When visiting this vibrant coastal city, one of the first questions travelers ask is how to get around in Mazatlán. With its mix of modern transportation options and unique local charm, getting from Centro to the Golden Zone or beyond can be both convenient and fun. Here’s a guide to the main ways to move around, with pros and cons for each option.
Pulmonías 🚖
Pulmonías are Mazatlán’s iconic open-air taxis, resembling golf carts but with more power. They’re perfect for short trips or sightseeing along the Malecón.
Pros:
- Fun and unique experience.
- Open-air design is refreshing in good weather.
- Easy to find in tourist areas.
Cons:
- Prices aren’t metered. You’ll need to negotiate the fare before getting in.
- Payment is cash only.
💡 Tip: A trip from Centro to the Golden Zone typically ranges from MXN $120–180, depending on distance and time of day.
Aurigas 🚕
Aurigas are red pickup trucks converted into shared taxis, often used for group transportation.
Pros:
- Great for larger groups.
- More affordable when shared.
Cons:
- Like pulmonías, you must agree on the fare before departure.
- Less private and not always as comfortable.
City Buses 🚌
Mazatlán offers both older “camiones” and newer air-conditioned buses.
Old Buses (Camiones):
- Pros: Very cheap (around MXN $13–15 per ride).
- Cons: Can be hot, crowded, and bumpy. You need to be quick getting off and on (they don’t slow down for long).
New Buses:
- Pros: Air-conditioned, more comfortable, still affordable (around MXN $17–20).
- Cons: Routes may be less frequent than older buses.
👉 One of the most popular routes is the Sábalo Centro line, which connects the Centro Histórico with the Golden Zone. Here’s a link to a MAP with several lines marked.
You should have coins prepared for the bus. You don’t need to have exact change, but it’s good to be close, because they sometimes don’t have change for larger bills…either that, or you could end-up with a whole pocket full of change!
Ride-Share Apps 🚗
Both Uber and Didi operate in Mazatlán.
Pros:
- Transparent pricing shown in the app.
- No need to negotiate or carry cash.
- Safe and trackable.
Cons:
- May not always be available during peak times.
- Sometimes slightly more expensive than buses or pulmonías.
Costs at a Glance 💲
- Pulmonía: Centro to Golden Zone, ~MXN $120–180 (negotiated).
- Auriga: About double that of pulmonías, but can be split between the group.
- Bus: MXN $13–20, depending on the bus type.
- Uber/Didi: Centro to Golden Zone, ~MXN $80 – $150 (varies with traffic and demand).
Why Stay in a Vacation Rental in Mazatlán?
By staying in one of our vacation rentals, you will have a whole team of local experts, ready to help with any questions you might have. We can give you tips and help you plan how to get around in Mazatlán.
Plus, our rentals offer the comfort of home — fully equipped kitchens, outdoor spaces, and personalized concierge services to help you plan your transportation and activities.
Final Tips 🌟
- Always carry small bills and coins for buses and tips.
- Negotiate pulmonía or auriga fares upfront.
- For longer distances or when carrying luggage, Uber or Didi is often the most hassle-free option. Green cabs can also work for this, but they need to be booked in advance, unless you are able to flag one down on the road 🙂
By planning ahead and knowing your options, you’ll master how to get around in Mazatlán with ease, making your stay as smooth as possible.
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