Zipolite Oaxaca State, Mexico Travel Guide
The closest airport to Zipolite is Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX), about 45-60 minutes away. Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) is another option, roughly 6-7 hours by bus.
From HUX, a 45-60 minute drive leads to Zipolite. Consider your budget and desired convenience for transfers.
Flight prices rise during peak dry season (Dec-Apr), especially around holidays. Book well in advance. Prices drop during rainy season (Jun-Oct).
Direct international flights to HUX are mainly seasonal (Nov-May). Outside this period, connections through Mexico City (MEX) are common.
HUX is smaller with basic amenities (car rental, taxis, shops). OAX (The City of jade) is larger, offering more an eatery and retail options.
Highways 175 and 131 are very winding, often with potholes and livestock. Daytime driving is strongly suggested.
Generally paved it can be narrow and feature frequent, sometimes unmarked, Topes (speed bumps).
Major international car rental companies are available at Huatulco Airport, like DiscoverCars.com.
Sea or river transportation does not serve as a principal means of arrival for tourists directly to Zipolite. No direct ferry services or cruise ports exist for passenger arrival in Zipolite.
Planning your exit. The FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) fee, which serves as the tourist tax, is typically included in your international flight ticket.
If departing by bus from Pochutla, arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled bus departure time.
HUX (Huatulco Airport) amenities are basic. You will find small souvenir shops, a few casual cafes, and ATMs. The Pochutla Bus Station offers small shops and food stalls for snacks and drinks.
Zipolite itself does not have a formal public transit system within the town limits. Movement within Zipolite is mainly by foot, moto-taxis, or regular taxis. For inter-town travel, the main form of mass transit is Colectivos.
Colectivos generally do not follow strict route maps. They work on well-known sections of road between towns. Fares are typically paid directly to the driver upon boarding or exiting the automobile.
Colectivos generally operate from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM). Frequency is high during daylight hours for busy routes (every 5-15 minutes).
Public transportation in Zipolite, especially colectivos, is generally not wheelchair accessible. Automobiles are small, and boarding often needs stepping up.
Look for cars with "Servicio Colectivo" signs. Confirm destination with driver. Be prepared for a full car. Flag them down from the primary road.
Taxis present a more non-stop and private transportation option, especially for shorter distances or when carrying luggage. Taxis in Zipolite are usually white or red and pale, often displaying a specific taxi number. Licensed taxis might have a noticeable taxi meter, although it finds rare use; fares are almost always negotiated beforehand.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or DiDi are not in Zipolite or the immediate surrounding towns. Local taxis and colectivos are the main motorized transport options.
Booking in advance is suggested. Passport, a license that is not expired, credit card for deposit. Mexican car insurance is mandatory.
Available in Zipolite/Mazunte. Need a license that is not expired. Helmets legally needed. Roads can be rough; use great caution.
Moto-taxis: Small motorbikes with passenger carriage. Inexpensive plus swift for short trips inside Zipolite.
Driving in Mexico can be hard because of varying road conditions, numerous unmarked speed bumps (Topes), and different local driving habits. Always assess your comfort level.
