Traveling to Mexico: what you need to know.
If you plan to attend the IX Latin American Music Therapy Congress in Puebla, Mexico, here’s a quick guide to help facilitate your arrival, from visa information to useful tips for your stay.
1. Visa requirements for México
For most Latin American attendees, a tourist visa is not required to enter Mexico if the stay is under 180 days. However, some countries do require a visa (Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras). If you are a citizen of one of the countries that do require a visa, you may be exempt from the process if you hold a valid visa from the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, or the Schengen Area, or if you are a permanent resident of one of these countries.
Required documentation for entry into Mexico:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months of validity remaining).
- The Multiple Migration Form (FMM), which can be completed online or at the airport.
- Proof of Congress registration (useful in case of questions about the purpose of your visit).
2. How to get to Puebla from the airport
Benito Juárez International Airport (CDMX - AICM)
From both terminals at AICM, you can take a comfortable and safe bus that goes directly to Puebla’s main bus station (CAPU) or to Terminal 4 Poniente in Puebla. The ticket counters are clearly marked inside the airport:
Terminal 1: The counters are located in front of Gate 7, in the long-distance bus area.
Terminal 2: You’ll find them on the ground floor, next to the national arrivals exit.
The main bus companies are Estrella Roja and ADO, with departures approximately every 30 minutes. The trip takes between 2 and 2.5 hours, and tickets cost between $15 and $20 USD.
Tip: Buy your ticket in advance on the Estrella Roja or ADO website, or directly at the ticket counters.
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)
Some airlines advertise flights to this airport as if they were arriving in Mexico City, although it is actually located about 1 hour away from the city. Transportation options from this airport include:
1. Bus: There is a bus terminal at the airport, but availability may be limited, so we recommend booking in advance. Suggested bus lines include:
ESTRELLA ROJA: https://www.estrellaroja.com.mx/aifa
ADO: https://www.ado.com.mx/
2. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi (make sure to check availability and pricing).
3. Authorized taxi services inside the airport, which can take you to Mexico City’s international airport, where you can then take a bus to Puebla.
Benito Juárez International Airport (CDMX - AICM)
From both terminals at AICM, you can take a comfortable and safe bus that goes directly to Puebla’s main bus station (CAPU) or to Terminal 4 Poniente in Puebla. The ticket counters are clearly marked inside the airport:
Terminal 1: The counters are located in front of Gate 7, in the long-distance bus area.
Terminal 2: You’ll find them on the ground floor, next to the national arrivals exit.
The main bus companies are Estrella Roja and ADO, with departures approximately every 30 minutes. The trip takes between 2 and 2.5 hours, and tickets cost between $15 and $20 USD.
Tip: Buy your ticket in advance on the Estrella Roja or ADO website, or directly at the ticket counters.
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)
Some airlines advertise flights to this airport as if they were arriving in Mexico City, although it is actually located about 1 hour away from the city. Transportation options from this airport include:
1. Bus: There is a bus terminal at the airport, but availability may be limited, so we recommend booking in advance. Suggested bus lines include:
ESTRELLA ROJA: https://www.estrellaroja.com.mx/aifa
ADO: https://www.ado.com.mx/
2. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi (make sure to check availability and pricing).
3. Authorized taxi services inside the airport, which can take you to Mexico City’s international airport, where you can then take a bus to Puebla.
3. Useful Tips for Your Stay in Mexico
- Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Exchange money before you travel or at the airport, though most businesses accept cards.
- Safety: Mexico is a friendly country, but as with any tourist destination, take precautions and use safe transportation options such as authorized taxis or Uber.
- Climate: Puebla has a mild climate, so bring light clothing and something for the cooler nights.
- Lodging: For all registered participants, we will share accommodation options in the Angelópolis area, with special rates, just steps away from the venue.