A Bird's Eye View: Riding High on Cablebús Line 1 in Mexico City
I saw an Instagram post about taking the metro to a line of cable cars and gasped. Immediately with some friends in tow, I took my first metro ride in Mexico City and before you know it, there we were. We took a short walk from the metro, purchased a ticket from the kiosk, and boarded one of the colorful gondolas at Indios Verde station. Our plan was to take the 30-minute ride to the end of the line and then return.
Upon arriving at the Cablebús station, we felt a mix of excitement and apprehension - none of us had ever ridden in a cable car before including my friend who is a Mexican native. We were the last 3 in a full car of passengers. We squeezed in where we could and then we were off!
The stunning views of the city caused us to behave like children meeting our favorite Disney character for the first time. We “ooohed” and “aaahed” with reckless abandon although the locals didn't share our enthusiasm at all. Anxious to get home, a few napped from sheer exhaustion.
The Cablebús spans over 9.2 kilometers and has six stations, with 377 gondolas that can carry up to ten passengers each. The gondolas travel at a height of 30 meters, providing a bird's eye view of the city. Multi-chromatic casitas and the surrounding mountains create the intricate backdrop of the landscape. There’s so much to enjoy here with a travel time of just over 30 minutes.
This cable line system is not just functional but also a stunning work of art. The gondolas are painted in vibrant colors, adding a touch of liveliness to the already colorful cityscape. The stations themselves are beautifully designed and decorated, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the areas they serve.
Since its launch in 2021, the Cablebús has drawn tourists to an area that only ever hosted locals. Now visitors from all over the world come to experience this unique mode of transportation. As a matter of fact, we ran into a pretty large group of enthused German tourists who asked us where to go to take the Cablebús back the way they’d come.
Cablebús has had a significant impact on the local communities it serves, providing an accessible transportation option for residents. It connects them to their jobs, schools, and medical facilities. Before the cable car system was built, residents had to rely on buses and cars to navigate the steep terrain between Indios Verdes and Cuautepec. This often resulted in ridiculously lengthy commute times, unreliable transportation, and tons of traffic. The cable car system has provided a much-needed alternate mode of transportation that is fast, efficient, and accessible. It has also helped to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion in the area, making the city a more sustainable and livable place.
My friends and I grabbed some delicious tacos when we returned to Indios Verde and then took an Uber home. Riding the cable cars took up an entire day and was an inexpensive way to see one of Mexico City’s great wonders.
For your next trip to Mexico City, the cable car ride from Indios Verdes to Cuautepec is a must-see. But before you hop on, here are a few tips to ensure that you have a pleasant ride:
As with any place that you visit for the first time be aware of your surroundings and your belongings.
Mind your step when getting on and off the gondola - nobody wants a twisted ankle.
Check Mexico City’s government website before you travel: cdmx.gob cablebus line 1
Check the weather forecast before you head out. You don't want to get caught out in a storm or bad weather. This is a lot more fun when the weather is on your side.
Finally, if you're feeling a bit lost or unsure, don't be afraid to ask for directions! The locals are friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand. Plus, it's a great opportunity to brush up on your Spanish and meet new people.
To get to the Cablebús, line 1, simply take the metro Line 3 (the green line) towards Indios Verdes. Once you arrive, follow the signs to the Cablebús station, just a short walk away. Once you're at the Cablebús station, grab your super affordable Metro Card from one of the easy to use kiosks. I’ve included the price and station list below, but keep in mind the prices may vary depending on when you ride.
Line 1 Images Courtesy of ste.CDMX.gob.mx
Line 1 Images Courtesy of ste.CDMX.gob.mx
Get ready for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas. Don't forget your camera! You're in for an unforgettable ride and amazing Instagram photos.
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