Tulum offers many transportation options to suit your needs. As long-time residents of this beautiful town, we’re here to help newcomers navigate their way around Tulum and make the most of their visit.
In this comprehensive transportation guide, you’ll learn the best ways to get around Tulum with and without a car. We’ll cover popular ways of transportation, including renting bikes, scooters, and even ATVs. And we’ll share tips on using buses and taxis.
So, let’s dive in and make your Tulum adventure as smooth as possible!
Renting a car to get around Tulum?
We covered in-depth whether you need a car in Tulum, and the short answer is: no. Of course it depends on your specific needs and preferences though. While for most people there are better ways to get around Tulum without renting a car, it probably makes sense if you plan to go on day trips to places like Bacalar or Coba. If you’re expecting to go off the main highway, consider renting a jeep since many other roads are in pretty bad shape.
Please note that Tulum’s hotel zone (where the beach and the most famous clubs and restaurants are) at night is often one big traffic jam. Also, parking is limited and expensive in the hotel zone. If you’re expecting to go to and from the hotel zone a lot, we generally advise against renting a car.
If you do decide to get a car, here’s what you need to know about driving in Tulum.
How to Get Around Tulum Without a Car
Hiring a private driver
For those looking for a reliable and hassle-free way to get around, hiring a private driver in Tulum is an excellent option. With a private driver, you won’t need to search for taxis or negotiate fares, and you can avoid the inflated taxi prices often encountered by tourists. This option is not only more convenient but also safer, as you’ll have a trusted driver from a reputable company. A private driver can take you directly to your chosen destinations, saving time and offering a more relaxed experience, whether you’re heading to the beach, a cenote, a party, or one of Tulum’s amazing restaurants.
Getting around Tulum by taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tulum, and they are a convenient and much-used way to get around. It probably works a bit differently than you’re used to though. Taxis in Tulum don’t have meters, so it’s important to clarify the fare before getting into the taxi to avoid misunderstandings. Taxi prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of day, the season, and your negotiation skills. There are actually ‘standard taxi rates’ to go to and from certain areas, like:
- From La Veleta to downtown or vice versa: ~3.50 dollars (70 pesos).
- From Aldea Zama to downtown or vice versa: ~7.50 dollars (250 pesos).
- From the hotel zone to downtown or vice versa: ~20 dollars (700 pesos).
Taxi drivers often deviate from these rates though (read: they charge you as much as they think they can). And rates are higher late at night and during peak tourist seasons (dec-feb). Please consider the above estimations as rough guidelines to avoid paying the outrageous rates we sometimes hear about.
Also, take into account that since there is no Uber in Tulum nor a central phone number to get a taxi, you’re not guaranteed to find a taxi quickly.
Rent a bike to see more of Tulum
Renting a bike in Tulum offers a fantastic way to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. Whether you want to visit local shops, discover hidden gems, or enjoy the natural beauty of the area, biking in Tulum is an eco-friendly and enjoyable option. You can expect to pay approximately $10 to $20 per day for a bike rental. You can also rent e-bikes in Tulum.
Rent a scooter to get anywhere fast
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to get around Tulum, consider renting a scooter. Scooters provide flexibility and agility, allowing you to navigate through the town’s streets and traffic with ease. Moreover, many of the streets in Tulum are dirt roads with occasional potholes, which can make scooters faster and more convenient than cars, especially for short trips. The rental price for a scooter is relatively high though, it ranges between approximately $30 to $60 per day.
Rent an ATV for a fun way to get around Tulum
For those seeking an adventurous mode of transportation, renting an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) is a thrilling option. ATVs can take you off the beaten path, allowing you to explore Tulum’s hidden treasures and rugged terrain.
The rental price for ATVs start at $70 per day, with an average of $100. If you rent with us, the price includes everything, but pay attention because this is not always the case and especially the insurance cost for ATVs can vary a lot per company.
Getting around Tulum with public transportation
Getting around Tulum at night
Navigating Tulum at night comes with its own set of considerations. The town is known for its vibrant nightlife, particularly in the hotel zone along the beach. However, the hotel zone becomes one big traffic jam at night. Parking is also very limited and expensive in this area. To avoid getting caught in these traffic jams, consider scheduling your dinner reservations earlier in the day to avoid crowds and congestion.
Or use a bicycle or scooter to navigate through the traffic more easily. Be careful if you’re leaving the hotel zone at night though, people coming from the hotel zone often speed and/or are under influence. We especially advice against using the Avenida Kukulkan (road between La Veleta and the hotel zone) at night. It is dark, has potholes and people drive particularly fast there. There is no bike lane either.
The safest way to get home after a night out is using a private driver. Taxis are a pretty safe too but unfortunately the taxi drivers, generally speaking are not the most trustworthy (read more about it our article about taxis in Tulum).