Getting there & around

Getting there

By air

Acapulco’s airport (ACA) sits at the east end near Diamante, roughly 30 to 45 minutes from Old Acapulco depending on traffic. It has domestic connections, mainly through Mexico City, plus a handful of seasonal routes. Since Hurricane Otis and the general downturn, flight options are thinner than they once were, so book early and expect connections rather than direct hops.

By bus

The premium bus lines run comfortable, air-conditioned service from Mexico City to Acapulco. The ride is roughly 5 to 6 hours on the toll highway (approximate). This is the standard way most Mexicans arrive, and the first-class buses are genuinely comfortable. Buy the higher tier and travel by day.

By car

Driving from Mexico City on the cuota (toll road) takes around 4 to 5 hours (approximate) and the tolls are not cheap. Stick to the toll highway and drive in daylight; the free roads and rural stretches of Guerrero are not where you want to be after dark.

Getting around

Once in town, use registered taxis or hotel-arranged rides. Agree the fare before you get in, since most cabs don’t run meters. The old local buses run the length of the Costera and are cheap, but for a short visit the taxis are simpler and let you keep to daytime, door-to-door movement, which is the smart way to handle this particular city.