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How to Get to Acapulco De Juarez

How to Get to Acapulco De Juarez

Guerrero Mexico Travel Guide

Major Airports & Airlines

General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport ACA

ACA is the main airport serving Acapulco, found roughly 26 kilometers (16 miles) southeast of the city center, near the newer Diamante Zone. It is a modern, compact facility.

Airline Operations

  • Domestic Airlines: Aeromexico, Volaris, VivaAerobus connect ACA to major Mexican cities (e.g., Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey).
  • Global Airlines: Seasonal direct flights from limited US/Canada cities (American, United, Delta, WestJet, Air Canada Rouge), mainly peak season.
  • Most global travelers connect through Mexico City (MEX) for onward flights to Acapulco.

Flight Availability & Pricing

Direct international flights to Acapulco mainly originate from specific From North america cities and see more frequent operation during peak travel season.

Seasonal Trends

  • High Season (Dec-Apr): More direct international flights. Prices are highest due to demand. Booking well in advance is highly advisable.
  • Low Season (May-Nov): Fewer direct international flights, but how much flights cost is generally lower. Domestic flights remain consistent.
  • Holiday Periods: Prices surge around major holidays (Christmas, New Year's, Easter). Book far in advance.

Airport Facilities

ACA has basic but adequate facilities. Car rental desks, authorized taxi stands, ATMs, currency exchange, dining, and duty-free shops are available. The airport is easy to navigate.

Authorized Taxis

Authorized airport taxis are the most dependable and safest option. Find official booths inside the terminal and purchase a fixed-price ticket based on zones.

Ride-Sharing & Hotels

Uber and DiDi operate; pickup spots may be unofficial, requiring a short walk. Many larger hotels offer pre-arranged airport transfers for convenience.

Transfer Options from ACA

Airport Transfers

  • Authorized Airport Taxis: Purchase tickets at booths inside terminal; fixed prices by zone.
  • Shared Vans (Colectivos): Affordable option, transport multiple passengers to same area; more travel time times.
  • Ride-Sharing (Uber/DiDi): Competitive pricing; pickup spots may be outside immediate terminal area due to regulations.
  • Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pre-arranged transfers for ease and direct transportation.

Car Rental at ACA

  • Rental agencies (Hertz, Avis, Budget) have counters at the airport.
  • Car rental brings flexibility, but consider traffic and parking challenges.
  • Mexican auto insurance is by law mandatory; obtain coverage through the rental agency.
  • For most tourists focusing on main resort areas, a hired car is not necessary.

Arrival Recommendation

Peace of Mind

For peace of mind, especially upon first arrival, use authorized airport taxis or pre-arranged hotel transfers.

Direct Journey

These options support a non-stop and secure journey to your accommodation.

Traffic Considerations

Factor in potential traffic congestion when planning travel time to the airport or bus station.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Bus Options

Mexico’s long-distance bus system has a highly developed, comfortable, and affordable way to travel. It offers a reliable alternative to flying for domestic routes.

Major Bus Companies & Terminals

  • ADO (Autobuses de Oriente): One of Mexico's largest and most reputable bus companies, offering first-class and luxury services.
  • Estrella de Oro: A prominent regional bus line, often serving Mexico City and Guerrero state points.
  • Acapulco's main Central de Autobuses serves ADO and Estrella de Oro, somewhat inland from the Costera.

Self-Driving Considerations

A valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and a major credit card in your name are necessary. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Insurance & Road Conditions

  • Mexican auto insurance is legally mandatory. Purchase coverage through the rental company or an independent insurer.
  • Major highways (e.g., Autopista del Sol toll road from Mexico City) are well-maintained. Secondary roads vary significantly.
  • Use GPS with offline maps downloaded.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Standard Mexican traffic laws are in effect. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Obey speed limits, posted in kilometers per hour.

Traffic & Parking

  • Traffic can be congested and chaotic, particularly along the Costera. Expect slower travel times.
  • Parking can be difficult and expensive in popular areas. Hotels usually offer parking. Look for paid parking lots.
  • Fueling stations are available; attendants typically pump gas. Tipping 10-20 MXN is customary.

Safety Concerns for Driving

While major highways are generally safe during the day, driving at night, especially on unlit or rural roads, is not recommended.

Recommendations

  • Some areas within Guerrero state have security considerations; research routes carefully.
  • Toll roads (cuotas) are a more protected and speedyer option than free roads (libres).
  • If independently-driving, stick to toll roads during the day.

Important Land Travel Note

  • Mexico does not have a comprehensive passenger rail network; train travel to Acapulco is not an option.
  • Border crossing information is not directly applicable to Acapulco as it isn't a border city.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists; insurance and safety standards may be questionable.
  • Public transportation for motorcycles is generally not recommended due to traffic conditions.
  • Acapulco has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure; cycling on busy roads is dangerous.
  • Bicycle sharing programs are not prevalent.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Port Information

Acapulco's historic bay makes it a port for marivisitors for the first time. It is a popular port of call for cruise ships sailing the Mexican Pacific coast. The main cruise terminal resides within Acapulco Bay, close to downtown.

Passenger Disembarkation

  • Cruise passengers disembark directly into a tourist-friendly area.
  • Easy access to taxis and area tours awaits.
  • Immigration procedures are typically streamlined, handguided by the cruise line.

Private Vessels & Transportation

For those arriving using a private yacht or other private vessels, standard port entry procedures apply, involving passport control and customs with local authorities.

Connections & Services

  • No regular passenger ferry services connect Acapulco to other large coastal cities along the Pacific.
  • Options for travel on the river are not applicable for Acapulco.
  • At the the boat trip port, taxis and local tour operators readily transport passengers to attractions or hotels.

Shore Leave

Cruise passengers usually receive temporary shore leave for the ship's stop without extensive individual processing.

Port Accessibility

Walk a short distance from immediate port gates to find standard taxis, or utilize ride-sharing-sharing apps if desired.

Passport & FMM

Ensure passport and FMM (if issued by cruise line) are on hand for smooth shore leave.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

The Mexican Tourist Tax (Derecho de No Inmigrante) is typically part of your flight ticket price if you depart Mexico by air.

Confirmation & Caution

  • If you entered overland or sea and paid a FMM fee, an extra exit fee at the airport may not apply.
  • Always confirm with your airline or travel provider if you are unsure about any fees.
  • Do not pay any extra "exit fees" requested by individuals outside official airport or bus terminal counters.

Departure Procedures & Timing

Arrive at General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure for check-in, bag check, and security.

Timing & Considerations

  • For domestic flights within Mexico, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • If departing by long-distance bus, arrive at the terminal 30-AN hour before departure.
  • Allow extra time during peak public holiday periods, as airports and terminals can be busier.

Airport/Station Facilities

ACA Airport

ACA has check-in counters, security screening, shops (duty-inclusive-no charge for international), and food/beverage options. Facilities are basic but meet the needs of travelers.

Bus Terminals

Mexican coach terminals often present modern amenities, including waiting areas, restrooms, convenience stores, and food stalls.

Confirmation

Reconfirm your flight or bus details 24-TWO days before departure.

Departure Checklist

Factor in potential heavy traffic, especially on La Costera Miguel Alemán, when planning your travel time to the airport or bus station.