Ok.  So if you are planning to come to Tapachula for the first time you probably have no idea what-so-ever where it is or how to get there.  

Firstly it will help if you know abit of spanish, but don't worry we have had many volunteers who did not know more than a few simple words such as "Gracias" and "Por Favor" so don't stress!  

If you have no knowledge with the language you can always purchase a small travel size phrasebook from Lonely Planet (seen below) at nearly any local bookstore.  These books contain the very basic necessities to get you through and around without too many problems.

Upon arrival at Mexico City Airport you will have a few options to get yourself down to Chiapas.  The most expensive option but by far the easiest is to fly either on Aviacsa or AeroMexico.   You can purchase your tickets online through the websites www.aviacsa.com.mx / www.aeromexico.com .  Flights arrive 2 times a day here in Tapachula.  One in the morning and another in the evening depending on the company.  Remember to get your money changed to 'Pesos' while in the Airport.

Tapachula airport is only about 20 mins drive from town center.  There are taxis outside but always ask "how much" before getting in.  The other method is to contact us and usually we will have no problem organizing someone to meet you there.

If flying is too expensive for you then you can always go by bus although it is somewhat a long journey (around 18 hours).  You will need to make your way to the bus station 'TAPO' by taking a taxi or a microbus from outside the airport.  When you arrive to the terminal you will have to search among the many bus companies for one called 'Cristobal Colon (OCC)' or 'ADO' (both are the same company). They depart for Tapachula about 8 times a day.  You can check times at www.ticketbus.com.mx .

We can organize to pick you up in Tapachula as long as we know what time you will be arriving.  Otherwise you can take a Taxi from the bus station in Tapachula to the refuge.  You shouldn't pay any more than 20 pesos so remember to ask the driver first how much he will charge.  If he goes too high then just threaten to go to another taxi and he will quickly change his mind.

The address for the refuge is:

Albergue Misión México
5a Privada Sur esquina con 4a Oriente


Phone No. (962) 626 8419 or (962) 642 8555


Happy Travelling