Getting Around Zacatecas. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Zacatecas City mainly relies on a local bus system for public transit. No metro or tram system here. These buses cover most areas of the city and surrounding neighborhoods. The historic center is served by numerous routes. Specific route maps are not widely digitized for tourists. Ask hotel staff or locals for guidance.

Fares are paid in cash directly to the driver upon boarding, approximately $10-15 MXN per ride. Buses generally operate from early morning (~6:00 AM) until late evening (~9:00 PM or 10:00 PM). Public buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Bus Travel Tips

Ask hotel reception or locals for bus numbers.
Prepare exact change for fares.
Routes are displayed on bus windshields or sides.
For convenience at night or long distances, use taxis/ride-sharing.

Local Bus

Fare: $10-15 MXN. Operating Hours: ~06:00 - 22:00. Notes: Cash to driver, not wheelchair accessible.

Teleférico

Fare: $160 (RT). Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00 - 18:00 (check seasonal variations). Notes: Scenic cable car.

Mine Train

Fare: $140 MXN (Mine tour). Notes: Internal train for Mina El Edén tour.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Hailing & Fares

Zacatecas taxis are typically white or yellow/white with "TAXI" signs.
Hail on the street, find at taxi stands (sitios), or call.
Fares are negotiated or zone-based; meters are less common. Confirm price before ride.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber and DiDi operate; transparent pricing and cashless payment.
GPS tracking and driver identification for safety.
Always confirm license plate and driver photo.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Airport Taxis

Purchase authorized taxi ticket inside the terminal for fixed price.

Bus Terminal Taxis

Readily available outside; agree on fare before departure.

Typical Taxi Fares

Short rides within historic center: $50-80 MXN. Longer rides: $80-150 MXN.

Payment

Mainly cash (MXN).

Rental Options

Renting a car in Zacatecas grants flexibility for exploration beyond the city center. Familiarize yourself with requirements and local driving conditions.

Car Rental

Valid driver's license (IDP recommended).
Major credit card in renter's name for deposit.
Mandatory Mexican car insurance.
Major companies at ZCL Airport (Hertz, Avis, National).

Driving & Parking

Driving laws: Seatbelts mandatory, speed limits in km/h.
Right turns on red generally permitted after stop, unless signed otherwise.
City streets are narrow, often one-way, and cobbled.
Limited street parking in historic center. Look for public lots/garages.

Other Rentals

Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not widely available for tourists.
No formal city-wide bicycle sharing program. Hilly, cobblestone terrain not ideal for cycling.

Specialty vehicle options (tuk-tuks, jeepneys) are not relevant to Zacatecas.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

Historic Center is best explored on foot. Narrow streets, some pedestrian-only.

Walking Tours

Guided walking tours available. Self-guided tours with a map are feasible.

Cycling Notes

Limited infrastructure; not recommended in historic center due to terrain and traffic.

Specialized Transportation

Zacatecas provides unique transportation experiences that are attractions in themselves.

Tour & Water Transport

Tourist trolleys ("tranvías") offer guided tours of the historic center.
Often depart from Plaza de Armas, providing a city overview.
No boat taxis or significant water transportation. Zacatecas is landlocked.

Unique Local Transport

Teleférico de Zacatecas (Cable Car): Connects Cerro del Grillo with Cerro de la Bufa.
Offers panoramic city views. Round trip fare ~$160 MXN.
El Camioncito Minero (Mine Train): Internal train for Mina El Edén tour.

Accessibility Notes

Historic Center

Cobblestones, narrow sidewalks, and steep inclines pose challenges for mobility-impaired travelers.

Limited accessibility.

Teleférico & Mine

Teleférico has limited wheelchair access. Mina El Edén tour involves stairs and uneven surfaces.

Assess before participation.

Accommodation

Some newer hotels or luxury properties may offer accessible rooms and facilities.

Inquire directly.

General Tips

Walking Smart

Wear comfortable, supportive shoes for uneven surfaces.
Use offline maps for navigation in dead zones.
Allocate extra time for uphill walks.

Staying Safe

Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Stick to well-populated and well-lit areas.
Be mindful of local traffic on narrow streets.

Important Considerations

Zacatecas Historic Center topography has mobility challenges.
Travelers with mobility issues should plan carefully.
Inquire directly with attractions for specific accessibility details.
Confirm accessible features with your chosen accommodation.

Public buses are not generally wheelchair friendly.
Extensive walking on cobblestones is a core part of the experience.
Cycling is not a main mode of tourist transport in the city center.
Consider personal limitations when planning activities involving physical demands.

Final Travel Insights

Zacatecas, with its captivating history and distinct character, welcomes travelers ready for discovery. Thoughtful planning concerning transportation and accessibility enhances the journey, ensuring a memorable visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Maximizing Your Experience

Prioritize walking for intimate city exploration.
Utilize local buses for economical travel beyond the center.
Opt for taxis or ride-shares for convenience.
Consider car rental for wider regional exploration.

Unique Perspectives

Experience the city from above via the Teleférico.
Descend into history with the Mina El Edén train tour.
Be mindful of the city's unique topography and its effects on mobility.

Guided Tours

Join a "tranvía" tour for city highlights.

Air Access

Fly into ZCL for direct convenience.

Bus Network

Reliable connections for regional travel.

Accessibility Final Note

Navigating Challenges

Steep streets and numerous stairs are a feature of the city.
Sidewalks can be narrow, especially in the historic core.
Inquire about specific accessible services or routes before your trip.

Planning for Comfort

If you have mobility needs, research hotel accessibility in detail.
Map out destinations that are flatter or have alternative access.
Consider taxi use for longer distances or challenging slopes.

Your Zacatecas Journey

With a clear understanding of transportation and accessibility, your time in Zacatecas promises rich discoveries.

Embrace the winding streets and stunning views that define this unique Mexican city.

Getting Around Zacatecas