Driving from Cancun to Tulum: What You Should Know

If you’re planning a visit to Tulum, you might think about flying into Cancun, renting a car and driving along the Riviera Maya. It’s certainly an adventurous way to get from Cancun to Tulum. Since we have made this journey many times, we thought we’d give you some insights and tips to help you make the best of it.

Is it safe to drive from Cancun to Tulum?

The drive from Cancun to Tulum is typically safe. However, it’s important to watch out for high and sometimes poorly marked speed bumps, especially at night. Also be careful with other motorists, as some have quite an interesting (read: risky) driving style. Finally, keep an eye out for cyclists, scooters, and pedestrians on the side of the road.

Given the limited street lighting, it’s advisable to avoid driving at night whenever you can, and remember that the usual speed limit is around 100 km/h or 62 mph.

What are the road conditions in Riviera Maya?

The primary road is usually decent, though not flawless. Potholes and debris are more frequent than what you might be accustomed to at home. Furthermore, street lighting is nearly absent. So once again, be careful with driving at night.

How far is the drive from Cancun to Tulum?

The distance from Cancun to Tulum is approximately 131 kilometers (80 miles). And the driving time is around 1.5 to 2 hours to cover the entire distance, depending on the traffic conditions.

Quick tips to plan your drive to Tulum

Renting a car: You can rent a car from Cancun Airport or Cancun itself. Various rental agencies offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs. They’re also quite relaxed, which makes booking a rental car quite easy and stress-free.

Navigating the highway: The highway from Cancun to Tulum is almost entirely straight and well-marked. Follow the signs for Playa Del Carmen first, and Tulum later.

Gas stations: Make sure your tank is filled before you leave Cancun, as there aren’t that many stations along the route.

Valid driver’s license: Most foreign driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico, especially if they’re in Spanish or English.

Parking in Tulum

Most people will head straight to a hotel and many offer free parking for their guests. You can also find free parking almost anywhere in Aldea Zama, La Veleta, and downtown Tulum without too much trouble.

If you want to head straight to the beach, you should realize that the beach area can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. In addition, there is no public parking. This means you should look for paid parking lots or go to a beach club or restaurant with its own parking lot.

Best places to stop between Cancun and Tulum

There are several noteworthy stops along the way when you travel between Cancun and the charming town of Tulum.

Consider taking a break in Playa del Carmen, a vibrant coastal town offering beautiful beaches and a bustling Fifth Avenue with shops and restaurants. Further south, you’ll find Akumal, famous for its sea turtles and clear waters.

There are also a few cenotes along the way. We personally liked the Casa Tortugas cenote. Dos Ojos is another popular option. Finally, in the town of Puerto Aventuras, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful marina with restaurants.

Conclusion

Driving from Cancun to Tulum can be an enjoyable experience, offering the freedom to explore the Riviera Maya at your own pace. Enjoy your journey and shoot us a message if you’ve got any other questions!