The pulmonía is Mazatlán's signature open-air taxi, a small, colourful vehicle with a bench seat and no doors that has been part of the city for decades. A ride in one is an experience in itself, and this scenic tour turns it into a guided loop of the city. The route described by the operator starts at Playa Norte, continues along Olas Altas, pauses at Plazuela Machado and climbs to Cerro de la Nevería, with views of the cliff divers area, the Historical Center, the market and the cathedral along the way. The tour lasts about two and a half hours, carries a maximum of four travellers, and has a mobile ticket with pickup offered. Reviews on the product page are strongly positive. It suits first-time visitors who want an overview without the effort of walking, families with children, and couples looking for a relaxed way to see the old town, with an icebox for cold drinks available on request.
What to expect
You sit in the open air with the breeze, stop at viewpoints for photographs and hear about the districts you pass. Because the group is small, the pace can be flexible, and the driver can often answer questions about places to eat and visit later. Dress for sun and wind, bring a light layer for later in the day and carry water.
Booking details
The tour runs daily during the operator's hours, with a maximum of four travellers per vehicle. Free cancellation has been offered up to 24 hours before the start, and reserve-now-and-pay-later is available. It is wheelchair and stroller accessible according to the product page, and infants sit on laps. One recent reviewer mentioned some confusion over pickup, so confirm the meeting point and vehicle details after booking.
How to use it
Take the ride on your first day to get oriented, then return on foot to the places that caught your eye. It pairs well with a sunset on the Malecón or a dinner on Plazuela Machado. Prices are per person with discounted rates for children, so check the current price for your group size and compare it with a private ride if you are travelling as a family of four or more.
What to expect
The experience
A guided open-air ride for up to four travellers, stopping at Playa Norte, Olas Altas, Plazuela Machado and Cerro de la Nevería.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, to avoid the strongest sun and to catch the light over the bay.
How long
About two and a half hours.
Tips
Confirm the pickup point after booking, bring sun protection and a light layer, and carry water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-timers who want a fun overview of the city without walking.
- Families
- Children enjoy the open-air ride and there are discounted child rates, with a maximum of four people per vehicle.
- Couples
- A relaxed, photogenic way to spend a late afternoon together.
- Pair with
- Plazuela Machado, the Malecón and the Observatorio 1873.
- Time needed
- Half a morning or afternoon.
Good questions
What is a pulmonía?+
It is Mazatlán's traditional open-air taxi, a small vehicle without doors. Riding in one is a local tradition and a popular way to see the city.
What does the route cover?+
The tour described by the operator visits Playa Norte, Olas Altas, Plaza Machado and Cerro de la Nevería. It also passes the Historical Center, the market and the cathedral.
How many people can ride?+
A maximum of four travellers per tour. Larger groups can book more than one vehicle or look at a private option.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation has been offered up to 24 hours before the start, with reserve-now-and-pay-later available. Check the terms at the time you book.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, children can join, there are discounted child rates and infants sit on laps. The open-air seating means sun protection and a firm hold on little ones are wise.
