Top routes in Mexico for a safe road trip adventure

A road trip in Mexico is an experience that combines freedom, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes. Whether you’re after beaches, mountains, jungles, or deserts, some routes stand out for their scenic beauty and safe driving conditions.

Discover the best routes for a fun and safe journey:

1. Transpeninsular Highway (Mexico 1) – Baja California & Baja California Sur

Driving along the Transpeninsular Highway is like experiencing the soul of Baja California in every curve. This iconic route runs the length of the peninsula, from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas, connecting fishing villages, wine valleys, sculptural deserts, and untamed coastlines.

The scenery shifts from arid mountains and ancient cacti to nearly deserted beaches where silence becomes part of the charm. Ideal for those seeking freedom behind the wheel and breathtaking views, this well-marked road features gas stations, rest stops, and roadside assistance in key areas, making it a safe choice for adventurers.

2. Federal Highway 307 – Riviera Maya & Costa Maya, Quintana Roo

This coastal road winds between the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and the lush Mayan jungle. Stretching from Cancún to Bacalar, with stops like Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Tulum, and Mahahual, Highway 307 is a visual feast of palm trees, ancient settlements, and postcard-perfect beaches.

Each section invites a pause: hidden cenotes, nature reserves, Mayan communities, and boutique beachfront hotels. The road is modern, well-paved, and heavily patrolled, providing peace of mind for travelers.

3. Federal Highway 120 – Sierra Gorda, Querétaro & San Luis Potosí

This route is a hidden gem in central Mexico. It cuts through the stunning Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, where landscapes quickly shift from temperate forest to humid jungle. Along dramatic curves and deep canyons, you’ll find Franciscan missions, crystal-clear waterfalls, and historic towns like Jalpan de Serra and Xilitla.

Though the mountainous terrain demands attention at the wheel, the natural beauty more than compensates. This route offers breathtaking viewpoints and a sense of deep immersion in Mexico’s greenest and most authentic regions.

4. Federal Highway 70D – Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Photos by Velas Resorts

The road from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta is a journey through changing landscapes—from city to mountains to sea. Thanks to the new Jala toll road (Highway 70D), the drive is now faster and safer. Before merging onto the highway, you can stop in Tequila’s agave fields and recharge with some birria tacos.

As you descend toward the coast, the air becomes humid and salty, and the ocean’s blue waters emerge as a promise of relaxation and adventure. After exiting the toll road, charming stops like Bucerías and Riviera Nayarit await. At the journey’s end, Puerto Vallarta welcomes you with its vibrant boardwalk, stunning sunsets, and a rich cultural and culinary scene that has made it one of Mexico’s most beloved destinations.

5. Federal Highway 199D – Chiapas: San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque

This route is a true sensory journey through the heart of Chiapas. It begins in the colonial beauty of San Cristóbal de las Casas and winds into the Lacandon Jungle, where humidity, aromas, and the sounds of nature surround the road.

Along the way, you can visit Tzotzil communities, stunning waterfalls like Agua Azul and Misol-Ha, and of course, the majestic archaeological site of Palenque. The road is paved, although some sections are winding, so it’s best to drive during daylight and with caution. Perfect for travelers looking to combine adventure, mysticism, and a deep connection with living indigenous cultures.