How to get to La Paz

La Paz is the picturesque capital of the state of Baja California Sur in Mexico, renowned for its magnificent sunsets and the rich underwater world of the Sea of Cortez. If you are deciding how to get to La Paz to enjoy a peaceful holiday away from the noise of megacities, several convenient options are available to you. You can travel to La Paz using domestic flights, ferry services, or a rental car for an exciting journey across the peninsula.

The most convenient way to begin your journey is to fly directly to La Paz International Airport (LAP), which serves scheduled flights from major Mexican cities and selected international destinations. The airport terminal is compactly designed and located very close to the city limits, allowing tourists to quickly reach their accommodation immediately after landing.

If direct tickets are not available, it is worth considering a flight to San José del Cabo, located approximately 135 kilometres to the south. This major tourism hub receives numerous international flights, which often makes a connection there more favourable in terms of price and schedule. Other options, such as Los Mochis or Loreto, are located more than 200 kilometres away and are suitable for those planning an extensive road trip across the region.

Reaching La Paz exclusively by train is not possible, as the railway network does not cover the territory of Baja California Sur. There are no train stations in the city or its immediate surroundings, so tourists must choose alternative methods of transport to move around the peninsula.

Nevertheless, rail travel enthusiasts often construct a combined route via the city of Los Mochis, located on the mainland coast. The famous express train travelling through the Copper Canyon arrives here, after which the journey can be continued by ferry across the Sea of Cortez directly to the destination port.

Bus services connect the state capital with key points on the peninsula, allowing tourists to enjoy the rugged yet beautiful landscapes of Baja California. One of the most popular routes leads from San José del Cabo: covering the 195 kilometres will take you approximately 3.5 hours. Travellers heading from the north, for example from the city of Loreto, will have to cover about 360 kilometres, which usually requires roughly 5.5 hours on the road.

It is also worth mentioning Los Mochis, which, although located on the mainland, serves as an important transport hub for those combining bus travel with a ferry crossing over the Gulf of California. Local bus companies offer comfortable cabins with air conditioning, making the trip along these routes not just a movement from point A to point B, but a full part of the adventure.

Travelling by car along the picturesque roads of the state is an opportunity to see the true beauty of the region at your own pace. The most comfortable route leads from the city of San José del Cabo: covering 186 kilometres on the highway will take you about 2.5 hours. The road from the north, from the historic city of Loreto, will require more time—approximately 4.5 hours for a distance of 356 kilometres.

For those planning a trip from the mainland, for example from the city of Los Mochis, the journey includes a ferry crossing and lasts about 10 hours, covering a distance of 253 kilometres. Car rental is very popular here, and while a taxi over such distances is possible, it will cost a significant amount, so please check tariffs in advance.

To ensure your trip to La Paz is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth learning about some local specifics in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations to help you easily navigate this sunny corner of Mexico.

1. Clothing and Sun Protection. The climate here is desert-like and dry. During the day, you will need light clothing made from natural fabrics, comfortable walking shoes, and definitely a head covering. The sun in Baja California is very intense, so high SPF cream is necessary even in winter. However, in the evenings, especially from December to March, the temperature can drop noticeably, so bring a hoodie or a light jacket.
2. Transport and Movement. It is pleasant to walk around the historic centre and the waterfront (Malecon). However, the best beaches, such as Balandra or Tecolote, are located outside the city limits. To visit them, it is most convenient to rent a car. Taxi services also work well in the city (such as Uber and DiDi), which often works out cheaper and more reliable than hailing a car on the street.
3. Money and Payment. The local currency is the Mexican Peso. Although hotels and large supermarkets accept cards, small taquerias, souvenir shops, and buses accept only cash. It is better to carry small notes, as vendors may not have change for large banknotes.
4. Water and Health. The main rule for a tourist in Mexico: never drink tap water. Always buy bottled water for drinking and even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. Otherwise, La Paz is a clean city with a good standard of medical care, and pharmacies are frequently found here.
5. Language and Communication. The official language is Spanish. In the tourism sector, many speak English, but away from the centre, communicating may be more difficult. Locals will greatly appreciate it if you learn a few basic phrases, such as "Hola" (Hello) and "Gracias" (Thank you).
6. Local Etiquette. Mexicans are a very polite and hospitable people. It is customary here to greet bus drivers, shop assistants, and even strangers in an elevator. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip (propina) of 10–15% of the bill amount if you enjoyed the service.
7. Respect for Nature. La Paz is famous for its ecosystem. It is strictly forbidden to touch marine life (especially whale sharks and sea lions) and corals during snorkelling. Also, on many beaches, you cannot use regular sunscreen; only biodegradable products safe for reefs are permitted.
8. Tip for Gourmets. Do not limit yourself to hotel restaurants. Be sure to try the famous fish tacos (tacos de pescado) at street stalls—this is the calling card of the local cuisine, which is safe and incredibly delicious here.

Following these simple rules will allow you to avoid minor inconveniences and focus on the main thing—enjoying the unique nature and relaxed atmosphere of La Paz. Be open to new experiences, and this city will certainly reciprocate!