Huatulco to Puerto Escondido: Every Option Compared (Bus, Colectivo, Taxi, Transfer, Car)
Huatulco to Puerto Escondido: Every Option Compared (Bus, Colectivo, Taxi, Transfer, Car)
The trip from Huatulco to Puerto Escondido is about 110 km along Highway 200 and takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on how you go. There are no flights between the two, so you choose between the ADO/OCC bus, a colectivo, a taxi, a private transfer or a rental car. Here is every option side by side, with 2026 prices and a clear verdict on which one suits you.
| Option | Approx. price (2026) | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADO / OCC bus | MXN 250–400 per person | 2 h 30–3 h | Comfort on a budget |
| Colectivo via Pochutla | MXN 120–180 per person | 3–3 h 30 | Cheapest, flexible stops |
| Taxi | MXN 2,000–3,800 per car | About 2 h | Short notice, 3–4 people |
| Private transfer | Fixed price per vehicle | 1 h 45–2 h | Airport arrivals, families, late flights |
| Rental car | MXN 900–1,600 per day plus fuel | About 2 h | Stopping at beaches on the way |
| Flight | Not available | — | Use the road |
Option 1: The ADO / OCC Bus
The first-class bus is the default choice for most travellers. ADO and its sister line OCC leave from the terminal in La Crucecita, stop in Pochutla and end in Puerto Escondido’s upper town. Seats are assigned, the air conditioning is strong and luggage rides in the hold. For the exact boarding point and step-by-step instructions, read where to board and what it costs.
- Book a day ahead in high season (December–January, Easter, July–August), when the few daily departures fill up.
- Plan the last mile: from the terminal to Zicatela or La Punta is a short taxi ride, around MXN 50–80.
- No bus leaves from Huatulco airport (HUX), so take a taxi to La Crucecita first, about 20 minutes.
Check current departures and fares on the official ADO website, which sells OCC tickets too.
Option 2: Colectivo, the Cheapest Way
Locals travel by colectivo: shared vans and pickup taxis that leave when they are full. There is no direct one, so the trip has two legs with a change in San Pedro Pochutla.
- La Crucecita to Pochutla: about 1 hour, from the colectivo stands in the centre.
- Pochutla to Puerto Escondido: about 1 hour 15 minutes, ending near El Crucero.
- Cash only, small notes, and pack light: a large suitcase can cost you an extra seat.
It is also the easiest way to break the journey. Get off at the San Antonio junction for a night in Mazunte (see our Mazunte beach guide) or Zipolite, then continue the next day.
Option 3: Taxi, Private Transfer or Rental Car
A taxi from La Crucecita runs MXN 2,000–2,800 per car; from Huatulco airport expect MXN 2,800–3,800. Agree the fare before you get in. The price is per car, so it works well for three or four people.
A private transfer costs about the same for a group but is booked in advance at a fixed price, tracks your flight if it is late and drops you at your door. It is the sensible choice after dark, when colectivos have stopped and the coast road is best left to drivers who know it.
A rental car gives you freedom to stop at Mazunte, Zipolite or Playa Carrizalillo on the way:
- Budget MXN 900–1,600 per day, roughly MXN 250–400 of fuel and a one-way drop-off fee if you return it in another city.
- Drive in daylight: the road is paved, but it has curves, speed bumps (topes) and the occasional animal.
- Time it: see how long the drive takes and the kilometres between each stop.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- Backpacker: colectivo via Pochutla, with a night in Mazunte.
- Solo traveller or couple: the ADO/OCC bus, the best comfort for the price.
- Family or group of three or more: a private transfer, and the cost per person drops fast.
- Landing at HUX late in the day: pre-book a transfer before you fly.
Still deciding where to stay once you arrive? Our guide to the best base on the Oaxacan coast compares Puerto Escondido, Mazunte and Huatulco.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Huatulco to Puerto Escondido?
Take the ADO/OCC bus from La Crucecita, a colectivo with a change in Pochutla, a taxi, a private transfer or a rental car. All use Highway 200 and take 2 to 3 hours.
What is the cheapest way?
The colectivo, at about MXN 120–180 per person in two legs. The bus costs more but is more comfortable and has fixed seats.
Is there a flight from Huatulco to Puerto Escondido?
No. Neither airport offers a direct flight between the two, so the road is the only route.
Is it safe to travel Highway 200 at night?
Daytime is better. If you arrive late, book a private transfer instead of looking for a colectivo or driving yourself.
Once you arrive, make the most of the coast. Browse our tours and excursions in Puerto Escondido, from turtle releases to lagoon trips, and book your first day.
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