A Welcome Guide to Using Public Transportation in Tijuana
We know that getting around Tijuana isn't easy, especially when you're new to the city. That's why at Pasajero App we work to make public transportation clearer and more accessible.
BEFORE BOARDING: GET READY!
Know your route with anticipation
Check Google Maps or any online map to review your starting point and destination. Public transportation in Tijuana is generally oriented around neighborhood names (Refugio, Presa, Otay), shopping malls (Carrusel, Macroplaza, Monarca), and other common points such as clinics, schools, and some businesses (Clínica 1, UABC, Dax, Dulfi). Look for landmarks at your starting point and destination.
Consider this general time frame
Public transportation generally operates between 5:00 AM and 8:00 PM, although there are some exceptions. This should give you a good estimate on whether a taxi route is in operation.
Ask around!
Ask around at busy locations and mention your destination using a landmark and the name of the neighborhood (colonia), for example: "I'm going to El Refugio, where the UTT is." or "I'm going to Plaza Alameda in Otay."
You can also ask online in Facebook groups about public transportation. Search for "Tijuana public transportation routes" and remember to do so in advance. You can also ask us on our Facebook page or soon enough on Pasajero Chat.
Write down the name of the destination, colors of the route, and type of vehicle
Try to get as much information as possible, including the destination, colors, and type of vehicle. This will help you avoid confusion or taking the wrong route. For example: "White and gold taxi from downtown to Otay"; "Black bus to La Presa"; "Green bus to La Morita."
Tijuana Route Map
This map will help you visualize the main public transportation routes in the city.
Types of Vehicles in Tijuana
A. Taxis
Includes Econoline, Urvan, and Sprinter vans that operate on fixed routes.
B. Calafia
Medium-sized buses that operate on various routes throughout the city.
C. Camión
Older type of bus that still operates on some routes.
D. Autobus (Bus)
Full-size buses for main routes.
WHEN BOARDING
Signal with your extended arm and hand
- Hand at waist level for taxis and calafias.
- Hand straight up for buses.
Enter through the front door unless it is already full
Some buses will allow passengers to board from the rear if it is completely full.
Pay according to the type of unit
- Bus and Camión: Mainly when boarding.
- Taxi and Calafia: Generally when getting off.
- Bring change: Ideally coins or bills less than $50 pesos.
- Don't assume that the driver will have change without asking first.
DURING THE JOURNEY
Sit near the driver if you are new to the route
This gives you better visibility of the route and makes it easier to communicate.
You can also ask other passengers
Most people are friendly and will let you know when to get off.
Let the driver know ahead of time if you must get off ahead of time
Use phrases such as: "I'll get off at the Oxxo before the bridge" or "at the traffic lights after Soriana."
WHILE GETTING OFF
Say "Bajan" or "En la esquina" in advance
In order for the driver to stop and let you get off, especially if there is loud music. "Bajan" means "getting off" and "En la esquina" means "at the corner."
Useful Spanish Phrases
"¡Bajan!"
Getting off! (to signal you want to exit)
"En la esquina"
At the corner
"¿Pasa por...?"
Do you pass by...?
"¿Cuánto es?"
How much is it?
"¿Tiene cambio?"
Do you have change?
"Me avisa cuando lleguemos a..."
Let me know when we arrive at...
Have Questions?
Our team is here to help. Contact us if you need additional assistance.