Does Amtrak go to Mexico?

No, Amtrak does not currently operate any routes into Mexico. While Amtrak serves major cities across the United States, its network stops at the U.S. border. In the past, there was limited connectivity through routes like the Inter-American, which linked to Mexican rail lines via Laredo, Texas, but this service ended in 1981. Although there have been recent discussions about extending service into Mexico, particularly between San Antonio and Monterrey, these proposals are still in early stages and not yet active. Keep reading this blog to learn how you can travel to Mexico using alternative options. 

Alternative Ways to Travel from the U.S. to Mexico

Since Amtrak does not offer direct train service into Mexico, travelers looking to cross the border have several alternative options:

• Drive a Personal Vehicle: The driving distance between the United States and Mexico is 4058 km. It takes approximately 45 hours and 29 minutes to drive from the United States to México. Ensure you have the proper documentation, insurance, and a vehicle permit (if traveling beyond the border zone).
• Take a Bus Service: United States to México bus services, operated by Flixbus USA, depart from the New York City Chinatown station and arrive at Atlanta Bus Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 9 hours. 
• Fly from the U.S. to Mexico: Numerous U.S. airports offer direct flights to popular cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. This is often the fastest and most convenient option, which takes 5 hours 37minutes. 

Use Amtrak to Reach Border Cities, Then Transfer

While Amtrak doesn’t cross into Mexico, you can take the train to nearby U.S. border cities and then switch to local transportation:

• San Diego, CA, close to Tijuana
• El Paso, TX, is close to Ciudad Juárez

From these stations, taxis, buses, or walking across pedestrian bridges are common ways to enter Mexico. 

Future Plans and Proposals for Amtrak Service to Mexico

Have you ever wondered if you could take an Amtrak train from the United States to Mexico? As of now, Amtrak doesn’t operate in Mexico, but there are some future possibilities to cross the border with Amtrak train travel. 

• Growing Interest in Train Travel: With more people looking for eco-friendly travel options, train travel is becoming more popular. Amtrak might expand into Mexico if demand grows.
• Needed Upgrades: For Amtrak to go to Mexico, both the U.S. and Mexican rail systems would need upgrades, including better border security and new train stations in cities like Mexico City and Monterrey.
• Boosting Tourism & Business: A train route to Mexico could make travel easier for tourists and businesspeople, strengthening ties between the U.S. and Mexico.
• Potential Pathways: Some routes could include Laredo to Monterrey, San Diego to Tijuana, and Phoenix to Hermosillo, serving both tourists and business travelers.
• Working with Mexican Railways: Amtrak would need to team up with Mexican rail companies to share tracks and improve service.
• Handling Customs & Travel Docs: Both Mexico and the United States would need to set up an easy process for checking passports and other travel documents passengers can travel easily between the two countries.
• Greener Travel Option: Trains are more eco-friendly than flying, which could make them a popular choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions