By Dez | My Deztination
I recently made the move from Puerto Vallarta to Mexico City—and instead of flying, I decided to do something a little different…
I hit the road. 🚗
To be honest, I had a lot going on. Between packing, wrapping up client calls, organizing my pup’s travel things, and planning the next phase of my business expansion, I knew I wanted a travel option that gave me flexibility, comfort, and control.
So I reached out to a local friend (who’s also a pro driver) and asked him to make the trip with me from Vallarta to La Roma, CDMX. We split the drive over two days, brought the dog, stayed overnight, and made the journey part of the experience.
And let me tell you — if you’ve ever been nervous about driving in Mexico, I get it.
But I’m here to say, loud and clear:
It was easy, safe, and surprisingly affordable.
If you’re considering relocating, road-tripping, or just exploring new cities, here’s what you need to know about Mexico’s toll roads (cuotas) — and exactly what this trip cost me.
Let’s break it down:
Toll Roads in Mexico Are the Way to Go
Mexico has an extensive network of highways called “cuotas” (toll roads), and they are 100% the way to travel between major cities if you’re driving.
Here’s why I swear by them:
Well-maintained: Smooth roads, clear signage, and often faster than free alternatives
Secure: There’s federal police presence, emergency call boxes, and monitored rest stops
Safe rest areas: I stopped for gas, snacks, and bathroom breaks with zero issues
Low traffic: You avoid busy towns and chaotic inner-city driving
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Road Trip to Mexico City
Here’s exactly what we spent between us (yep, I kept the receipts 😉):
🚗 Day 1 – Vallarta to Guadalajara Area
- Micheladas & snacks – $531 MXN
- Costco gas – $1,500 MXN
- Fries stop – $74 MXN
- Extra snacks – $110 MXN
- Toll #1 (La Peñita) – $420 MXN
- Toll #2 (Amado Nervo) – $205 MXN
- Toll #3 (Plan de Barrancas) – $306 MXN
- Toll #4 (Arenal) – $205 MXN
- Hotel w/ breakfast for 2 – $2,100 MXN
- Pet fees – $250 MXN
- Ribeye steak dinner for 2 – $1,500 MXN
🧾 Day 1 Total: $7,200 MXN
🚗 Day 2 – Into Mexico City
- Breakfast tip – $100 MXN
- Toll #5 (Ocotlán) – $265 MXN
- Toll #6 (Ecuandareo) – $135 MXN
- Toll #7 (Panificuaro) – $251 MXN
- Gas for 563.6 km – $1,926.92 MXN
- Toll #8 (Zinapécuaro) – $193 MXN
- Fresas para la chica fresa 🍓 – $150 MXN
- Toll #9 (Contepec) – $66 MXN
- Toll #10 (Atlacomulco) – $66 MXN
- Toll #11 (Ixtlahuaca) – $56 MXN
- Toll #12 (Toluca) – $56 MXN
- Toll #13 (Xonacatlán) – $107 MXN
- Toll #14 (Marquesa-Lerma) – $72 MXN
- Toll #15 (Marquesa) – $111 MXN
- Overnight parking in CDMX – $150 MXN
🧾 Day 2 Total: $3,705 MXN
🔁 Return Trip (for the driver)
- Cash for tolls + tip – $7,000 MXN
- Hotel – $850 MXN
- Gas – $3,000 MXN
🧾 Return Trip Total: $10,850 MXN
“For two full days of travel, private service, dog-friendly stops, and a safe, scenic ride with zero stress — this was 1000% worth it.”
My Route at a Glance
Left from Puerto Vallarta in the morning
Drove through Guadalajara and connected to the main cuotas
Took in incredible mountain views, clean service stations, and smooth roads
Arrived in CDMX feeling refreshed and confident
I used Google Maps the entire way with no issues—and toll booths accept cash or card at most locations.
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final word from me
“If you’ve been hesitant about road-tripping in Mexico, consider this your green light.
The toll roads made the journey smooth, affordable, and most importantly—safe.
Whether you’re relocating or just exploring, don’t underestimate how easy it is to move around this beautiful country by car. There’s so much to see beyond the airports.
If you’re considering a move to Mexico—whether it’s to CDMX, Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, or beyond—I’d love to help you figure out what route feels right for you (literally and figuratively)..”
💛
– Dez, Founder of My Deztination | Helping You Move to Mexico the EASY Way
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Dez | My Deztination
Dez is the founder of My Deztination and Mexico’s trusted relocation advisor. With over seven years living in Mexico, she knows the importance of trustworthy and professional guidance & support. She specializes in personalized consultations, private neighborhood tours, and full-service relocation packages to help clients move to Mexico the easy way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive in Mexico?
Yes, especially on the toll roads (cuotas). These are the main highways that connect major cities, and they’re well-maintained, federally monitored, and used daily by locals, families, and professionals. I just completed the Puerto Vallarta to CDMX drive with my dog, luggage, and a local driver and felt completely safe the entire way.
Is Mexico safe in general for travel and relocation?
Yes, but like anywhere, it depends where you go and how prepared you are. The areas I work in (like CDMX, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Chapala) all have safe, well-connected neighborhoods, great infrastructure, and strong expat communities. When you work with me, I help you understand the real on-the-ground picture, not just the headlines.
How do I find a trusted driver for a long-distance trip like this?
This is one of the top questions I get! You won’t find the greatest drivers on Google, they’re local, referred, and based on personal experience. The driver I used was someone I personally know and trust, and he offers rides across Mexico with professionalism and care. If you need a vetted driver or personalized route support, I can help you arrange that.
How much does a road trip like this actually cost?
We documented every peso! From gas and tolls to hotels, snacks, and pet fees—the round-trip journey cost just over $21,000 MXN (around $1,200 USD total). If you split the ride or take it slower, it can be even more affordable. I break down all the expenses in the full blog post — scroll up for the full breakdown!