Taking Bus from Acapulco to Merida, Yucatan Feb-Mar 2009

[mmfeld]

Does anyone know how difficult (or easy) it would be to take a bus(es) from Acapulco to Merida, Yucatan. I believe it's about 850 miles. How long would a bus trip take? On Feb 14, '09, we will be flying from States for 4 weeks in Acapulco. Then hope to stop in Merida, for 1-2 weeks to visit friends. Thereafter we can either take another bus to Cancun or rent car and drop off in Cancun and fly home from there. Our Spanish is passable and we have been only to tourist areas in Mexico several times. Are somewhat concerned about food, water, currency, luggage (1 suitcase each including laptop), and journey duration. Or should we just forget it? Any tips/advice is appreciated!

[davide]

Acapulco to DF around eight hours
DF to Villahermosa 9 hours
Villahermosa to Campeche 6 hours
Campeche to Merida 8 hours

You will have several layovers. The times above are very general for a first-class bus but not a luxury bus. Two long days should do it.

[mmfeld]

thanks much David - I believe it's more than we think we can manage. Maybe when we're there, we'll have a look at buses, etc. and make decision for next time. Appreciate your time and info.

[CunBalam]

Don't worry too much about the food and water. Even Mexicans drink bottled water, so follow the example and don't drink the water at your hotel unless it comes in a bottle with and intect seal. Regarding the food, if you are not used to spicy food you better take it easy.

Now, travelling by bus from Acapulco to Merida is a very long way and I wouldn't do it unless I had no other choice. I'm saying this because now there are several companies offering very cheap flights... sometimes it is even cheaper to fly than take the bus. Why don't you do a little research and find flights from Acapulco to Toluca ( Not to Mexico City! ) because is cheaper and then from Toluca to Cancun or even to Merida. I'm sure if you do the math, you'll see it's better.

[SukiLu]

Check out the flights on national airline carriers such as Volaris, Click and Interjet. Good rates and you are not arriving at wierd hours in bus terminals.
The cost of using the bus is just about the same as a flight.
We just returned after driving from Toluca to Cancun last week. The trip cost us double of that which a flight would have cost us. The autopistas are in repair with construction from Puebla to Escarcega making auto or bus travel a minnie nightmare. After our Avalanche hit a 6 foot by 6 foot unmarked hole in the road we decided driving was not worth it. Bus travel would be the same due to the delays from construction.
Fly: arrive in the same day during the daylight or hour of your choice and enjoy the trip knowing you saved dollars and were not subject to road construction delays.