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How to Get to Mazatlan

How to Get to Mazatlan

Mazatlan Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Air Travel

Mazatlán International Airport MZT

Officially named General Rafael Buelna International Airport, it serves the city. It is approximately 17 kilometers (11 miles) southeast of Mazatlán's city center. This proximity makes transfers to hotels relatively quick.

Airlines & Routes

  • Domestic Airlines: Aeroméxico, Volaris, VivaAerobus (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana).
  • International (US): Alaska, American, Delta, Sun Country, United (LAX, PHX, DFW, IAH, MSP, DEN).
  • International (Canada): WestJet, Air Canada (Calgary, Vancouver, Toronto).

Flight Considerations

Direct flights to Mazatlán mainly originate from cities across the United States and Canada. Travelers from outside North America typically require a connection through Mexico City or a major US hub.

Seasonal & Pricing

  • Seasonal routes increase frequency during high season (winter months).
  • High season (Late Dec-Apr): Higher prices, more direct routes. Book well in advance.
  • Low season (Jul-Sep): Lower flight prices, potentially fewer direct routes.

Airport Shopping

Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and small boutiques are available at MZT.

Airport Dining

Restaurants, cafes, and snack bars offer various food and drink options.

Airport Services

Car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange booths, VIP lounges, and tourist information desks.

Transfers from Airport

Economical Options

  • Shared Shuttle Services (Colectivos): Economical. Purchase tickets inside terminal.
  • Airport Taxis (Taxis Autorizados): Purchase ticket from designated counter inside terminal.
  • Ride-sharing (Uber/Didi): May require walking a short distance from terminal due to local regulations.
  • For car rentals, check DiscoverCars.com.

Convenience & Directness

  • Private Transfers: Pre-book through hotel or independent companies. Direct ride.
  • Shared shuttles involve multiple stops.
  • Authorized taxis ensure fixed, fair prices.
  • Always confirm pick-up instructions for ride-sharing apps.

Flight Planning Resources

Dollar Flight Club

Find deals on flights with Dollar Flight Club.

Skyscanner

Compare flight prices across airlines using Skyscanner.

Booking Tips

Book well in advance, especially for high season, to secure availability and better rates.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

Mazatlán serves as a major hub for long-distance bus travel in Mexico. The bus system is efficient, comfortable, and a popular choice for intercity journeys.

Bus Companies & Terminal

  • Main Bus Terminal: Central de Autobuses Mazatlán, with connections to major cities.
  • Bus Companies: TAP, Estrella Blanca/Futura, Primera Plus (premium service).
  • Booking: Purchase tickets at the terminal or online.

Border Crossing & Driving

If traveling by land from the US, nearest major border crossings are Nogales, AZ, or El Paso, TX.

Requirements & Conditions

  • Vehicle Documentation: Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP) & mandatory Mexican auto insurance.
  • Road Conditions: Major highways (Highway 15D) are well-maintained. Local roads vary.
  • Safety: Avoid driving outside urban areas at night. Beware of "topes" (speed bumps).

Self-Driving Considerations

To drive in Mexico, a valid driver's license from your home country is sufficient, though an International Driving Permit (IDP) is good. Mexican auto insurance is required; your US/Canadian policy usually does not cover Mexico.

Driving Tips

  • Use GPS (Google Maps, Waze) for navigation. Download offline maps.
  • Look for paid parking lots ("estacionamientos") in busy areas.

Sea/River Arrivals

Mazatlán’s port status means sea arrivals contribute to its dynamic character, especially through ferry services and cruise ship visits. River transportation is not applicable.

Ferry & Cruise Port

  • Ferry: Baja Ferries connects Mazatlán with La Paz, Baja California Sur.
  • Cruise Port: Popular port of call for cruise ships sailing the Mexican Riviera.
  • Immigration: Passengers undergo similar procedures as air arrivals (passport, FMM).

Departure Information

  • Mexican Departure Tax (DNR) usually included in international air ticket price.
  • For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure at MZT.
  • For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • For ferry departures, arrive 2-3 hours early, especially with a vehicle.
  • For long-distance bus travel, arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Airport facilities offer dining, shopping (duty-free), and waiting areas.