What Are Pulmonias in Mazatlan

Miguel Ramírez Urquijo brought just eight unique vehicles to Mazatlan’s streets in the early 1960s. These distinctive open-air taxis transformed the city’s transportation landscape. Traditional taxi drivers expressed their skepticism and warned passengers about catching “pneumonia” from these open-air rides, which led to the name “pulmonia.”

These VW-based vehicles have become Mazatlan’s identity symbols since their debut in December 1965. The city now boasts over 300 custom-designed pulmonias that feature eye-catching paint jobs and modern sound systems. Tourists can explore Mazatlan’s attractions in these iconic taxis that comfortably accommodate four passengers. The fare ranges from 60 to 400 pesos based on the distance traveled.

What Are Pulmonias in Mazatlan? Understanding These Iconic Taxis

You’ll spot a fleet of unique open-air vehicles cruising along the Malecon and through Mazatlan’s city streets. So what are pulmonias in Mazatlan exactly? These iconic taxis have become a symbol of the Pearl of the Pacific’s charm and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

The open-air VW-based taxis unique to Mazatlan

Pulmonias are much more than just a way to get around—they’re a registered trademark you’ll only find in Mazatlan. These custom-built, open-air taxis look like oversized golf carts but give you a completely different experience from anything else in Mexico.

Most pulmonias run on an air-cooled Volkswagen engine, a design that goes back to their early days. They’re built using stripped-down Volkswagen parts with custom fiberglass bodies. This smart engineering choice made sense—VW parts became easy to find across Mexico after Volkswagen Beetles were made in the country from the mid-1950s until the mid-1990s.

The pulmonia’s design works perfectly with Mazatlan’s coastal setting. These vehicles have no doors or windows, so passengers feel the ocean breeze and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s attractions. Regular taxis keep you behind closed windows with air conditioning, but pulmonias connect you directly with Mazatlan’s vibrant atmosphere.

These vehicles might look simple, but they’re quite an investment. A new pulmonia can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and lifetime licenses can cost more than $50,000. This explains why drivers take such pride in their vehicles and often add their personal touches.

Why they’re called ‘pulmonias’ (pneumonia)

The name “pulmonia” comes with a funny story that shows off Mazatlan’s sense of humor. “Pulmonía” means “pneumonia” in Spanish—which seems like an odd name for something tourists love!

Local stories tell us the name started as a smear campaign. Traditional taxi drivers got worried about competition when pulmonias first showed up in the 1960s. They warned people that riding in these open-air vehicles would give them pneumonia.

This warning didn’t work out as planned. The catchy, ironic name stuck, and people loved pulmonias even more. Now, this once-negative label has become a cherished part of Mazatlan’s culture, showing how the city can turn criticism into something special.

Different types of pulmonias you’ll encounter

Mazatlan’s pulmonias come in many shapes and sizes. They all share the open-air concept, but you’ll see several different types during your visit:

• Classic Pulmonias: These look like traditional golf carts with bench seating and feature the original open design with the iconic VW engine.
• Safari Versions: They’re more car-like and come with doors and seatbelts. You can take these at higher speeds and even visit nearby towns.
• Modernized Models: Some newer pulmonias use Nissan or Audi engines instead of VW motors for better performance.
• LED-Decorated: Since late 2023, many drivers have added LED light displays that create a fun nighttime experience.

Each pulmonia shows its owner’s style through unique paint jobs, custom rims, flashy decals, and special sound systems. This personal touch turns these vehicles from simple taxis into moving art pieces that capture Mazatlan’s creative spirit.

If you’re with a bigger group that won’t fit in a regular pulmonia (which usually seats four people comfortably), you can catch an “Auriga”—a red small pickup truck with bench seating in the back that’s perfect for larger groups.

A ride in any pulmonia gives you an authentic Mazatlan experience that mixes practical transportation with unforgettable local culture.

How to Find and Hire the Perfect Pulmonia in Mazatlan

Getting around Mazatlan in a pulmonia isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s a unique experience that adds magic to your vacation. These open-air taxis let you soak up the city’s sights, sounds, and sea breezes in the most authentic way possible.

Where to find pulmonias around the city

You’ll spot pulmonias mostly in tourist spots and downtown Mazatlan. Getting one is pretty straightforward:

• Flag them down: Just wave at any empty pulmonia passing by.
• Hotel and restaurant fronts: They line up outside popular restaurants and bars.
• Direct booking: Many tourists build a rapport with drivers and call them directly.

These drivers work 12-hour day or night shifts, so you’ll always find one when needed. Your hotel’s bellhop can also call a pulmonia for you, which makes things even easier.

What to look for in a good pulmonia and driver

Each pulmonia offers something different. Here’s what you should think over before picking your ride:

Driver communication: English-speaking skills vary among drivers. If you’re planning tours or longer rides, an English-speaking driver will share interesting details about the places you see.

Vehicle condition: Pulmonias come in different ages and states of repair. Better-maintained ones give you a smoother ride.

Safety credentials: Mazatlan’s city authorities license and regulate all pulmonia drivers. They belong to one of two unions, and their vehicles have medical coverage for up to four passengers.

Music preferences: Since March 2024, drivers must keep music at reasonable volumes. You can always ask them to turn it down if it’s too loud.

How to negotiate fair prices for your ride

The number one rule: agree on the price before you hop in. Rates change based on distance, time of day, season, and traffic.

Here’s what you might pay in 2024:

• Minimum fare: 60 pesos
• Within Golden Zone: 60-100 pesos
• Golden Zone to Historic Old Town/Olas Altas/Marina/Cerritos: 150+ pesos
• Along the Malecon: 60-150 pesos depending on distance
• Hourly rate (for touring): 300-500 pesos

Pulmonias cost more than regular taxis. They get pricey to buy and maintain—lifetime licenses cost over $50,000. The special experience makes the extra cost worth it.

Most drivers have set tour routes but will happily adjust them to match your interests. A 10% tip works well if your driver doubles as a tour guide.

Mexican locals don’t usually tip for regular rides. Still, drivers appreciate 20-30 pesos for waiting or 30-50 pesos if they help with luggage.

Now you know the ins and outs of finding pulmonias, picking good ones, and getting fair prices. You’re ready to enjoy this classic Mazatlan experience like a pro.

Top Pulmonia Routes for Exploring Mazatlan’s Highlights

After you become skilled at hiring a pulmonia in Mazatlan, you should check out the best routes these iconic open-air taxis can take you. Each trip shows you a different viewpoint of the city as you cruise along the coastline or wind through historic neighborhoods.

The classic Malecon sunset cruise

The seat of a pulmonia offers the best way to experience Mazatlan’s Malecon—Mexico’s longest boardwalk—while the sun sets over the Pacific. This popular route starts near the Fisherman’s Monument and follows the coastline. You’ll enjoy panoramic ocean views and refreshing sea breezes.

The best time to start your trip is about an hour before sunset. The golden hour light makes the coastline perfect for photos, and you’ll get amazing views of the cliffs and bay. The pulmonias light up with bright LED displays when night falls, which creates a fun atmosphere.

Drivers usually charge 300-500 pesos for an hour-long Malecon cruise. This makes it both affordable and memorable. Just ask your driver to go at a slower pace so you can take photos and watch people pass by.

Centro Historico and Plaza Machado tour

Old Mazatlan’s charm comes alive in its narrow streets with colorful colonial buildings. A pulmonia tour of Centro Historico has these stops:

• The Angela Peralta Theater—a restored 19th-century building
• Mazatlan Cathedral with its Gothic and Moorish architecture
• Plaza Machado—a lively square with restaurants and cafes

Tour companies run Centro Historico routes that last 2-2.5 hours and cost 61-75 USD per vehicle. Small groups can split the cost easily.

The route’s best feature combines architectural beauty with authentic local culture. Your pulmonia driver doubles as an informal guide who shares historical stories and shows you hidden spots along the way.

Golden Zone shopping and dining route

The Golden Zone (Zona Dorada) stands as Mazatlan’s main tourist area, packed with shops, restaurants, and beachfront hotels. A pulmonia ride here lets you easily reach the city’s best shopping and dining spots.

Rides within the Golden Zone cost about 60-100 pesos, perfect for restaurant and shop hopping. Trips from Centro Historico to the Golden Zone run around 150-200 pesos.

Pancho’s restaurant draws many visitors. Your driver can point you to local spots beyond tourist areas where you can taste authentic Sinaloan food.

Beach-hopping from Playa Bruja to Olas Altas

Beach lovers will find pulmonias perfect for exploring Mazatlan’s various coastal spots. Start at northern Playa Bruja with its big waves, then head south to Olas Altas’s calmer waters.

The stop at Cerro del Creston (Icebox Hill) lets you see amazing views from the glass bridge viewpoint. You can spot Deer Island from several beach stops, where you can go kayaking and snorkeling.

The beach-hopping route takes 3-4 hours, and drivers charge about 300-500 pesos per hour. This route gives you the most detailed look at Mazatlan’s coastal landscapes.

These pulmonia routes each show you different parts of Mazatlan. The city’s iconic open-air taxis give you the most authentic way to see this Pacific gem, whether you want culture, coastal views, shopping, or beach time.

Pulmonia vs. Other Mazatlan Taxis: Which to Choose When

Getting around Mazatlan becomes easier once you understand which transportation option suits your needs best. Smart choices about taxi types can save you money and make your experience more enjoyable beyond just riding pulmonias for fun.

Pulmonias vs. Aurigas: open-air options compared

Mazatlan’s two open-air transportation choices are different by a lot:

• Pulmonias are golf-cart style vehicles that comfortably fit up to 4 passengers. These work great for couples or small families who want to explore the Malecon or city streets.
• Aurigas serve as red pickup trucks with benches and canopies in the back. They can fit 8-10 people, making them perfect for bigger groups.

Aurigas can take you outside town and on highways, while pulmonias must stay within the metro area. The price difference is noticeable too. A group of 8 people pays around 250 pesos from Cerritos to Plaza Machado in an auriga. The same trip would cost much more in multiple pulmonias.

When to choose an Eco Taxi instead

Red or green and white sedans make up Mazatlan’s Eco Taxi fleet. These regular taxis give you:

• Weather protection with air conditioning
• Extra trunk space for luggage or shopping
• Better rates than pulmonias

The fare difference speaks for itself. An ECO taxi ride from the Golden Zone to Centro Historico costs under 100 pesos. Pulmonias charge 150-200 pesos on the same route. Eco Taxis shine on rainy days, airport trips, or shopping excursions.

Airport transportation options

Strict rules govern airport transportation in Mazatlan. The situation at Mazatlan International Airport looks like this:

One company runs the show – the Airport Taxi Group. Their vehicles stand out with yellow stripes and airplane logos. Fixed rates apply: 400 pesos to Centro, 430 pesos to Golden Zone, and 500 pesos to Cerritos.

Budget-conscious travelers can book shared shuttle vans ahead of time. These cost about 125 pesos per person, which works well for solo adventurers.

Pulmonia Etiquette: Tips for an Authentic Experience

Learning proper etiquette for pulmonias in Mazatlan can turn a regular taxi ride into an authentic cultural experience. Your Mexican coastal adventure becomes more enjoyable when you learn to interact respectfully with drivers and understand safety aspects.

Tipping your pulmonia driver

Most Mexican locals don’t tip pulmonia drivers for regular transportation. Specific situations call for tipping:

• Drivers deserve 30-50 pesos for exceptional service like carrying luggage or 20-30 pesos for waiting time
• Extra tips make sense when drivers act as unofficial tour guides

A 10% gratuity above the agreed price works well for sightseeing excursions. Regular transportation needs no tipping unless the service stands out.

Photography etiquette with pulmonias

These eye-catching open-air taxis make perfect vacation photo subjects. A pulmonias Mazatlan photo serves as proof of your visit. Local wisdom states, “If you didn’t ride in a pulmonia, then you didn’t visit Mazatlán”.

Your camera should be ready—tour operators list it as must-have equipment. Here’s how to take photos respectfully:

• Get driver’s permission before snapping pictures of them or their vehicles
• Dawn and dusk create beautiful backgrounds for pulmonia photos
• Stay aware of traffic while taking photo stops

Safety considerations for families and groups

Pulmonia drivers work 12-hour shifts and follow strict city safety regulations. Groups and families should know:

• Child safety: Parents must hold children since car seats aren’t available
• Capacity limits: Pulmonias fit four passengers comfortably. Police may stop overloaded vehicles
• Hold on tight: These vehicles can speed up quickly—grab handrails during turns
• Group travel: Riding with others adds security after dark
• Weather preparedness: Daytime rides need sunscreen protection

Look for proper licensing and registration on the vehicle. These simple etiquette guidelines will give you an enjoyable and respectful pulmonia experience.

Pulmonias represent much more than transportation in Mazatlan – they embody the city’s vibrant culture, spirit of innovation, and warm hospitality. These iconic open-air taxis have transformed from simple beginnings in the 1960s into a vital part of every visitor’s journey through the Pearl of the Pacific.

The right pulmonia choice can boost your Mazatlan adventure significantly. Smart travelers know the best experiences come from negotiating fares before the ride, showing respect for local traditions, and keeping safety first. These distinctive vehicles provide perfect views while you cruise along the Malecon at sunset, learn about the historic Centro, or jump between golden beaches.

A pulmonia ride delivers something standard taxis can’t match – a genuine connection with Mazatlan’s heart and soul. Passengers get to feel the sea breeze and take in panoramic views while friendly drivers share local stories. This unique tradition helps visitors experience Mazatlan exactly as locals intended, making each journey about more than just reaching a destination.

Here are some FAQs about what are pulmonias in Mazatlan:

What is the cheapest time of year to go to Puerto Vallarta?

The cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the low season, which typically runs from late April to early December. During this period, you can find discounted hotel rates and flight deals, making it the most affordable time to travel. If you’re looking for the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, consider planning your trip between May and November.

What is the best month to go to Puerto Vallarta?

The best month to visit Puerto Vallarta is generally November or March, when the weather is warm and dry, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak winter season. These months offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. For many travelers, this is considered the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta.

What is low season in Puerto Vallarta?

The low season in Puerto Vallarta runs from late April to early December, coinciding with the warmer and rainier months. This is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, as hotels and flights often offer significant discounts. Travelers who don’t mind occasional rain showers can enjoy a more budget-friendly and less crowded experience.

What is the cheapest time to vacation in Mexico?

The cheapest time to vacation in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta, is during the low season from late spring to early fall. This period, particularly from May to November, offers lower prices on accommodations and flights. It’s the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for budget-conscious travelers.

What is the coldest month in Puerto Vallarta?

The coldest month in Puerto Vallarta is typically January, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). While it’s still warm compared to many destinations, it’s cooler than other months. This makes January a pleasant time to visit for those who prefer milder weather.

How many days is enough in Puerto Vallarta?

A 5- to 7-day trip is usually enough to explore Puerto Vallarta’s beaches, historic sites, and nearby attractions. This duration allows you to enjoy the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta without feeling rushed. You’ll have plenty of time to relax and experience the local culture.

What is the rainy month in Puerto Vallarta?

The rainiest months in Puerto Vallarta are typically August and September, during the peak of the rainy season. While this is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, be prepared for frequent afternoon showers. Despite the rain, the lush greenery and fewer crowds can make it a rewarding time to visit.

What month is hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta?

Hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June to November, with the highest risk occurring in September and October. While this is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, travelers should monitor weather forecasts and consider travel insurance. The likelihood of a direct hurricane hit is relatively low, but storms can bring heavy rain.

Can you swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, you can swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta, as the water is generally warm and inviting year-round. The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for swimming is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is sunny and calm. Always check local conditions for safety, especially during the rainy season.

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