Are you planning a journey from Cancun to Tulum how best to get there? We’ve lived in Tulum for years and made the trip many times so we can tell you everything about it. In this article, we’ll explore various ways, providing you with all the information you need for a smooth traveling experience.
#1: Rent a car to get around Riviera Maya
Renting a car is a good option for exploring the stunning Riviera Maya. The region offers a wealth of natural beauty, historical sites, and other hidden gems. And having the freedom of your own vehicle can make your journey even more memorable.
Cancun offers various car rental locations, both at the airport and across town. In our experience, this process of renting a car is often quick and easy, allowing you to get on the road in no time. Even most of the prominent international brands tend to operate with less bureaucracy in Mexico, resulting in a more relaxed rental process. For example, we once inquired about returning our rental car in Tulum rather than Cancun, and this was no problem at all and they didn’t even charged a fee for returning it to a different location, despite the Hertz website indicating a cost for this service. Extending the rental period is typically as simple as sending a WhatsApp message.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want the freedom to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car and driving from Cancun to Tulum can be a fine choice.
Quick tips for driving from Cancun to Tulum
- Ensure you have a valid driver’s license (licenses from most countries are valid as long as they are in English or Spanish).
- Stick to the speed limits and be cautious of local road rules. Truth be told, not all Mexican drivers adhere to what we might consider safe driving practices. So please be extra careful.
- Keep an eye out for ‘topes’ (speed bumps) in some smaller towns along the way. These are frequently taller and less prominently marked compared to what you may be accustomed to.
#2: Use a ‘colectivo’
In Mexico, there are local shared shuttles that are referred to as “colectivos.” They come at a very affordable price, typically around 60 pesos (approximately $3) for the journey from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. In Playa del Carmen, you’ll need to switch colectivos to continue to Tulum. Traveling from Playa del Carmen to Tulum would cost about the same: 60 pesos (so 120 pesos or $6 in total).
Colectivos depart roughly every 15 minutes and go pretty fast. Making it also a pretty fast way to travel.
However, it’s important to recognize that colectivos might not be the safest or most convenient option. These shuttles tend to fill up completely, providing little space for passengers. Additionally, English-speaking drivers are rare, and because they often drive at high speeds, they are not the safest.
This mode of transportation is best suited for adventurous travelers who are willing to embrace a more rugged journey to save a few dollars.
#3: ADO Bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum Bus Terminal
The ADO bus journey from Cancun Airport to Tulum cost $10 to $15 (175 to 270 pesos) and depart approximately every 1 to 2 hours. The buses are quite comfortable and equipped with air conditioning.
To board the ADO bus, you’ll need to purchase a ticket at the counter. Although the ticket teller may not be fluent in English, naming your destination usually does the job.
While ADO buses are a little bit pricier than colectivos, they are still budget friendly. They are also a safer and more comfortable option. The downside is that you’ll often have to wait slightly longer due to the lower departure frequency compared to colectivos.
#4: Taxi services
A taxi ride from Cancun Airport to Tulum is typically priced around $200 (3400 pesos), although some negotiation might be necessary to secure this rate. The convenience of taking a taxi lies in the fact that you won’t experience any waiting time – taxis are readily available at the airport. Nor will you need to make any prior arrangements.
However, it’s worth noting that taxi rides are usually the costliest option, often even more expensive than a private shuttle, which typically feature larger and more luxurious vehicles than taxis.
#5: Uber from Cancun to Tulum
Yes, you can Uber from Cancun to Tulum (although Uber is not available in Tulum itself).
Conclusion: Best way to get from Cancun to Tulum
You have a multitude of options for getting from Cancun to Tulum, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.
If convenience and comfort are your priorities, a private transfer is probably your best choice – especially if you’re traveling with a larger group. If you’re on a budget, shared shuttles (colectivos) or ADO buses are recommended.