A New Scenic Journey: The Barranca Larga-Ventanilla Highway

We’re excited to announce that the long-awaited Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway, connecting Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca City, is now open! This 104.3-kilometer transformative infrastructure project, inaugurated by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador on February 4th, reduces travel time from more than six and a half hours to just two and a half hours.

The promise of swift travel from the Pacific coast to the heart of Oaxaca is now a reality.

Paving the way for exciting possibilities along the Oaxacan coast, the coastal region stands poised for growth and prosperity

This milestone is not just a convenience for travelers; it’s a game-changer for residents of the Oaxaca coast. Reduced travel time from over six and a half hours to just two and a half hours opens up possibilities for increased connectivity and accessibility. For real estate investors eyeing the Oaxaca coast, this development of improved transportation infrastructure enhances the region’s appeal impacting property value and investment opportunities. The allure of pristine beaches and affordable beachfront living becomes more accessible, making the Oaxaca coast an even more attractive prospect for those considering buying real estate.

Infrastructure Marvels and Breathtaking Landscapes

The newly opened highway features an impressive array of infrastructure, including 10 bridges, three viaducts, three tunnels, and 15 interchanges. Travelers can now experience the incredible scenery of pine forests, deep valleys, and emerald mountains as they traverse this modern highway.

The Journey: A Snapshot

Beginning in Puerto Escondido, the drive now takes approximately two hours to reach San Martin de los Cansecos, a small village with roadside stands and amenities. From there, it’s a 45-minute journey to the center of Oaxaca City. The highway offers a speed limit of 110 km in most mountain sections, with wide shoulders and passing lanes for various travelers, including cyclists.

Practical Considerations and Work in Progress

While the highway is operational, ongoing work involves off ramps, safety barriers, and retaining walls. Some sections may experience limited cell phone service, particularly in mountainous areas. Travelers should anticipate fog and rain due to the region’s altitude.

Inauguration and Technical Details

Inaugurated with an investment exceeding 13 billion pesos, the Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway signifies a long-awaited step in enhancing connectivity. Acknowledging the unfinished nature of some sections, officials assured at the inauguration ceremony that the road will be fully operational in the second half of the year. Toll charges are expected for visitors and cargo transport, with Oaxacans exempted until the end of the President’s current term.

Alternative Routes and Transportation Options

Beyond the new Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway, there are alternative ways to travel between Oaxaca City and the Oaxaca coast:

• Highway 175: A 6.5-hour journey through the Sierra Madre del Sur with winding, steep roads from Pochutla via San José del Pacifico.
• Vans and Buses: Various ground transportation options connecting the coast to Oaxaca. Formerly using Highway 175, vans now also use the new highway.
• ADO Buses: ADO buses now travel the new highway route. Buses leave Oaxaca at 9:15, 11:15, 13:15, 20:15 and 21:15. A route from Oaxaca to Salina Cruz on to Huatulco and Puerto Escondido exists.
• Aerotucán: An air travel option connecting Oaxaca City to Huatulco and Puerto Escondido.

A New Chapter in Connectivity

The opening of the Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway marks a new chapter in connectivity between Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City. This new accessibility adds an exciting dimension for real estate investors. With reduced travel times and improved infrastructure, the Oaxaca coast becomes an increasingly attractive prospect, inviting investors to seize the opportunity and be part of the region’s growth.