Motion sickness on Oaxaca mountain roads
how to reduce it
Why the old Route 175 can cause motion sickness and practical ways to reduce nausea on the drive to the Oaxaca Coast, including seating, horizon focus, ventilation and breaks.
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Health note
This page provides general travel information and is not medical advice. It does not provide medication doses. Ask a physician or pharmacist before using motion-sickness medication, especially for children, pregnancy, other medical conditions or interactions with other medicines.
Motion sickness is more common on Oaxaca's old Federal Route 175 because the road crosses the Sierra Sur through long sequences of curves and elevation changes. The Barranca Larga–Ventanilla toll highway is straighter and much shorter, so many travelers find it easier. Looking toward the horizon, sitting where you can see the road, avoiding phone use and keeping fresh air moving can help.
- Old Route 175: 5–7 hours through a very curvy mountain corridor.
- Toll highway: usually about 2.5–3 hours with a straighter alignment.
- Avoid reading or scrolling on a phone during curvy sections.
- Fresh air, light food, hydration and breaks can reduce symptoms for some travelers.
Why curves cause motion sickness
Motion sickness happens when the brain receives conflicting information about movement from the eyes, inner ear and body. On a winding road, your inner ear feels repeated turning while your eyes may be fixed on a phone, book or seat in front of you. That sensory mismatch can lead to nausea, sweating, headache or vomiting.
Which road is easier if you get carsick?
| Route | Typical characteristics | Motion-sickness burden |
|---|---|---|
| Barranca Larga–Ventanilla toll highway | Shorter, straighter, tunnels and viaducts | Usually easier for most travelers |
| Federal Route 175 | Longer mountain drive with many curves and large elevation changes | Usually more challenging |
Non-drug strategies that may help
- Sit where you can look forward and see the road ahead.
- Focus on the horizon or a stable distant point.
- Avoid reading, gaming or scrolling on a phone.
- Keep fresh air moving and avoid strong smells.
- Eat lightly before travel rather than having a very heavy meal.
- Sip water and avoid alcohol before the trip.
- Ask for a short break if symptoms begin.
What about medication?
Common motion-sickness medicines are sold in Mexican pharmacies, and some can cause significant drowsiness. The best choice depends on age, health history, pregnancy, other medicines and whether you will be driving. Ask a pharmacist or physician for individualized advice rather than relying on a travel page for a dose or product recommendation.
Children and pregnancy
Children and pregnant travelers can be especially susceptible to motion sickness, but medication choices require extra caution. Prioritize non-drug measures and ask a pediatrician, physician or pharmacist before giving or taking motion-sickness medicine.
Choosing the trip itself can help
If motion sickness is a major concern, route choice matters. The newer toll highway removes much of the old road's continuous turning and cuts several hours from the journey. A private transfer can also make it easier to request a forward seat and planned stops.
Motion-sickness questions
Why do people get carsick on the road to Puerto Escondido?
The old Route 175 has long sequences of mountain curves and elevation changes that can trigger sensory conflict and nausea.
Is the new highway better for motion sickness?
Usually yes. It is shorter and straighter than the old Route 175, so most travelers spend less time turning through the mountains.
Where should I sit?
A forward-facing seat with a clear view of the road and horizon is often easier than looking sideways or down at a screen.
Should I take motion-sickness medicine?
Ask a physician or pharmacist, especially for children, pregnancy, other health conditions or if you may need to drive. This guide does not recommend doses.
Can I ask a private driver to stop?
Yes, planned or necessary rest stops can be discussed when the transfer is confirmed.