The recent 5.7% increase in toll rates on the Guadalajara-Puerto Vallarta highway, which took effect on January 10, 2025, has led to widespread frustration among motorists. Many are now comparing the cost of driving to the price of a commercial flight.
The total toll for the highway’s five outbound booths has risen to 1,438 pesos. This sharp increase has prompted many travelers to consider flying directly to Puerto Vallarta as a more economical option.
Here are the new toll rates at the booths:
- El Arenal: from 193 to 205 pesos
- Plan de Barrancas: from 288 to 306 pesos
- La Misión (the most expensive booth): from 455 to 483 pesos
In comparison, a direct flight from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara now costs 1,018 pesos with Viva Aerobus and 1,204 pesos with Volaris, both lower than the combined toll fees for driving.
The toll hikes have sparked outrage on social media, with users sharing their frustrations. Diego Arellano remarked, “It’s not about using it or avoiding it; some prefer to pay rather than deal with the poor conditions of free roads.” Zyanya Mendozini suggested a collective protest by boycotting the toll road to pressure for lower prices, while Francisco Macías emphasized that flying is both cheaper and faster.
This ongoing debate reflects a growing dissatisfaction with escalating highway costs and a desire for more affordable travel options.
