Overview
Located on the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is a stunning destination known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient Mayan ruins. Getting to Tulum from Cancun is relatively easy, as the two destinations are only about 130 kilometers apart. Here’s a closer look at the best ways to travel between these popular tourist spots.
By Rental Car
The most convenient way to get from Cancun to Tulum is by rental car, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental companies to choose from at the Cancun International Airport, including major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Budget. The drive to Tulum takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the Cancun-Tulum highway, which is a toll road. We recommend booking a rental car in advance to get the best rates, and be sure to have a valid driver’s license and credit card.
By Bus
If you’re looking for an affordable option, taking the bus from Cancun to Tulum is a good choice. ADO buses are the most reliable and comfortable, with frequent departures throughout the day. You can purchase tickets online or at the bus station, which is located across from the Cancun International Airport. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, and the buses are air-conditioned with reclining seats. Once you arrive in Tulum, you can take a taxi or rent a bike to get around.
By Private Transfer
If you prefer a more luxurious and hassle-free option, a private transfer is worth considering. Several companies offer private transfers from Cancun to Tulum, including Cancun Shuttle and USA Transfers. You can book your transfer online in advance, and a friendly and professional driver will pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your hotel in Tulum. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and you can relax in a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle.
By Shared Shuttle
Another option is taking a shared shuttle from Cancun to Tulum, which is a cost-effective way to travel. Companies like Super Shuttle and Canada Transfers offer shared shuttle services with multiple stops along the way. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the number of stops and traffic conditions. You can book your shuttle online in advance or at the airport, and a driver will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in Tulum.
Conclusion
Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for a comfortable ride, there are several ways to get from Cancun to Tulum. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, while taking the bus is the cheapest option. Private transfers and shared shuttles offer convenience and comfort, but at a higher price. Whatever option you choose, be sure to pack sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing, and get ready to enjoy the beauty of Tulum!
By Car
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get to Tulum, renting a car at Cancun’s airport is the way to go. The journey from the airport to Tulum takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the drive is relatively straightforward. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license, insurance and check the rental car’s condition before hitting the road.
The first step is to rent a car from Cancun’s airport. You can reserve one in advance online or choose from the various rental car desks at the airport terminal. The rates vary depending on the rental car agency and the type of car you choose. It’s recommended to book a car in advance to ensure that you get the best deal. Once you have the keys, you can hit the highway following the signs for Tulum.
The roads in Mexico are well-maintained, and there are clear road signs to guide you along the way. The majority of the journey takes place on the Highway 307, which connects Cancun with Tulum and other popular destinations in the Riviera Maya. It’s a safe and scenic drive with plenty of places to stop, take photos, or grab a bite to eat along the way.
One important factor to note is that there are frequent police checkpoints along the highway, so make sure you have your driver’s license, rental car documentation, and insurance ready. Also, be mindful of the speed limits as some parts of the road have a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph).
When you arrive in Tulum, you’ll find plenty of affordable and safe parking options. Many hotels and restaurants offer free parking for their guests, and there are also public parking lots available throughout the town. Once you park your car, you can explore Tulum on foot, by bike, or by taxi.
In conclusion, renting a car from Cancun’s airport is the easiest and most convenient way to get to Tulum. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and check the rental car’s condition before embarking on the journey. The drive is relatively straightforward, and the roads are well-maintained with clear road signs. With a rental car, you can explore Tulum and the surrounding areas at your own pace, making for a memorable and enjoyable trip.
By Bus
If you are traveling on a budget and don’t mind taking public transport, taking the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum is the cheapest and easiest option. The ADO bus station is located in the center of Cancun, making it easily accessible from any part of the city. You can either buy your ticket at the bus station or reserve it online in advance to secure your spot.
ADO buses are modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned, making your journey a pleasant one. They run regularly, with departures available every hour, and the journey takes around 2 hours. The ADO bus station in Tulum is located in the town center, so you’ll need to take a taxi or a colectivo to get to your hotel or accommodation.
Taking the bus is a perfect option for solo travelers, couples, or families. It’s not only cheap, but it’s also very safe and reliable. You don’t need to worry about navigating your way around Tulum or finding parking for your rental car. All in all, taking the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum is an excellent way to travel and explore the Riviera Maya region without breaking the bank.
By Taxi
If you want a more convenient option, you can take a taxi or hire a private transfer which will take around an hour. Taxis in Cancun are regulated, and you can easily find them at the airport arrival terminal. You can opt for the regular taxis or the luxury taxis, which cost more but come equipped with air conditioning and English-speaking drivers. The fare for a regular taxi from Cancun to Tulum ranges between $80-$90 USD, while the luxury taxis cost around $140 USD.
One of the benefits of hiring a private transfer is that you will have the driver waiting for you when you arrive. You won’t have to worry about waiting in long queues or dealing with any language barriers. Hiring a private transfer also means that you can choose the type of vehicle you want to travel in. If you’re traveling with a large group, you can opt for a minibus which can accommodate up to 10 people and their luggage. The cost of hiring a private transfer from Cancun to Tulum ranges between $100-$160 USD depending on the type of vehicle you choose.
Taxis are a great option if you’re looking for a comfortable and fast way to get to Tulum from Cancun. However, keep in mind that the price is fixed and you won’t be able to negotiate with the driver. Additionally, if you’re traveling during peak season, you may experience some delays due to heavy traffic. To avoid this, it’s best to plan your journey well in advance.
By Shuttle
Another way to get from Cancun to Tulum is to take a shared shuttle. This option is comfortable and convenient for those who don’t want to worry about driving or navigating the public transportation system.
Shared shuttles can be booked in advance online or at the airport. They often have pick-up points at major hotels in the Cancun Hotel Zone or at the airport itself, making it easy to get on and off.
The journey takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic and any stops the shuttle may make along the way. However, shared shuttles run more frequently than buses, so there’s less waiting around for the next departure time.
One advantage of taking a shared shuttle is that the vehicles are often air-conditioned and spacious, with plenty of legroom and comfortable seats. This is particularly useful if you’re travelling with luggage or simply want to take a break from the heat.
Another advantage of shared shuttles is that they can drop you off directly at your hotel or other accommodation in Tulum, saving you the hassle of finding a taxi or navigating the town on your own.
In terms of cost, shared shuttles are generally more expensive than buses, but they’re still affordable for most travellers. Prices can vary depending on the company and the season, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal.
Overall, a shared shuttle is a comfortable and convenient way to get from Cancun to Tulum. It’s not as fast or cheap as a bus, but it’s a good option for those who value comfort and convenience over speed and cost.
