convenient for direct transfers.
  • Shared Vans (Colectivos): A more economical transfer option. You share the ride with other passengers.
  • Hotel Shuttles: Some larger resorts offer pre-arranged shuttle services.

Price Fluctuation

Prices are highest during peak holiday periods and throughout the dry season.

Seasonal Availability

More frequent direct international flights appear during Manzanillo's high season (Nov-Apr).

Affiliate Flight Resources

Explore deals with Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for potential savings.

Travel Insurance & Assistance

Insurance Providers

  • For adventurous travelers: World Nomads.
  • For digital nomads and remote teams: SafetyWing.
  • Air travel compensation: AirHelp for delayed or canceled flights.
  • Passport & Visa Services: IVisa and VisaHQ.

Safety and Medical Kits

Other Travel Services

Travel Bags

Find modern travel bags and accessories at Nordace for your journey.

VPN Services

Secure your online activity with NordVPN or ExpressVPN for safe browsing.

ESIM for Data

Stay connected with global eSIM plans from Airalo, simplifying international data access.

Land Transportation to Manzanillo

Long-Distance Bus Options

Manzanillo features a Central de Autobuses (main bus terminal), which connects the city to numerous destinations across Mexico. Buses represent a safe, reliable, and cost-effective way to travel within the country.

Major Bus Companies

  • Primera Plus: Offers comfortable, executive-class service with reclining seats, restrooms, and sometimes snacks.
  • ETN: Considered a premium service with high comfort levels.
  • Autobuses de Occidente/Pacifico: Provide more economical options with varying service levels.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car and driving yourself offers flexibility but comes with specific requirements and considerations.

Driving Information

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license (U.S., Canada, Europe) is generally accepted. International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
  • Insurance: Acquire Mexican auto insurance, as foreign policies are not recognized.
  • Road Conditions: Main highways are generally well-maintained. Secondary roads vary.

Car Rental Resources

Major international rental agencies operate at ZLO airport and in Manzanillo city. Inspect the car thoroughly for any existing damage before accepting it.

Rental Agencies

  • Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar are available.
  • Find competitive rates on DiscoverCars.com.
  • Be cautious of aggressive upselling for additional insurance.

Driving Safety

Driving at night outside major cities or on unlit roads is not recommended due to potential hazards like livestock, unmarked speed bumps ("topes"), and aggressive driving.

Vigilance on the Road

  • Be especially vigilant for "topes," which are difficult to spot.
  • Roadside assistance is limited in some areas.
  • Border Crossing: Standard Mexican land border procedures apply (FMM, vehicle permits).

Train & Ferry Services

  • Manzanillo does not have passenger train services.
  • Rail lines mainly serve cargo transportation.
  • No passenger ferry services connect Manzanillo to other coastal destinations.
  • River transportation is not applicable to Manzanillo.
  • Manzanillo's identity as a port city extends to its sea arrivals.
  • Manzanillo serves as a port of call for cruise ships.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

The Departure Tax (Mexican Tourism Tax or DNR) is generally included in the price of international airline tickets. Confirm this with your airline when you book.

Important Note

  • If the fee is not included, you must pay it at the airport prior to check-in.
  • Cruise ship passengers typically experience streamlined immigration procedures.
  • Independent sea arrivals follow standard immigration protocols upon disembarkation.

Departure Procedures & Facilities

Plan your arrival time at the airport or bus terminal carefully to allow for smooth departure processes.

Timing & Services

  • International Flights: Arrive at ZLO airport at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Bus Terminal: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.

Airport Check-in

Allows ample time for check-in and security screening.

Terminal Facilities

ZLO offers a few small shops and food vendors. Lounge access is typically not available.

Port Connections

The cruise port is close to the city center, with taxis readily available for shore excursions.

Visa Resources

Online Visa Application Services

Simplify your visa application process with trusted online platforms.

Consumer-Friendly Platforms

  • IVisa: A consumer visa application service for various destinations.
  • VisaHQ: Provides direct visa and passport services for travelers worldwide.
  • Always check the latest requirements for your nationality and destination.

Travel Safety & Security Products

Invest in products for your health and safety during travel.

Essential Gear

  • LifeStraw: Consumer site for personal water filtration products.
  • Adventure Medical Kits: First aid supplies tailored for travelers.
  • Pacsafe: Offers anti-theft bags and travel security products.

Online Retail for Travel Essentials

Amazon

The main consumer retail platform for a wide array of travel products and general goods.

Nordace

Modern travel bag and accessory store for stylish and functional luggage solutions.

B&H Photo

A reputable retailer for camera equipment and other electronics.

Seamless Travel

Plan your journey to Manzanillo with an awareness of air, land, and sea options. Understand departure procedures and consider reliable resources for your travel needs.