Since the Barranca Larga–Ventanilla highway opened, the trip between the coast and Oaxaca City dropped from 7 or 8 hours to about 3 or 4. These are your options.
By car on the new highway
The Barranca Larga–Ventanilla highway links the central valleys to the coast and joins Highway 200; from there it is 30 to 45 minutes along the coast to Puerto. In total, about 3 to 3.5 hours, with tolls of around 250 to 300 pesos each way.
Shuttle or van
The most common choice: a shared van taking 3.5 to 4 hours on the highway, with hotel pickup and drop-off, around 500 to 700 pesos per person. A private transfer for your group costs around 2,400 to 4,000 pesos per vehicle; make sure tolls are included.
Bus
Buses run over the mountain road (7 to 8 hours, cheaper) and some on the highway (4 to 5 hours). Ask which route when you buy the ticket. In Puerto they leave from the ADO/OCC terminal and the regional lines.
Flight
The flight takes about 45 minutes and costs around 1,200 to 3,000 pesos depending on the date; the small airlines on this route change schedules, so check before you plan. Counting transfers, it is about 3 hours door to door.
Before you go
The mountain road has a huge number of curves: if you get carsick, take the highway or fly. In May and June there can be fog on the coastal stretch, and from July to September heavy rain can slow the trip.
Approximate prices and times, reviewed in October 2026. Always confirm with the business before you go.
Transport to Oaxaca in the directory
TransportationFrequently asked questions
How many hours from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca City?
About 3 to 4 hours on the new highway, 7 to 8 hours on the mountain road, and about 45 minutes by plane.
How much is the shuttle from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca?
A shared van is around 500 to 700 pesos per person and a private transfer around 2,400 to 4,000 pesos per vehicle. Approximate prices.
How much are the highway tolls to Oaxaca?
Around 250 to 300 pesos each way by car.
Is there a bus from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca?
Yes. Some go over the mountains (7 to 8 hours) and some on the highway (4 to 5 hours). Ask the route when buying the ticket.
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