For attendees of Congreso Panamericano GDL, we have compiled essential information regarding airport transfer options to ensure a smooth arrival in Guadalajara.
Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) is the main airport serving the city, located approximately 25 kilometers from the conference venue. Here are some convenient transportation options:
- Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available at the airport. Look for authorized taxi stands to ensure safety and fair pricing.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber and Didi operate in Guadalajara. You can book a ride directly from the airport using their respective apps.
- Airport Shuttle: Shuttle services provide shared rides to various locations in the city. Check with your hotel for shuttle availability and schedules.
- Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a vehicle upon arrival.
We recommend pre-arranging your airport transfer for a hassle-free experience. If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to reach out to our support team.
Practical Tips for Your Arrival at GDL
Guadalajara's airport, officially Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport, sits south of the city near the road towards Chapala. Knowing a few local details before you land can save time and stress, especially if your flight arrives during the evening rush or alongside other attendees.
Allow for traffic
The drive into central Guadalajara or the Zapopan business districts usually takes somewhere between 30 minutes and well over an hour, depending on the time of day. Weekday mornings and late afternoons are the busiest periods, so if you are heading straight to a session or a registration desk, build in a generous margin. Our program page can help you decide whether to arrive the day before your first session.
Using authorised airport taxis
Airport taxis typically work on a prepaid ticket system. You pay at a counter inside the terminal based on the zone of your destination, then hand the ticket to the driver. This avoids negotiating on the kerb. Have your hotel's full address written down or saved on your phone, as some drivers may know a hotel by a different name.
Ride-hailing pickups
App-based rides often have designated pickup points that may differ from the main arrivals exit, and rules can change. Check the instructions in the app after landing, confirm the licence plate before getting in, and make sure your phone has data or connect to airport Wi-Fi before leaving the terminal.
Money and connectivity
- Carry some Mexican pesos in small denominations for tips or minor purchases; ATMs inside the terminal are generally safer than street machines.
- If you plan to use apps throughout your stay, consider a local SIM or an international roaming plan.
- Keep your booking confirmations offline in case of patchy signal.
Driving yourself
If you rent a car, Mexican liability insurance is required, and many credit card policies do not cover it fully. Read the rental terms carefully and ask your hotel about parking before you commit. For directions and access details for the conference itself, see the venue notes.
Fares, routes and services can change, so confirm current options with official providers or your accommodation shortly before you travel.
Also on this site: Nailed it? Canon's new Pixma printing device could help you save · Some severe horsing around in Santa claus Fe · Us