Mexican Toll Roads

When driving on the two lane roads anywhere in Mexico you are sure to run into quite a bit of contrast in the road conditions. You will see roads that look more like a minefield of potholes and you will see roads that have the smoothness that asphalt was supposed to have. Mexican roads are just a variety of different types and conditions but when it comes to Mexican toll roads it is much different. Mexico has been trying over the past decade to improve its transportation system to make it easier for people to travel. They have been putting most of their attention into the toll roads because these lead to everywhere in the country and they are the most widely used roads for driving in Mexico.

Mexican toll roads typically consist of duel carriageways (outside of the mountain areas where the road often turns into a single lane road). These duel carriageways are built to be fast and reliable and they will parallel with US roads pretty well. If you are planning a trip to Mexico then you should think about utilizing these toll roads because they will save you time and stress!

The only real downside about using the Mexican toll roads is the cost. These roads can come attached with pretty hefty charges and this is the main reason people stay away from them. Mexican officials had to find a way to afford the reconstruction of these roads and increasing the tolls seemed to be the most effective way of financing. Of course, how far you travel will determine how much you spend but if you are a smart toll way driver you can effectively travel at low costs and at high speeds.

If you are planning on taking the toll roads and don’t speak much for Spanish, it may be a good idea to learn a couple of toll way terms. Here are the basics:

• Cuota (Toll road)- If you are looking for the toll road or if you think you are on the toll road you should look for signs that say Cuota. They will also keep you on track as far as what road number you are supposed to be on.
• Libre (Free road)- If you are looking to escape the toll roads of Mexico then you will look for roads labeled “Libre.” Just be prepared that these roads will likely be poorly maintained and could take you way off track if you’re not careful.
• Libramiento (Bypass)- If you want to take a short cut and find this sign you may want to give it a try. Libramiento means bypass and it works like a toll road but it can save you time and money from continuing on down the toll road.

So, if you are wondering about toll road charges and what out of pocket costs you are going to run into, expect varying rates depending on where you are going. Tolls need to be paid in cash, so make sure you have adequate pesos with you no matter what.

Mexican toll roads will get you there quicker, more efficiently and just may make your trip better!

Back to Articles