ADO: Mexico's #1 Bus Company Since 1939

One-way tickets range from approximatelyMXN $500 (around $27 USD) to MXN $950 (around $52 USD), depending on the service level and how far in advance you book. Estrella de Oro's Diamante luxury service has a walk-up fare of ~MXN $948, while the Pluss executive service runs approximately MXN $810. Book ahead on the website or the ADO app and you can save up to 50%.

How long is the bus from Mexico City to Acapulco? 

The trip takes approximately 5 hours as a non-stop service from Terminal Taxqueña. Departures from TAPO or Terrapuerto take slightly longer (~5h30) due to their location further north in Mexico City. The route runs via Highway 95D through the Sierra Madre del Sur.

What time do buses from Mexico City to Acapulco leave? 

Estrella de Oro by ADO offers multiple daily departures from Terminal Taxqueña (Terminal del Sur), with morning, afternoon, and overnight options. The main departure terminal is Taxqueña, though services also depart from TAPO and the Terrapuerto station. The overnight departure is ideal if you want to arrive in Acapulco ready for a full day at the beach.

Which terminal does the bus leave from in Mexico City? 

The primary departure point is Terminal Taxqueña (Terminal del Sur), located on Avenida Taxqueña in southern Mexico City. You can reach it easily by Metro (Taxqueña station, Line 2) or by taxi/ride-hailing app. Additional departures are available from TAPO (east side) and Terrapuerto. Always double-check your ticket for the correct terminal.

Where does the bus arrive in Acapulco? 

You can arrive at Terminal Costera, located near Acapulco's famous bay and the heart of the hotel zone, or at Terminal Riviera Diamante in the upscale neighborhood near Punta Diamante. Choose the terminal closest to your hotel when booking. Both terminals show up as separate options on the ADO website.

Can I cancel or change my ADO bus ticket? 

You can cancel your ticket up to 60 minutes before departure at any ADO ticket office. You must present the original ticket and an official ID matching the ticketholder's name ADO. Refunds are issued as Saldo Max credit, not back to your original payment method. Advance-purchase discounted tickets are more restrictive and generally non-refundable. If you don't know your new date, you can request an open ticket for the same route to rebook later.

Is there a flexible ticket option? 

ADO's standard full-price tickets allow exchanges up to 60 minutes before departure at any ticket window. Discounted advance-purchase tickets are typically non-exchangeable and non-refundable. 

Does the bus make stops along the way?

Estrella de Oro's Diamante and Pluss services from Taxqueña to Acapulco run as non-stop routes — no intermediate stops between Mexico City and Acapulco. This is one of the key advantages of booking the premium service tiers. Economy-class buses on the route (such as CostaLine) may make additional stops.

How much luggage can I bring? 

Each passenger can take up to 25 kg of checked baggage free of charge ADO. Your bags are stored in a locked compartment under the bus, and you receive a claim tag to retrieve them upon arrival. You can also carry one carry-on bag at no additional cost. On luxury services like Platino, baggage policies are even more generous with no extra charges for excess luggage.

What does the Diamante (luxury) service include? 

Estrella de Oro's Diamante service features reclining seats with extra legroom, air conditioning, onboard entertainment, limited satellite Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and two onboard restrooms. Passengers also get access to the exclusive Diamante departure lounge at the terminal, with complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee, and a comfortable waiting area. A travel kit with snacks and beverages may be provided on select departures.

Can I book my ticket in English? 

Yes! At ADO International we offer ADO booking experience in many different languages, adapting to the needs from travelers, visitors and different passengers from all over the world. Digital boarding passes are sent by email — no need to print.

Do I need an ID to board? 

Yes. Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (passport for international travelers, INE for Mexican citizens) that matches the name on your ticket. While ID checks aren't always enforced on domestic routes, it's required for cancellations, exchanges, and occasionally at boarding.

Is the Mexico City to Acapulco bus safe? 

Estrella de Oro by ADO operates modern buses equipped with GPS tracking, professional certified drivers, and safety features including three-point seatbelts on premium services. The route runs on the Autopista del Sol (Highway 95D), a modern toll highway. It's common to encounter routine police checkpoints along the route — just keep your ID handy. ADO is consistently rated as one of the safest bus operators in Mexico.

Can I travel with children? 

Children under 5 years old travel free if sharing a seat with an accompanying adult. Children over 5 require their own ticket. Unaccompanied minors under 18 are generally not permitted without an authorized adult. If traveling with an infant, the overnight departure may be a smart choice — they'll likely sleep the entire ride.