MileHacker Logo
How to Get to San Luis Potosi

How to Get to San Luis Potosi

San Luis Potosi Mexico Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

San Luis Potosí possesses its own international airport, serving both domestic and several global routes. Ponciano Arriaga International Airport (SLP) directly serves the city, located approximately 16.5 kilometers (10.3 miles) north of the city center.

Airlines & Routes

  • Airlines: Aeroméxico, VivaAerobus, Volaris, United Airlines.
  • Domestic Routes: Regular flights to Mexico City (MEX), Monterrey (MTY), Cancún (CUN), Tijuana (TIJ).
  • Overseas Routes: Limited direct flights, mainly to U.S. Centers such as Houston (IAH), Dallas/Cowtown (DFW), Chicago (ORD).

Flights & Pricing

Direct international flights to SLP are not extensive; most international travelers connect through Mexico City (MEX) or other major Mexican airports. From Mexico City, numerous daily flights connect to San Luis Potosí.

Pricing & Booking

  • Flight prices higher during peak seasons (Semana Santa, July-August, December).
  • Booking flights well in advance recommended for better rates.
  • Use services like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Facilities

Ponciano Arriaga International Airport (SLP) basic but adequate facilities, including vehicle rental firms, authorized taxi services, ATMs, shops, restaurants, and free Wi-Fi.

Taxi Transfers

Authorized airport taxis (Taxi Autorizado) available directly outside the terminal. Purchase tickets inside the terminal at official kiosks. Fares fixed by zone, transparent pricing.

Ride-sharing & Rental

Uber runs from SLP airport to the city, a convenient option. Major international and local Rental agencies have counters at the airport.

Transfer Options from Airport to City/Accommodation

Taxi Services

  • Purchase tickets inside the terminal from official kiosks.
  • Fares are fixed by zone, ensuring transparent pricing.
  • Use authorized airport taxis for security.
  • Fixed prices remove the need to negotiate.

Ride-sharing & Car Rental

  • Request Uber through the app upon arrival.
  • Rental car: a convenient option for exploring the region.
  • Counters for major international and local rental agencies at the airport.
  • Plan your route from the airport to your accommodation.

Land Transportation

Bus Travel

Mexico an excellent long-distance bus network. San Luis Potosí a major hub featuring routes to most major cities in Mexico. Reputable companies ETN, Primera Plus, Omnibus de México, Futura, and ADO.

Common Bus Routes

Mexico City: 4-5 hours; Guadalajara: 4-5 hours; Monterrey: 6-7 hours; Querétaro: 2.5-3 hours; San Miguel de Allende: 3-4 hours (often requires connection); Real de Catorce: 5-SIX hours (requires connection).

Train & Border

No passenger train services straight from serve San Luis Potosí city. Freight trains operate. Border crossing procedures not applicable for direct arrival overland or rail from outside Mexico.

Self-Driving Considerations

Requirements for Drivers

Self-driving a viable option for many travelers. Mexico has certain legal and safety recommendations for drivers.

What you need

  • Valid national driver's license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended in addition.
  • Mexican car insurance legally necessary. Purchase this online or at border crossings.
  • Ensure you have liability coverage.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main highways, specifically toll roads (Cuota), generally well-maintained. Secondary roads differ in quality. Plan your journeys with safety in mind.

Driving Safely

  • Toll roads (Cuota) generally faster, safer, and better maintained.
  • Exercise caution, especially when driving at night. Poor lighting, animals while driving, and security concerns.
  • Vehicle recovery service like Angeles Verdes (Green Angels) helpful on major highways.

Sea/River Arrivals

San Luis Potosí an inland city, so sea or river arrivals are not applicable for direct access to the city.

Not Applicable

  • No ferry services or cruise ports.
  • No options for travel on the river.
  • No immigration procedures at seaports pertaining to this place.

Departure Information

Be aware of exit fees or taxes. If the FMM fee was not included in your international airfare (e.g., entered overland and stayed over seven days), you may need to pay it upon departure. Verify this with your airline or immigration authorities.

Departure Procedures

  • International Flights: Arrive at SLP be at the AIRPORT 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Bus Travel: Arrive at the Central de Autobuses at least 30 minutes before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities for Departing Travelers

  • SLP Airport: Check-in, security, waiting areas, shops, food options.
  • Allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
  • Verify any FMM exit fees with airline or immigration.
  • Central de Autobuses: Waiting areas, ticket counters, luggage lockers, food vendors, restrooms.
  • It's a large, busy terminal; know your bus company and gate.
  • Arrive early to avoid last-minute rush.

Travel Advice

Flight Booking & Transfers

Book flights well in advance, especially for popular routes or peak travel times. Use price comparison sites like Skyscanner for the best deals.

Airport Logistics

  • For getting to/from the airport, use authorized taxis or Uber for reliability.
  • Keep your flight and accommodation confirmations handy.
  • Allow sufficient time at the airport for check-in and security.

Bus Travel & Driving

Long-distance buses an efficient way to travel across Mexico. Self-driving offers flexibility but includes specific requirements.

Ground Transport Tips

  • Book long-distance bus tickets in advance, notably during high season.
  • If driving, purchase Mexican car insurance before you cross the border.
  • Avoid night driving due to safety concerns and poor lighting.

Rental Car Planning

Reserve your hire car in advance, especially during high season, to secure better rates and vehicle availability. Confirm insurance coverage.

Route Planning

Plan your driving routes, considering toll roads for faster and safer travel. Always have an offline map or SATELLITE navigation available.

Assistance on Roads

The Green Angels provide vehicle recovery service on major highways. Keep their contact information or the 911 emergency number handy.

Departure Checklist

Before You Leave Your Accommodation

Guarantee all your your items are packed, and no essential items are left behind. Double-check drawers, closets, and under the bed.

Final Checks

  • Confirm you have your passport, FMM, and come back ticket.
  • Ensure you have your wallet, credit cards, and sufficient local currency.
  • Charge your phone and any other electronic devices.

On Your Way to the Airport/Bus Station

Allow ample time for travel to your departure point, accounting for potential traffic or delays. Confirm your transport method beforehand.

Travel Day Tips

  • For airport transport, use a pre-booked taxi or ride-sharing service.
  • Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for internal flights.
  • For bus travel, arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes prior to departure.

Post-Departure Considerations

FMM Exit Fee

If your FORMA migratoria múltiple fee was not included in your airfare, ensure it is paid before going through immigration.

Flight Compensation

If you experienced flight delays or cancellations, check if you are eligible for compensation with services like AirHelp.

Post-Travel Review

Look over your travel insurance policy for any claims following your trip, like lost luggage or medical expenses.

Smooth Transitions

Book long-distance bus tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or peak travel times. For airport transfers, use authorized taxis or Uber for reliability. If driving, purchase Mexican car insurance before you cross the border.