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Have you ever wondered how to get from Cancun to Tulum?
Tulum, Mexico, a hidden gem on the Caribbean coast (Southern Mexico), has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and pristine beaches. With its captivating ancient Mayan ruins, lively town, and breathtaking coastline, Tulum is ready to offer you an exceptional vacation experience.
Need a comprehensive guide on how to get from Cancun to Tulum? In this blog post, we’ve got you covered with all the transportation options, prices, and some travel tips to ensure your journey from Cancun to Tulum is as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
Let’s go on an adventure! 🌴✈️
Here’s what you need to know about Cancun Airport transportation
- Explore transportation options for traveling from Cancun to Tulum, including Cancun airport shuttle, private transfer, car rentals, ADO bus and colectivo.
- Connect between Playa del Carmen and Tulum with frequent departures via ADO bus or Colectivo.
- Ensure a safe trip by taking safety precautions and staying informed.
Distance and Travel Time: Cancun to Tulum
Tulum Town is about 118 km (73 miles) away from Cancun, and it usually takes around 1.5-2 hours to travel between the two cities, depending on your chosen mode of transportation. Thus, you have several options available:
- Private transfer from Cancun to Tulum.
- Car rental.
- Ado bus (Mexico’s largest bus company).
- Colectivo from Cancun to Tulum.
- Taxi services from Cancun to Tulum.
Cancun International Airport to Tulum: Main Transportation Methods
Upon arrival at Cancun Airport, you’ll find a range of transportation methods to take you straight to Tulum. For instance, each option offers a different level of convenience, comfort, and cost.
Also, we will detail the aspects of private transfer, rent-a-car, bus, and colectivo, facilitating a well-informed choice for your journey.
Private Transfers: Convenience and Comfort
If you value convenience and comfort, opting for private transportation vs. shared airport shuttle would be a prime selection. With a private transfer, you can enjoy the following benefits:
- Your bilingual private driver who can communicate with you effectively.
- Timely arrival at your destination, forget about multiple drop-offs.
- Make a reservation ahead of time and eliminate the need to wait upon arrival at your destination.
- The ability to relax and feel ready to start your vacation upon arrival at Cancun.
At Xaman-Ha Connetions, we proudly offer a top-notch Private Transportation Service to our clients. Our private shuttle service is dedicated to creating a seamless and enjoyable user experience, tailored for each client’s unique situation. We take personalization and customization to the next level!
Rent-a-car: Flexibility and Exploration
Rent-a-car provides unparalleled flexibility and the liberty to navigate the Yucatan Peninsula at a pace that suits you. Additionally, with an average daily rental rate of 30-60 USD, including insurance and taxes, the cost is comparable to other transportation options.
Cancun Airport hosts various car rental companies, both international franchises like Thrifty and Hertz and regional agencies that often provide better prices and services. Discover Cars is a recommended platform for comparing prices and finding the perfect vehicle for your adventure.
Just a friendly reminder before embarking on your adventure to Tulum and the beautiful Riviera Maya: Insurance is a legal requirement in Mexico, so don’t forget to double-check the car rental papers and rental agreement.
Furthermore, it’s a t’s advisable to document any existing damage to the car through photos or videos. With your rental car to drive from Cancun to Tulum or beyond, you’ll have the freedom to visit nearby attractions like Valladolid, the Coba Ruins, and the Tulum Ruins, making your trip even more memorable.
ADO Bus: Affordable and Reliable
The ADO bus serves as a great choice should you be seeking a cost-effective and dependable mode of transportation from Cancun Airport to Tulum. With air-conditioned buses and regular departures throughout the day, you’ll enjoy a comfortable journey from Cancun to Tulum.
The fare for the bus is 400 MXN (approximately 22 USD), making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can catch the bus located in Terminals 2, 3, and 4, with an estimated travel time of 2 hours and 5 minutes.
Colectivo: Budget-Friendly but Less Convenient
A Colectivo (Shared Shuttle) from Cancun to Tulum could be considered if you’re after the most economical option, but bear in mind that it’s not as convenient and is unsuitable for those carrying luggage.
Colectivos from Cancun to Tulum require multiple transfers, don’t have a fixed schedule, and offer no luggage storage, making them a less attractive choice for most travelers.
Downtown Cancun to Tulum: Transportation Options
From Cancun Hotel Zone, a plethora of transportation options remain available for your journey. Some options include:
- The ADO bus offers one-way fares ranging from 140 MXN to 230 MXN (around 8 USD to 13 USD, depending on the schedule), with an estimated travel time of 2.5 hours.
- Rent-a-car: can be arranged through local agencies.
- Colectivo: services can be found at designated stops throughout downtown Cancun.
Playa del Carmen to Tulum: Nearby Coastal Town Connection
Playa del Carmen, a neighboring coastal town, provides straightforward transfers to Tulum through Bus or Colectivo services. The bus takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, with 2–3 departures every hour from early morning until around 11 PM.
Collectives and ADO buses also provide a budget-friendly alternative from the Ado bus terminal, though schedules may vary. While traveling from Cancun to Tulum could be around 2.5 hours, going from Playa to Tulum Centro (Tulum Pueblo) could be around 1 hour depending on the traffic, and drop off is at the Tulum bus station.
The cost of a bus ticket ranges from approximately 70 MXN to 114 MXN pesos, which is equivalent to around 4 to 7 USD. You have the option to purchase the ticket either at the station or online, depending on your preference.
Taxi Service
While taxi drivers operate in all the area, You’ll spot their booths inside the Airport terminals, so no need to step outside! You can relax knowing that Cancun Airport taxi driver service has got you covered 24/7, even if you have an overnight flight to Cancun.
If you choose to take a taxi from Cancun Airport to Tulum, no need to worry! They have a fixed rate based on your route. This means you’ll know exactly how much you’ll pay before you hop into the cab.
Safety Tips and Travel Insurance for Mexico
Safeguarding your journey to Mexico encompasses adopting basic travel safety measures, keeping abreast of local news, and acquiring travel insurance.
Tulum Hotel Zone is generally considered a safe destination for visitors, but it’s always wise to remain alert and vigilant of your surroundings and belongings.
Finally, acquiring an insurance for your trip is strongly advised, given its coverage of potential medical costs, trip interruptions, and unexpected occurrences. With the right precautions and planning, you’ll have a safe and memorable journey to the beautiful Tulum beach in the Caribbean.
Summary
In summary, there are various transportation options to choose from when traveling to Tulum, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Whether you opt for a private transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum, Private Car, Bus, or Colectivo, consider your priorities in terms of budget, convenience, and flexibility.
By following the safety tips and purchasing insurance for your vacation, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all this destination has to offer. So, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in this captivating corner of the Mexican Caribbean!
FAQs
What is the best way to get to Tulum?
Basically, the closest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport, located 120 kilometers away. You have the option to book a private service for either a one-way or round trip. Additionally, direct flights are available from numerous destinations.
Is it better to visit Tulum or Cancun?
Based on the provided text, I have split it into two paragraphs for better readability:
Paragraph 1: At the end of the day, it boils down to what type of Mexican experience you are looking for. Cancun Downtown provides vibrant nightlife and a plethora of attractions, while visiting Tulum offers tranquil beaches and an authentic Mayan culture to explore.
Paragraph 2: For a high-energy vacation, go to Cancun; for tranquility and learning about the Mayan history, head to Tulum.
How do you get from Cancun Airport to Tulum?
To get from Cancun to Tulum, take the Bus from the Ado bus Cancun station, which runs multiple times per hour. It’ll take around 2 hours and 5 minutes for a direct trip, or slightly longer if you take the connecting bus at Playa del Carmen.
