If you’re wondering how to travel through Mexico, the ADO bus line is one of the best choices. Having lived in Mexico for four years, I can tell you that it’s an excellent way to get around, as it’s affordable, safe, and prolific. Whether you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca, Chiapas, or the beautiful Yucatan peninsula, ADO operates in most cities and has multiple departures every day. It’s super simple to arrange your bus travel, making it an easy choice for locals and tourists alike.

When you decide to travel with ADO, there are a few basics you need to know. The first step is to decide on your destination. Once you’ve figured out where you’re heading, you can easily purchase tickets online or at one of the ADO terminals in Mexico’s largest cities. The company is well-known for providing excellent service, which is why ADO is one of the best-regarded bus companies in the country. Whether you’re headed to Veracruz, Puebla, or Quintana Roo, you’ll find that ADO makes it incredibly easy to plan your trips.

I’ve visited more than half of Mexico’s states, and I’ve always used ADO. The buses are clean and comfortable, and the routes are well-organized. If you’re someone who enjoys spontaneous trips, you’ll be glad to know that ADO offers last-minute tickets as well. This means you can hop on a bus with very little notice, making it perfect for those who want to explore Mexico without a strict schedule. ADO provides a smooth experience from start to finish, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travel rather than stressing about logistics.

Once you’re ready to go, you’ll notice that booking the ADO bus is both convenient and straightforward. You can book tickets online by simply reading through the post on their official site, which is filled with affiliate links. It’s always a good idea to read the disclosure and privacy policies to fully understand the terms before making your purchase. With ADO, booking a bus ride is a breeze, and you’ll have everything you need for your adventure in Mexico.

ADO pronunciation

When you’re on the ground in Mexico, one crucial thing to know is how to pronounce ADO correctly. The bus company is called ADO, but if you pronounce it in English, you may not get the correct response. In Spanish, it is pronounced as “Ah-Day-Oh.” Using this pronunciation will help you communicate clearly with locals. They will immediately know what you’re talking about, and it will make your bus-related experience much smoother. It’s essential to get this small detail right, as it can serve you well during your travel.

If you don’t use the correct pronunciation, you could end up talking in circles with locals, and you might get nowhere. So, avoid the phonetic English version and stick to the correct pronunciation. ADO is widely known throughout Mexico, so once you say it correctly, your travel plans will be that much easier to navigate.

Where Does ADO Travel?

When booking your ADO bus, it’s essential to understand where the ADO buses serve. ADO is widely known for covering Mexico’s most popular destinations. However, it does not travel throughout the entire country. It mainly operates in the southern part of Mexico, including the East Coast and the Yucatan peninsula. If you’re planning to visit places like Veracruz or Quintana Roo, ADO is an excellent option. But if your plans take you to the North of Mexico City, you’ll need to use a different bus company. The service area is extensive, but not all cities are included in the route map.

For long trips, depending on where you’re going, you may need to switch lines at some point. It’s always helpful to use the website Busbud to plan your trip, determine the best routes, and see which bus lines will get you to your destination. While ADO is an excellent choice for many routes, it’s essential to know the limits of its service area before booking.

Are ADO Buses Safe?

When traveling in Mexico, ADO buses are known for being one of the safest ways to get around. The safety measures on these buses are strict. Passengers and their carry-on bags are always searched before boarding, and each passenger must go through a metal detector, ensuring that no one is carrying any weapons. This level of security brings peace of mind to travelers, knowing that their journey will be free from worries about safety.

Moreover, ADO buses mainly operate on toll roads, which are generally the safest routes in Mexico. Authorities often patrol these roads, and they are usually in good repair, making them a reliable choice for travelers looking to avoid potential hazards. However, there’s always a slight possibility of petty theft, especially on touristic routes like those in the Riviera Maya. It’s a rare occurrence, but incidents of things being stolen from the cabin do happen.

I recommend keeping your valuables close to you during the journey. I always prefer not to leave my purse in the overhead bin but instead, carry it with me in my seat. This ensures I can keep a close eye on my belongings, particularly important items like my laptop and passport, avoiding them being left in an unattended bag.

ADO Service Levels

When you choose ADO, you’ll find various bus service classes to suit your needs. They also have partner companies under their brand umbrella, like AU and OCC, that provide more economical service options. Each service level comes with different amenities and varying price points, so understanding the differences will help you pick the most comfortable option for your trip.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, higher service levels are available that offer a more efficient and smoother journey. For example, Platino is fantastic for long trips, but even GL will provide a comfortable ride. If you’re on a budget or traveling for shorter trips, economy buses are still comfortable enough and a great way to save money. However, keep in mind that economy buses tend to make more stops, which may make the journey a bit longer, especially for long trips lasting hours.

When you’re taking a longer journey, it’s worth spending a bit more for premium services. Whether you choose Platino or GL, the extra comfort is well worth the price for a more relaxed travel experience.

Platino

The Platino is ADO’s premium offering and provides the highest level of comfort for travelers. These first-class buses are equipped with only 27 seats, giving each passenger ample personal space. Each seat comes with an entertainment system, a USB charging port, an electrical outlet, and a tray table—everything you need for a relaxing ride. The cabin features both a men’s restroom and a women’s restroom, ensuring that all travelers are comfortable throughout the journey.

Passengers traveling on Platino can also enjoy extra amenities like air conditioning, a coffee station, and a travel kit that includes a sandwich, snacks, and a bottle of water or soda. Before boarding, you can relax in the departure lounge at the bus station, where Platino and GL passengers have access to exclusive lounges. These lounges usually provide complimentary WiFi, televisions, and additional comforts to enhance your waiting experience.

Though Platino offers the most luxurious experience, it is also the costliest option. Platino buses don’t run as frequently as the lower service levels, so you’ll want to plan, especially if you have a long journey. If the departure time works for you, Platino is the way to go, as it provides an unparalleled travel experience. However, if the timing isn’t ideal, you should opt for a GL bus, which still offers excellent comfort but at a slightly lower price.

I recommend Platino for long trips where comfort is a priority. For shorter trips, the GL service is an excellent alternative if you’re looking to save a bit of money without sacrificing much for comfort.

ADO GL

GL buses, short for gran lujo or great luxury, offer a premium travel experience without the high cost of the Platino service. These buses are designed for comfort, holding up to 40 passengers and ensuring ample space for everyone. Though they don’t have individual media centers, the cabin is equipped with televisions that broadcast a movie during the journey, providing entertainment for all passengers. Each seat also features an audio jack so that you can enjoy the film with your headphones.

For added convenience, GL buses have a USB port and an electrical outlet so you can quickly charge devices throughout your trip. The air-conditioned cabin also includes a men’s restroom and a women’s restroom, offering comfort on longer journeys. As you board, passengers are greeted with a complimentary beverage, which could be water, juice, or soda, depending on availability.

One of the best things about GL buses is their frequent schedule, making them an excellent choice for travelers who need more flexibility than Platino buses offer. They also provide similar premium service but for less money. I often book GL when the departure time is more convenient, as it still provides a great experience while being more budget-friendly.

ADO Primera Clase

Primera Clase, or First Class, is the most basic of ADO’s service levels. These buses hold up to 44 passengers, providing a relatively comfortable experience. The cabin is air-conditioned, and each seat comes equipped with a USB port and an electrical outlet to keep your devices charged. While there are television screens in the cabin, the sound is broadcast through cabin speakers, which can sometimes be annoying, mainly depending on the film being shown.

One downside of the Primera Clase service is the onboard restroom. Forty-four passengers share it, and having just one bathroom can make for an uncomfortable experience, especially during long trips. While Primera Clase is a more budget-friendly option, it’s best suited for traveling for a couple of hours. For longer journeys, consider the more premium services like GL or Platino, which offer more amenities.

I wouldn’t recommend Primera Clase for longer trips, as it doesn’t quite compare to the comfort levels offered by the other service levels. However, if you’re on a budget and your travel is short, it’s a great choice at a reasonable price point. If the price isn’t an issue, GL or Platino buses will provide a more luxurious travel experience.

OCC

OCC, short for Ómnibus Cristóbal Colón, is a brand that operates under the ADO umbrella. It offers a service similar to Primera Clase with a focus on comfort for travelers. The buses are air-conditioned, providing a pleasant environment, and they feature 44 seats with an electrical outlet for charging. However, unlike some other services, these buses do not have USB ports, so make sure to plan accordingly.

In terms of entertainment, OCC buses come with televisions throughout the cabins, but there are no individual audio ports. If you prefer to block out the sound, bring some earplugs. The buses also have just one restroom for all passengers, which may be less convenient than other services. Still, OCC offers a comfortable and reliable option for travelers within the ADO network.

AU

AU, or Autobuses Unidos, is an economy service under the ADO brand, designed for travelers looking for a more affordable option. These buses are equipped with 49 seats in an air-conditioned cabin, providing essential comfort during your journey. However, unlike some other services, AU buses don’t have bathrooms onboard, so they make stops on longer trips of 2 hours or more to give passengers a chance to take a break. These stops add to the travel time, so if you’re in a rush, this might not be the fastest way to travel.

If you’re traveling from Mexico City to the southeastern states or other cities, AU is a great option, especially if you’re on a short-distance trip. It offers a chance to save money, but it’s not the most comfortable option, and it does take a bit longer due to the frequent stops. Despite this, if you’re looking for an affordable way to get from place to place, AU can be a reliable and practical option.

How to Buy ADO Bus Tickets

When it comes to purchasing your ADO bus tickets, there are several options available, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, you really can’t go wrong—choose the method that is most convenient for you. Whether you prefer buying tickets online, through an app, or at the bus station, you’ll find a choice that fits your travel style and schedule.

Buying ADO bus tickets through their website

You can easily book your ADO bus tickets through their website, but keep in mind that the site is in Spanish. Don’t worry, though; the booking process is simple, and you should be able to navigate it with ease, especially if you keep Google Translate open. If you don’t have PayPal, you can select the efectivo (cash) payment option. This lets you reserve your tickets online and then complete the transaction at one of the many businesses like BodegaAurrera, Circle K, Waldo’s, 7Eleven, Farmacias Benavides, Walmart, Sam’s Club, or Farmacias del Ahorro. After completing the payment, ADO will send you an email with your tickets.

Additionally, if you buy your tickets online a day ahead of your trip, you might receive a discount. This method can save you some money while making the booking process quicker and more convenient, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

ADO Bus App

The ADO app, known as ADO móvil, is a convenient way to book bus tickets directly from your smartphone. Although the website can sometimes be buggy and frustrating to use, the app serves as a solid backup option. However, it’s important to note that the app does not allow you to switch the language to English from Spanish, which might make it tricky for some travelers who are not fluent in Spanish.

If you run into problems with the ADO app or website, you can always turn to Busbud as an alternative to booking your tickets online. This method can offer a smoother experience, especially if you prefer a more user-friendly platform.

Booking through Busbud

Busbud is a great ticket aggregator that lets you buy ADO bus tickets online. Although a small fee is added to the ticket price, the extra cost is usually minimal compared to booking directly through ADO. One of the major advantages of using Busbud is that it operates in English, making it easier for non-Spanish speakers to navigate.

Another great feature is that Busbud allows you to book tickets for routes where you might need to switch between bus operators. For example, suppose you’re traveling from Veracruz to Queretaro. In that case, ADO buses don’t cover the entire route, but Busbud lets you book that whole trip in one go rather than booking each leg with a different provider or company.

Additionally, Busbud allows you to pay using a foreign credit card, which is perfect for international travelers. If you’re looking for a smooth and straightforward way to book online, Busbud is a reliable option.

Where to buy ADO bus tickets in person

If you prefer to purchase bus tickets in person, you have plenty of options to choose from. One convenient place is Oxxo, a convenience store found in every city in Mexico, where you can buy your tickets at the counter. You may need to pay a small commission on top of the price of your ticket, but it’s usually not much. Another option is the ADO satellite office, which is available in locations like airports, malls, and the downtown core of cities, making it easy to grab your ticket without needing to go all the way to the bus station.

You can also visit a ClickBus kiosk, located in places such as airport terminals, malls, or near the zócalo in busy downtown areas. These kiosks sell tickets not only for ADO but also for partner bus lines. If your trip requires multiple carriers, ClickBus can help you book the whole journey in one go. Whether you like to book ahead for peace of mind or if you prefer a more flexible schedule, purchasing tickets in person offers convenience for travelers on the go.

Bus Stations in Mexico

Bus stations in Mexico are similar to airports in how they are set up. Each bus line has its ticket window, and buses depart from numbered gates or lettered gates. If you’re traveling from a large station, such as those in Mexico City or Puebla, your taxi driver might ask which bus company you’re using to drop you off at the correct location. If you’re flying into Mexico City, you can catch the ADO bus directly from the airport.

In Mexico City, there are several bus stations in different areas of the city, but ADO doesn’t operate out of all of them. You’ll need to know which station you will depart from. In most other cities in Mexico, there is typically just one bus station, making it easier to navigate. Make sure you’re clear on the station to ensure your journey goes smoothly.

Boarding the ADO bus

When it’s time to board your ADO bus, check your ticket for the departure platform, which could be a letter or a number. Boarding usually starts about 10 minutes before scheduled departure. At some bus stations, you’ll hear an announcement over the PA system, though these can be hard to hear, especially if your Spanish isn’t excellent. In larger stations, you might see digital screens (like in airports) that display which buses are currently boarding.

If you don’t hear the announcement, keep an eye on the platform and head outside about 5 minutes before the bus leaves. Each bus shows its destinations on a screen in the front window, making it easy to spot your bus. If you’re unsure, ask a fellow traveler or check someone’s ticket. Before getting on the bus, you’ll need to pass through a metal detector and show your ticket and ID. If you have luggage, you’ll be directed to place it in the cargo compartment before you board.

Checking Your Bags with ADO

When you travel with ADO, you’ll need to place any large pieces of luggage in the cargo compartment under the bus. Don’t worry—your luggage will be perfectly secure. There’s no luggage limit or restrictions on the weight of your bag, so you can check as many bags as you like without paying any additional cost. If you’re on a Platino or ADO GL bus, you’ll typically be able to check bags about 30 minutes before boarding. If there’s no bag check counter inside the bus station, you’ll hand your bags over as you board the bus.

To check your bag, line up next to the bus and pass it to the attendant. They will place it in the cargo hold and attach a tag to your luggage, tearing off a piece of the tag for you to keep—like a coat check tag. This ticket will be required to collect your bag at the end of your journey. Once your bag is safely stored, you can head inside to find your seat and get comfortable onboard.

Bus Vocabulary to Know

When traveling by ADO bus in Mexico, knowing some basic Spanish vocabulary can make your experience much smoother. For instance, you’ll be at a Central de autobuses or bus station when starting your journey. It’s a good idea to Con anticipación (in advance) check the details, such as whether your bus is Directo (direct) or De Paso, which means the bus will make stops along the route. When you’re ready to board, you’ll need a Boleto (ticket) and should know your Destino (destination) and Fecha (date) of travel.

While waiting, you can relax in the Sala (lounge) or waiting room and check your Asiento (seat) number. If you’re not sure when to go to Abordar (board), look for the Llegada (arrival) time. If you’re leaving, make sure to head to the Salida (exit) when your bus is Saliendo (leaving). Don’t forget to have your Nombre (name) and Apellido (last name) ready when presenting your Boleto. The Conductor (driver) will guide you through the final steps of the journey!

What to Pack on an ADO Bus

When traveling with ADO in Mexico, it’s essential to pack a few key items to make your journey more comfortable. Travel insurance is a must, as it covers unexpected issues like trip interruption, illness, or injury (including COVID-19), and I recommend SafetyWing for peace of mind. Since face masks are required in enclosed spaces throughout Mexico, be sure to bring a comfortable one, along with tissues, in case the restrooms aren’t well-stocked. I always carry some hand sanitizer gel or wet wipes—especially since OXXO at the bus station might not have them.

For your comfort during the trip, make sure to bring a water bottle (I prefer Nalgene bottles because they are sturdy and light). If your bus doesn’t provide complimentary beverages, you’ll appreciate having your own. Also, headphones should be packed for personal entertainment systems on the bus. While they often offer earbuds, the sound quality isn’t excellent, so having your wired headphones can make the experience much better. For those long hours on the bus, consider bringing an Audible subscription to enjoy some audiobooks.

Lastly, consider an anti-theft purse for peace of mind. With locking zippers and scan-proof fabric, you can keep your personal items and information safe throughout your journey. I use a Travelon Hobo crossbody, but there are plenty of styles to choose from, making it easier to travel securely and comfortably.

Popular ADO Bus Routes

ADO offers a wide range of route options across Southern Mexico and the Yucatan peninsula, making it easy to travel between many cities in these regions. Whether you’re exploring the popular routes or looking for lesser-known destinations, the possibilities are endless. So, if you’re traveling through this beautiful part of Mexico, ADO has you covered for convenient and comfortable bus travel.

ADO from Mexico City to Oaxaca

If you’re traveling from Mexico City to Oaxaca City, taking an ADO bus is an easy and safe option. The journey is about 6 hours by driving, but the ADO bus trip will take around 7 hours. You can depart from the TAPO bus station, which is the central station for buses to Oaxaca, and arrive at the Oaxaca ADO bus terminal. This station is centrally located, making it ideal for most travelers, especially if you are staying near Centro Historico, Condesa, or Roma neighborhoods, which are close to the airport and TAPO.

Though there are other bus stations in Mexico City, like Terminal Norte and Ejecutiva del Sur, TAPO is usually the most convenient choice for those heading to Oaxaca City. It’s the closest to key areas in the city, making it easier for you to catch your bus and start your trip without much hassle.

ADO Bus in Cancun

Taking the ADO bus from Cancun airport to the city is a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers. Departures are every 30 minutes from Terminal 3, making it easy to catch a ride. The fare is just $130 MXN, which is much more affordable than taking a taxi. You’ll travel directly to the bus station in downtown Cancun. If you want to book your tickets, Busbud is a great platform to use.

Once you arrive at the ADO bus station, you can easily take a taxi to the hotel zone, Puerto Juarez, or any other part of Cancun. This option is much cheaper than taking a taxi from the airport, which can add unnecessary expenses to your trip.

Cancun to Merida

Taking the ADO bus from Cancun to Merida is a fantastic way to travel between these two cities. You can catch the bus directly from the airport or the bus station in downtown Cancun, depending on which is more convenient for you. The trip takes around 4 to 4.5 hours, which isn’t as quick as driving, but it’s much cheaper, easier, and safer than renting a car.

If you need a car to get around in Merida, you can rent one once you arrive. The ADO bus provides a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel, especially if you’re looking to avoid the stress of driving in a new city.

ADO from Cancun to Tulum or Playa del Carmen

The ADO bus is the safest and most cost-effective way to get from Cancun airport to Tulum or Playa del Carmen. You can easily catch the bus directly at the airport, and it will drop you off at the bus station in downtown Tulum or Playa del Carmen. The tickets cost about USD 15, and the journey takes about 2 hours. You can buy tickets online in advance or purchase them at the airport after you clear customs. The process is the same for both destinations, so it’s a simple and affordable way to start your trip.

ADO Tulum to Playa del Carmen

Traveling between Tulum and Playa del Carmen is easy with the ADO bus. The trip takes about an hour and costs around USD 7, making it an affordable and convenient option for a day trip between these two cities. Whether you’re looking to explore both places in one day or need to get from one to the other, the ADO bus offers a quick and straightforward solution.

Conclusion

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico, ADO is a top choice. It’s affordable, safe, and covers many popular destinations. I’ve used ADO for years and recommend it for its comfort and convenience. Whether you’re going to Oaxaca, Cancun, or Tulum, ADO makes booking simple. You can easily buy your tickets online or at the station. It’s also easy to find routes to major cities across Southern Mexico and the Yucatan peninsula. For those who prefer flexibility, last-minute tickets are available. Remember to check the bus stations and get your ticket early for a smooth trip. If you want a hassle-free, budget-friendly journey, ADO is the best way to go!

FAQs

• How can I book ADO bus tickets? 

        You can easily book ADO bus tickets online via their website, through their app, or at bus terminals across Mexico. The website is in Spanish, but it’s straightforward to use with Google                    Translate. Alternatively, you can use platforms like Busbud to make the booking process smoother.

• Where does ADO travel?

         ADO primarily operates in Southern Mexico, including regions like Veracruz, Quintana Roo, and the Yucatan Peninsula. They cover many popular destinations, but not the northern parts of               Mexico.

• Is it safe to travel with ADO buses?

        Yes, ADO buses are known for being safe. The buses have strict security measures, including metal detectors and bag searches. They also operate on well-patrolled toll roads.

• What service levels does ADO offer?

         ADO provides different service levels, such as Platino, GL, and Primera Clase, to suit various budgets. Higher service levels offer more amenities, like extra legroom, entertainment systems,               and food service.

• How do I check in my luggage on ADO buses?

         You will need to check your larger luggage in the cargo compartment. Line up next to the bus, pass your bag to the attendant, and keep the luggage tag they give you.