As a local who has lived in Tulum for years, I am often asked about the best way to get from Cancun to Tulum. If you’re on a budget, your best option might very well be the ADO bus. Learn about prices, schedule etc. below.

How much is the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum?

The cost of a one-way ticket on the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum is around 500 pesos. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the bus terminal.

What times are the ADO buses from Cancun to Tulum?

There are frequent ADO bus departures from Cancun to Tulum throughout the day, starting at 6:00 AM and ending at 11:00 PM. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and the bus schedules may vary but there is one bus departing around every hour-hour and half.

Where is the ADO bus station in Cancun?

You can catch the ADO bus from Cancun at either the Cancun Centro bus terminal or the Cancun Airport bus terminal. If you are staying in the Hotel Zone, you can also catch the ADO bus from the Aquaworld bus stop.

Where does the ADO bus arrive in Tulum?

The ADO bus arrives in Tulum at the Tulum bus terminal downtown, which is located on Avenida Tulum between Calle 2 Sur and Calle 4 Sur. The bus terminal is approximately 2 kilometers from the Tulum town center. Read more about the Tulum bus stations

ADO bus from Tulum to Cancun Airport

If you are returning to Cancun Airport from Tulum, you can catch the ADO bus from one of the two Tulum bus terminals. The buses depart every 30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Other practical information about the ADO bus line

Tips for taking the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum:

Purchase your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
Arrive at the bus terminal at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
If you don’t speak any Spanish and you are not sure how to find the right bus, just show your ticket to an ADO employee.
The ADO buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, but it is a good idea to bring a sweater or jacket, as the bus can get cold.
Be sure to bring your passport or other form of identification, as you may be asked to show it when you board the bus.

ADO bus alternatives

You can also opt to book a private driver from Cancun to Tulum which goes from 4,000 to 5,000 pesos depending on which district of Tulum you are going to.

Colectivos from Cancun to Tulum can be found in the front corner of the ADO station as “Playa Express”, this service costs around 3 dollar (60 pesos) to Playa del Carmen and then you will have to hop on a second colectivo found a block away, the price from Playa Del Carmen to Tulum is about the same.

Conclusion: Is the ADO bus worth it?

Yes, if you’re on a budget it is a good option. The ADO bus is pretty punctual, comfortable and clean.