The downtown transportation center for buses, taxis, and pulmonías is on the central Plaza Principal, facing the cathedral.
By Taxi -- Eco Taxis are green and red cabs with posted set fares, and generally cost about 50 to 100 pesos per trip. Taxis are easy to flag around town and can also be rented by the hour (200 pesos). Agree on a price in advance. Fares between the Zona Dorada and Old Mazatlán average less than 100 pesos; within the Zona Dorada, you should pay about 50 pesos. It will cost 150 pesos to travel between Emerald Bay and downtown. To request a taxi, call tel. 669/986-1111 or 669/985-2828.
By Pulmonía -- These open-air VW vehicles resembling overgrown golf carts carry up to three passengers. Pulmonías (literally "pneumonias") have surreylike tops and open sides. They're the same price as regular taxis and a quintessential part of the Mazatlán experience.
By Bus -- Buses, some with air-conditioning, cover most of the city and are relatively easy to use, although knowing some Spanish is helpful. The Sábalo Centro line runs from the Zona Dorada along the waterfront to downtown near the market and the central plaza; at Avenida Miguel Alemán, the buses turn and head south to Olas Altas. The Cerritos-Juarez line starts near the train station, cuts across town to the malecón beside the Zona Dorada, and heads north to Los Cerritos and back. The Sábalo Cocos line runs through the Zona Dorada, heads inland to the bus station, and goes on to downtown (also stopping at the market) by a back route. The Playa Sur line goes to the area where the sportfishing and tour boats depart. Buses run daily from 5:30am to 10:30pm. The fare is 8 pesos.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
