Traveling by Light Rail

The Light Rail is an indispensable surface transportation system to venture into the Coyoacán, Tlalpan, and Xochimilco boroughs.

Operated by the Electric Transport Service (STE), this system evolved from ancient tram routes to consolidate itself as a modern and eco-friendly rail transport. Its 13-kilometer route allows travelers to observe the city’s transition towards the emblematic original towns and chinampa areas of the capital.

The system has been completely modernized. Exact payment with coins and paper tickets are a thing of the past. Today, access is fully digitalized via the Integrated Mobility Card (MI), ensuring seamless entry without wait times.

The Southern Route Unlike other transports, the Light Rail operates on a single, extensive line consisting of 18 stations. Knowing its key points is essential for your visit:

• Tasqueña (Northern Terminal): The starting point and direct connection hub with Metro Line 2, Trolleybus routes, and the Southern Central Bus Terminal.
• Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium): The strategic station for soccer fans and major events, dropping visitors literally at the doorstep of the sports colossus on Calzada de Tlalpan.
• Xochimilco (Southern Terminal): The final destination for tourists, located a short distance from the historical center of the borough and its famous trajinera piers.

Updates Heading into the greatest soccer festival, the Government of Mexico City implemented a historic remodeling to guarantee world-class service:

• The new “Ajolote” fleet: 17 state-of-the-art articulated trains were integrated, featuring a graphic design that pays tribute to the axolotl, the iconic amphibian endemic to the capital. These new units feature surveillance cameras, greater capacity (750 passengers per trip), and a regenerative braking system.
• Comprehensive reconstruction of tracks and terminals: All rails and the electrical system from Tasqueña to Xochimilco were completely replaced. Furthermore, the Tasqueña terminal station was completely rebuilt and reopened just weeks before the World Cup, expanding its platforms to speed up boarding times.
• Special World Cup Operation: For match days at the Mexico City Stadium, a logistical protocol has been designed that reserves the stadium station primarily for ticketholders. Additionally, service hours are extended until the early morning to ensure the quick and safe evacuation of fans to the city center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fare and how do I pay for the trip? It is one of the most affordable rail transports in the world: the cost per trip is only $3.00 MXN.

Access is exclusive via the Integrated Mobility Card (MI), presented at the digital turnstiles.

Where can I get the MI Card? You can purchase it for $15.00 MXN or recharge your balance at the automatic vending machines located at the entrance of all 18 Light Rail stations. These machines accept coins, bills, and bank cards.

What are the hours of operation? The system operates 365 days a year during the following regular hours (which feature special extensions on international match days):

• Monday to Friday: 05:00 to 00:00 hrs.
• Saturdays: 06:00 to 00:00 hrs.
• Sundays and holidays: 07:00 to 00:00 hrs.

Is it a safe and accessible system? Yes, safety has improved significantly. All stations are surface-level or elevated and feature ramps to guarantee universal accessibility.

The new “Ajolote” units have LED lighting, emergency intercom systems, and video surveillance cameras connected in real-time.

Are there preferential seats? As in the rest of the mobility network, trains feature exclusive blue seats, designated strictly for use by people with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, or people carrying babies.