ADO: Mexico's #1 Bus Company Since 1939

One-way tickets range from approximately MXN $1,250 (around $68 USD) to MXN $1,850 (around $100 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 $1,800, while the Pluss executive service runs approximately MXN $1,400. 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 Zihuatanejo?

The trip takes approximately 9.5–10.5 hours from Terminal Taxqueña, depending on the service tier. The fastest Pluss departure can make it in around 9 hours 35 minutes. Overnight departures are the most popular option — board in the evening and wake up on the Pacific coast. The route runs via the Autopista del Sol (Highway 95D) through Chilpancingo, then continues along Coastal Highway 200 to Zihuatanejo.

What time do buses from Mexico City to Zihuatanejo leave?

Estrella de Oro by ADO and other carriers offer multiple daily departures from Terminal Taxqueña (Terminal del Sur), with up to 14 buses per day including morning, afternoon, and overnight options. The overnight departures are the most popular — they leave in the evening and arrive early the next morning, saving you a night's accommodation and giving you a full day in Zihuatanejo.

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. Some departures are also available from TAPO (east side). Always double-check your ticket for the correct terminal.

Where does the bus arrive in Zihuatanejo?

Buses arrive at the Central de Autobuses de Zihuatanejo, located on Avenida Paseo de Zihuatanejo Oriente. Note that Estrella de Oro has its own terminal directly across the street from the main bus station — check your ticket to confirm which one. The terminal is less than 1 km from downtown, about a 5-minute taxi ride to the waterfront, beaches, and hotels.

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. 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 Zihuatanejo run as direct routes — no intermediate passenger stops between Mexico City and Zihuatanejo. This is one of the key advantages of booking the premium service tiers. Economy-class buses on the route may make additional stops along the way, adding to your total travel time.

How much luggage can I bring?

Each passenger can take up to 25 kg of checked baggage free of charge. 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, 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. On an overnight ride to Zihuatanejo, the reclining seats make it easy to sleep through most of the journey.

Can I book my ticket in English?

Yes! At ADO International we offer an ADO booking experience in many different languages, adapting to the needs of travelers, visitors, and 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 Zihuatanejo 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 primarily 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 is ideal — they'll likely sleep through the entire ride and you'll arrive in Zihuatanejo ready for the beach.