How to get to Poza Rica

Poza Rica is a vibrant city in the state of Veracruz, often serving as a strategic stopover for travellers exploring this colourful region of Mexico. As an important industrial and commercial hub, the city possesses a distinct energy and serves as the main gateway to one of the country's most significant archaeological sites — the ancient city of El Tajín.

For tourists, visiting Poza Rica is an opportunity to immerse themselves in an authentic atmosphere and experience local culture without embellishment. Here, travellers will find welcoming restaurants offering traditional cuisine, developed urban infrastructure, and a convenient location, making the city an ideal base for day trips to the region's natural and historical monuments.

The fastest way to reach Poza Rica is by air. The city is served by its own El Tajín National Airport (PAZ), located just a few kilometres from the centre. This aviation hub plays an important role in the region's transport system, providing connections to other parts of Mexico.

The airport primarily handles domestic flights. The most popular and frequent route is the flight from Mexico City. For tourists planning a trip from abroad, it is most convenient to arrange an itinerary with a connection at the capital's airport. The flight from the capital to Poza Rica usually takes less than an hour, allowing you to save significant travel time and begin your exploration of the region in comfort.

It is not possible to reach Poza Rica by train: the city lacks passenger railway services. Currently, rail travel in Mexico is available only on a few special tourist routes in other regions of the country, so there are no standard commuter or long-distance trains here.

As an alternative, travellers choose comfortable intercity coaches or rented cars. A developed road network allows for a convenient drive here from large neighbouring cities or the capital, while enjoying the picturesque landscapes of the state of Veracruz along the way.

Bus services in the region are excellently developed, connecting Poza Rica with key tourist and business centres. A trip from the historic port of Veracruz will take about 5 hours, during which you will cover around 250 kilometres. If you are departing from the city of Tampico, the journey of just over 200 kilometres will last approximately 4–5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the changing scenery outside the window.

Travellers leaving from Puebla can expect to spend about 7 hours on the road, covering a distance of more than 250 kilometres along scenic highways. Comfortable intercity coaches make such transfers not just a necessity, but a pleasant part of the voyage through Mexico, offering convenient conditions for resting on the road.

Travelling by car to Poza Rica allows you to freely explore the picturesque roads of the state and make stops at the most beautiful spots. The fastest route leads from Tampico: you will need to cover about 210 kilometres, which usually takes just under three hours. The road from the port of Veracruz is also quite comfortable — a distance of 240 kilometres is covered in approximately 3.5 hours of driving through the region's green plains.

If you are driving from colourful Puebla, the journey will take about 4 hours, during which you will drive approximately 275 kilometres, enjoying the changing landscapes. For travel between cities in Mexico, it is recommended to choose toll roads (cuotas), which are distinguished by high-quality surfacing, and taxis for such distances should be booked in advance, keeping in mind that the fare will be significantly higher than intra-city rates.

Before travelling to Poza Rica, it is useful to know a few nuances that will make your journey comfortable and safe. This industrial centre of Mexico has its own rhythm of life, which is easy to get used to by following simple recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate in the city is hot and humid year-round, so prefer light clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a head covering and sunglasses, as well as comfortable shoes for walking, as the pavements are not perfect everywhere.
2. Transport: To move around the city, it is most convenient and safe to use official taxis, which can be ordered by phone or via apps. Local minibuses (peseros) run frequently, but the routes can be confusing for a tourist visiting the region for the first time.
3. Finance: The official currency is the Mexican Peso. Although cards are accepted in major hotels and supermarkets, cash will be required in small shops, taxis, and eateries. It is best to exchange money at official exchange bureaux (Casas de Cambio) or withdraw from ATMs located inside banks.
4. Health and Safety: It is strictly recommended not to drink tap water; buy only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Given the tropical climate, be sure to use insect repellents, especially if you plan evening walks or trips into nature.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Spanish. In the tourism sector, staff may speak basic English, but this is rare in the city generally. It is recommended to download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases to communicate with drivers and shop assistants.
6. Local Etiquette: Mexicans are very polite and value friendliness. It is customary to greet people ("Buenos Días" or "Hola") when entering a shop or lift. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 10–15% of the bill if you enjoyed the service.
7. What to Avoid: Try not to display expensive jewellery and technology on the street to avoid attracting unnecessary attention. Also, avoid walking in remote and poorly lit areas of the city after dark.
8. Additional Tip: Since Poza Rica serves as the main base for visiting the ruins of El Tajín, plan your trip there for the early morning. This will allow you to view the pyramids before the midday heat sets in and avoid large crowds of tourists.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and get the most enjoyment out of discovering the culture and sights of the region. Be open to new experiences, and the city will welcome you with hospitality.