travel cancun to tulum

12 Ways to Get From Cancun to Tulum [from Cancun Airport and Downtown]

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I have been traveling from Cancun to Tulum, and back, countless times and in many different ways. So in this post I am I’m going to share the best options you have to get from Cancun to Tulum and vice-versa, from the cheapest way to the fastest and most comfortable.

Hi! I am Isabella a Mexican Resident since 2010. I used to live and work in Cancun which I still call home. Tulum was my weekend getaway and second home.

Having tried different means of transportation in this post I will tell you all the options you have to get to Tulum from Cancun and I will point out my favorite ones.

Before diving in, keep in mind that Tulum has just opened the new airport which will be welcoming international flights from March 2024. So, flying to Tulum Airport would be the most convenient option. However, if you are still flying to Cancun and need to reach your hotel in Tulum, you will find all the possible ways to do that, in this post.

What’s The best way to get from Tulum to Cancun?

The fastest and most convenient way to get there is by Cancun Airport Transportation service , one of the most trustworthy companies in Mexico.

They speak English, they are reliable and offer a private service for your party, whether it’s one person or 5. They have an average rating of 4.7/5⭐️.

You can read the amazing reviews for their Tulum Cancun shuttle service before booking.

However, there are many other ways to get from Cancun to Tulum and I am going to tell you all about them in this post.

⬇️ Cancun to Tulum transfer options: Quick Info ⬇️

Getting from cancun to tulum | where is tulum located, how far is tulum from cancun.

The distance Tulum – Cancun Downtown is 131 km, about 81 miles, and 2h to 2h 40 minutes depending on how you travel. You will see what I mean later on.

From Cancun Airport to Tulum it’s a little shorter, 118km (73 mi), 1h 25 min to 2 hours.

Cancun DownTown vs Cancun Airport to Tulum

The first thing we need to clarify here is that there are two different routes, Cancun Airport to Tulum and Cancun DownTown (or Hotel Zone) to Tulum. Depending on where you are leaving from prices and time can change a lot. However, in this post, we will cover all of it. Stick with me and I will explain all about getting to Tulum from Cancun.

How to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum

WARNING- First of all, you need to know that when you come out of the airport you will be approached by a group of people nicely dressed in uniform offering a transfer to your place.

Just ignore them. They are vendors selling timeshare deals, which are everything but a deal.

1. ADO bus transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum (cheapest way)

The cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum is by the ADO bus.

There are only two rides per day on the route Cancun Tulum Cancun.

However you can just hop on the ADO bus to Playa del Carmen, which is more frequent, and then from Playa del Carmen to Tulum will be easy either by ADO or Colectivo. You can check out the ADO schedules here and book online.

However, in this case, I would rather wait until you land, just in case your flight is delayed. You will find the ADO boot before exiting the airport, or you can just get to the ADO platform outside the airport. You will see the sign! Cannot miss it. (see instructions below)

◉ COST – 420 MXN (about 24 USD) ◉ TIME – 2.5 – 4 hours (depending on how long you have to wait for the next ride)

How to find the ADO bus at Cancun Airport

► After you clear customs, you will see the ADO booth, among others, such as car rentals and rate exchange. If you don’t find it, you can ask around, and they will point it to you.

► You can purchase the ticket either at the ADO booth or directly on the bus.

► Sometimes there is no agent available, so you can get out of the airport and go straight to the bus stop and purchase the ticket on the bus.

► If you can’t find where the bus stand is, there are many tour reps around. You can ask them, and they will tell you where it is.

► One-way ticket for an ADO bus ride from Cancun Airport to Tulum is 420 MXN pesos (about 24 USD)

► ADO  is the cheapest way to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cancun, or Merida. The ADO busses are modern and equipped with AC and TV, which is playing all the time. Sometimes the AC is way too cold. So be prepared.

They are super safe , and they store your luggage beneath the bus, with overhead compartments for your small bags, although I always recommend keeping your belongings on your lap and always with you.

2. Private transportation from Cancun Airport to Tulum (fastest and safest)

The best airport transfer from Cancun to Tulum or anywhere else is offered by the company Cancun Airport Transportation . They have some of the best reviews I found! And this is the company I would rely on when my friends can’t pick me up or if I don’t rent a car!

5 reasons why Cancun Airport Transportation is the best option to get you from Cancun to Tulum in my opinion

⏰ They are reliable

🇺🇸 They Speak English

💰They don’t have hidden fees

✅ They are insured

😎 They offer a private service so you have the van all for yourself and your party

They may be more expensive than the bus, but they are more reliable than the taxi for sure, and their private service is worth every penny.

◉ COST – from $160.00  USD (depending on your destination in Tulum) ◉ TIME – approx 2.5 hours (depending on your destination in Tulum)

👉 Book your round-trip private transport from Cancun to Tulum in advance (save 10$) with Cancun Airport Transportation

👇BOOK YOUR TRANSFER NOW USING THIS EASY FORM👇

It’s not the cheapest way but the fastest and the most comfortable.

Since transportation from Cancun airport is regulated, only authorized companies can have access to and operate at the airport.

3. Getting from Cancun Airport to Tulum by taxi

A taxi from Cancun to Tulum can cost from 150 to 200 USD. I would always recommend choosing a private transfer to Cancun Tulum with a trustworthy company versus a random taxi for the following reasons:

↳ You don’t have to negotiate the rate or risk being ripped off. With a transportation company, the rates are set and reasonable.

↳ You will find somebody waiting for you with a board in their hands, regardless of your arrival time or delays.

↳ They offer different kinds of services starting from 100 USD per person.

↳ They offer more personalized and professional service and an English-speaking guide.

◉ TAXI COST – from $150.00 – 200  USD (depending on the taxi driver) ◉ TIME – approx 2.5 hours (depending on your destination in Tulum)

4. 🚗 Driving from Cancun to Tulum 🚗

Renting a car at the airport in Cancun is another great option if you are anything like me and love to explore the destination at your own pace.

Driving in Tulum and around is the best way to know all the amazing cenotes, archeological sites, colonial cities, and other natural wonders.

Differently from any other destinations renting a car at the airport and in city pick-up locations doesn’t make much difference in price. So you can rent a car at the beginning of your trip to Mexico and you don’t have to rely on buses or taxis, which sometimes can be annoying.

I recommend using DiscoverCars since the platform allows you to compare prices among different car rentals and pick the one that’s more convenient for you.

If you are concerned about driving in Mexico , I’ve got you covered as well. Every time I go back to Mexico I love to rent a car and move around at my own pace. I love it.

◉ COST – around $50  USD per day (depending on the type of car, insurance, and car rental company) ◉ TIME – approx 2.5 hours (depending on your destination in Tulum and how many stops you make)

Discover Cars Mexico Review

Discover Cars is one of the most popular car rental for many reasons, among which:

✔︎ straight forward information ✔︎ full coverage add-on ✔︎ listing of different companies with reviews

5. Getting to Tulum from Cancun by shared shuttle

This is another great option if you are traveling on a budget but you don’t want to wait for the ADO bus.

Depending on your destination this shuttle service will cost around 32 USD per person and will take you from the airport to your hotel.

Even if you may need to wait at the airport for other passengers to arrive, the waiting time is usually reasonable.

◉ COST – around $50  USD per person ◉ TIME – approx 3 – 3.5 hours (depending on how many people will be dropped off before your destination)

6. Getting from Cancun Airport to Tulum by colectivo (minivan)

This option is definitely the cheapest but it’s also the longest and less comfortable. I wouldn’t recommend it but for the sake of information, I have included it here.

Colectivo buses are not available at the airport. So you will need to get to the Cancun ADO bus in Downtown Cancun, which is about 20 20-minute ride.

There are two minivan companies. One is called Playa Express, and they leave from the parking lot right in front of the ADO bus entrance. The other one is just a minivan to Playa del Carmen leaving from a square right across the street ( Avenida Tulum) from the ADO Bus terminal.

These minivans from Cancun will take you to Playa del Carmen, situated one hour from Cancun, halfway to Tulum. From there you will need to hop into another van that runs from Playa del Carmen to Tulum.

I am sure you will agree with me that this is such a hassle and it’s not the best way to start your Mexican holiday, right? I hope that among the above-mentioned options you have found a better one that suits your budget and schedule.

◉ COST – around 200 MXN (12 USD per person) ◉ TIME – approx 5 hours (depending on the connections)

How to get to Tulum from Cancun Downtown

The best way to get to Tulum from Cancun downtown is either by ADO bus or Colectivos. Their terminals are both located in the same area. See the map below.

7. Ado bus from Cancun to Tulum

The ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum takes more time to get to the destination, almost 2h 45′ because it’s slower than the colectivos and has to enter into Playa del Carmen traffic to drop off and pick up.

It is slightly more expensive than the colectivo s but a little safer, just because their drivers are more cautious when it comes to speed.

ADO buses have a specific schedule which you can find here on the ADO website where you can book your trip in advance. The fare varies according to the different times of the day.

◉ COST – from 210 to 250 MXN (approx. 12 to 15 USD) ◉ TIME – approx 3 hours

8. How to get from Cancun to Tulum by colectivo (small vans)

If you choose to use the colectivos you need to know that you will have to get to Playa del Carmen first and from there get on another one to Tulum.

There are two kinds of colectivos though:

PLAYA EXPRESS : Depart right in front of the ADO Cancun Terminal entrance and get to its terminal in the heart of Playa on Av 20.

REGULAR COLECTIVO : Depart from the little plaza behind the Soriana Super just opposite the ADO Cancun Terminal (as indicated on the map here below) and get to the Chedraui parking lot.

Once in Playa del Carmen, you will need to walk on the main road (Carretera Federal) under the bridge where the other vans for Tulum will depart.

◉ COST – around 55 MXN (4 USD approx.) for each segment. (total 110 MXN- 8 USD) ◉ TIME – approx 3 hours

9. Getting from the city of Cancun to Tulum by taxi

You can get to Playa del Carmen from Cancun downtown (or from your hotel in the Hotel Zone) by taxi, but I would recommend negotiating the rate beforehand.

It shouldn’t be more than 2100 MXN (123.43 USD), sometimes cheaper.

You might want to ask your hotel concierge if they know a reliable taxi driver who suggests a trustworthy taxi driver or if you have used a taxi before.

You found somebody particularly nice, and you might want to ask for his/her number and call them when you need them. I normally do that.

10. Getting from Cancun to Tulum on a tour

If you have decided to spend your vacation in Cancun you might want to consider visiting Tulum on a day trip, which is one of the most popular things to do in Cancun . Here below are some tour options.

➢ 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 2465 reviews!!

This popular full-day tour from Cancun lasts around 8 hours and will take you to visit some of the most popular attractions in Tulum, from the Mayan Ruins to the underwater world and of course a cenote.

• Tulum Ruins, Caribbean Sea snorkeling, and cenote combo tour
• Explore the Mayan Ruins in Tulum
• Snorkel through a coral reef in the Caribbean Sea
• Hotel pickup and drop-off are included

👉 Book your Combo tour from Cancun to Tulum ruins, beach and cenote on VIATOR

➢ Tulum and Cenotes tour

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1475 reviews!!

This tour to Tulum from Cancun lasts about 5 to 6 hours. They will pick you up at your hotel and take you to take a dip into some of the most spectacular cenotes after the visit to the spectacular Tulum Mayan Ruins

👉 Book your T ulum and Cenotes tour on VIATOR

➢ Tulum Guided Tour, Magical Cenote, Lagoon Snorkeling, and Beachside Lunch

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 480 reviews!!

This full-day tour lasts around 7 hours and will take you snorkeling in one of the best snorkeling spots in Tulum , the Caleta Yalku , near Akumal beach .

But it’s not all. You will visit the Tulum ruins, of course, and will enjoy one of the mystical and refreshing Mayan cenotes.

👉 Book your Tulum Guided Tour on VIATOR

11. Book an airport transfer from Cancun to Tulum through your hotel

If you are staying in one of the spectacular hotels in Cancun, it may be quicker to ask your hotel concierge to book a transfer for you.

Every hotel has deals with different companies so I cannot say how much it would be. However, be prepared to pay inflated fees. On that I am sure.

12. Cancun to Tulum by helicopter

If you are ready for a real treat and feel like splurging you may want to check out a transfer via helicopter.

I have never experienced it nor know anyone who has done it. So I can’t really recommend any company that does that. But I know it’s an option, an expensive one.

The ones I checked had a rate between 1000 and 1500 USD per ride. It’s kind of pricy but if money is not an issue it will be a great scenic ride!

How to get from Tulum to Cancun

✅ from tulum to cancun airport shuttle (private).

The service Tulum – Cancun Airport is also covered by cancunairporttransportations.com . I found them to be a very established and professional company with lots of flattering reviews.

They offer a private door-to-door service at your desired time, with an English-speaking driver.

✅ Getting from Tulum to Cancun Airport by ADO bus

The ADO terminal in Tulum is located in the “Pueblo” Downtown on the main road. There are only 2 scheduled buses going to the Airport at a specific time and it will take about 2 hours to get there.

They are usually on time although you must consider the long distance and the chance of a delay.

I always suggest calculating a good margin of time from your scheduled flight, just in case, and booking your seat in advance. You can do it online from ADO website .

If the ADO schedule doesn’t match your flights then you might want to consider getting to Playa del Carmen and get the Airport ADO Bus from there, where there are more busses running during the day.

✅ From Tulum to Cancun International Airport by Taxi

Taxis in Tulum are extremely expensive for some reason and most of the time tend to take advantage of unwary tourists, so I would rather book a private shuttle like the one mentioned above, which I find safer and more reliable.

Obviously unless during your stay you have met a good trustworthy taxi driver (there are still some left) that is willing to offer you the service at a reasonable, fair price.

✅ How to get from Tulum to Cancun Downtown by Colectivos

Just like on the way from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, you have to connect in Playa del Carmen and get on another van ( colectivo ) from Playa del Carmen to Cancun.

From Tulum to Playa del Carmen

You can find the colectivos minivans parked right opposite the ADO station. They leave at any time no stop as soon as they are almost full.

From Playa del Carmen to Cancun

Playa Express : They leave from Calle 2 between 20th and 25th Avenues from their parking lot on a regular basis during the day and will leave even if not full. There is also a new pickup spot at the ADO bus station on 20th Avenue and 12th Street.

Their terminal is right in front of the ADO bus terminal in Cancun although they can drop you off anywhere you wish along their route.

Regular minivan – a little smaller than the Playa Express, leave from the corner of 2nd Street and 20th Avenue. There is a parking lot at the northeast corner of the intersection where they will be yelling out “Cancun”.

Their terminal is close to the ADO station, besides the Soriana super, as indicated in the above map.

Is there UBER in Tulum or Cancun?

Unfortunately, there is Uber in Cancun but they don’t provide service from the Airport. You can call an uber if you want a ride from Cancun Downtown to Tulum, and the price is similar to a taxi because they have started a collaboration. So it may be possible that by calling an Uber, a taxi will show up.

Need somewhere to stay in Tulum?

I’ve got you covered as well. With so many hotel options, in Tulum, you can find a nice hotel for every budget.

Here below I am sharing my favorite hotel per each category. If you want to learn more in detail you can check out my guide to the best hotels in Tulum .

Keep in mind that there is only one all-inclusive hotel in Tulum , so if this is your kind of place, you should stay in one of the hotels in the Riviera Maya, included in my guide.

► Best Tulum Hotel on the Beach : Habitas Book it on   Booking.com   |  Expedia ► Best Tulum Hotel for healthy-conscious travelers : Sanara Book it on   Booking.com  |  Expedia ► Best Tulum Co-living for Digital Nomads: Selinas Tulum Book it on Hotels.com | Expedia ► Best Tulum Hotel in Downtown: Zenses Wellness and Spa Book it on Booking.com   |  Expedia ► Best Tulum Hotel for a romantic escape: La Valise Book it on Booking.com  |  Expedia ► Best All-inclusive Hotel in Tulum : Kore Tulum Retreat & Spa Resort (adult only) Book it on Booking.com | Expedia ► Best Tulum Hotel for Families: La Zebra Tulum Book it on Booking.com | Expedia ► Best cheap hotel in Tulum: Hotel Santiago Book it on Booking.com | Expedia

Getting from Cancun to Tulum: final thoughts

As you may have noticed my favorite way to get to Tulum From Cancun (airport to hotel or from hotel to hotel is with a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation , and prebook your it in advance. That is unless you are going to rent a car for the duration of your stay.

In this way, it’s best to rent a car from Cancun Airport so that you can move around at your own pace from the start.

Before you go…

• Renting a Car in Tulum Mexico: The Ultimate Guide
• 4 Ways to Get From Tulum to Bacalar
• The top 11 Tulum all-inclusive resorts
• The 15 Best Cenote Tours From Tulum
• The 31 Best Restaurants in Tulum That You Must Try

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Great post!

The first time I went to Tulum I transfer myself with an ADO bus. I have no complaints but it took more time than I would have liked.

The second time I chose to use a private transportation service and I think that was perfect for me tho it was a little more expensive.

I think next time I´ll try renting a car lol.

Anyway, thanks for the info. Cheers!

Thanks for sharing this guide. I have a question, from your point of view, what do you consider to be the most economical and fastest option?

Hello Harry, thanks a lot for your kind message. I am glad it was helpful. Unfortunately the most economical is not the fastest. The fastest is by taxi, the most economical is by bus. I hope it helps. Let me know should you have any further questions.

Hello Miguel, I totally agree with you. Renting a car is the best way. Keep in mind that renting a car from the airport is more expensive though, but certainly, the most practical thing to do. Stay tuned because I am going to write a post on driving in Mexico, and how to rent a car in Mexico without getting scammed as I did. 🙂

Comments are closed.

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Getting from Cancun to Tulum: Everything You Need to Know

So you’re planning an epic trip to Tulum, Mexico eh? Well, first let me just say: I’m pumped for you. Tulum is one of my favorite tropical destinations near the U.S. It’s also a fave for girls trip ideas (I’ve been there on both bachelorette parties and in smaller gals groups).

I have tons of fun Tulum content to help you plan your trip, but in this post we’ll be covering some really practical info on how to get from Cancun to Tulum–because let’s be honest, that’s step one to setting up your trip for success, am I right?

Thankfully, getting to Tulum from Cancun is pretty simple and there are loads of options available at various comfort levels and prices. You’re most likely going to be arriving into Cancun Airport. Once you touch down and gather your bags, there are six different ways to make the 2 hour (approximate) journey to Tulum and we’ll be exploring each in depth below.

I want this post to help make your transport experience from Cancun to Tulum and back as smooth as possible, so let me know if you have additional questions in the comments below!

Some Basics on Getting Between Cancun and Tulum 

How Far is Tulum From Cancun Airport?

The distance from Cancun to Tulum is roughly 80 miles or 1 hour 45 minutes driving over Highway 307 and it’s a pretty straight shot. However, depending on the amount of traffic, what part of Tulum you’re staying in, and the mode of transport you take, it could take longer to get there. 

It all Depends on Where You’re Staying in Tulum…

If it’s your first time to Tulum, it’s important to know that there are a few different areas that make up the destination: Tulum town, Aldea Zama, the private beach and public beach side.

If you’re staying on the private beach strip (south of Avenue Coba), you’ll have to drive a bit further to get there than if your accommodation is located downtown. There’s also been a lot of traffic lately on the beach road, so it could take up to an hour more to get to your swanky beach hotel than to one downtown even though they’re seemingly not that far from each other on a map.

Let’s Talk Traffic

What’s the reason for this? Well, despite how popular Tulum is, there’s still a lot of work that needs to be done on infrastructure and the road to the beach (notice how I said “the road”–yep, there’s only one) is pretty narrow with only one way in and one way out. When storms come through, it can cause a lot of flooding and potholes, and sometimes the local government is slow to patch things up.

So if you’re driving down the beach road at a busy time (typically mornings when everyone heads to the beach and evening when tourists head in for dinner and parties), you’ll be bumper to bumper with cars, bikes, trucks and everyone else and their mother trying to get through. As you can imagine, things can get clogged up pretty fast.

If you’re staying in Tulum town or Aldea Zama where a lot of the new developments are going in, traffic should be less of an issue.

Read More Posts On Tulum

Tulum packing list guide + printable checklist, the most magical tulum beach hotels, how to decide where to stay in tulum, a foodie’s ultimate tulum guide, the best ways to get from cancun to tulum .

Ok, so let’s dive into your options for getting down to Tulum. There are a lot of different ways to get there from the Cancun Airport as you can see from the list below. I’ll be breaking down each one in more detail so you can pick the option that’s right for you and your group.

• Hire a private driver from the airport to your destination
• Take the Ado bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum
• Rent a car from Cancun Airport
• Take a taxi
• Take the Cancun shared airport shuttle
• Book a private transfer directly with your hotel

Option 1: Private Driver

The fastest, easiest way to get to Tulum (and also the safest during these times) is going to be taking a private car from the airport. It’s also the most comfortable in my opinion.

While it’s not the most budget friendly for those on a shoestring, there are a lot of pros: aka no luggage restrictions, no haggling, convenience, and bonuses like water and choice of music during your journey to Tulum. Plus, drivers will wait for you at the gate and the service is available at all times of the day and night.

If this is your first time traveling to Mexico or the Cancun area or you don’t speak any Spanish, I would highly recommend this option. You can book private transfers ahead of time, which means that once you land you don’t have to worry about the stress of getting down to Tulum–it’s already set up for you.

My friend Betty runs Tulum Travel , and I used their services for my transfer during my last trip to Tulum. It was easy breezy. The cars are comfortable, clean, insured and you won’t be hit with any hidden fees. If you want something super reliable, I highly recommend booking a transfer ahead of time with them.

Option 2: Take the Bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum

One of the cheapest and most budget-friendly modes of transport is the direct public bus from Cancun to Tulum (currently it costs around $14.50 USD one-way). It’s comfortable and safe to do typically, but this is not your best option for social distancing at this time. Also, be aware there are only a limited number of buses a day.

You can find the schedule and updated prices available here on the ADO bus website .

ADO is one of the best public bus companies in Mexico with service throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. If this is your first time traveling to Mexico, you’re going to be shocked at how comfortable and nice they are with spacious seats, wifi, AC and movies on offer.

Expect the journey via bus to take at least 2 hours or more. This option is ideal for those who aren’t in a rush and don’t mind being bound by the bus schedule. If you’re visiting for just a weekend, you may prefer the private option instead of waiting around. 

Currently the bus times are every 2-4 hours. Generally, the bus will make stops at each of the terminals to pick up passengers before heading to Tulum. If you find you land after a bus has just left, it’s worth speaking to the ADO ticket agent about alternative routes. Another option is to go to Playa del Carmen and take the bus to Tulum from there. 

You can reserve your bus ticket online beforehand on the website. Alternatively, tickets are available at each of the terminals upon arrival at the ticket counter or in front of the bus. 

Keep in mind that the bus won’t drop you off directly at your accommodation, so if you’re staying at a Tulum beach hotel , you’ll have to take a short taxi ride from the ADO drop-off point which is in the heart of Tulum town. If you’re confused about the orientation of the town vs the beach in Tulum, check out this post .

Option 3: Rent a Car from Cancun Airport to Tulum

If you want to make a road trip out of it, renting a car in Tulum is a fun and efficient way to explore the area. There are some cute towns and beaches on the way down to Tulum, and if you plan on doing day trips to any local cenotes near Tulum or ruins, having your own car can be way more convenient and cost effective than relying on taxis or tour operators.

There are many different agencies at the airport and you can get a quote ahead of time online on the Cancun Airport website . However, my preference for booking a car rental ahead of time would be with Rentalcars.com –I’ve used them all over the world and have had really good experiences and have never been scammed.

You’ll be surprised by how affordable it is to rent cars from Cancun, and coupled with the convenience it provides, I think it’s one of the best options for getting around the area.

Be sure to shop around before picking your car and to print all your documents and carry them with you along with your license. There can be numerous police checkpoints along the way, which are all standard procedure and not something to worry about, but you’ll want to have proper documentation.

I know some people, especially female travelers, can be intimidated by renting a car in certain countries like Mexico, so I’m including some of my top tips below to help you ace the process without issues.

Tips For Renting a Car in Mexico

• Don’t go for flashy when renting a car in Mexico. It’s best to choose a vehicle that’s discrete to avoid calling attention to yourself and your belongings. Seriously–the more run down looking the better!
• Pack an AUX cord just in case your vehicle isn’t equipped with one
• Be aware of scams with the rental car companies. Many will try to require you to purchase insurance but you can always decline or move on to the next company
• If you have travel insurance through your credit card or bought separate general travel insurance, chances are those already include insurance on car rentals. Double check prior to booking so you don’t overpay!
• Driving in Mexico is the same as in the US, aka on the right side of the road. However, in my experience Mexico tends to use a LOT more speed bumps and much less signage warning of said speed bumps, so be on the lookout ?
• Parking can be a huge hassle on the main beach side of Tulum (where all the fancy boutique hotels and beach clubs are). I would recommend checking with your hotel to make sure parking is included in your stay.

Option 4: Take a Taxi to Tulum

Like every airport around the world, Cancun Airport has tons of taxis waiting outside the terminal ready to take your money. And trust me, you’ll get bombarded by them as you exit the baggage claim.

Just like hiring a private driver, a taxi is one of the most expensive ways of getting from Cancun to Tulum, but rather than being able to book in English ahead of time, you’ll have to haggle with someone upon arrival with a driver who speaks Spanish. If you don’t feel confident with your haggling skills or speak little to no Spanish I wouldn’t recommend this option.

You’ll pay at least $100 US and above for a one-way trip. Yes you read that correctly. You’d be better off getting a private shuttle or renting your own car!

Be sure to exercise caution if you’re using a taxi and agree on a price beforehand. As sometimes there can be ‘supplementary charges’ added on. 

Most taxis only take cash, so it’s a good idea to have some pesos on hand to pay your driver. You can withdraw pesos at the ATM in the airport or head over to the currency exchange to switch over your US dollars. 

Option 5: Take a Shared Airport Shuttle

When it’s safer to gather in small spaces, a shared airport shuttle can also be a good option from Cancun to Tulum. The pros of taking a shared shuttle are that it’s slightly cheaper than a private car, but not by that much, starting at around $50-$60 USD.

The downsides? The trip will be longer, requiring stops for each passenger along the way and you’ll be in tighter quarters.

According to the Cancun Airport website , shared shuttles must be reserved in advance.

Option 6: Book a Private Transfer from Cancun to Tulum with Your Hotel

This is the easiest one to organize in advance. If you’re staying with a hotel, simply send them an email after booking and ask them if they have a private shuttle service for the hotel.

Larger hotels and resorts are more likely to do this, but wherever you’re staying, it’s always worth asking. The cost is likely to vary depending on the hotel and service provided. Sometimes smaller hotels will be happy to organize a private taxi for you for a small fee.

FAQs About Getting to Tulum from Cancun 

Is it possible to fly from Cancun to Tulum? 

Tulum doesn’t have an international airport–the closest one is in Cancun. However, I’ve heard that you can take a helicopter from Cancun to the Tulum Naval Base, but I couldn’t find much information on it and if true, it would cost you a pretty penny for the 30 minute ride.

Is there an airport in Tulum? 

The nearest international airport to Tulum is Cancun Airport, and it’s also the most popular airport for tourists to arrive into when visiting Tulum.

How much is a taxi from Cancun to Tulum? 

Expect to pay at least $100 USD and above for a one way trip. Taxi drivers can add shady sur charges, so make sure to agree on a fixed price before getting into any taxi service’s vehicle.

What is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum? 

The cheapest way is to take the ADO bus. It’s around $14.50 USD and the journey time is approximately 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. Keep in mind that you’ll need to budget for an additional short taxi ride if your accommodation isn’t within walking distance from the ADO bus station.

Can you take an Uber from Cancun to Tulum?

This one is a little complicated. While Uber does operate in the Cancun area, it’s not currently available in Tulum. Over the years there have been a lot of conflicts between local Uber drivers and the taxi unions that don’t want them there, which makes trying to catch an Uber less straightforward than in other destinations.

Through my research it seems like only licensed taxis are allowed to enter and pick you up at Cancun Airport at this time. However, Uber rules are constantly changing, so make sure to do more research before relying on any Uber services.

Is it safe to travel from Cancun to Tulum?

Yes, it is safe to travel from Cancun to Tulum. The road is regularly maintained and the buses are clean and well equipped with air conditioning. Be aware of petty theft in the area and take any necessary precautions as you would normally do when you travel.

Have more questions about transport from Cancun Airport to Tulum? Leave them in the comments below!

Planning a trip right now don’t miss my go-to websites for booking everything from flights and tours, to accommodation and more:.

• Booking.com for the best hotel deals
• World Nomads for flexible travel insurance
• VRBO for awesome rentals
• Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals
• Hostelworld for budget accommodation
• Rentalcars.com for easy car rentals

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How to get from Cancun to Tulum: The Best 6 Options + Useful Tips

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If you’re considering going from Cancun to Tulum, there are many ways to do it; and in this post, I will tell you all of them.

Cancun and Tulum are both exciting tourist destinations located on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico’s Quintana Roo.

While Cancun is mainly known for its stunning All inclusive Hotels, turquoise sea, and its vibrant nightlife, Tulum boasts a more fishing town kind of vibe with trendy boutique hotels, the famous Tulum Mayan ruins, and many natural wonders.

Both destinations offer access to plenty of activities to choose from, such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming with exotic marine life; exploring ancient Mayan ruins , mystical cenotes, delicious Mexican and international cuisines, and much more.

The tropical climate of the region makes both of them all year-round destinations with warm weather and sunny days, with some exceptions.

Tulum’s closest airport is Cancun International Airport as well, located only 80 miles north. So if you are staying in Cancun, you can visit Tulum either by tour or by rental car. I will get to that in a minute.

INSIDER TIP – If you’re planning on just getting an Uber from Cancun to Tulum, or to go anywhere else in the city or Riviera Maya, it’s not really an option in this region. You will find Uber in many parts of Mexico, but not the Quintana Roo. The short story behind it is that Uber is having trouble operating here because of the local taxi union’s opposition.

However, you still don’t have to worry about getting from Cancun to Tulum. In this post, I will tell you about the many ways you can do it, along with some helpful tips, and also answer some questions people frequently ask. So let’s start!

In a rush? Here is a quick summary of how to get to Tulum From Cancun

How to go from cancun airport to tulum, 1. private transfer from cancun to tulum.

The best option and the easiest way to travel from Cancun International airport to Tulum or anywhere in the region is by private transfer. You will find tons of companies to choose from when it comes to reserving a private transfer from Cancun airport to Tulum.

However, I recommend Cancun Airport Transportations Service a reputable company that offers:

• private transportation all for yourself
• a private driver that speaks English
• zero waiting time at the airport
• impeccable customer service
• door-to-door service
• 5⭐️ Reviews

Just keep in mind that private transfers are a bit more expensive compared to options like the ADO bus or Colectivos ; but they’re well worth the money because of the hassle they save you.

In fact, a private transfer is one of the best ways to get from Cancun to Tulum. It’s both convenient and fast, and whether you’re a group of people, a couple, or just a solo traveler, you can book a private car suitable for your needs.

Cancun Airport Transportation has plenty of vehicle options to choose from, with professional drivers who speak English, and the overall reviews for the company are also great.

Pro tip – book your round trip in advance to get a discount !! 😎

2. Shared Shuttle from Cancun to Tulum

Shuttles are another great way to travel from Cancun airport to many other places in the Quintana Roo, including Tulum.

You will find tons of shared shuttles leaving from Cancun to Tulum, which makes them a convenient way to get there without waiting for much time or paying the costs of a cab/private transfer.

It’s even more convenient and faster if you’re taking a shuttle from Cancun airport because thousands of people travel to Tulum for vacation land here.

As such, there are many reliable shuttle services available at the airport. If you’re looking for one, Cancun Shuttles is a great service to book your trip from Cancun airport to Tulum.

3. ADO Bus to Tulum

ADO buses are by far the cheapest option to get from Cancun International Airport to Tulum ADO Bus Station, perfect for budget travelers.

They’re also very convenient to book; you can do it online, purchase bus tickets from the ADO booth at the airport, or buy it when you’re on the bus. These buses are cheap, convenient, and safe to travel to places like Playa del Carmen , Merida , and Tulum.

But there’s just one caveat—the ADO bus for Tulum only leaves a few times per day. Luckily, you can still use the ADO service to get to Tulum even if you miss the Tulum-bound bus.

Just take the Playa del Carmen ADO bus, and once there, try to find an ADO or Colectivo to Tulum. It’s a tiny bit more hassle, but worth it if you want to travel frugally.

4. Renting a Car from Cancun International Airport to Tulum

In my opinion, a car rental is definitely the top choice if you’re exploring a place. First, it saves you a lot of trouble, including waiting for a bus.

Second, it can actually be the cheaper option overall if you consider the many places you will get to visit, which would’ve cost a ton if you paid for a cab to and from each one.

Lastly, you can drive around at your own pace and explore incredible places like archeological sites, jungles, cenotes, and parks, as well as bars, restaurants, shops, and many other attractions.

Again, the options are plenty when it comes to car rental companies available at the airport. You can find one right after you clear customs. The prices are pretty much the same at the airport as you would find anywhere else, but I highly recommend comparing them still to find the best bang for your buck.

Just be wary that many rental companies end up charging you hidden fees on top of the price mentioned, so try to avoid those.

Discover Cars is one of the places where you can compare prices online, see what you’re getting without any hidden fees involved, and find the best car rental deal for yourself.

They’re quite reputable, so you won’t have to worry about paying extra for anything later on.

Discover Cars

Discover Cars is a great Car rental search platform to compare different car rental companies and choose the one that fits your needs. With more than 70000 Reviews and an average of 4.5/5 Score , Discover Cars helps you find the best Car Rental company in Cancun.

Tips for renting a car in Cancun

Renting a car in Cancun, or anywhere else, gets sometimes a bit overwhelming because of the not-so-flattering reputation that rental cars have made for themself as being scammy, which sometimes can feel true. So here are some tips for renting a car.

✔️ Make sure you have what you need to rent a car in Mexico

• The legal age to drive in Mexico is 18 years old. However, if you’re renting a car, you have to be 21 or older
• You need a driving license issued at least from 6 months to one year prior to the date you’re renting a car, in order to rent a car in Cancun .
• If your national driving license is in Latin alphabet, then you won’t need a separate International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent and drive a car in Mexico.
• The majority of car rental companies will also require you to have a credit card. (Budget also accepts debit cards but at some conditions)
• Having CDW insurance is also required for you to rent a car in Mexico. Typically, most companies will already include it in their base rate.

✔️ Compare prices on Discover Car Rentals

If you don´t have your own trustworthy car company, you can use Discover Car Rentals to compare prices and policies among different car rentals. This site is

✔️ Read the fine print of the contract

I know what you are thinking now, who does that? Well, if you don´t want to be bothered, just ask the rental staff what is included in the full insurance and what it´s, and make sure you ask specific questions.

✔️ Check out what they are asking as a security deposit before confirming

Many car companies require a very high security deposit to protect themselves in case of an accident or theft. Usually, the amount drops significantly when you purchase the full insurance with zero deductible, which I recommend, for your peace of mind.

✔️ Take pictures and videos of the car

Even if you purchased the full insurance, make sure you take pictures and videos of the car when you pick it up and keep the paperwork they hand you with all the scratches and faults marked on it. This way will prevent you from getting charged for damages that you didn´t do.

✔️ Do not sign up for the included fuel

Usually among the hidden costs is the offer to include the fuel, which means that you don´t need to bring the car back with the same amount of fuel that you found when you received it. Usually, you would pay more if you accept the option.

However, you need to make sure that when you drop off the car, the fuel is at the same level as when you picked it up. Otherwise, they will charge you a sort of “fuel tax”.

Tips for driving in Cancun

Driving in Cancun and the Yucatan peninsula is very safe but there are a few things that you should know to have a flawless trip. I am sharing the most important ones but make sure you check my detailed post if you are going to rent a car, for more detailed information.

► Respect the local laws, including speed limit, and seat belt, don´t drive and talk, and don´t drink and drive.

► The speed limits in Mexico are written in kilometers, not miles.

► Get a local SIM Card so that you can stay connected all the time

► Download google map so that you can check it offline in case you lose signal.

► Do not bribe the police even if they are trying to charge you unfairly. Just tell them to give you the fine and a written note or to go to the police station.

► Keep some Cash with you in Mexican Pesos for the toll roads (which only accept local money and no cards) and for the gas stations which sometimes don´t accept cards.

► Tip the gas station staff. Gas stations have employees to refuel your car, it’s a good thing to tip them some pesos as they’re quite underpaid.

► Beware of topes (speed bumps). They are very high sometimes and they can damage your car

► Don’t park where is not allowed as they will give you a fine and take off your license plate.

► If anything happens call your car rental emergency number first thing, which is also one reason more why you should get a local SIM Card .

► Mexicans drive on the right side of the road, so adjust to that if you’re coming from Britain or any other country with left-sided traffic.

► Avoid driving at night; but if you must, it’s best to keep on the main road.

► If you want to avoid beggars or window cleaners at signals, saying no, or, if you want to help, it´s another reason why you should keep some Mexican Pesos with you.

How to Go From Cancun Hotel Zone to Tulum

Private tulum transfer from hotel zone.

A Private transfer to Tulum is an option from the Hotel Zone of Cancun as well. As I mentioned earlier, these are definitely one of the best when it comes to getting from Cancun to Tulum. They not only provide convenience and cheaper fares compared to taxis, but also cut the hassle of having to rely on a random cab or haggle an unreasonable price down to an amount you’re willing to pay.

So, if you’re looking to get from the Cancun Hotel Zone to Tulum fast and comfortably, a private transfer will be the perfect way to do it.

Also, the private transfer company I mentioned earlier ( Cancun Airport Transportations ) is not limited to the airport but provides a hotel-to-hotel service saving you from the hassle to get to the bus station and finding a taxi to get to the next hotel.

You can book one of their vehicles to take you to Tulum from the Cancun Hotel Zone zone as well. And since they provide a reliable service, with fair prices as well as bilingual drivers, it’s a good idea to take advantage of it wherever you can.

Get your free quote here ⤵️

Rent a car from hotel zone to tulum.

Car rentals are another great way of going from Cancun Hotel Zone to Tulum. Just a quick glance at Discover Cars will find you the best rental for a trip to Tulum, which means going there in a vehicle of your choice at the best price.

What’s more, you can also use the car rental for a lot more than just getting to Tulum because you can stop in some of the amazing cenotes along the way, and while in Tulum you can explore the amazing sites in the surrounding areas, including the pristine beaches of the Riviera Maya, archeological sites, lagoons, the biosphere of Sian Kaan and more cenotes.

Renting a car from Cancun Down Town or Hotel Zone is slightly cheaper than renting it from the Airport because the taxes are lower.

How to Go From Cancun Town to Tulum

How to take the ado bus from cancun to tulum.

If you’re in downtown Cancun, the best way to make it to Tulum is definitely the ADO bus service. But, since the distance to Tulum is a bit more from downtown, it will take you longer to get there, especially with an ADO bus.

However, the slightly higher price and 2 hours 45 minutes of the journey are worth the extra luggage room and safer way of traveling compared to colectivo , which is something like 3 USD cheaper but less comfortable.

Also, the good thing about ADO buses is that you can check their schedule online and book a ticket from the ADO website as well.

To board the ADO public buses you need to get to the ADO Bus Terminal in Cancun because they don´t do any other stops along the way, except for Playa del Carmen (in some cases).

Public Transportation from Cancun to Tulum (“Collectivos”)

Colectivos are basically minivans used for public transportation in many places within Mexico, and you will find these in Cancun as well.

These are one of the cheapest options when it comes to getting from point A to point B, but they aren’t exactly ideal to get from Cancun to Tulum. They only go from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, and then you need to find another colectivo to get to Tulum from Playa del Carmen.

I don’t recommend using colectivos to get to Tulum if you’re going from Cancun, especially if you have bags. However, if you are on a very tight budget and don’t mind the extra hassle, then they might be a suitable option for you.

On the other hand, private transfers or ADO buses are options that cost you a bit more, but they’re far better and definitely worth the extra cost.

From Cancun to Tulum Day trips

If you’re visiting Tulum only for a glance and not staying there, day trips are also a great way to do it. You will find lots of great tours from Cancun to Tulum, which cover the best highlights of the town and come with the added benefit of all the transportation included.

Here below I have selected the top-rated ones for you.

➡ Viator Exclusive Combo Tour: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 2584 Reviews

This Viator Exclusive Combo Tour is one of the best options when it comes to tours to Tulum. The tour is designed to take you on a Yucatan adventure with lots of activities included, most of which are in Tulum! You will explore the mesmerizing ruins and visit a cenote.

Additionally, snorkeling in the sea, exploring some Caribbean coral reef, and a buffet lunch are also included in the tour. The tour guides are bilingual and very professional, so you can expect an immersive experience on this tour.

All the entrance fees are covered, and snorkeling and diving equipment is provided by the company as well. But the best part is, on top of all the fun perks of the tour itself, hotel pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle are provided by the tour operators if you’re staying in Cancun!

➡ Tulum and Cenotes Tour

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews

The Tulum and Cenotes Tour is another great way to visit Tulum from Cancun, especially if you want to keep it focused on the historical and mystical side of town. The tour consists of a day trip to two of the Riviera Maya’s most popular attractions—the Tulum archeological site and a couple of cenotes (one open and one underground) that you can swim in.

The tour is very pocket-friendly, and also includes the Tulum Ruins entrance fee as well as a guided tour of the site. However, the two cenotes that you will visit—Cenote Chen Há and Cenote Mariposa—have separate conservation fees that are not included, so you will have to pay those out of your pocket if you want to swim in the cenote.

I recommend this tour if you want to visit Tulum but not spend a whole day on the trip. The entire tour only takes around 5 to 6 hours, and roundtrip air-conditioned transportation is provided by the tour company.

You can choose your preferred pick-up location, which will also be the drop-off location.

➡ Tulum Guided Tour, Magical Cenote, Lagoon Snorkeling, and Beachside Lunch

This Tulum Guided Tour is a premium experience if you want to explore the laid-back town with a tour either from Cancun or Playa del Carmen. The first stop of the tour are the breathtaking Tulum ruins, where you get a highly-professional guided tour of the site, and then some extra time to explore around on your own.

Then the tour moves on to another unforgettable aspect of a Tulum trip—cenotes! The tour includes stops at two natural cenotes following the Tulum ruins visit.

Afterward, you get to see the charming Yal Ku Lagoon, where you can also go for a refreshing snorkeling experience.

Lastly, the tour makes a stop at the stunning Punta Venado Eco-Aventura, an exclusive white-sand Caribbean beach, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch with the sublime blues of the Caribbean in view. }

Round-trip transportation, snorkel gear, life jacket, bottled water, and entry fees for all the above-mentioned attractions are also included in the tour price.

Cancun to Tulum: Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a taxi from cancun to tulum.

I don’t recommend taking a taxi to get from Cancun to Tulum, but if you must know, a taxi ride from Cancun to Tulum will cost you anywhere between 2000 MXN (90 USD) to 2,500 MXN (100 USD).

That’s just the one-way fare for a cab ride to Tulum from Cancun, so you can already see how expensive it gets.

Then there’s the fact that you have to negotiate and agree on a fare with the taxi drivers before you get into the taxi, otherwise, you might get asked for even more when you get there.

All in all, it’s not worth the trouble. If available, book a private transfer instead; it’s not only hassle-free but cheaper and more reliable as well.

Besides, if you pre-book a round trip you get an extra discount. Otherwise, go with the ADO bus service or a car rental.

What is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum?

The ADO buses going from Cancun to Tulum are hands down the cheapest option to travel between the two destinations.

On top of being very safe and comfortable, they provide the best value for your money.

Their schedule is readily available on the website, and they’re also quite easy to book. You can do it online, through the ADO booths in Cancun and at the airport, as well as when you get on the bus.

Is driving from Cancun to Tulum Safe?

Yes, driving from Cancun to Tulum is very safe and beautiful. Along the road, you will find a lot of interesting places to visit such as beautiful cenotes, villages, beaches, and great restaurants.

It’s one straight road so you cannot get lost. Just pay attention to traffic and respect the speed limit.

You will also find a lot of speed bumps in the proximity of towns and inhabited areas. So watch out for those and for people who come out of nowhere to cross the road.

Also, it’s a high-traffic road so just be careful. Other than that, it is indeed safe.

Are ADO buses safe?

They absolutely are. In fact, ADO buses are one of the safest public transport options when it comes to getting from Cancun to Tulum.

These buses are driven by professional and experienced drivers, who take care, not to Overspeed or make unsafe overtakes.

Do I need travel insurance?

The short answer is: Yes, you do!

If you ask me I have two recommended travel insurance companies, one is  SafetyWing , which I find relatively affordable and quite comprehensive.

The other is not a company but a site aggregator,  Travel Insurance Master which will help you find the perfect insurance for you. You fill out the form with the information about your profile and requirements and they select the insurance company that is a good fit.

Where to find ADO bus stop at Cancun Airport?

Finding the ADO bus at the Cancun Airport is pretty straightforward. At the airport, you will see car rentals, currency exchange, and other such services right after clearing customs.

The ADO booth is also one of them. Alternatively, you can just ask someone after clearing customs and they should be able to show you the way to the booth.

Once at the booth, you can inquire about the ADO bus schedule and purchase a ticket as well. But if you don’t find an agent at the booth, head outside the airport and look for the ADO bus itself. It’s located just outside the terminal.

Again, asking around is a good idea. When you find it, you can purchase a ticket on the bus.

Where will ADO bus drop me off in Tulum?

The ADO bus has two terminals in Tulum: the Centro station and one on the interstate leading to the Tulum ruins. The ADO terminal in downtown Tulum is its main stop, so that’s where the ADO bus will most likely drop you off in Tulum.

Things to know about taking a bus from Cancun to Tulum

Taking a bus from Cancun to Tulum is not that complicated. All you need to do is find the ADO bus service and purchase a ticket.

• ADO buses are one of the cheapest options to get from Cancun to Tulum. They’re also safe, secure, and very comfortable.
• These buses leave from both the Cancun International Airport terminal and the Cancun downtown terminal.
• Make sure to check the schedule on the ADO website before making a reservation, because the buses going to Tulum are infrequent.
• If you don’t find a bus from Cancun to Tulum, you can also take one going to Playa del Carmen (those are more frequent) and make it to Tulum once you get there.
• The travel time between Cancun and Tulum on a bus is usually between 2 and half hours to 4 hours. This is because of the distance combined with the waiting time for the buses leaving for Tulum.
• Usually, traveling to Tulum from Cancun via bus is a much better option compared to shared shuttles or taxis. The only other option that is on par with it is a private transfer with a reliable company like Cancun Airport Transportations .

Is Tulum safe to visit?

Yes. Tulum is a very safe destination in Mexico. Thousands of people visit here every year for an unforgettable vacation. To enjoy a safe and memorable trip here, all you will need to do is follow some common sense safety measures like you would anywhere else in the world.

Is Tulum worth a visit?

Definitely. Tulum is one of the places where you get to experience the authentic charm of a small fishing village of Mexico. What’s more, the Mayan ruins, jungle, cenotes, water sports, beach bars, yoga, and delicious food served at the many restaurants here are also some of the most amazing things and worth experiencing!

How many days should I spend in Tulum?

Usually, you can see the best of Tulum within 3 to 4 days of staying here. But if you want to explore it on a deeper level, then a week’s stay is recommended. Of course, you can stay even longer and not run out of great things to do and explore.

A quick note on Cancun International Airport

Cancun International Airport is one of Mexico’s busiest airports. Located in the Caribbean region of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, Cancun serves as an important gateway to the Yucatán Peninsula.

The airport has four terminals, which offer a variety of services to travelers such as shops, outlets, car rentals, ADO booths, and currency exchange services. There is a free airport shuttle service to take you from one terminal to another.

For those flying out from Cancun International Airport, it is recommended to arrive at least two hours prior to departure if traveling internationally or 90 minutes before boarding if flying domestically. This will ensure plenty of time for check-in procedures, security checks, and immigration inspections upon arrival at the airport.

In case you leave very early in the morning you can spend your last night in Cancun in one of the hotels near the airport and avoid outrageously early wake-up calls.

Cancun to Tulum: final thoughts

Now you know how easy it is to get from Cancun to Tulum and how many options you have. Make sure you keep the best one for your needs and have a safe and memorable trip!

Hey there! This is Isabella, the founder and author of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 13 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun's spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!

Cancun to Tulum Mexico: 9 Ways to Make the Journey in 2024

Traveling from Cancun to Tulum is a popular journey to make. The two destinations are among the most popular tourist areas in Quintana Roo after all.

If you are vacationing in Tulum, you will have to fly into Cancun International Airport as Tulum does not yet have its own airport. Fortunately, transportation links between the two cities are convenient and plentiful. 

There is a distance of 131 kilometers between Cancun and Tulum. The journey from one to another should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the traffic and the transport method used. 

The most convenient option for you may vary depending on whether you are headed directly from Cancun airport to Tulum as your first stop in Mexico, or whether you are already in downtown Cancun. This guide will present and discuss all the possible transport options for both scenarios. 

Table of Contents

How to Get from Cancun to Tulum Mexico

Arguably the best option for getting from Cancun to Tulum is to rent a car or organize a private transfer. It all depends on your Yucatan itinerary.  

If Tulum is your first stopping point on a wider itinerary around Quintana Roo and various places in the Yucatan , renting a car in Mexico can give you a lot more freedom and flexibility. However, if you are planning on staying in an all-inclusive resort in Tulum for two weeks and you don’t intend to venture far, you probably don’t need a vehicle and you can simply get a transfer or a bus.  

Since taking public transport means a lot of hassle getting to bus stations and waiting around for buses (which you definitely don’t want after a long flight!), a private transfer is a lot more comfortable. Various reputable companies offer a private transfer between Cancun and Tulum.

This way you have a door-to-door service in style, in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a bilingual driver. If there are several of you traveling together, it doesn’t work out much more expensive than purchasing individual bus tickets.

Take a private transfer

Arguably one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to get from Cancun to Tulum is to do so by private transfer. This actually doesn’t work out that expensive, particularly if there are a few of you traveling together.

Since it gets very hot, sticky, and humid in Southern Mexico, it is a lot more convenient to simply jump in a vehicle that is waiting for you when you arrive, rather than have to wait around in the sun for buses or worse, make several bus transfers. 

The price of a private shuttle varies depending on the number of passengers traveling together, the season, and the company used. You can book your shuttle in advance and organize round-trip transportation so that your return to Cancun airport is taken care of too.  

Get Your Guide offers a Tulum airport transfer for 2,438.87 Mexican pesos (circa $125 USD for three people. This includes one suitcase and one small item of hand luggage per person.

Generally speaking, it is then around $200 for 4-6 passengers and $220 for up to 9 passengers. When you divide this up between you, it is actually pretty good value. 

Taking your private shuttle to Tulum 

When you book a private shuttle from Cancun to Tulum, you will be asked to provide your flight information. So, should you be unfortunate enough to be delayed or late, you don’t have to worry about not being able to communicate with your driver. 

The driver will be following your flight number and will be waiting for you when you arrive. Drivers speak English and Spanish and will be waiting for you at the airport after you pass baggage claim. 

Passengers are provided with complimentary bottles of water and are taken to Tulum in style and comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle. You will be dropped off right at your doorstep. 

It is not compulsory to book a return trip with the private shuttle. However, discounts of up to $25-$30 are applicable if you book a round trip rather than two separate journeys.

Luggage is included in the transfer price. If you want to stop at a restaurant or store to grab something en route after a long flight, your driver is usually happy to comply. Just give them an extra tip at the end. 

Drive from Cancun to Tulum, Mexico

Driving in Mexico is not as intimidating as it might sound . The experience of doing so can actually be quite enjoyable. 

Renting a car in Cancun 

If you are considering driving from Cancun to Tulum, the process of renting a car here is relatively straightforward and painless. There are plenty of rental companies located at both Cancun airport and downtown Cancun where you can pick up a car.

Renowned international companies like Hertz, Thrifty, Budget, and Avis operate in Cancun. Generally speaking, it is better to rent a car from a reputable global company as scams do exist in Mexico.

You can use an aggregator platform to compare various options and read reviews before heading to Mexico. Discover Cars is a great car rental website that allows you to compare the best deals between various providers. You can expect to pay around $30-$40 a day in total when renting a car here. Insurance is essential and for your own peace of mind, it is better to purchase full coverage if you can. 

Cancun airport rental companies are usually slightly more expensive than renting a car in the Cancun city center. But it usually works out more convenient to just pay the difference rather than trek into the city from the airport, before even setting out on your journey to Tulum. 

Do I need to rent a car?

If you are basing yourself in Tulum but hope to set out and explore more of Mexico from there, having a car makes getting around independently much easier. Buses run between most major tourist destinations, cities, and pueblo magicos in Mexico. However some services are infrequent, and certain destinations require you to take more than one bus. In all, this just adds unnecessary stress to your trip. So having your own vehicle is almost always preferable. 

Having a vehicle while staying in Tulum means that you can easily take excursions to Valladolid, the Homun cenotes , and Chichen Itza. Within a few hours, you can reach the sleepy beach towns of Bacalar and Mahahual , and the popular Playa del Carmen. 

Things to know when renting a car in Cancun 

You generally ought to be between 21 and 75 to rent a car. There are some rental companies that allow you to rent a vehicle if you are between 18 and 21. 

However, these are the exception, not the rule. If you are under 25 or you are a relatively new driver, you can expect to pay a premium.  

You need a full driver’s license to rent a car. If this is written in the Latin alphabet, this is all you need. However, if your driving license is displayed in, say, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, or Cyrillic letters, you will need to obtain an international driver’s permit (IDP). These are relatively affordable and easy to obtain. The process for getting an IDP varies from country to country. You can find out more information here . 

You will need to put a credit card on file to secure the rental. Most companies do not accept debit cards. 

Before you drive off into the sunset in your rental car, make sure that you check it thoroughly. The rental office worker will usually come out with a checklist and you will need to check the interior and exterior of the vehicle and sign to accept its condition. It is a good idea to take photographs of the interior and exterior of the vehicle. If you take these on your phone, they will be time-stamped. That way, you have proof of the condition that the car was in when you picked it up. So, if any disputes arrive when you are returning the vehicle, you have evidence. This is good practice wherever you go, not just in Mexico. 

Driving from Cancun to Tulum

The roads in Mexico are generally pretty well built and maintained, especially around Quintana Roo and the Yucatan. Gone are the days when you have to worry about potholes and sketchy roads.

There are some nice places to stop along the route from Cancun to Tulum if you feel up to it. 

Puerto Morelos is a charming port town on the Caribbean coast that retains some of its charms as a former small fishing town.

There are some great freshwater cenotes nearby, including Verde Lucero and Las Mojarras cenotes. You could also stop for lunch in Playa del Carmen, or have a short relaxation break on the beaches of Akumal. This Yucatan is very safe and frequented by tourists. However, you should try and avoid driving at night if you can. If your flight lands in Cancun very late in the evening and you are planning on driving from Cancun to Tulum, consider whether you can stop somewhere for the night in Cancun first. It is harder to get your bearings and become accustomed to the roads in a new country at night. A lot of Mexican roads have very poor lighting at night and it can be tricky to see hazards, animals on the road, etc. Not to mention, although this area is safe, driving at night increases the likelihood of bumping into less-than-desirable individuals. 

Police checkpoints and tolls 

Police checkpoints can be found around Mexico. You will find them stationed randomly throughout Quintana Roo and the Yucatan and on Mexican state borders. You will also see state police patrolling along highways and toll roads in the same way you would see state troopers on the roads in the USA. On the road from Cancun to Tulum, you will pass three checkpoints. Most vehicles are not stopped, but if you are asked to stop, don’t worry. Vehicles are asked to stop at random and the main thing that the Officers are checking for are weapons. 

You may be asked to show your driving license, your tourist visa (FMM), or your car rental information. Carry these documents with you at all times. 

Car insurance for renting a car in Cancun 

Car insurance is essential if you are renting a car. At the very least, you must have personal liability insurance. 

Full coverage insurance is not essential but it is better to purchase this for your own peace of mind. There is, unfortunately, a lot of sketchiness that surrounds Mexican car insurance.

A lot of companies will pressure you into purchasing their insurance and tell you that you must buy it from them. If you have purchased insurance elsewhere, they may tell you that that is not valid/enough and that you must buy theirs. 

In general, to save yourself stress and headaches, you should aim to purchase insurance from the Mexico car rental company that you rent the car from. Full insurance coverage usually means that there are zero deductibles.

Always read the small print and ensure that you fully understand the terms and conditions of both your rental car and the insurance you have purchased. If you only opt for limited liability insurance, the deposit can be as high as $750 – $2000 depending on the company

However, if you opt for full coverage, you may not have to pay a deposit at all, or you may only have to pay a very small one – to the tune of $100 or so. Full coverage doesn’t necessarily cover all aspects of the vehicle. 

For instance, minor damages, tires, windows, keys, and windscreens may be excluded. Double-check everything before you drive off with your vehicle.

Renting a car in Tulum 

If you decide that you want to rent a car in Tulum and make alternative arrangements for your journey from Cancun to Tulum, rest assured, there are plenty of rental companies in Tulum. Alamo, Avis, and numerous other global, reputable companies operate out of Tulum. 

Again, it is a good idea to use a comparison website such as Discover Cars to compare the prices between different rental companies and to ensure that you are getting the best deal.

Take the Ado Bus 

Perhaps the most convenient public transport option for getting from Cancun to Tulum is to take the ADO bus. Buses depart frequently from both the ADO bus station in downtown Cancun (Calle Pino, SM23, MZ56, Lt 1 y 2, Centro, 23, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.) and from Cancun airport. 

Downtown Cancun to Tulum bus 

Downtown Cancun to Tulum buses depart daily at the below times: 06:00, 06:45, 07:10, 08:00, 08:45, 09:30, 09:45, 10:30, 13:15, 15:30, 15:45, 18:30, 19:00, 20:00, 20:30, 20:50, 21:30, 22:15. Tickets are 136 pesos each way. 

Cancun Airport to Tulum bus 

There are only a few buses each day that run directly from Cancun airport to Tulum. So, if your flight is arriving at a time that does not allow you to board a direct bus, you can either transfer in downtown Cancun or organize a private shuttle. 

Direct buses from Cancun airport to Tulum run at the below times: 

10:55, 12:25, 14:25, 16:55, 20:00, 21:45. The buses stop at all four terminals so keep in mind that there will be a few minutes difference between each stop. Try to arrive at the bus stop 10-15 minutes early if you can. There will always be ADO representatives wandering around that you can ask questions to if you are unsure whether you have missed the bus. A ticket from Cancun airport to Tulum is 262 pesos each way. There are a couple of bars and cafes that serve drinks, Chiapas coffee , and light snacks where you can wait if you have a while to go before the next bus. 

Taking an indirect bus 

If there is not a Cancun airport to Tulum bus due when you arrive at the airport, or you have just missed it, you have a few options available. You can either head into downtown Cancun and take a bus from there, or you can change in Playa del Carmen. Buses from Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen run every 30 minutes. There is only one bus station in Playa del Carmen, on 5th Avenue and Juarez Avenue. 

From here, you will need to purchase another ticket to take the bus from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. Buses run very frequently and the journey takes around 50 minutes. 

It is worth checking the details of the bus you are boarding. Some stop at Tulum center and others stop at Tulum ruins. 

Both are actually fine. However, it is somewhat more convenient to take the bus to the center if you have the option. You can take a taxi from either location to your hotel.

Taxis do not have meters in Tulum. So, be sure to agree and confirm the price before getting in the car. 

It is worth enquiring on Mexico Facebook travel groups, or asking your hotel in advance what the correct rates ought to be. That way, you minimize your chance of being ripped off or overcharged. 

Riding the ADO bus 

Riding the ADO bus is very comfortable. These buses are far superior to American Greyhound and British National Express buses in terms of their comfort and cleanliness. 

They service a lot of popular tourist routes around Mexico and are a popular way to get around. For instance, Cancun to Merida , Merida to Valladolid , Cancun to Mahahual , etc. All coaches have reclining seats, air conditioning, and wifi. You can purchase your tickets online in advance or in person when you are boarding. Opting to buy your ticket in advance can give you peace of mind in ensuring you have a spot on a particular service. Your QR code ticket will be sent to your email address and you can simply show this to the driver on your phone. 

The ADO website and App are only available in Spanish. However, it is all pretty self-explanatory and easy to use, even if you don’t speak a word of Spanish.

You can also use Busbud to check schedules and purchase tickets if the ADO website is glitching (sometimes it doesn’t accept foreign bank cards). The only thing to keep in mind is that Busbud charges a small administration fee for each booking.

Take a Shared Shuttle 

The shared shuttle from Cancun to Tulum can be a convenient option if you have missed the bus and you don’t want to pay for a private shuttle. If you are traveling alone or there are only two of you, this can work out as a more affordable option. 

You are looking at $40 for a one-way trip per person, or $70 return on the shared shuttle. Considering the fact that the private shuttle is usually $170 round trip for 2-3 passengers, this doesn’t work out any more expensive per person if there are more than 2 of you. 

It is also worth keeping in mind that, like the bus, the shared shuttle makes a lot of stops en route. When you arrive in Tulum, you are likely to stop at various hotels to drop off other passengers before arriving at your hotel. This can easily add upwards of 30 more minutes to your travel time.  

Cancun to Tulum Colectivo 

The cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum is to take a colectivo. These are small, shared minivan-type buses that run regularly along a set route and depart when full. You could compare them to the marshrutka-shared vans that you see in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, or sheruts in Israel. This is the cheapest way to make the journey to Tulum. A one-way ticket costs just $3 – very affordable considering the journey takes over 2 hours. You will find mostly Mexicans taking this bus. It is generally worth paying extra to take the ADO bus. Colectivos are not air-conditioned and are often very crowded. 

Sometimes, if the seats are all full, you will often find that the driver allows people to stand and crowd the aisles. This is perhaps only a good option as a last resort or if you are traveling on an extreme backpacker budget. 

Take an Uber or a private taxi

It is possible to get from Cancun to Tulum via an Uber or a private taxi. However, generally speaking, it is better to organize a private transfer online in advance.

This way, you can do some research to make sure that you have secured the best fare available, you can read some past reviews, and you know that a driver will be waiting for you as soon as you arrive.

A private taxi from Cancun to Tulum should cost you between $80 and $150. Cancun airport taxis are notoriously expensive and scams abound here.

People will often quote you an inflated rate and assume that as a tourist, you simply do not know how much things should cost. Some drivers can also be quite pushy and aggressive so it is better to avoid this option if you can.

Uber exists in Cancun , although it is illegal in other parts of Quintana Roo (including Tulum). You may be able to find an Uber driver that will take you to Tulum for $100-$150 or so, but many may not be happy to do the journey as they are unlikely to be able to find a return fare.

(If you want to try and get an Uber, you should pre-book it in advance, rather than trying to search for one on arrival in Cancun. There are not many Ubers in Cancun anyway and you can be waiting around a long time for a transfer from one side of the city to the other, let alone for a journey to Tulum).

Taking a private taxi from Cancun to Tulum

Street cabs are best avoided in Mexico, period. This includes Cancun.

You should never get into a random taxi that is parked on the street here as you could become a victim of an express kidnapping. While this is not ultra-common, it does happen, so it is important to be aware of safety concerns in Mexico .

In an express kidnapping, a tourist gets into a cab and the driver drives a short distance before his friends/accomplices enter the vehicle. The passenger is held at gun/knife point and forced to hand over all valuables and withdraw the maximum amount of cash from their ATM cards.

When the scammers have got everything that they can from the passenger, they let them out of the vehicle. It is for this reason that Uber is actually safer in Mexico, even if it doesn’t have that reputation on a global scale.

The app offers more accountability. You can see the details of the person whose car you are getting into before you set off on the journey.

If you cannot find an Uber in Cancun to take you, or you prefer not to use the app, you should ask your hotel to organize a cab for you. They will likely have a selection of trusted drivers that they frequently use for their guests.

Always make sure that you agree on a price before you get in the vehicle. Sense check what you are quoted with your hotel staff or other travelers.

Most Mexican taxis do not have meters. That means that if you don’t agree on a price before getting in the car, your driver is likely to make one up when you arrive.

Visit Tulum on a tour from Cancun

Tulum has plenty to offer by way of beautiful beaches, historical sites, and chic beach clubs. There is a reason that this is such a popular Mexican travel destination!

However, if you are limited on time, you may want to consider taking an organized day trip to Tulum from Cancun. This takes a lot of the stress out of figuring out the logistics of your trip.

Someone will pick you up and drop you off at your Cancun hotel, and lunch/site admissions are often included. Several reputable local companies offer private and small group day trips to Tulum.

A number of wonderful Tulum day trip options that you may want to consider are shortlisted below. Book online in advance to avoid disappointment!

• From Cancun: Tulum Archeological Site and Guided Cenote tour
• Tulum and Coba: Full-day archeological tour with lunch
• Tulum, Cobá, Cenote, Playa del Carmen & Buffet

Take a helicopter to Tulum

If you want to arrive in Tulum in style, and you want to cut out the journey time of traveling by road, you can consider booking a helicopter transfer. This way, you will arrive in Tulum in just 50 minutes.

Prices vary from company to company and it may come as no surprise that this is the most expensive transport option. You should expect to pay between $2,620 USD and $3,880 USD for 3-5 people.

You are usually required to pay a deposit in advance too. This may be between $300 and $600 USD.

Most helicopters depart for Tulum from Cancun Private Airport. So, a transfer from downtown Cancun or Cancun International Airport to Cancun Private Airport is included in the rate.

Weight limits are applicable. However, this is usually sufficient for all passengers and their luggage.

Not only does opting to travel via helicopter get you to Tulum in record time, but it also means that you can enjoy incredible scenery over the Mexican Caribbean during your journey. Most companies allow time to take photos with the helicopter at the start and end of your trip.

Riviera Charters, Cancun Helicopter, Cancun Executive VIP Transportations, and ToFly7 are all local companies that offer helicopter transfers to Tulum. It is a good idea to contact each company for quotes, plenty of time in advance of your trip.

Cancun to Tulum Travel FAQs

Do you still have any burning questions or concerns about making the journey from Cancun to Tulum? Hopefully, you will find the answers you are searching for below.

What is the safest way to travel from Cancun to Tulum?

Opting to take a private transfer is the safest and most comfortable way to travel from Cancun to Tulum. There are many benefits to opting to travel in this manner.

First and foremost, you are in a comfortable, private air-conditioned vehicle and you don’t have to share your journey with strangers as you do if you opt to travel by bus, colectivo, or shared hotel transfer. Secondly, everything is on your terms and schedule.

You can choose your precise pickup and drop-off locations and times. Plus, you will travel with a reputable bilingual driver.

That is not to say that the other transport options for getting from Cancun to Tulum are not safe. Ado buses in Quintana Roo and wider Mexico are very safe, even for solo female travelers. It is just that traveling by private transfer comes with more comfort, safety, and flexibility.

Is there a shuttle from Cancun to Tulum?

Both private and shared shuttles are available between Cancun and Tulum. Private shuttles start from around $125 for three people.

If you opt to travel via the shared shuttle $40 for a one-way trip per person, or $70 return on the shared shuttle. If there are a few of you traveling together (3+), you may as well get a private shuttle.

How much is Uber from Cancun to Tulum?

An Uber from Cancun to Tulum should cost between $50-$80 USD. This depends on various factors including your pickup location (whether you are in downtown Cancun, the hotel zone, or Cancun airport), and the time of day/demand.

Generally, taking an Uber should work out cheaper than taking a regular cab. You just may struggle to find drivers willing to make the journey.

Final thoughts on traveling from Cancun to Tulum

Making the journey from Cancun to Tulum is relatively easy and painless. Countless tourists follow this route every day.

If this is your first time visiting Mexico, you may also be interested in this guide to safety in Cancun , or this post on things to know before you go . Have a wonderful trip!

Buen Viaje! xo

Melissa Douglas

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How to Get from Cancun to Tulum 2024

• by Nellie Huang

What’s the best way to get from Cancun to Tulum? As a local expat, I will share the various forms of Cancun to Tulum transportations.

Once a sleepy coastal town, Tulum has transformed into a cool, boho chic beach destination loved by hipsters, honeymooners and yogis alike. This is where the jungle meets the sea, and the beach is backdropped by large patches of wilderness and stylish treehouses.

To get to Tulum, you’ll need to first fly to Cancun. With the ongoing construction works on the Federal Highway, it now takes longer than usual to get from Cancun to Tulum. In this post, I will explain the various ways to get from Cancun to Tulum. Let’s dive into the various Cancun to Tulum transportation options.

Table of Contents

Where is Tulum?

How far from cancun to tulum, mexico travel requirements, 1. cancun to tulum by taxi, pros and cons of a cancun private transfer, pros and cons of a cancun airport shared shuttle, pros and cons of renting a car from cancun, tips for renting a car from cancun airport, is it safe to drive from cancun to tulum, driving tips in mexico, cancun to tulum : ado bus schedule, approximate cost and time by bus, is the ado bus safe, 6. cancun to tulum by colectivo.

• How to get from Downtown Cancun to Tulum

Is There Uber in Cancun & Tulum?

Getting around tulum.

• Where to Stay in Tulum

Things to know before visiting Tulum

Is it worth visiting tulum, mexico city travel guide: practical resources.

About a 1.5-hour drive south of Cancun , the bohemian, laidback beach town of Tulum is located in the southern end of the Riviera Maya. Unlike neighboring  Cancun  and  Playa del Carmen  (which has been developed over the years), Tulum is considered a rising star in the Yucatan Peninsula .

While the town is undergoing development, Tulum Beach still retains a wild, jungly setting and unique architecture. Here, you won’t find big, sprawling all-inclusive resorts unlike in Cancun. Instead, the wide beach is fringed by boho chic art galleries and barefoot luxury  cabañas  (cabins) built from natural materials in the quintessential Tulum style.

The area around Tulum is spectacular too, offering  secluded lagoons, turtle reserves, and fascinating Mayan ruins  that have been tumbled and shaped by time. Nearby reserves like the  Sian Ka’an Reserve beckon  nature lovers and make for excellent day trips from Tulum .

Check out my power-packed Tulum travel guide !

So what is distance from Cancun to Tulum distance? Cancun is relatively spread out, and it depends on where in Cancun you’re coming from. Here are the general driving distances and time from various parts of Cancun.

Driving distances and time from Cancun

• Cancun Airport to Tulum – 73 miles (118 km); 1.5 hours of driving.
• Cancun Downtown to Tulum – 81 miles (131 km); 1 h 45 minutes of driving.
• Cancun Hotel Zone (beach) to Tulum – 85 miles (137 km); 2 hours of drive time. 

Cancun to Tulum Transportations

The new Tulum airport is now open, along with the Mayan Train. Currently only Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus fly there from other parts of Mexico; but in 2024 several international airlines will start running their services from the US to Tulum.

Cancun airport is the second closest airport to Tulum and it’s only a 1.5-hour hour drive away (or 73 miles/ 118 km away). There are plenty of car rentals at Cancun Airport as well as private shuttles, taxis and buses that will bring you to Tulum.

Below, I will elaborate on the 6 different ways to get from Cancun to Tulum. I commute regularly between Tulum, Playa del Carmen , and Cancun and have tried all kinds of transport modes. In this article, I’ll share the pros and cons of each of them.

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

Taking the taxi is the worst option, and I’d suggest only considering taxis as your last resort. Taxis here don’t have meters and drivers will often offer an inflated price based on how you look.

As you near the airport exit, you’ll find many locals approaching you offering taxi services. Nod and say ‘no thank you’ politely. Many taxi drivers look decent but will trick you into taking a taxi regardless. Some will say that rental companies are closed or buses are not running due to the rain etc.

Even if you opt for a taxi, agree on a fare before getting in. A fair price for a taxi from Cancun Airport to Tulum ranges from 1800-3000 MXN (US$90-150) . I highly recommend booking a private transfer rather than going through the hassle of negotiating with the taxi drivers. (Unfortunately Uber doesn’t work at Cancun Airport or Tulum).

2. Cancun to Tulum by Private Transfer

If you want to be free of the stress of getting a cab, I recommend booking a private transfer from Cancun airport to Tulum. I always book with Cancun Airport Transportations , as they are reliable, responsive, and provide door-to-door service from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen

Booking a private transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum   not only saves you time but it’s convenient and you won’t have to haggle with the drivers. It is expensive though, usually costing around US$110 one-way or US$210 round-trip . But if you’re traveling as a family or with a group of friends, you can split the cost!

During COVID times, a private service is the safest way to go. Plus, it’s the fastest and most convenient. You’ll have a bilingual driver who speaks English (and actually drives safely!), waits for you for arrivals even if your flight is delayed, and drives you in an air-conditioned car straight to your hotel in Playa. If you’re celebrating something special, you can even book a limo to Tulum !

Pros –This is the fastest way to get from Cancun to Tulum; you won’t need to waste time waiting for other passengers and your driver; you get picked up by a bilingual driver and in a nice vehicle.

Cons – It’s the most expensive transport option from Cancun to Tulum.

3. Cancun to Tulum by Shared Shuttle

Shared shuttle services to Tulum are a good option for solo travelers and budget travelers, who don’t want to spend a lot yet seek a comfortable and convenient service.

You can pre-book your ride from Cancun to Tulum in a shared shuttle vehicle online for 740 MXN (US$37) per person one-way . Whenever I travel alone, I always book a shared shuttle with Cancun Shuttles . The vehicles are sanitized, comfortable, air-conditioned, and always clean. You’re also greeted by a bilingual driver.

The only drawback of opting for a shared shuttle is that you’ll have to wait for the driver to pick up and drop off all the passengers (usually max 12). That means it can take up to 2 to 3 hours to get from Cancun Airport to your hotel in Tulum .

If you are traveling with another person (or more), booking the shuttle from Cancun airport to Tulum doesn’t make sense. Even if there are just two of you, you’ll only be saving US$20 and that would not be worth the extra time.  Book private transfer instead.

Pros – You get picked up by a bilingual driver, usually in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. The driver is always reliable and will pick you u on time. It’s fairly cheap.

Cons – The journey takes much longer than a private transfer and you will be sharing with 10+ other people.

4. Cancun to Tulum by Car Rental

In my opinion, renting a car is the best way to get from Cancun to Tulum, especially if you’re planning to do a Yucatan road trip . Many of the best things to do in Tulum are further out, so I recommend renting a car. Traffic along the beach road can be bad at times, but having a car allows you to do day trips from Tulum . It’s convenient, flexible, and relatively affordable; the average price ranges from 600-800 MXN (US$30-40) per day, including insurance and taxes.

I always use  DiscoverCars.com  to for car rentals worldwide. The search engine compares rental-prices from all the major companies and has consistently given me the cheaper rates and best services. Search for car rentals in Cancun here !

⚠️ Many bloggers accuse car rental companies in Mexico of scamming innocent travelers into buying insurance, as it’s not mandatory. It’s NOT true; you do need to have insurance when you rent a car in Mexico! It will cost more than what you were quoted online, but at least you’ll be covered in case of any accidents.

If you can drive, I would definitely recommend renting a car as it’s the easiest way to get around the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s generally easy to drive in Mexico, and most signs are in Spanish and English. Just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers! Most rental companies accept drivers’ license from anywhere in the world, so you don’t need an international drivers’ license to drive in Cancun .

Pros – Allows you to travel at your leisure, make as many stops on the way as you want, and even make small detours to nearby areas.

Cons – Traffic in Tulum can be really bad (trust me, I’ve been stuck in a traffic jam for hours there) and it’s difficult to find parking at Tulum Beach, so I would advise using the car to drive to Tulum but leaving it at the hotel once you’re there. You can use it to explore the surrounding cenotes and Mayan archaeological sites , but I wouldn’t recommend using it to go to the beach.

• Purchase a Personal Liability Insurance and a Car Insurance without fail Many bloggers tell you it's not mandatory to buy insurance, but that's no longer true.
• Inspect and take good photos and videos of the car's interior and exterior. Focus on any visible dents, scratches, stain marks, rips in seat fabric, etc.
• Keep a copy of all the rental agreements, booking information, and car papers.
• In Mexico, a common scam among car rental companies is that they charge you with exorbitant fees on damages on the vehicle. The first time we rented a car here, we were told a safety device was missing from the car, which we didn't even remember having it in the first place (but sadly had no proof) and had to pay a fine of $50.
• Always stay within the speed limit, even if you notice that nobody sticks to it! Tourists are often targeted by the police. We haven't encountered this ourselves, but several friends have been asked for bribes by the police because they were not following certain traffic rules.

Yes! Highway 307 is a 4-lane smooth road that is rather well maintained. It’s the main highway that connects all the beach towns along the Riviera Maya and beyond. We have a car and I drive along Highway 307 everyday, and never had any issue.

That said, there are quite a few police checkpoints and speed bumps along the way. The police usually check for any abnormal behavior and only stop drivers that look dodgy. We have been driving in Playa del Carmen for a year now and have only been stopped once and even then the police officer only said hi and let us get on our way.

• In Mexico, you drive on the right side of the road.
• Always keep your driving license, car rental papers, and proof of insurance handy.
• The main road hazards are reckless drivers; they tend to go very fast, changing lanes as and when they like without signaling. Be wary of these drivers and keep calm!
• There are plenty of speed bumps along the Federal Highway, especially when you get close to Playa del Carmen. When you see the signpost “ TOPE “, slow down and prepare for the bumps.
• Avoid driving at night as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps and drivers go even faster than usual.

5. How to get from Cancun to Tulum by Bus

Taking a bus is the cheapest option to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum. All major cities in Mexico are well-connected with an extensive bus network. These buses are clean, safe, comfortable, and air-conditioned.

Grupo ADO is Mexico’s largest bus company that has regular departures from Cancun Airport to Tulum throughout the day. I’ve traveled in ADO buses many times and can safely say the bus company is top notch. They always leave on time and boarding is pretty well organized.

Pre-book your bus tickets here before arriving at Cancun Airport to ensure availability or visit the ADO counter at the airport to get tickets for the next bus. Bus tickets from Cancun airport to Tulum cost around 340 MXN (US$17) each way.

The first ADO bus from Cancun Airport departs at 10:30 AM, and the last bus leaves at 9.25 PM. Several buses are scheduled in between, and the waiting time is around 1-1.5 hours. The bus drops you off at the Tulum Bus Terminal in the center of Tulum Pueblo, but you can also get off at the Tulum ruins.

• Cancun Airport to Tulum – 340 MXN (US$17); 2 hour 25 minutes
• Cancun Downtown (Centro) to Tulum– 194 MXN (US$9.7); 2 hours 30 minutes
• Cancun Downtown to Tulum Ruins – 226 MXN (US$11.3); 2 hours 30 minutes

Yes! ADO Bus is generally very safe and secure. I’ve never heard of any theft, robbery, or crime taking place in the bus. Drivers also abide traffic rules (mostly).

You’ll be surprised by how well run and organized the bus company is. Just show your bus ticket on the phone before boarding. The driver scans your QR code, then you leave your baggage underneath the bus, and you can board! ADO buses are always air-conditioned and comfortable, with reclining seats and WiFi onboard.

The bus is definitely a cheap, safe, and comfortable way of traveling from Cancun to Tulum. It’s really popular among locals and travelers.

Colectivos are shared minibus/minivan-like vehicles that run on set routes in Mexico. They are a cheap transport, without any fixed schedules. For those on a shoestring budget, this would be the cheapest way to go. A colectivo ride from Cancun to Tulum costs only about 40-60 MXN (US$2-3) per person.

This trip takes much longer than the ADO bus thou (up to 4 hours sometimes), as colectivos stop many times along the way to pick up/drop off passengers. There are no direct colectivos from Cancun to Tulum, so you’ll take the first one to Playa del Carmen, then a second to Tulum. These colectivos do not service Cancun Airport. To catch one, you either have to walk from your terminal to the Highway 307 roadside and flag one down.

I personally wouldn’t recommend catching a colectivo. Firstly, it is not a comfortable ride, and secondly, there’s little to no luggage space. The colectivos also make many stops in between, taking way too long to get there.

H ow to get from Downtown Cancun to Tulum

If you’re spending a few days in Cancun first (check out our list of things to do in Cancun ), the bus is the best option to travel from downtown Cancun to Tulum. The  ADO  bus from Cancun leaves from the bus station and runs multiple times per hour. Click for the location of the bus station on Google Maps. The bus will drop you at the ADO bus station in Tulum Centro. A ticket costs around 80 MXN (US$4).

Uber doesn’t work in Tulum, but it actually works in Cancun and it’s possible to hail an Uber using the app. However, Uber drivers still face a lot of issues from the local taxi companies. That said, an Uber will only get you from Cancun Airport to the Cancun hotel zone or Cancun city. They won’t usually bring you as far as Tulum.

Tulum is big on bikes, and they’re cheap to hire in town or from your resort . It’s the best way to move around if you’re staying on the beach, as the dusty beach road often gets clogged with traffic. You can rent one of the ubiquitous turquoise bikes for just 150 MXN (US$7) per days from  Ola Bike  on Avenida Coba.

Besides hiring a bike, you can also catch  colectivos  (shared minibus or minivan-like vehicles) to go further afield. The colectivo fares are cheap, and you just need to flag them down along when you see one. Be sure to have Mexican pesos in hand to pay the fares.

Tulum is split into two main areas:  Tulum Beach  and  Tulum Pueblo  (town); and it takes approximately 10 minutes to get from one to the other. A dusty beach road runs parallel to the beach (which you can easily navigate on foot or bicycle), with the sea on one side of the road and lush jungle on the other. Most things to do in Tulum are along the beach, though there are also plenty to do in town.

Hotels in Tulum Beach are definitely much more expensive than those in Tulum Pueblo.  Budget travelers should base themselves in Tulum Pueblo, which is brimming with backpackers hostels and local  taquerias . Those seeking peace and tranquility will prefer staying in the newly developed areas of La Veleta and Aldea Zama. Check out my complete guide on where to stay in Tulum .

• Hurricane season in Tulum runs from May to October. The best time to visit Tulum is from November to March when the weather is perfect.
• If you are planning to rent a car, be sure to check with your hotel if they have a carpark.
• The beach road is narrow and dusty and it can be very hard to find parking. Like I mentioned, either rent a bike or a quad to get between Tulum town and the beach.
• When taking taxis, always agree on the fare with your driver before getting on.

Tulum has become a hugely popular tourist destination for good reason: the jungle-meets-beach setting is unrivaled, the Tulum-style beach resorts are gaining Insta fame, and the lush cenotes surrounding Tulum are a magnet for adventure seekers.

I hope this article has helped you decide on how you’re getting from Cancun to Tulum. Let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• Tulum Travel Guide
• 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
• Best Time to Visit Tulum
• 30 Fun Things to Do in Cancun
• Things to Do on Isla Holbox
• Where to Stay in Holbox
• 15 Things to Do in Cozumel
• How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel
• How to Get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

• ✈️ Book affordable flights to Mexico City on Skyscanner for $100+
• 🏥 Insure your trip with Safety Wing , a global travel insurance company.
• >🛏️ Read our guide on the best places to stay in Mexico City
• 🚗 Rent a car in Mexico City on Discover Cars
• 🚌 Reserve bus tickets from Mexico City on Bookaway for the best rates
• 📷 Book your day tours from Mexico City on Viator or GetYourGuide
• 🧳 Pack a quick dry towel , dry bag , and waterproof phone holder
• 📱 Get an eSIM on Airalo to get cheap internet data

Related Posts:

2 thoughts on “How to Get from Cancun to Tulum 2024”

I am not able to find a shared shuttle with the suggested company through the link, would you happen to know of another that does a shared shuttle ?

Sorry to hear that! I’ll check with that company. Meanwhile, here’s a company that runs shared shuttle: https://airportcancun.travel/services/cancun-airport-shared-shuttle/

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How To Get From Cancun To Tulum – Complete Guide (2024)

It couldn’t be easier to get from Cancun to Tulum and in this guide, I have included all the information you need to make your transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum as simple and easy as possible.

Whether you’re on a budget and don’t mind taking the long route on the shuttle bus or money isn’t an issue and you prefer door-to-door service in a private car, this guide covers it all.

Table of Contents

Overview – Cancun To Tulum

When looking at how to get from Cancun to Tulum, it’s important to note the distance is 120 km (74 miles) and it takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by vehicle.

See below for a quick overview of transportation to Tulum:

Private Driver

• Shuttle Bus

Related Article → 20 Things To Do In Tulum

It sounds fancier than it is and is probably one of the quickest ways to get from Cancun Airport To Tulum, but transport with a private driver is going to be one of the more expensive options to take.

Whether it be a taxi from Cancun to Tulum, a private driver company, or simply an Uber, this mode of transport will be your best option if you’re looking for a quick, problem-free transfer.

For a taxi or Uber from Cancun, you’re looking at around $50 USD. This may vary depending on traffic, what company you book with, and what time of day you travel.

Bearing in mind, a private car is not always going to be the cheapest way to travel.

My advice would be to haggle and even try and sort out a fixed price as the taximeter will always be more.

A concierge or private car hire for 3 to 4 people will cost you about $115 USD, whilst if you’re traveling in a larger group, you can hire a limousine for $330 USD.

Cancun To Tulum Shuttle Bus

When deciding on how to get from Cancun to Tulum, another option to consider is the shuttle bus that runs from Cancun Airport to Tulum.

This is the perfect option if you’re a budget traveler looking to save a bit of money on transportation.

The shuttle bus will wait until it’s fully loaded with passengers before leaving the airport and it will make several stops along the way before reaching Tulum.

The shuttle bus will fit between 1 to 12 people and as standard will cost you around $32 USD per person for a one-way trip.

If you’re feeling a little more generous with your money, you can take the deluxe shuttle bus which is a little nicer in style and it comes equipped with air conditioning.

This more luxury shuttle will cost you around $42 USD per person for a one-way trip.

Rent A Car – How To Get From Cancun To Tulum

Another great option is to hire a car from Cancun Airport. If you’re up for it and feeling confident with driving in a foreign country, this is a great way to get around .

Plus, as a family, you’ll get to see all things to do in Cancun with teens without the need to book a tour.

Renting a car is also a great option if you’re traveling with a group of friends as splitting the cost between you all could actually make this a more affordable option.

Yucatan Peninsula is said to be the safest place to drive in Mexico when it comes to getting behind the wheel yourself, so it’s definitely an option to consider.

I always use Discover Cars to search and book car rentals in Mexico as they generally offer the best rates.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

Discover Cars are one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations.

Find the right car, in the right place, for the best price guaranteed!

The average cost of car rentals in Cancun is approximately $30 USD per day, depending on the season.

Beware there are several things to look out for when renting a car in Mexico.

The first is tourist scams as there can be a lot around the airport and a lot of people looking to take advantage of travelers making their way around the country.

The other thing is to keep your rental agreement and ID on you at all times in the car. This avoids any confusion or hold-ups if you happen to get pulled over.

Avoid speeding to avoid getting pulled over.

Note: They drive on the right-hand side in Mexico and you may also find parking a problem once you reach Tulum.

But if you’re willing to overlook all of that, stick within the speed restrictions and you’re comfortable with driving in a foreign country, then go for it and hire a car.

RELATED GUIDE: 21 Things To Do In Isla Mujeres

Bus From Cancun To Tulum

The ADO Bus is another great option for your transportation with buses running daily from 10:45 am to 9:35 pm.

It’s safe to say that the ADO Bus from Cancun to Tulum is a really affordable way to get from A to B.

ADO Buses depart from T2, T3, & T4 of Cancun Airport, taking you directly to Tulum.

The cost of the Cancun bus to Tulum is around $14 USD per person, though bear in mind the ADO Bus won’t take you directly to your hotel and instead, take you to the Tulum Bus Station.

However, this option is definitely one of the cheapest ways to travel from Cancun Airport to Tulum.

Search Now: Bus from Cancun to Tulum

Things To Do In Tulum

Another way to get to Tulum is to take a day trip from Cancun .

And once you have arrived safely, I have you covered with a complete travel guide of things to do in Tulum, how to get around, the best places to eat, and much more!

Must Read → 20 Epic Things To Do In Tulum

Where to stay in tulum.

Tulum is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico , and you’ll be spoiled for choice with cheap hostels, luxury hotels, and beachside resorts!

Tulum has it all to suit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

The majority of the accommodation in Tulum can be found in 3 main tourist areas: The Main Town, Tulum South Beach, and Tulum North Beach.  

I have put together a complete guide on Where To Stay In Tulum which you should definitely check out.

If you’re in a hurry, I have listed a few Tulum accommodations below that I can personally recommend:

Luxury: The Beach Tulum

Receive celebrity treatment at The Beach Tulum with this adult-only, beachfront resort in South Tulum. Features include an outdoor pool, a beach club, an onsite restaurant, and even a spa.

Each luxurious, beach-front room has stylish, minimalist décor, air-conditioning, free wifi, and a seating area.

These deluxe rooms come with large comfortable beds, private entrances, and ensuite bathrooms, and are right on the shoreline in the South Beach area, surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Mid Range: Playa Esperanza Hotel

This eco-sensitive hotel and resort boasts unique cabins made from natural materials and is located right on the shoreline of Tulum’s North Beach.

With 15 different styles of rooms to choose from, natural interiors, large comfortable beds, and private bathrooms. You can also enjoy the free wifi, beach bar, and ocean views.

This is great for a group of friends traveling together or couples.

Budget: Che Tulum Hostel & Bar

One of the most top-rated hostels in Tulum, with an outdoor pool, a lively bar, and a large green area to hang out.

Each bedroom has been modeled to offer natural lighting and features private bathrooms, air-con, and comfortable mattresses. With a huge range of rooms on offer, pick from one of the many dorm rooms or private rooms.

This budget hostel in Tulum is great for solo travelers chasing that hostel life.

FOR MORE OPTIONS IN TULUM, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

What to pack for tulum.

When visiting Tulum, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Mexico Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Mexico!

Final Thoughts – Cancun To Tulum

Traveling between two major cities like Cancun and Tulum can be daunting but fear not, there are plenty of options and I hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip and put your mind to rest in the process.

If you have any questions please leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

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From Cancun to Tulum: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Oct 27, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The draw of Tulum is undeniable. For years, it has popped from the pages of beautiful magazines, and shown up in Instagram feeds, showing off sugary shores, crystalline water, fabulous hotels, and centuries-old ruins perched on seaside cliffs. Tulum is a magical place, and one of the jewels of the Mexican Caribbean. And it's easy to get to from Cancun.

Roughly 80 miles south of Cancun, Tulum was a backpacker hideaway for decades, and before that, it was a well-kept secret, a former coastal capital for the Mayan empire that extended throughout southern Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala.

Today, the remnants of the Mayan city still exist as one of the top archaeological attractions in the country. The town that has gradually evolved nearby is a boho-chic paradise, and a bucket-list destination for many Mexico-bound travelers.

So how exactly do you get there? Most people who come to this part of Mexico are entering through Cancun, which is roughly two hours north. Reaching Tulum, both the archaeological park and the nearby town and attractions, from Cancun is not difficult, with a variety of different options. Depending on your budget and travel style, there is a transportation option to suit.

On This Page:

• From Cancun to Tulum by Tour
• From Cancun to Tulum by Car
• From Cancun to Tulum by Taxi
• From Cancun to Tulum by Bus

1. From Cancun to Tulum by Tour

A packaged tour is the most convenient travel option for getting from Cancun to Tulum, especially if there are other things you may want to see along the way. Tours are often preferred by travelers because they take all the guesswork out of the experience. Often, they include round-trip transportation to and from your hotel, a guide, as well as lunch.

We love this Tulum and Cenotes tour because it combines some of the best attractions of the area: both the ruins and the spectacular cenotes. The tour includes a guided visit to the stunning archaeological site, followed by a dip in the refreshing Cenote Chen Ha and Mariposa.

The five- to six-hour tour includes pickup from your hotel or resort in Cancun in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is conducted with a multilingual guide, and the price includes a visit to the two cenotes. What is not included is the $15 conservation fee to access the cenote.

Other tours include additional sights along the way, so travelers can really maximize their time away from their hotel. This 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour includes not only the Tulum ruins, but also a visit to a cenote, caves, and snorkeling the Mesoamerican Reef.

The tour begins with a visit to Tulum before continuing to a lovely beach for some snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean. In the afternoon, visit Cenote Xtun, as well as take a deep dive into the thick jungle to visit an ancient cave that is brimming with history. This tour is approximately eight hours.

2. From Cancun to Tulum by Car

For the most freedom and flexibility there is always the option to rent a car and self-drive. The drive from Cancun to Tulum is roughly two hours, along one highway that is incredibly well-traveled, safe, and in excellent condition.

Along the way, you can take time to stop at other points of interest, like Playa del Carmen ; the nearby cenotes (underground rivers and caves); the beaches of Tulum; and even other ruins, like the less-trafficked Coba ruins. Plus, you have the added benefit of doing everything at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Cancun has plenty of rental car agencies, from the airport to locations throughout the city, and even at many of the hotel chains. Always be aware that prices listed on booking sites often list (almost unbelievably) cheap daily rates. Bear in mind that these prices do not factor in the insurance from the rental agencies, which you will be required to purchase in person. Expect to pay anywhere from $30 and up per day, depending on the season.

3. From Cancun to Tulum by Taxi

While it is the most expensive option, the most efficient way to get to Tulum from Cancun is by taxi. Taxi services in Cancun are door-to-door and are equipped with air-conditioning. Some even offer the ability to pay with plastic. (Though cash, and particularly pesos, is preferred.)

The drive from Cancun to Tulum is just under two hours, along a single highway: Mexico Highway 307, which is the main tourist corridor that connects Cancun all the way down the coast to the capital city of Chetumal, which sits on the border of Belize.

Rates from the Cancun International Airport are often upwards of $100 one-way. Rates from downtown Cancun will be around $120 or higher. You can arrange for the taxi to wait for you while you visit the ruins, but that will run the rate even higher, so it might be best to take a taxi there and a separate one for the return.

4. From Cancun to Tulum by Bus

Finally, the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum is via Mexico's incredibly reliable bus system . The ADO bus network is safe, clean, comfortable, reliable, and, most importantly, cheap. There are daily buses between both the Cancun airport and Tulum, as well as between downtown Cancun and Tulum.

Buses depart from downtown Cancun to Tulum, but you must specify if your final destination is Tulum the town, or Tulum the archaeological zone. Buses also leave from Cancun airport's four terminals down to Tulum, as well.

Departure times are somewhat scattered, so if departure times do not line up with your flight arrival, the other option is to take the bus to Playa del Carmen and switch to a Tulum bus. Buses between Playa del Carmen and Tulum are much more frequent. Again, be sure to specify if you are visiting the town or the ruins.

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online, or at any ADO bus counter. Most agents speak English, and credit cards are accepted. You can reserve your seat ahead of time, as well. The buses are also equipped with luggage storage underneath, so if you're planning to stay in Tulum, you will easily be able to bring your luggage.

If you happen to arrive in Cancun before or after scheduled departure times of the direct buses, not a problem. You can always board an ADO bus to Playa del Carmen and transfer there. The drive from Cancun to Playa del Carmen is about 45 minutes. From the ADO terminal in Playa del Carmen, you can purchase an additional ticket onward to Tulum.

More on Mexico

Traveling to Tulum: Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide for 2024

Making your tulum travel plans? !

If you’ve never visited Tulum (or even Mexico), the thought of traveling to Tulum, and Tulum travel planning might be overwhelming — but by the end of this article, you will be a Tulum pro! How do I know?!

I live in Mexico , not far from Tulum actually! I spent about three months living between Tulum and Playa del Carmen , so I know the Tulum pueblo magico (magic town) well — and I’m going to tell you all my Tulum travel tips.

Cancun to Tulum: Your 6 Best Transportation Options

As one of the places high atop many a Mexico bucket list, Tulum is fast becoming one of the best Mexico travel destinations.

Located on the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is one of the best beach towns in Mexico, with amazing Mayan ruins, swimmable cenotes , white sand beaches, and more.

In short, it’s easy to see why everyone wants to travel to Tulum — this boho beach paradise has something for everyone.

However, with so many amazing things to do in Tulum, how do you choose ?! You’re in the right place to find out because by the end of this article, you’ll have the lowdown on Tulum travel.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started with the state of Tulum travel during Covid, and then get into everything you need to know about Tulum, including where to stay, play, tour, eat and drink.

traveling to tulum mexico

Is tulum safe for travel.

The short answer to Is it safe to travel to Tulum? — is yes — for most travelers, it is safe in Tulum.

Aside from hurricanes, drinking too much and sunburns , Tulum crime rates are pretty low, and both Tulum solo travel and group travel are considered safe.

Longer answer: Safety is a tricky subject, not just in Tulum, but everywhere, and that’s because safety is a feeling , not a fact. However, as a general rule, Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula are considered quite safe for visitors.

Is Mexico Safe? 25 Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico

As someone who’s been living and traveling alone in Mexico for years, I know my opinion may be skewed, so I reached out to other female bloggers who have done some Mexico solo travel, to get their takes.

Head to 20 Best Solo Travel Mexico Destinations to Visit to read about Tulum solo travel.

Though Tulum is considered safe, you’ll still want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below to err on the side of caution.

These safety measures are the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere on Earth, and they should suffice in Tulum, Mexico. You’ll also want to purchase Mexico travel insurance for your Tulum trip.

• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomad who travel for extended periods of time.
• World Nomads : Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling.
• Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take a taxi or ride your bike in Tulum.
• Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things.
• Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t ever accept drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near someone you don’t know.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to make a small transaction like for street tacos 🌮

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In Tulum, that’s the Consular Agency in Playa del Carmen .

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

Mexico Travel Insurance for Tulum

Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times? Smart choice!

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health during travel.

If Mexico and Tulum travel safety are on your mind, get a free quote from the two companies listed below — two of the biggest names in travel insurance.

Traveling to Tulum FAQ

Is Tulum expensive?

This answer depends on where you’re comparing Tulum to; however, by Mexican standards, yes, Tulum is expensive because you can visit other beach towns in Mexico for much less.

The good news that traveling to Tulum budget travel is 100% doable — so really, Tulum is as expensive as you make it.

Tulum has everything from budget hostels, like Mayan Monkey and Selina Tulum , to $2,000+ per night beachfront eco-villas at Azulik Tulum and Papaya Playa Projec t , so there’s room for all travel budgets.

Similarly, you can find great Tulum cheap eats and street tacos for 50¢, and also upscale dining.

Since the peso is much weaker than the U.S. dollar and the euro, you can expect to get about $18 pesos per $1 USD.

In Tulum, many places are cash only, so see if your bank partners with any Mexican banks to waive ATM fees, and make sure to bring a “no foreign transaction fee” credit card.

For more info, check out this Mexico podcast titled Tulum on a Budget .

Do I need to know Spanish to visit Tulum?

Tulum is 50/50 — at the more upscale places on Tulum Beach, everyone will speak English.

However, in Tulum Town (Downtown), where more locals live, you’ll find there is less English spoken.

Either way, you’ll only help yourself by brushing up on your basic Spanish before visiting Tulum, Mexico.

👩‍🏫 Want to learn Spanish fast? Rocket Spanish has an accelerated program that will have you confident, and conversational , in no time.

Having some knowledge of the local language is generally seen as a sign of respect and courtesy. Knowing everyday niceties like please and thank you will really go a long way while traveling to Tulum (or anywhere on Earth, really).

For your convenience, the infographic above has all the basic Spanish words and phrases you’ll need. Go ahead and save it to your phone as an image, so that you’ll have access to it even when you’re off-WiFi.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

No — U.S. passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico. This is only one of the reasons to visit Mexico , as in general, Mexico is one of the best travel destinations for Americans!

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card .

This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to Immigration at the airport when you leave the country. 

There is no charge for the FMM, but if you lose it, there’s a $600 peso ($30 USD) fine to replace it. Besides the fine, you’ll need to get to the airport an extra hour early to do the lost visa paperwork and pay.

The bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM!

What’s the best time to visit Tulum?

The best time of year to visit Tulum so you’ll get the best weather is during fall and winter. The cooler months of November to March is the best time to go to Tulum Mexico.

Tulum Weather: Yearly Average temperatures

This is also technically the busy season in Tulum, though you may be able to get some great Tulum travel deals on flights and accommodations — especially if your travel dates are flexible, or you visit during the week.

For now, you many be able to stretch your dollar further, especially in Tulum’s busiest month of December.

Located in the tropics, the weather is hot year-round, however, there’s much less humidity during the fall/winter months of November to March.

You’ll also have less ( if any ) rain, the mosquitoes will be at bay, and Atlantic Hurricane Season will be officially over — it runs June 1-November 30.

Check out the articles linked below about visiting Tulum during all the months of the year.

• Tulum in January
• Tulum in February
• Tulum in March
• Tulum in April
• Tulum in May
• Tulum in June
• Tulum  in July
• Tulum  in August
• Tulum in September
• Tulum in October
• Tulum in November
• Tulum in December

What do I pack for Tulum?

When planning what to take to Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula, know this area had a tropical climate.

As you can see by the average yearly Tulum weather chart above, this part of Mexico is hot (and humid 😥) for most of the year, so definitely pack this Water-To-Go Filter Bottle and sunscreen .

🧳 Need more Tulum packing tips? Head to this article, Packing List for Mexico: Outfit Ideas & FREE Printable Download .

Mosquitoes are also an issue, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray , and bring reef-safe sunscreen so you practice responsible tourism in Mexico.

If you’re planning to drink a lot, these Anti-Hangover Meds are a lifesaver ( thank me later! ).

FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Wondering exactly what to pack for Tulum and all of Mexico? Download the FREE printable packing list for Mexico below.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

What do I wear in Tulum?

As far as how to dress in Tulum — anything goes — you can dress as casual or as extra as you’d like. Check out the outfits below ⤵ to give you an idea of Tulum fashion.

If you need more tips on what to wear in Tulum, head here for Tulum outfits inspo , or visit this article, Cute Outfits for Mexico Vacation: What to Wear in Mexico .

Outfits for Tulum Mexico

For Tulum outfit ideas, think flowy, tropical, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing; bonus points for anything that doesn’t show sweat!

Besides all your summer-wear, you may use a light cardigan at night and comfy sweats to sleep in, but Tulum is the place for sundresses, sun hats and bathing suits.

How Do I Get to Tulum?

Where is Tulum?

Tulum is in Quintana Roo state, located in the Yucatan Peninsula , in southeastern Mexico. It is about 75 miles south of Cancun , and 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

Tulum is not far from other great Yucatan destinations, like Bacalar Lagoon , the “Maldives of Mexico,” about 130 miles south.

The pueblo magico (magic town) of Valladolid , 65 miles east, and the beautiful Colonial city of Merida , located 160 miles east of Tulum.

What’s the Closest Airport to Tulum?

Wondering, Can you fly into Tulum Mexico? Sadly, no. Though the Mexican government says they have plans to open a Tulum Airport in 2024.

As there’s no Tulum Airport for now, you’ll fly into Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). It is the closest airport near Tulum, and located about 75-miles (120 km) north of Tulum.

The drive is about 1.5-hours, on Carretera Cancun-Chetumal (Highway 307), which goes straight to Tulum.

💸 Tulum Travel Tips: Take out some cash at a Cancun Airport ATM! Cash is king in Mexico and Tulum, where many businesses are cash only.

From Cancun Airport, you can hire a private shuttle , shared shuttle , rent a car , or take the ADO bus to Tulum.

Keep scrolling for info on all three options ⤵ or head to this article for a more thorough guide, Cancun to Tulum: The 6 Best Transportation Options .

Transportation from Cancun to Tulum

You basically have four good options for how to get from Cancun to Tulum. From the Cancun Airport, you can do the following:

• Book a private Cancun to Tulum shuttle (My recommendation!)
• Rent a car in Cancun and drive to Tulum
• Book a shared shuttle from Cancun to Tulum
• Take the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum

Cancun Airport to Tulum Shuttle

The Cancun Airport shuttle to Tulum is by far the easiest, fastest, most stress-free and hassle-free way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum — with door to door service!

If you’re traveling with a group, this option can end up being quite economical and so much faster than the bus.

During these strange travel times, the private shuttle is also the best way to be socially distant while traveling from Cancun to Tulum.

As mentioned, it’s economical for groups, but those doing Mexico solo travel in Tulum might want to opt for the shared shuttle ⤵

Cancun to Tulum shared Shuttle

Is there uber in cancun uber in tulum.

Wondering if you can take Uber from Cancun to Tulum? Unfortunately, no, at this time there’s no Uber in Tulum, and really, not anywhere in Quintana Roo state.

For a thorough look at your options on how to get around in Tulum, head to this article, Is There Uber in Tulum Mexico?

This also means there’s no Uber in Tulum itself, though there are plenty of taxis.

🚕💨 Note: When taking a taxi in Mexico, you negotiate and agree on the fare before entering the taxi, as most don’t have meters.

Cancun Car Rental

If you’re not taking the shuttle from Cancun to Tulum — the most convenient way to travel from Cancun to Tulum would be in a rental car .

Discover Cars is a great option, with several Cancun Airport rental car options. They are the Mexico car rental company I both recommend, and use!

The Cancun Airport is the best place to rent a car because all the big name companies have locations there — and you only want to use a reputable company.

It is safe to drive in Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula , and the drive from Cancun to Tulum is also safe.

As you’ll be driving in another country, take a moment to read through these 10 Useful Mexico Driving Tips in this article, Renting a Car in Tulum: Everything You Need to Know .

If you’re just planning to stay in Tulum, skip the rental car !

However, if you want to take a Tulum day trip or two and explore the surrounding areas — Bacalar Lagoon , Valladolid , Akumal Bay to snorkel with the turtles, Playa del Carmen and Coba Ruins — then rent a car .

ADO Bus from Cancun to Tulum

The largest bus company in Mexico is ADO, and you can take one straight from Cancun Airport to the main bus station in Downtown Tulum.

Prices will vary, should generally be less than $300 pesos ($15 USD) for a one-way ticket, which you can buy online below ⤵

If you’re considering the bus, know this is a luxury class bus with big reclining seats, AC, outlets to charge your phone and a bathroom.

Mexico’s buses are great, comfy and inexpensive, and in fact, if you’re traveling to Tulum on a budget , the bus is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum .

Once you arrive in Downtown Tulum, walk outside and grab a taxi to your accommodation, or if it’s close by, you can walk. If you’re taking a taxi, note that you must agree on the fare before entering the taxi.

Keep in mind there’s no Uber in Tulum , but there are always taxis waiting outside of the bus station.

Now that you know how to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport, let’s get to know the town’s main areas so you can decide where to stay in Tulum.

Where to Stay in Tulum: Best Neighborhoods in Tulum

Tulum Neighborhoods: Downtown, Aldea Zama & Tulum Beach

Tulum is a small town; about five miles from one end to the other. It is basically divided into Tulum Town (AKA Downtown), Aldea Zama and Tulum Beach.

There’s only one road that goes through downtown, and one road, called the Tulum Beach Road, that goes up and down the beach, ending at Boca Paila beach area and Sian Ka’an UNESCO World Heritage Reserve .

Downtown is on the north side of town, Tulum Beach is all the way south, and Aldea Zama is located between the two. There are three distinct areas within downtown: La Veleta on the southwestern side, and Colonia Huracanes and Villas Tulum to the northeast.

Use the map of Tulum above so you can visualize the town layout. Then, keep scrolling to understand each Tulum neighborhood, and the pros and cons of staying in each one.

TRAVELING TO TULUM MEXICO

Tulum town (downtown).

• Pro: The least expensive neighborhood
• Con: The least pretty neighborhood

Tulum Town (AKA Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum) is the place to stay if you’re traveling to Tulum on a budget .

This is a lively area with great cheap eats , cute shops and a unique charm. There are quite a few budget hotel and hostel options in Tulum Town, and some of the best Airbnbs in Tulum .

It is, however, not the prettiest place to stay out of Tulum’s three neighborhoods. That’s not to say Tulum Town is ugly, just that it’s not the Tulum you’ve seen all over Insta .

• Pros: Luxurious yet affordable; Modern amenities; Best WiFi
• Con: Has a bit of a “suburban” or residential feel to it

On a personal note, when friends, family and followers ask me where to stay in Tulum, I always suggest Aldea Zama. Check out my top picks for the best Tulum Airbnb/VRBO rentals here , most of which are located in Aldea Zama.

15 Best Cheap Hotels in Tulum Mexico

There are a few reasons why I think it’s the best neighborhood in Tulum, including its location between the beach and downtown.

Also, Aldea Zama is the newest area of Tulum, and newer construction means newer, modern amenities — like high speed WiFi.

As mentioned, Tulum as a whole doesn’t have great WiFi… and yes, this even applies to the fanciest of 5 Star resort hotels on the beach .

Since Aldea Zama is more residential, you’ll often get better WiFi and a very nice place for about 25% the cost of a Tulum beach resort.

📸 Tulum Travel Tips: You can still go to the beachfront resorts and take your Instagram worthy Tulum photos — even if you’re not a guest of the resort.

Tulum Beach

• Pros: Gorgeous resorts; Staying right on the beach; Walkable location
• Cons: Expensive; Electricity restrictions; WiFi isn’t great

Tulum Beach is the Tulum you’ve seen in photos, and where you’ll find all the beautiful beach resorts, large-scale art installations, high end restaurants, cool bars, and all the Instagram worthy places in Tulum.

• Tulum Beach House Rentals: 10 Best Beachfront Tulum Villas

The Zona Hotelera (Tulum Hotel Zone) is also where you’ll find all the best Tulum beach resorts, including all the Instagrammable Tulum accommodations you’ve seen online, and all the most luxurious Tulum hotels .

As you can imagine, these beach resorts don’t come cheap, but if you want to splurge, or you’re traveling with a large group, Tulum Beach is the place.

Check out the linked article above ⤴ which features the 10 best Tulum beach house rentals.

Should I stay on Tulum Beach?

The beach resorts and hotels are gorgeous, but there are a few cons to staying in them you should be aware of:

• The WiFi on Tulum Beach is well… not great , even at the most luxurious of Tulum resorts.
• Tulum beach hotels try to lower their carbon footprint by only offering AC and electricity in the rooms from sundown to sun-up. You’ll want to check individual resort policies, but the vast majority do this, regardless of how much your room costs.
• The beach is the main party area, so light sleepers will want to double check that you’re not staying anywhere loud where you won’t get a good night’s sleep and also bring noise-canceling earplugs .

If you’re looking for a nice balance of comfort, luxury and savings, these Aldea Zama Tulum Airbnbs are better options… but if it’s your dream to stay in a Tulum beach resort — then just go for it!

Best Tulum Beach Hotels

As they say, Location, location, location! When it comes to Tulum, there simply is no better location than staying right on Tulum Beach.

Below is a list of the best hotels in Tulum located on the beach, but if you’re in a big group head here, Tulum Beach House Rentals: 10 Best Beachfront Tulum Villas .

Azulik Tulum Resort

As far as Tulum beach hotels go, Azulik Tulum is the one that started all the hype. This resort is the gold standard for Tulum’s boho chic vibes.

Casa Malca Tulum

The infamous Tulum Pablo Escobar house was indeed once owned by Colombian drug kingpin, Pablo Escobar.

This beachfront mansion-turned-resort is the brainchild of NYC art dealer, Lio Malca, and as you’d imagine the whole place is basically a work of art.

• Nomade Tulum

Nômade provides a holistic jungle sanctuary on Tulum Beach. There are Tulum treehouse rooms, luxury suites and beachfront Tulum glamping tents to choose from at Nomade Resort, which aims for a reconnection to nature.

Coco Tulum Beach Club

While staying at a Tulum beach resort doesn’t come cheap, the Coco Tulum Beach Club Hotel and Coco Tulum Zen Zone are known as some of the nicest less-pricey beachside resorts.

Enjoy their famous white swings, at one of the most instagrammable beach bars in Tulum!

Be Tulum Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for the perfect combo of luxury and privacy, Be Tulum is the place. Here, you’ll find exclusive suites nestled between the jungle and the sea, which each have their own private pool.

Combined with their on-site spa, Be Tulum Hotel is the ultimate luxury escape.

Papaya Playa Project

This resort combines all things Tulum in one place for its guests.

At Papaya Playa Project you can take yoga class in the morning, lay in a hammock on the beach all day, take a disco nap in your oceanfront bungalow, and hear a famous DJ spin live music at night ( Note: Bring earplugs ).

Ahau Tulum Resort

If you were wondering where the Instagram worthy Tulum man sculpture by South African artist Daniel Popper was located — he’s at the Tulum Sculpture Garden at Ahau Tulum Hotel .

Note: The Instafamous Ven a la Luz (Come to the Light) wooden sculpture used to be at the entrance to the Ahau Tulum Hotel and Raw Love Cafe. In 2022, it was moved to the Tulum Sculpture Garden behind the hotel.

• La Zebra Tulum

This beautiful hotel is part of the Colibri Boutique Hotels group, and they allow guests to enjoy the facilities at all of their properties.

If you opt for a room at La Zebra, you can also enjoy El Pez Tulum , Mezzanine Tulum Hotel and Hotel Mi Amor , the best adults only Tulum hotel.

Best Tulum Airbnb & VRBO Rentals

Tulum has gorgeous and affordable Airbnbs in Aldea Zama and Downtown Tulum. There are also some beautiful Tulum beach house Airbnb options, perfect for groups.

For Tulum solo travel and those wanting a unique experience, consider a Tulum glamping treehouse , many of which are located on beautiful Tulum Beach.

🚴‍♀️ Mexico Tulum Tips: Some Airbnbs offer complimentary bike rentals, so be on the lookout for those — This post has several options of $99 and under Tulum Airbnb/VRBO , some of which include a free bike.

However, even if you can’t find a Tulum Airbnb that includes a bike, you can rent one in Downtown Tulum for about $200 pesos ($10 USD) per day, and save some money by not having to take taxis.

Reminder: There’s no Uber in Tulum , and biking is one of the best ways to get around Tulum.

Best Things to Do in Tulum

There are so many places things to see in Tulum! If you’re wondering how many days in Tulum do I need, it really depends on you and your travel style.

If you’re just sticking to town and not venturing to the Tulum off the beaten path, this Tulum itinerary can help you plan an epic weekend in Tulum.

Tulum Beach Clubs

No visit is complete without checking out some of the amazing Tulum beach clubs, located on the best beaches in Tulum — Playa Paraiso, Playa Pescadores, Playa Ruinas and Las Palmas.

They are all unique and stand out in their own ways, but among the best beach clubs in Tulum are:

Tulum beach clubs often cost about $1,000-2,000 pesos ($50-100 USD) for a day pass. This is actually your food/beverage “minimum spend,” and also grants you access to the beach club and facilities for the day.

Note: Not all Tulum beach clubs apply the entry cost to your food and drink tab. Some just have an entry fee, so double check at each place before paying.

What is a minimum spend at Tulum Beach Cubs?

A “minimum spend” basically means you’re pre-paying your $50-100 USD tab, so you can think of the entrance cost as a down payment on food and drinks.

If you spend more than what you paid to enter, you’ll need to pay that balance at the Tulum beach clubs you’ve visited.

🏝 Tulum Travel Tips: Hit up these Tulum Beach Clubs during Happy Hour to save a few bucks during the best Tulum Happy Hours.

Mayan Ruins Near Tulum

Tulum is an amazing mix of posh hotels, instagrammable art along the beach, boho chic beach clubs with oceanfront swings, gorgeous cenotes, amazing restaurants and cafes, fun bars and more.

One of the best things to do in Tulum is visit the Tulum Ruins, located on the northern end of the beach.

In total, there are about 100 public Mayan archeological sites throughout the Yucatan Peninsula . While most people don’t make it to all of them, there are some noteworthy Tulum pyramids you can get to in two hours or less.

Keep scrolling to see the four most visited Mayan sites near Tulum and in Tulum.

Tulum Ruins

If you head to the Tulum Beach Road, and turn left, you’ll end up at the Archeological Zone of Tulum-Mayan Port City Ruins, AKA the Tulum Ruins.

This smaller site is very conveniently located, and most Tulum travelers will visit these beautiful ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Are Tulum Ruins open?

Yes — As of May 24, 2021, the Tulum Ruins are open . The Tulum Archeological Zone is open daily, from 9am-5pm, with the last ticket sold at 3:30pm.

There’s a maximum capacity of groups no larger than 10, and a total of 3,000 people per day — so arrive early to guarantee your admission.

There are no Covid measures in Tulum still in place, so you don’t need to get a temperature check at the entrance nor must wear a mask all times and practice social distance during while visiting Tulum Ruins.

Chichen Itza Ruins

As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, seeing Chichen Itza is on many travel bucket lists.

Located about two hours from Tulum, you can drive there with your rental car , take the ADO bus from Downtown Tulum, or opt for this Chichen Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid Tour .

🗿 Tulum Travel Tip: You can not climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza. The nearest ruins you can climb are at Coba Mayan Ruins, about one hour from Tulum in your rental car or by bus.

Coba Mayan Ruins

Coba is unique in that it’s more of a whole Mayan city, versus a Mayan pyramid site. It is located deep in the jungle, about an hour from Tulum.

If you’re having to choose Chichen Itza vs Coba, many opt for Coba to avoid the crowds at Chichen Itza and because you can climb Coba’s pyramids.

🦟 Tulum Travel Tip: When visiting Coba, don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray .

Ek Balam Mayan Ruins

This site has a unique look, unlike the others on this list — and as it’s slightly off the beaten path, you may have the whole place to yourself.

It is located near Valladolid , one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico and a pueblo magico (magic town).

Mayan Ruins Tours

The easiest way to see all of the Tulum Mayan pyramids and archeological sites? On a group tour with a Tulum guide! In fact, group tours provide an easy way for solo travelers to meet other travelers .

Check out your options below for the best Tulum tours to see the pyramids and Mayan ruins near Tulum.

Tulum Instagram Spots

Raw Love Tulum

Perhaps the most famous of Tulum’s large art pieces, the giant Ven a la Luz (Come Into the Light) wooden man sculpture by South African artist Daniel Popper is the entrance to the Ahau Tulum Resort and Raw Love Cafe.

Follow That Dream Sign

Located on Tulum’s Beach Road in front of the Lolita Lolita shop and across the street from Kaya Tulum, this insta famous Follow That Dream Tulum street sign is one of the most popular photo spots in Tulum.

Azulik Hotel & SFER IK Museum

There are so many instaworthy spots in Azulik Tulum — starting with the Sfer Ik Museum, and continuing all the way through to the nest tables at Kin Toh Restaurant.

Casa Malca Couch Swing

Once owned by Pablo Escobar, this hotel is tropical sexy all the way. Don’t miss the hanging couch, black and white Keith Haring bar and Moroccan-style chandelier room in Casa Malca Hotel .

Matcha Mama Cafe

Home to the famous I Love Tulum So Matcha sign on a surfboard, hit up this popular spot on Tulum Beach for both photos and a refreshing matcha smoothie.

For many visiting Tulum Mexico, no visit is complete without a photo on these famous Tulum swings.

Tulum Cenotes

The natural jungle pools, called cenotes in Tulum , are among the best places for Tulum photo ops. Learn all about the Tulum cenotes just below ⤵

Coco Tulum Beach Swings

There’s so many beach clubs with swings to check out in Tulum, but none more famous than the boho chic white swings at Coco Tulum Hotel .

Best Cenotes in Tulum

What is a cenote?

To make a long story short, cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays) are basically underwater sinkholes containing crystal-clear, freshwater.

They are only found in a few places on Earth, with the largest concentration in Mexico’s  Yucatan Peninsula , where there are about 6,000 cenotes. Discover the 35 Best Cenotes in Tulum + Free Tulum Cenotes Map here.

We can see and swim in them because the limestone once covering the water has collapsed and/or eroded throughout Earth’s existence, exposing the water beneath.

Cenotes have crystal-clear freshwater, which stays at about 75°F (24°C) year-round. Check out all the Best Tulum Cenotes Tours here, and join a local guide son you don’t miss any.

6 Best Tulum Cenotes in Tulum

Tulum has so many cenotes to see within just minutes of downtown. The six listed below are located just off Highway 109, all within 25 minutes or less of Downtown Tulum and Aldea Zama

You could ride your bike, hire a taxi or drive your rental car — but don’t attempt to walk to these Tulum cenotes.

• Cost: Cenotes have entry fees, though they are usually minimal. The more popular ones that provide amenities like restrooms, on-site restaurants, etc., should still cost no more than $350 pesos ($17USD) to enter. Most are closer in price to about $75-200 pesos ($4-10USD).
• Cash Only: Bring cash to cover both your entry and food. Most cenotes are in rural areas, and won’t have WiFi or the ability to take credit cards.
• Accessibility: Different cenotes have different levels of accessibility. Many will have well-maintained stairs with handrails, especially the more popular ones. Some have make-shift stairs, and some have ladders.
• Water shoes: Water shoes really help you enjoy your cenote time! As cenotes are natural pools, most have slippery rocks, muddy ground, etc. Water shoes also help you not slip in general, especially when walking down any staircase entryways. (I have sadly seen this a lot 👀)
• Life Jackets: I have never been to a cenote that didn’t provide or rent life jackets; but if you can’t swim, you might want to do additional research on the cenote(s) you’re visiting. If you aren’t comfortable swimming, consider the Adventure in Shallow Cenotes Tour .
• Sunscreens and lotions: Don’t apply sunscreen, lotion, insect repellent — anything — before getting in a cenote. Many require you to rinse off before entering, so even putting anything on will be a waste. However, when you get out for the day, this one by Bullfrog Anti-Bug Sunscreen Cream is an eco-friendly sunscreen with insect protection, which comes in handy at cenotes.
• Cenote Photos: Want those people-less Instagrammable cenote photos? Go on a weekday, and arrive early! You’ll want to bring one of these waterproof phone holders that go around your neck or a waterproof fanny pack .

Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera, meaning “skull cenote,” has three holes you can jump in to access the water below. This cool natural phenomenon is super popular, so try and arrive early to beat the crowds.

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera are the two most instagrammable cenotes in Tulum.

Meaning “big cenote,” Gran Cenote is a larger site with several cenotes that meander along the jungle floor, connected to one another by wooden walkways.

Cenote Zacil-Ha

This is an open, swimming pool-style cenote. Cenote Zacil-Ha has plenty of nice onsite amenities like covered/shaded areas, bathrooms and snacks for sale.

Cenote Tankah & Cenote Car Wash

These two are right next to one another, and make a great combo trip.

Cenote Tankah is well known as one of the only Tulum cenotes that have a zipline, perfect for adventure-seekers! Cenote Car Wash has a much more chill, lagoon vibe.

Cenote Santa Cruz Tulum

This one is just stunning, and also very conducive to hosting visitors with onsite bathrooms, shaded palapas , grassy areas to relax in, and more.

Tulum Cenotes Tours

Best restaurants in tulum.

Tulum has a nice mix of casual-fine dining, and authentic Mexican food street eats. If you’re looking for cheap places to eat in Tulum, they are up next after the Tulum restaurants.

The recommendations below will help you make sure you experience both while traveling to Tulum — because while fancy food is great and all — Did you even really travel to Mexico if you didn’t eat way too many street tacos in Mexico !?

Tulum Fine Dining ($$$-$$$$)

Hartwood Tulum

The “ wood” in Hartwood is no lie (check out the photo above ⤴). This place is all about wood-grilled everything.

Opened in 2009 by wife-husband duo, Mya Henry and Eric Werner, Hartwood’s menu changes daily, as they focus on freshness and seasonality in their solar-powered eco-kitchen.

Gitano Tulum

Meaning “gypsy” in Spanish, Gitano is part restaurant, part lounge — and the place to go for your Tulum Friday night.

The menu is innovative and fresh, so head there for small tapas plates and creative mezcal cocktails, but stick around after the meal to party in Gitano’s secret garden setting.

Looking for a chef-driven restaurant? Look no further than Arca, led by Mexican/American Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza — one of the best Mexican chefs working today.

He once worked at what is considered the best restaurant in the world, Noma. In 2015, Hinostroza brought his skill to Tulum, and opened this Tulum foodie favorite.

Casa Jaguar Tulum

This quintessential boho chic Tulum spot is rustic elegance all the way. Enjoy fresh ceviche and grilled items, and then wash them down with Casa Jaguar’s innovative cocktails.

🍷 Tulum Travel Tip: Make a reservation for all places, especially if you want to dine on a weekend.

Best Cheap Eats in Tulum: Tulum Beach ($$)

Match Mama Tulum

Matcha Mama is one of the best places to get coffee in Tulum , and among the most instagrammable Tulum places.

They serve smoothies, acai bowls, “nice cream” (vegan ice cream) and other healthy fare. Head here to take a photo on their famous and photogenic swings, next to the I Love Tulum So Matcha surfboard sign.

The Real Coconut

Commonly known as one of the best vegan restaurants in Tulum, it’s also located right on the beach and has some amazing views of the Caribbean Sea.

Clan-Destino Tulum

Known for having the best burgers in Tulum, Clan-Destino restaurant also has Cenote Clan-Destino you can jump in after eating. This is the only Tulum restaurant with a cenote.

I Scream Bar Tulum

I Scream is as much a feast for the eyes, as a feast for the stomach. Enjoy tacos and vegan “nice” cream by day, and one of the best Tulum bars by night.

Best Cheap Eats in Downtown Tulum ($-$$)

Antojitos la chiapaneca.

While not authentic to the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico and tacos al pastor are synonymous. Try this Mexican food staple at Antojitos La Chiapaneca, a late night favorite in Tulum Town.

Taqueria Honorio

This is where the locals go to eat the best tacos in Tulum. This is a no-frills restaurant, and it’s all about the food. Try the cochinita pibil and lechon , and wash it all down with an agua fresca (fruit water) — like the locals do.

It is only open until 3pm, so head to Taqueria Honorio for the best lunch in Tulum.

Ki’Bok Tulum

An adorable coffee shop, and arguably the best cafe in Tulum .

Enjoy local Mexican coffee and traditional breakfast and brunch items, like  chilaquiles  and  huevos rancheros , as well as pastries, sandwiches and more.

Burrito Amor Tulum

The place for the best burritos in Tulum, with meat, seafood, vegan options, and breakfast burritos in the morning.

El Camelo Jr.

Known for their fresh seafood plates and ceviches , El Camelo Jr. is a popular Tulum institution. There may be a wait, but it’s worth it, and it usually moves fast.

Best Bars in Tulum

Batey Tulum

The best bar in Downtown Tulum. Really, there aren’t all that many great bars in Downtown Tulum, but Batey’s would still be the coolest even if there were. Head to Batey Bar at night to hear live music and sip on one of their famous mojitos.

If you’re looking to party, dance, see and be seen, Saturday nights at Papaya Playa Project is what you need in your life.

They throw big parties with great DJs each week, and also host the best Tulum Full Moon Party on the Saturday night closest to the full moon.

As far as the best cocktail bars in Tulum goes, there’s really only one place to indulge, and that’s Gitano.

Now, said cocktails don’t come cheap, but it’s worth it to even have just one so you can see this gorgeous restaurant/bar — especially on Friday nights, the best night to go to Gitano Tulum.

Ziggy Beach Club

One of the best low key beach bars, Ziggy’s is a locals favorite with a great Happy Hour. Chill out on one of their beachfront hammocks and sip on a tropical adult beverage.

🥂 Tulum Travel Tips: Check out all the best Tulum Happy Hours , which typically take place from 4pm-6pm.

I Scream Bar

In a town full of instagrammable places and visual eye candy, I Scream Bar gives everywhere else a run for their money. This place is super fun, super cool to look at, and also, they serve Mexico tacos , so win-win-win.

Mateo’s Mexican Grill

Mateo’s is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tulum ! Head up to the top floor deck and enjoy some Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks as you watch the sun set into the Tulum jungle. 

Traveling to Tulum During Covid-19

Is Tulum open for travel right now?

Yes — Tulum is open right now. In fact, Tulum, and Mexico in general, never really closed.

However, there have been measures in place since March 2020, like mandatory masks indoors and outdoors, temperature checks, mandatory use of hand sanitizer, capacity restrictions, etc., which are still enforced.

🏝 Is Tulum Open for Travel Right Now? Your complete guide to Tulum travel during Covid, which is updated monthly.

However, there are no real Tulum travel restrictions, and no quarantine period to travel to Mexico.

For those in the U.S. dying to scratch their wanderlust itch, and just a handful of countries allowing this type of entry, Mexico is one of the best countries for travel right now.

Not sure WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM, MEXICO?

Check out these articles with Tulum accommodations options at all budgets, and for groups of all sizes.

• Top 10 Best Tulum All-Inclusive Resorts
• 11 Best Cheap Hotels in Tulum Mexico
• Tulum Glamping: 11 Best Treehouses, Glampsites & More

Where can I get a Rapid Covid Test in Tulum?

You can get a rapid Covid test in Tulum at the places listed below.

😷 Note: This page will continue to be updated as more Tulum Covid testing locations are added, so those traveling to Tulum right now will have current info.

1. Colibri Boutique Hotels

This includes the following Tulum resorts: La Zebra , El Pez Tulum , Mezzanine Tulum Hotel and Hotel Mi Amor , and appointments are suggested.

Rapid Covid Tests at a Colibri Tulum hotel costs $35 USD — though you’ll want to verify on the Colibri website .

2. Cancun Airport Covid Testing

Authorities recommend using this only as a last resort, as testing is limited and on a first come, first served basis. ✈️ Note: There is no Tulum Airport, so you must use Cancun Airport.

Rapid Covid Tests at Cancun Airport cost about $15 USD — though you’ll want to verify on the Cancun Airport website .

3. Costamed Tulum Covid Testing Centers

This is a chain of medical centers, with locations throughout Quintana Roo state. Due to a high volume of tests being administered, Costamed recommends making an appointment.

Rapid Antigen Tests at Costamed cost about $50 USD — though you’ll want to verify on the Costamed website .

You can schedule your appointment online , or by calling the Tulum location at (+52) 984-124-0830.

Tulum Costamed is located at Calle 3 Sur s/n-Lote 8, Villas Tulum, 77760 Tulum, Q.R. , near the Starbucks and Super Aki grocery store on the main road in Tulum Town (downtown).

additional Tulum travel guides

For more Tulum, Mexico travel information, head to these articles:

• Traveling to Tulum: The Only Tulum Travel Guide You Need
• Cancun to Tulum: The 6 Best Transportation Options
• Tulum On A Budget: 10 Ways to Make Your Trip Affordable
• Tulum Itinerary: How to Spend 3, 4 or 5 Days in Tulum, Mexico
• Ultimate Tulum Packing List: What to Wear in Tulum
• Is There Uber in Tulum Mexico?

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Tulum Mexico

Tulum was once a sleepy beach town that provided a quiet alternative to Cancun and Playa del Carmen to the north.

It was a quiet heaven for backpackers and hippie types, who set up tents on the beach, slept under the stars and bathed in the Caribbean Sea.

If you’ve seen photos or videos of Tulum, you know those days are over, and Tulum is a full on party and tourism Mecca in Mexico.

That’s not to say it’s now pretty — it is — but like most Instagram famous places, many build it up in their mind, only to be let down 😕

Is Tulum worth visiting?

While it is admittedly not my favorite Mexico beach town, Tulum is a unique Mexico destination that everyone should check out at least once, if only to form your own opinion of it. The reality is, as Tulum gets more famous and  Insta famous, it starts to become less and less special because more and more people have already been there, done that.

It also gets more expensive and more crowded, and some of the things that made it famous to begin with, have waned.

If you understand what you’re signing up for — high price tags by Mexico standards, rustic boho vibes, lots of other tourists — and you don’t mind those things, you’ll enjoy your trip to Tulum.

If you’re looking to lay on a beautiful Caribbean beach, take photos and swim in the cenotes , then Tulum is for you.

Like all places on Earth, the key to enjoying Tulum is managing your expectations of it: Think Instagram vs. Reality.

If you understand the Youtube Tulum and Insta Tulum you’ve seen online is a heavily doctored version of the town, you won’t be among those people who get let down by Tulum .

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Tulum

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Tulum with this travel editor–curated guide.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to know, how to get around.

memo06dic/Getty Images

Tulum, Mexico, is bursting with beautifully designed hotels, gorgeous beaches, and restaurants with great ambiance and even better food. It's part of Mexico's Riviera Maya, which was one of Travel + Leisure's best places to go in 2023 . Humming blissfully in the background of the busy beach clubs and posing influencers, Tulum's spiritual centers offers great yoga, meditation classes, sacred ceremonies, and many more mind-expanding activities. Surrounding all this is a dense cenote-filled jungle and stunning nature reserves — perfect for dolphin spotting, cave diving, and riding ATVs.

Read on for the best places to stay, eat, and play in Tulum.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Conrad tulum riviera maya.

This 349-room luxury resort is the perfect place to sit back and relax. The property features five restaurants, six bars, five pools, and direct beach access. However, the massive spa steals the show with its open-air relaxation space that has a steam room, cold shower, sauna, ice plunge, and hot tub. T+L's senior editor Maya Kachroo-Levine previously reported that her time at the Conrad Tulum was "pure, luxurious resort fun," and was"filled with sunrise soaks in our alfresco tub overlooking the ocean, mezcal Negronis at Ultramar pool bar, and visits to the build-your-own chilaquiles station at Arbolea restaurant each morning."

Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort

Sharing a property with the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort has 735 rooms and suites and 13 different eateries. Guests at either resort can access both hotels' amenities and restaurants, providing seemingly endless food and entertainment options. "The  picture-perfect beach , together with the eight pools and five jacuzzis, provide the ideal background to soak up the sun," T+L contributor, Dobrina Zhekova, reported from the hotel .

With 38 rooms, 20 exclusive suites, five luxury tree houses, and 36 Moroccan-inspired tents, this hotel is perfect for nature lovers and wellness-focused guests. "Nômade Tulum favors the health-conscious with cacao ceremonies, spiritual talks, yoga classes complete with a live DJ soundtrack, and opportunities for nourishment by warm Caribbean winds at the hotel's tree house lodgings," Rosie Bell, T+L contributor and Riviera Maya local, reported . Located on the quieter, more southern end of the beach road, guests are welcome to lounge beachside in whimsical hammocks and daybeds.

Filled with furniture and artwork handcrafted in Mexico, La Valise radiates a mixed jungle-glamour ambiance. There are just 11 bungalows in this boutique, but the most-coveted room is the beachfront primary suite, where the bed rolls out onto the balcony, so you spend the night beneath the stars. All rooms are spacious with a light natural design, and the jungle-side suites have private outdoor showers.

Hotel Bardo

Tucked away from the busy beach zone and city center, Hotel Bardo offers an array of luxurious and spacious lofts, each with its own private plunge pool. The main pool, fringed with greenery and plush daybeds, sits in the center of the hotel's main social area, where a stone fire pit adds to the liveliness surrounding the bar and restaurant. Every day at sunset, guests are welcome to participate in an intention-setting ritual, and throughout the week, the hotel offers sound healing, yoga, and  temazcal  (a traditional sweat lodge) sessions.

Read More: The 25 Best Resort Hotels in Mexico, according to T+L’s 2022 World’s Best Awards

Tucked in the central La Veleta neighborhood, Holistika's art walk is a short circular jungle path leading you past interactive sculptures and murals that seem to have crash-landed in the jungle. While you're there, take advantage of one of the many yoga classes, ceremonies, or spa treatments, many of which happen in a gorgeous meditation dome.

Cenotes - Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos, and More

You'll find many of the Yucatán's famous natural swimming holes around Tulum. Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos, and Laguna Kaan Luum are some of the area's largest cenotes. However, don't skip the smaller cenotes like Cenote Dos Palmas, which is looked after by members of the local Maya community.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum's Archaeological Zone was once an ancient Maya seaside port. Don't miss the God of Winds Temple, and remember that you cannot climb on the impressive structures.

Om Collective

This yoga studio in the city center offers a wide range of classes and is the most affordable in Tulum, with a donation-based payment system. The studio has a community-centered feel and offers a variety of classes and yoga styles, including vinyasa and even acro-yoga.

Tulum Art Club

Tulum Art Club offers a unique day trip to the inland city of Valladolid, where you can learn about Maya pottery from a family that has kept the Maya methods alive for centuries. During the workshop, you can learn more about the spiritual traditions of the family's process and will get to take home your own creation.

La Madre Tierra

You can find all-natural soaps, oils, creams, and organic cosmetics at this beauty shop in the city center. Beauty treatments are available on-site, and all products are made in Mexico.

This slow-fashion brand specializes in gender-fluid resort wear made with linens sustainably sourced within 63 miles of Tulum. All pieces are designed and hand-crafted in Mexico.

Spiritum Tulum

On top of a great selection of flowing dresses, kaftans, and kimonos, this sustainable fashion brand has casual and formal menswear. The clothing combines Indigenous textiles and modern designs, and everything is handcrafted in Mexico.

Lara Antal/Travel + Leisure

This stylish beach road restaurant is "a venue that perfectly embodies South Tulum" reported T+L digital editorial director Nina Ruggiero . It serves up cocktails and food that emphasize local Mexican ingredients like  huitlacoche  (fermented corn) and  hoja santa  (Mexican pepper leaf). With the aroma of copal (the iconic pre-Columbian incense of choice in Tulum) permeating the space, the restaurant is warm and inviting. Reservations can be made online.

Dinner reservations are highly recommended for one of the most talked-about restaurants in the beach zone. "Powered entirely by solar energy," T+L contributor Nate Storey  previously reported , "nightly dinners [are prepared] over a wood-burning fire using organic Yucatán produce sourced from milpas , or organic farms, and spear-caught fish." To make dinner reservations, send an email to [email protected]. Lunch reservations are not accepted, but walk-ins are encouraged.

El Camello Jr.

You'll find fresh seafood and friendly service at this local-favorite restaurant. The ceviches are popular, but you can't go wrong with the garlic octopus or fish tacos. Portions are huge and perfect for sharing with friends.

This restaurant in the city center specializes in Asian/Mexican fusion. The menu is constantly changing, but you can expect to find tasty pork belly bao buns, plus sumptuous dishes like shrimp dumplings topped with tamarind sauce and a grasshopper garnish. Reservations are recommended.

You can pick up freshly baked loaves for breakfast at this bakery in the La Veleta neighborhood, but don't leave without trying the desserts and Mexican pastries.

The best time to visit Tulum is in the fall, between late October and mid-December, when hotel rates and reasonable, temperatures are starting to drop, and there's minimal sargasso seaweed crowding the beaches.

Winter in Tulum is high season, so while the weather is pleasant, hotel rates tend to skyrocket, especially around Christmas and New Year's. From May to October, Tulum, like the rest of the Caribbean, suffers from the hard-to-manage quantities of seaweed.

If you can plan your travels around a specific time of the month, consider visiting during the lunar cycle. Full moon parties are extremely popular in Tulum. Around this time, many spiritual centers and beach clubs host special moonlit events where visitors gather for either a dance party on the beach or a spiritual cleansing in the jungle.

Read More: The Best Times to Visit Tulum for the Perfect Beach Vacation

Tulum currently does not have its own airport, though one is set to open at the end of 2023, as T+L's Mexico expert, Sarah Bruning, previously reported . For now, you'll want to fly into Cancun, which is serviced by all major U.S. airlines with nonstop flights from most major cities.

Beach Zone:  Split into a northern and southern side, the beach zone is where you'll find all the top hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs in Tulum, stretched out along a busy main road. The north side of the beach is quieter and closer to the ruins, while the south side has more hotels and restaurants.

Aldea Zama:  Halfway between town and the beach, this gated neighborhood is full of luxury condominiums, shopping, and restaurants. An upscale residential neighborhood, Aldea Zama is a great place to find a large vacation rental or a quieter hotel room.

Centro:  Centro is the center of daily life in Tulum, where you'll find the best local restaurants, plus bookstores, cafes, and tons of souvenir shops. There are more affordable accommodation options here, and you're more likely to find better prices on tours, bicycles, and moped rentals than at the beach.

Villas:  This is a small residential neighborhood with a few restaurants and no hotels. However, it's a nice area for vacation rentals, with quiet streets decorated with larger-than-life murals.

Read More: How to Travel to the Riviera Maya

Taxis:  Taxis are plentiful but pricey in Tulum. Most cabs are cash-only, and prices fluctuate depending on the traffic to and from your destination. Prices are negotiable, but you should agree on the price with the driver before you get in the car. You can book a taxi in advance using  Taxi! Riviera Maya .

Bicycles:  Biking is a very popular way to get around, thanks to the bike path that connects the city center to the beach road. Many hotels offer bike rentals, but you can also rent your own from a bike shop like  Ola Bike Tulum .

Scooters:  Motorized scooters can help you get to cenotes and attractions on the edge of town that may be too far to bike to. You will find the best deals on scooter rentals in the city center, where there are plenty of scooter shops. You can rent a scooter in advance from  Scooter Tulum Services ; a one-day rental starts at 800 pesos ($44).

Related Articles

Find cheap bus tickets from Cancún to Tulum

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Bus Cancún to Tulum: Trip Overview

Compare bus companies.

The bus journey to Tulum is highly praised for its very comfortable seats and nice atmosphere. However, some passengers reported that the bus was too cold due to the air conditioning, requiring them to wear winter jackets during the trip. Overall, travelers were satisfied with their experience.

ADO Cancún Tulum recent customer reviews

Horrible. My flight was delayed which is out of the company’s control, but I managed to be at the bus stop at 1055pm in time for my 11pm bus only to find an empty bus stop ADO with a garbage bag over their station. They closed early. I missed my bus and had to instead pay a $270 US cab from Cancun to Tulum. I am not happy

The bus was comfortable, air-conditioned, with foot rests, curtains, and plenty of storage. Also very clean. The drivers and staff were kind of rude/curt, but they were still helpful.

The information was very misleading & their team was terrible when we tried to get clarification. Both parties we tried to communicate with were very rude/unhelpful. Ultimately, we ended up missing our shuttle & have to buy tickets for a later bus, due to misinformation.

According to 11 reviews, AU received a 3.2-star rating for this journey. Travelers were especially satisfied with the staff and the timeliness, but some complained about the power outlets. AU ticket prices on this trip start at $15.00

AU Cancún Tulum recent customer reviews

I loved everything

Didn’t explain that ticket was not from airport so missed bus

This bus is not at the airport and it did not tell me that. I only found out that after I asked where the bus was at the airport and found out that it was in town. What a waste of money. Not the way to start a vacation

Cancún to Tulum Buses

Busbud helps you find a bus from Cancún to Tulum. Get the best fare and schedule, book a round trip ticket or find buses with WiFi and electrical outlets.

We make it our job to connect you with the most dependable bus companies that cover bus service from Cancún to Tulum.

Whether it is cheap bus tickets or more luxurious buses going to Tulum from Cancún, we help you find what you're looking for based on how much of a budget you have.

Information on this bus route

Where are the popular bus stations and stops in cancún and tulum.

Unnamed Road, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Av. López Portillo 58, 94, 77515 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

Av. Kabah 401, SM 248, 77516 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

ADO Terraviva, Av Tulum Acanceh Plaza Terraviva, 11, 77504 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

Ado Emprendedor, 2 Mz 08, Av. López Portillo, 59, 77515 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

ADO Bus Terminal - Tulum Ruins, 77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Carr. Cancún - Tulum

Frequently asked questions for your trip Cancún - Tulum

How can i travel from cancún to tulum without a car.

The bus is the best choice to get to Tulum without a car. The bus provides a cost-effective, safe, and easy way to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, you can also use carpooling services.

How long does it take to get to Tulum from Cancún by bus?

On average, the trip from Cancún to Tulum takes around 2h 40m, but the quickest bus can get you there in about 2h 10m. This is the time it takes to travel the 80 miles (129 km) that separate the two cities.

What is the travel distance from Cancún to Tulum?

The distance separating Cancún and Tulum is 80 miles (129 km).

What is the number of daily buses traveling from Cancún to Tulum?

You can choose from 48 travel times and travel with ADO and AU. Depending on the day of the week, the number of buses available from Cancún to Tulum may vary. Simplify your trip from Cancún to Tulum by checking the schedules and selecting the bus that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

What are the departure times for the first and last bus traveling from Cancún to Tulum?

The bus service operates between 6:10 AM and 11:00 PM.

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Cancún to Tulum?

The majority of buses traveling from Cancún to Tulum start their journey at Cancun Airport and wind up at ADO Bus Terminal - Tulum Ruins. These are the main departure and arrival locations on this route, but you can also find other options that could better fit your plans.

What is the most cost-effective way to travel from Cancún to Tulum?

If you want the cheapest way to travel this route, take the bus. The lowest tickets for this trip cost as little as $15.

How much are the bus tickets from Cancún to Tulum?

You can expect to pay around $19 for a bus ticket. In the past 30 days, prices have fluctuated between $15 and $31, so it's best to compare them to make sure you get the best deal.

Is it possible to take a day trip from Cancún to Tulum?

Yes, it's possible to take a day trip from Cancún to Tulum! The round-trip travel time is around 4h 20m. This allows for plenty of time to explore the sights in Tulum before returning to Cancún in the evening.

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Cancún to Tulum, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $14 to $26 for a bus ticket from Cancún to Tulum based on the last 1 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $14 which is on 2024-05-13.

Usually RIVIERA will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.

About Bus Travel

Bus travel tips.

Make friends with the driver. They usually know a lot about your destination and may even recommend which side of the bus to sit on to get the best views on the road between Cancún and Tulum!

From miles long of beauteous natural landscapes to impressive man-crafted sights, you're bound to be in for a visual treat on your bus trip from Cancún to Tulum.

Buses are energy-efficient. Carrying a passenger over 100 kms by coach only takes 0.6-0.9 liters of gas. Compare that to the 2.6 liters required by high-speed train, 6.6 liters by airplane and 7.6 liters by gas-powered car, and it's clear that the bus is a more environmentally-conscious option for your bus transportation from Cancún to Tulum.

Create your own real life musical score by curating a personalized bus travel playlist - the perfect accompaniment to your bus ride from Cancún to Tulum.

Did you know?

It takes 27 hours to go by bus from Lima to Cusco, one of the craziest bus trips on the world. This route is used daily by locals and backpackers.

Did you know some bus companies in Germany offer to their passenger low-costs snacks and regional beer based on their destination? Prosit!

The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!

Will you be returning to Cancún by bus?

Top traveled bus routes.

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud makes bus travel easy. We help travelers find a bus, plot routes, and book intercity bus tickets all over the world. With Busbud, wherever you go, you have a worldwide bus station within reach and available in your own language and currency. Busbud partners with safe and reliable bus companies throughout the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others so you can buy tickets without a worry.

Popular Buses Connecting Cancún

Buses leaving from cancún.

• Bus from Cancún to Veracruz
• Bus Cancún - Mexico
• Cancún - Palenque
• Bus from Cancún to Chetumal
• Bus Cancún - Tuxtla Gutiérrez
• Cancún - Campeche
• Bus from Cancún to Xcaret
• Bus Cancún - Oaxaca
• Cancún - Tijuana
• Bus from Cancún to San Cristóbal de las Casas
• Bus Cancún - Mahahual
• Cancún - Villahermosa
• Bus from Cancún to Puerto Morelos
• Bus Cancún - Puerto Escondido
• Cancún - Tizimín

Buses Going to Cancún

• Bus from Villahermosa to Cancún
• Bus Mahahual - Cancún
• Paraíso - Cancún
• Bus from Mexico to Cancún
• Bus Chichén-Itzá - Cancún
• Valladolid - Cancún
• Bus from Oaxaca to Cancún
• Bus Palenque - Cancún
• Campeche - Cancún
• Bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Cancún
• Bus Tapachula - Cancún
• Tijuana - Cancún
• Bus from Guadalajara to Cancún
• Bus Puerto Morelos - Cancún
• Puebla - Cancún

Popular Buses Connecting Tulum

Buses leaving from tulum.

• Bus from Tulum to Chichén-Itzá
• Bus Tulum - Mérida
• Tulum - Chetumal
• Bus from Tulum to Valladolid
• Bus Tulum - Chiquilá
• Tulum - Palenque
• Bus from Tulum to Coba
• Bus Tulum - Mahahual
• Tulum - Mexico
• Bus from Tulum to Oaxaca
• Bus Tulum - San Cristóbal de las Casas
• Tulum - Pisté
• Bus from Tulum to Comitán
• Bus Tulum - Puerto Morelos
• Tulum - Campeche

Buses Going to Tulum

• Bus from Mexico to Tulum
• Bus Mérida - Tulum
• Valladolid - Tulum
• Bus from Chetumal to Tulum
• Bus Chichén-Itzá - Tulum
• Chiquilá - Tulum
• Bus from Mahahual to Tulum
• Bus Palenque - Tulum
• Xcaret - Tulum
• Bus from Coba to Tulum
• Bus Oaxaca - Tulum
• San Cristóbal de las Casas - Tulum
• Bus from Campeche to Tulum
• Bus Puerto Morelos - Tulum
• Puerto Escondido - Tulum

Popular routes in this country

• Bus from Cancún to Chiquilá
• Bus Puerto Escondido - Oaxaca
• Chetumal - Cancún
• Bus from Tulum to Bacalar
• Bus Tulum - Playa del Carmen
• Chiquilá - Cancún
• Bus from Cancún to Valladolid
• Bus Puebla - Oaxaca
• Cancún - Bacalar
• Bus from Oaxaca to San Cristóbal de las Casas
• Bus Cancún - Chichén-Itzá
• Bacalar - Cancún
• Bus from Puebla to Mexico
• Bus Bacalar - Tulum
• Mexico - San Miguel de Allende

Popular airport transfers

• Cancún to Cancun Airport

Popular international trips

• Bus from Orlando to Miami
• Bus Miami - Orlando
• São Paulo - Rio de Janeiro
• Bus from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo
• Bus New York - Washington

Interested in more? Receive travel deals, trip reminders and other updates by email!

Driving Cancun to Tulum: Important Info + Safety Tips (2024)

Planning on driving from Cancun to Tulum? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve taken the road from Cancun to Tulum countless times.

As long as you know what to expect, driving from Cancun to Tulum is pretty easy! You’ll just want to be aware of a few things before you hit the road.

In this post, I’m sharing all the important information for driving Cancun to Tulum including the distance, duration, road conditions, and best transportation options–with or without a car.

I’ll also give some helpful travel tips for a safe and hassle-free ride.

Planning a trip to Mexico? Use my favorite travel resources!

🏨 Hotels: Expedia or Booking.com ✈️ Flights: Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Cars: Discover Cars 🤿 Tours & Activities: Viator 🚨 Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance Master

Important Info for Driving from Cancun to Tulum

Here’s the key information you need to know before driving from Cancun to Tulum:

Driving Cancun to Tulum: Distance

The distance from Cancun to Tulum is about 82 miles (131 kilometers). The drive is very easy to navigate and is a straight shot down the main highway 307 (Carretera Federal).

The distance from Cancun Airport to Tulum is slightly less at about 73 miles (118 kilometers) and you’ll get to avoid any traffic congestion around downtown Cancun.

Driving Cancun to Tulum: Travel Time

The drive from downtown Cancun to Tulum takes approximately 2 hours . The Cancun Airport to Tulum drive time takes slightly less time at approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

However, this can sometimes take longer if you run into any traffic or road construction delays.

Driving Cancun to Tulum: Road Conditions

The road conditions to travel from Cancun to Tulum are generally good on the main highway 307–it is a developed two-lane highway for most of the way.

There are some speed bumps and traffic checkpoints along the way you’ll want to be mindful of.

And you might run into some traffic and slowdowns around the stop lights near Playa del Carmen.

In addition, the construction of the Maya Train along the highway can also cause traffic delays and occasional lane shifts.

🌴 Don’t expect a scenic coastal drive–you will mainly just see a lot of Mayan jungle!

Driving Cancun to Tulum: Traffic Checkpoints

There are a few different police checkpoints between Cancun and Tulum–both in between Cancun and Playa del Carmen and in between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

These are small police stands situated in the middle of the highway and most of the time you will just have to slow down and pass through them at a reduced speed.

As long as the police don’t suspect any illegal activity, they shouldn’t bother you and you’ll be on your way quickly.

✈️ Related Reading: How to Fly to Tulum: Closest Airport + Transport Options

Is it Safe to Drive from Cancun to Tulum?

Driving to Tulum from Cancun is safe and the drive is relatively easy on a well-developed main highway. But you’ll still want to take precautions for a safe ride.

Be sure to drive carefully, follow the speed limit, and be cautious around traffic checkpoints.

As long as you are not doing anything illegal, the police most likely wave you through quickly and easily.

Is it Safe to Drive from Cancun to Tulum at Night?

As in any foreign destination, it’s best to avoid driving at night if you’re not familiar with the area. With limited visibility, it can be more challenging to navigate.

And there are more inherent safety risks when driving at night. While the Cancun to Tulum highway is pretty well-lit, I recommend avoiding driving at night in Mexico altogether if possible.

How to Get From Cancun to Tulum: Best Transportation Options

These are the best transportation options for getting to Tulum from Cancun (with or without a car) whether you’re coming from Cancun International Airport or downtown Cancun.

🚙 It’s important to know that Uber at the Cancun Airport (and the entire Riviera Maya region) is not available so you’ll need to choose one of these options below!

1. Rent a Car to Drive from Cancun to Tulum

If you plan to rent a car to drive from Cancun to Tulum, cars can be rented from the Cancun Airport or downtown Cancun.

If you are renting directly from the Cancun Airport, you should be very cautious with the Cancun airport car rental companies.

Mainly because there are a lot of horror stories about Cancun Airport car rentals including long wait times, not getting the car you booked, hidden fees, and extreme upcharges for insurance.

If you decide to rent a car directly from the airport, do your research and book online in advance. You can expect prices to be around $40 USD per day for a sedan.

I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

Just be sure to read the fine print and check reviews carefully as rental car scams are unfortunately common in Mexico and much more prevalent at the Cancun Airport.

And when renting a car, you’ll have the freedom to go at your own pace and explore some more off-the-beaten-path destinations and Mayan Ruins in the state of Quintana Roo.

2. Take Private Transportation from Cancun to Tulum

Private transportation is also available to go from the Cancun Airport to Tulum and is the best way to go!

This is the quickest, most hassle-free, and easiest option for getting to Tulum from the Cancun Airport.

After a long flight, it’s the most convenient way to go and definitely a nice treat to be picked up and get to your hotel or resort as quickly as possible with door-to-door service!

I recommend booking with Cancun Airport Transportation , which is a trusted company that provides reliable Cancun airport transfers with convenient online booking options and friendly private drivers.

Pricing options for Cancun to Tulum private car transportation are as follows:

• Private Van (up to 3 pax): $175 USD one way or $295 round trip
• Luxury SUV (up to 6 pax): $345 USD one way or $585 round trip
• Group Shuttle (up to 16 pax): $345 USD one way or $585 round trip
• Premium Service (up to 5 pax): $604 USD one way or $1,025 round trip

3. Take a Taxi from Cancun to Tulum

Taxis are readily available in Cancun and can be a good option to take to Tulum from downtown Cancun or from the Cancun Hotel Zone .

I would not recommend taking a taxi service from the Cancun Airport because they are extremely overpriced and a hassle to arrange.

Only official airport taxis are allowed at the Cancun Airport, which lets taxi drivers get away with charging outrageous fares.

It’s much easier and safer to take a taxi to Tulum from downtown Cancun or from the Hotel Zone. But be prepared–it will still be expensive!

You can expect the taxi cost from downtown Cancun to Tulum to be about $2,000 pesos (~$100 USD) or more each way. And you cannot pay for taxis with a credit card so be sure to have enough cash on hand.

4. Take a Shared Shuttle from Cancun to Tulum

Another more economical option for getting to Tulum from the Cancun Airport is to take a shared airport shuttle .

Cancun Airport to Tulum shared shuttles run frequently from the airport and typically hold up to 15 passengers.

Each passenger will then get dropped off at their hotel or resort along the route to Tulum.

While this is a cheaper option, the downside is that it can often take a long time to get to your resort with so many stops along the way.

The normal 2-hour ride can often turn into 3+ hours depending on how many people there are to drop off.

Rates are around $100 USD each way for a solo traveler or $120 USD each way for couples.

It’s a cheaper option than a private transfer but it’s more inconvenient and they don’t have the best reviews.

5. Take the ADO Bus from Cancun to Tulum

The ADO bus is a comfortable, charter-style bus that can be taken to Tulum from the Cancun Airport OR from the ADO bus station in downtown Cancun .

ADO Bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum

The ADO Airport Bus is the cheapest option to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum.

At only $420 pesos (~$50 USD) each way, the ADO bus is safe, comfortable, and the best option for budget travelers.

The charter-style ADO bus is very large and comfortable with air conditioning, restrooms, and televisions onboard.

The travel time from the Cancun Airport to Tulum is about 2 hours and 40 minutes, with some buses stopping in Playa del Carmen.

ADO tickets can be purchased directly at the ADO ticket counter at the airport. It’s best not to purchase tickets ahead of time as it can be very hard to predict what time you’ll actually be exiting the airport after going through Customs and retrieving your luggage.

You can easily purchase your bus tickets at the ADO counter and hop on the next departing bus. The final destination is the ADO bus station in the Tulum town center.

ADO Bus from Downtown Cancun to Tulum

ADO buses can also be taken to Tulum from the ADO station in downtown Cancun.

The trip takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, with some buses stopping at the Tulum Ruins archaeological site .

The cost is around $242 pesos (~$14 USD) each way and there are departures roughly every hour.

ADO tickets can be purchased on the ADO website (Spanish only) or on Busbud (English).

The Cancun to Tulum bus is an affordable and comfortable way to travel between Cancun and Tulum and a great option if you don’t have a car.

6. Take a Colectivo from Cancun to Tulum

The cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum is to take a colectivo, which is a shared public transportation van service that runs continuously along the main highway 307.

Note colectivos cannot be taken from the Cancun Airport so this is only an option if you’re coming from downtown Cancun.

When traveling from Cancun to Tulum by colectivo, you’ll need to first take a colectivo from Cancun to Playa del Carmen and then transfer to another colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum .

Colectivos can be picked up at the main ADO station in downtown Cancun and you can either get on a regular colectivo OR the Playa Express .

Both are going to the same place but the Playa Express buses are larger and more comfortable.

Colectivos do not have specific bus stops along the way but rather pick people up off the side of the highway and drop them off upon request.

The cost to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen is around $50 pesos (~$2.50 USD) and can be paid upon exiting. You’ll want to have small bills on hand as most drivers will not have much change.

Once you get to Playa del Carmen, the colectivos to Tulum are near the same station and you’ll follow the same process and the price is the same.

They will drop you off in downtown Tulum, where you can take a taxi or walk to your final destination.

🚐 Related Reading: How to Get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum

Tips for Driving from Cancun to Tulum

Follow these important safety tips when driving to Tulum from Cancun for a hassle-free ride:

• Drive carefully and respect the speed limit: There can be a lot of traffic on the Cancun to Tulum drive, so make sure to drive carefully and obey the speed limit. The last thing you want is to get pulled over in a foreign country.
• Watch out for speed bumps: Mexico is known for its speed bumps (“topes” in Spanish) and they can definitely sneak up on you! Be on the lookout for the “Topes” sign and reduce speed as you approach them.
• Be mindful of merging traffic : There are a few points on the highway (mainly around Playa del Carmen) where there aren’t really any dedicated merging lanes for oncoming traffic. This means there will often be a lineup of traffic on the ramps waiting to merge onto the highway. Be aware of this and yield to merging traffic.
• Be cautious around checkpoints: There are a few different police checkpoints on the way from Cancun to Tulum. Most of the time you will just have to slow down and pass through them at a reduced speed. However, if the police suspect anything suspicious, they may stop your vehicle and perform a search. Be sure to follow any directions from the police officers.
• Wear a seatbelt: Anytime you are driving in Mexico, be sure to wear a seatbelt. The drivers in Mexico are a little unpredictable and it’s not uncommon for accidents to happen. In fact, when my Dad came to visit me in Playa del Carmen, he broke his hand in a taxi accident while not wearing a seatbelt. Be sure to buckle up for the entire Cancun to Tulum distance!
• Don’t get confused by the highway signs: Along the route, you’ll often see official road signs for Riviera Maya hotels , towns, and attractions like the Xcaret parks . This can be deceiving because it seems like these places are coming up but in reality they are MUCH further down the main road. It’s best to stick to Google Maps or GPS navigation to get to your destination.
• Avoid driving at night : If possible, avoid driving at night. There are more inherent risks at night and the lack of visibility can be dangerous if you’re not familiar with the area.

🚨 Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here !

Driving from Cancun to Tulum: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about driving Cancun Tulum:

The Cancun to Tulum drive time is approximately 2 hours. However, this driving time can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.

Cancun is approximately 120 minutes away from Tulum.

Tulum is generally a safe place to drive as long as you follow proper precautions. When driving in Tulum, be sure to drive carefully, follow the speed limit, watch out for speed bumps, and be cautious around traffic checkpoints. And while getting around Tulum , you’ll also want to be careful when driving along the Tulum beach road as it can get congested with vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

Renting a car to drive from Cancun to Tulum will cost around $40 USD per day. Alternatively, private transportation can be arranged from the Cancun Airport to Tulum for around $175 USD each way.

A shared shuttle from Cancun to Tulum is around $120 USD (2 pax) with dropoff at your hotel. Alternatively, the ADO Airport bus costs $420 pesos ($25 USD) per person with a dropoff in downtown Tulum.

Conclusion: Driving Cancun to Tulum Guide

I hope this driving guide was helpful in planning your trip from Cancun to Tulum! It’s really an easy drive as long as you know what to lookout for.

Remember to drive carefully, respect the speed limit, be cautious around the traffic checkpoints, and avoid driving at night if possible. And don’t forget the topes!

As long as you follow the safety tips outlined in this guide, you’re sure to have an enjoyable trip.

Now that you know how to get to Tulum from Cancun, it’s time to start planning your itinerary!

• Best Day Trips from Tulum
• How to Get Around Tulum
• How to Fly to Tulum

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

How to get from anywhere in Cancun to Tulum

So, you are finally planning to travel to Tulum Mexico, how exciting! Is it because our articles convinced you to book the trip? We hope so!

Anyways, if you have just arrived at Cancun International Airport or are new to Cancun, welcome! Our guide will surely be able to help you with your transportation to Tulum . Not to worry, as someone who loves to travel in and out of Tulum from Europe, here is our guide and the best options to get to Tulum!

You have 5 travel options: ADO bus, private shuttle, taxi, Colectivo or a renting car. We will be exploring each transportation and its differences. While also recommending the best way to travel to Tulum from these major Cancun areas: Cancun International Airport, Downtown Cancun and Hotel Zone.

*For parties lovers out there* – if you don’t have much time in Tulum to explore every venue, let our friend Virginia take care of your nightlife experience: you’ll get the best tables, be on every guest lists and enjoy secret parties ! Check out how and – for free!

The Best Way To Travel To Tulum From Cancun: Your Transportation options

Firstly, it takes 2 – 3 hours to travel to Tulum with any transportation. So you would want your journey to be as comfortable, safe and hassle-free as possible. Here we will talk about your travel options in detail and weigh the pros and cons.

Price : max 18 USD / 330 pesos per person

Operating Hours : around 6am for the earliest and 11pm for the latest departure time from Cancun

Location : Website for ADO bus station

ADO bus is a large red bus that travels for long distances. They offer clean and convenient accommodations such as a large storage space for your luggage, legroom, a bathroom, AC and a charging outlet. The price varies depending on the bus station you are departing from, whether you are leaving from Cancun airport or Cancun downtown. You can purchase the ticket on their website or from their ticket booth at the bus station. We recommend you first check the schedule online and book the ticket from the website for fewer hassle. Sometimes there are fewer buses that take you straight to Tulum (if you are coming from the airport), which means a longer waiting time if you have to buy the tickets at the counter. It can happen that you might need to transit first to downtown Cancun and then purchase another ticket to get to Tulum.

First, you need to purchase the ticket either online or from the ticket booth. You will then approach the location of the bus and show your ticket. Sit according to your seating number from the ticket. At last, kick back and enjoy the ride. Important: Be aware of the departure time of the bus and whether or not you will need to transit during your travel.

Inexpensive, comfortable, convenient and safe

Few bus schedules to travel directly to Tulum, so it’s better to plan your journey first

“Incredible Hotels You'll Find In Tulum”

“Buffets Are Just Delicious”

Private Shuttle Bus

Price : around 1000 – 5000 pesos / check the web

Website : Taxi Aeropuerto Cancun

There are plenty of private shuttle service companies to choose, but we will be using Taxi Aeropuerto Cancun as a reference. In fact, they are a popular shuttle company around Cancun and receive many positive reviews from customers for their services. If you visit their website, you can select the type of vehicle you would like to travel with, compare the prices and accommodation to your liking.

Private, direct, comfortable and convenient

Can be expensive

COLECTIVO - Public Mini Shuttle Bus

Price : 5 USD / 100 pesos per person

Operating Hours :  Anytime during the day – 11:00 pm (last departure from Tulum)

Location : Av Tulum 43, 2, 77500 Cancún, Q.R. or along the 307 highway

Colectivo is the cheapest transportation to travel between cities. It is a white mini shuttle/van that can carry up to 15 people. It is also convenient and gives you less of a hassle. All you need to do is to get in the shuttle, tell the driver where you are stopping and you will pay (in pesos cash) once you reach your stop. Furthermore, the van is clean, the seats are comfortable and the environment is safe (I always have a pleasant experience with Colectivo). The most comfortable seats are the front 2 seats, located at the back of the shuttle. Because they have more legroom and are closer to the door.

You enter the shuttle and you will first stop at a Colectivo terminal in Playa Del Carmen (50 pesos). Then you will move to another shuttle (Playa Del Carmen – Tulum) and continue your journey to Centro Tulum (another 50 pesos).

economical, convenient and easy process

Cannot bring big luggages, can get crowded, need to transit at Playa Del Carmen and doesn’t stop at Cancun airport

Renting a Car

Price : Varies on the company, the type of car and the duration of your rent

Location : You can find it along the exit in the Airport at any terminal

If you decide to rent a car from Cancun, there are several things worth mentioning. Firstly, the gas prices in Quintana Roo are around 23 pesos/ 2 USD per liter for the octane 95 (visit here for the latest updates). Furthermore, you will need a license to drive and to deposit the car insurance. Lastly, I would recommend getting a SUV or an off-road car if you plan to explore the nature around Tulum , as the dirt roads can get very bumpy. If you want to rent a car once you will be in Tulum, we really recommend you BGH Rental Car which we had an incredible experience with. You can contact Virginia at this number +529842558049  and check their availability. They have really good prices, the cars are brand new and you will support a local business!

Convenient, and possible to travel whenever and wherever you want

“Fruits Is So Fresh In The Hotels Here”

“We Love How Art Is Everywhere In Riviera Maya”

PRIVATE TAXI

Price : around 150 USD / 3000 pesos

Operating Hours : 24/7

Location : By the streets, any airport terminal or you can book it through your hotel

Taking a taxi is the most expensive option on our list. For a one-way trip, they will take you to your desired destination and it will cost you around 3000 pesos / 150 USD. Furthermore, my experience has been positive, judging from their service and accommodation. You can also fit up to 4 people in one car, and It is really comfortable, clean and safe. Try to bargain for the price and make sure to go with a bigger taxi, similar to a Toyota Avanza car model.

Private, convenient, comfortable and safe

Take Advantage Of Free Concierge Service

As excellent to explore Tulum and its surroundings alone, you may need help figuring out where to start . To make the most of your money and time, contact Virginia and Kelly - two incredible Mexican girls living in Tulum for more than 15 years. They're familiar with the ins & outs of the Tulum town and hotel zone like the back of their hand! 

Since we arrived in Tulum 2 years ago, many adventures wouldn’t have been possible without their help - they know literally everybody in Tulum and can perfectly organize every moment of your stay. Get the best tables, skip queues and get on the guest list of the coolest places in Tulum - this’s only the beginning! 

They are ready to offer you guys FREE concierge service in Tulum for the time of your stay : take advantage of it, contact them on Whatsapp and live the best experience!

“Virginia Will Transform You In A Tulum Insider”

The Best Transportation from these Cancun Areas: Our Recommendations

From cancun international airport.

ADO bus is the best transportation option to get to Tulum from Cancun airport. It is affordable, convenient and comfortable. It is an amazing transportation option for the two hours of travel and you will never regret choosing it. The thing that takes the cake is how you have the ability to view their bus schedules and allow yourself to make plans. Furthermore, my experience has always been positive. They provide you with the best service and accommodation, just as we mentioned previously. Again as a reminder, check your departure time on your tickets and make sure you book your trip at the correct ADO bus station.  

Alternatively, if you prefer something more private, it is best to book a private shuttle bus service. You should definitely plan ahead of time before you arrive at Cancun airport. Furthermore, they can take you directly to your destination and it is more beneficial if you are traveling with a large group of people.

FROM Downtown Cancun

ADO bus strikes again for the best transportation option to get to Tulum from Downtown Cancun. It is the most affordable, convenient and comfortable transportation you can get. Furthermore, the bus station is easily accessible from anywhere as it is located at the center of Cancun.  

However, if you are located closer to the 307 highway than the ADO Bus station, you can take the Colectivo instead. They are able to make stops for any passengers across the highway, but there is a high chance that the mini shuttle is already full of passengers.

FROM CANCUN HOTEL ZONE

Again we still highly recommend taking the ADO bus to downtown Cancun. You can get to the bus station by taxi or take the bus that goes along the main road of the hotel zone (12 to 70 pesos / 1 to 4 USD). Afterward, you may have to walk to the bus station and be ready for your trip to Tulum !

We hope that our article helped you to compare which is the best transportation to your liking. Leave us a comment if you liked the article, and let us know how your journey to Tulum has been. We would love to hear from you!

Featured Event Tulum

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Best Cancun to Tulum Shuttle: How to Get to Tulum in 2024

Ready to book your shuttle from cancun to Tulum?

You’re in the right place because this article will explain everything you need to know about booking the Cancun to Tulum shuttle. After your shuttle from Cancun Airport to Tulum is handled, you can get back to planning the fun stuff.

While there are a few options, we always recommend booking your shuttle with Cancun Airport Transportation . This is the highest-rated company around, with a crew of safe, bilingual drivers, and a fleet of well-maintained vehicles that all have AC 🙌

With numerous TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence, and a 4.7 out of 5 Star rating, Cancun Airport Transportation is the best shuttle available .

There’s no Tulum Airport, so the closest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). You’ll first fly there, then make your way two hours south to Tulum. As someone who’s done this trip — I can’t suggest the shuttle enough.

With your Cancun private shuttle, the driver will meet you curbside, and take you straight to your hotel in Tulum. It is by far the easiest, fastest, most stress-free and hassle-free way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum, with door to door service.

Ready to discover everything else you need to know about the Cancun Airport shuttle? Let’s dive in — or, save yourself the time and just book your private shuttle from Cancun to Tulum now . (Trust us on this — they’re the best 😎)

Best Cancun to Tulum Shuttle

My answer to How do I get from Cancun to Tulum? is always “ book this private shuttle with Cancun Airport Transportation .” (You can book here .)

They offer everything from private shuttles and luxury private shuttles , to the ultra-lux limousine service (with limo cars and limo SUVs available) and even these wheelchair accessible vans .

You’ll even save some money 🤑 by booking the round trip service — then all that’s left is to kick back and relax, because your Tulum to Cancun Airport shuttle is handled!

Best Cancun to Tulum Shuttle Reviews

I always recommend Cancun Airport Transportation Services , which has an impressive 4.5 out of 5 Star rating and 5,400+ reviews on TripAdvisor. It is the highest-rated and best private transfer Cancun to Tulum service available.

❓ Where is the pick-up & Drop-off?

The private shuttle is very convenient because it offers door-to-door service.

You’ll be picked up curbside at airport arrivals Cancun, taken to your hotel in Tulum. When it’s time to leave Tulum, you’ll be picked up at your hotel and dropped off at airport departures Cancun.

⏳ How long is the shuttle from Cancun to Tulum?

About 2 hours — In normal traffic, you can expect to be at your Tulum resort within 1.5-2 hours of the time you leave the Cancun International Airport.

🏆 Cancun Airport Transportation Reviews

Cars are super nice. Driving was great. Totally worth it. Flawless pickup and drop off. (Kory R.)

For the price, this company can’t be beat! …I will be using this company for all hotel transports in that area moving forward. (Dustin J.)

We will use again. Great vehicle. Great driver. Would recommend this service. Just exit the airport doors and look for someone holding a sign. (Sean C.)

Awesome guys, easy to reschedule if you need to. (Zslot)

CANCUN TO TULUM SHUTTLE SERVICE

How much is the cancun to tulum private shuttle.

In our post-2020 world, a private service makes more sense than ever.

Nowadays, many travelers want to avoid being in a shared shuttle or public bus with 5-30 other passengers, so a private service gives you peace of mind, and convenience .

As always, convenience comes with a price — but it’s not as steep as you might think. For 1-8 passengers, it’s $310 round trip (if you book round-trip with the discount ), and $160 one way.

This is the total price you’d be splitting between all people, so for couples and groups, a private shuttle from Cancun to Tulum really is the way to go.

If you are traveling in a couple or small group, it’s actually one of the most economical options.

Whether you’re in a group, a couple , or just want private transport from Cancun to Tulum for health and safety, keep reading — as you’ll soon discover six reasons why the private shuttle is your best option .

Cancun to Tulum Shuttle Service

How much is the cancun to tulum luxury shuttle.

Need comfort, privacy and style service for your drive to Tulum? Book your Cancun to Tulum luxury shuttle now and get back to planning the fun parts of your Tulum trip.

• One Way: $300 USD
• Round Trip: $585 USD — Save $15 booking round-trip
• Book your private Cancun to Tulum shuttle now !

With this premium service, you’ll travel to Tulum in a large, luxury SUV (Suburban, Expedition, or equivalent model). You can reserve VIP service for 1-6 people per SUV.

💎 Note: They also have this ultra-exclusive Premium Shuttle Service if you want a Cadillac Escalade (or similar). It is $525 one way, and $1030 round trip — Save $20 booking round trip.

The service also includes a Meet & Greet at the airport, a bilingual driver, and private service from the airport terminal to your hotel in Tulum . There are no extra stops (unless you request them), no extra charges — and best of all, no extra worries.

In short, this exclusive service goes beyond what the basic Cancun to Tulum transportation shuttle provides.

The company knows VIP clients demand quality and exclusivity, so they make the extra effort to meet higher expectations with posh amenities on every ride.

Cancun to Tulum Shuttle: Why It’s the Best Way to Get to Tulum from Cancun

Still unsure if the private shuttle is for you? Below, you’ll find six reasons why we always recommend them to Tulum visitors.

The #1 reason is time, and if you only have a few days on your Tulum itinerary , the private shuttle is absolutely the way to go.

1. Fastest way to get from Cancun to Tulum

As time is always the most precious commodity while on vacation — and no one seems to have enough of it — you may want to spend a bit more money, as long as you’re saving a good chunk of time. With the private shuttle Cancun service, you will!

Shared shuttles will often make stops at the other three terminals in Cancun Airport to pick up other passengers. They then do drop-offs all along the route to Tulum, in places like Puerto Morelos , Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen .

In short, with your private shuttle, getting from Cancun to Tulum is usually a 1.5 hour trip. When going by shared shuttle, plan for at least 2.5 to 3 hours.

A Cancun rental car will also take about 1.5 hours for the drive, but remember that it takes about an hour to actually get the rental car because of the paperwork. In short: The private shuttle is the fastest way to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport.

2. Bilingual driver s

With a Cancun Airport Transportation private shuttle , you’re guaranteed an English-speaking driver from Cancun to Tulum.

For those who aren’t confident in their Spanish, having a bilingual guide who will guide you through the airport is a nice perk — especially after a long day of traveling .

3. Door to Door Service

With the private shuttle, your driver will meet you with a greeter sign in the Arrivals area in the Cancun Airport. They will walk you and your luggage outside to the car or SUV, and drive you straight to your Tulum accommodation .

Keep in mind that if you take a shared shuttle or the bus, you’ll then have to use a taxi service to get to your Tulum hotel. Depending on where you’re staying, plan for $100-300 MXN pesos ($5-15 USD).

🚫 Note: There’s no Uber in Tulum or Cancun, and there’s no Lyft in Tulum or Cancun either.

4. Leave on your schedule

When it’s your private shuttle , you set the departure time because everything revolves around your schedule. 😁 Yes, please!

Imagine getting to Cancun Airport after your flight, going through the Customs line, getting your luggage, and then having to wait another two hours to even get on the bus to Tulum — which will take another two hours to drive to Tulum 🤬 Yeah, no.

5. It doesn’t matter if your flight’s late

If your flight arrives late, or if you have any issues clearing Customs, or if there’s any delay or issues with your luggage (we’ve all been there), your private shuttle will still be available for you

With a shared shuttle, you’d have to be rebooked, and with the bus, you’d have to buy a new ticket.

⚠️ Note: While Cancun Airport Transportation does include flight monitoring, you’ll also want to let them know if your flight’s delayed. You can call 1-855-577-9836 toll free, call +52-1-998-980 3458 from Cancun, or send a message via Whatsapp to +52-1-980-3458.

6. Nice Cars, SUVs, Vans & Limos

Cancun Airport Transportation guarantees you’re in a new, insured and comfortable vehicle that has air conditioning.

While many shared shuttles from Cancun to Tulum do have AC, it’s not always a guarantee. On a two-hours drive in the tropics after your long flight, it’s never a good start to your trip when you end up in one of the non-air condoned Tulum Cancun Airport shuttles!

💎 Luxury Tulum Shuttle

Want a luxury car service for Tulum? You have options to book SUV transportation in a Yukon, Suburban or Expedition (or a similar large SUV from another car company).

💎 Cancun to Tulum Limo

Looking for Cancun limo service to Tulum? You can also book a limo from Cancun to Tulum with Cancun Airport Transportation, the company recommended throughout this article.

Need a large SUV limo? They have those too, and you can book yours here .

♿️ Accessible Tulum Shuttle

Cancun Airport Transportation has vans with a wheelchair ramp that can accommodate 1-2 wheelchairs, and up to three additional passengers.

Book your Cancun to Tulum private transport

Cancun airport to tulum shuttle: faq & travel guide.

Where is Tulum located?

Tulum is a famous Mexican beach town located right on the Caribbean Sea. It is in Quintana Roo state, which is part of the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico.

How far is Cancun from Tulum?

The distance from Cancun to Tulum is about 80 miles (129 km) , and the drive takes about 1.5-2 hours in normal traffic.

Though there’s an airport for Tulum, many still choose to fly to Cancun, then head to Tulum because the Cancun Airport offers more direct flights.

Cancun isn’t a huge city, but it isn’t small either, so here’s what you can expect when traveling to Tulum from different areas in Cancun Mexico:

• Cancun Airport to Tulum Distance : The distance is 73 miles (118 km), and about 1.5 hours of drive time. 
• Downtown Cancun to Tulum Distance: The distance is 81 miles (131 km), which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• Cancun Hotel Zone to Tulum Distance : The distance from the Zona Hotelera on Cancun Beach to Tulum is 85 miles (137 km), and about 2 hours of drive time. 

Is there a Tulum Airport?

Yes — Officially called Aeropuerto Internacional de Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto, the Tulum International Airport (code: TQO), opened to international flights in 2024.

Where is the new Tulum Airport?

The Tulum Airport is located in the Felipe Carrillo Puerto Municipality of Quintana Roo state.

Distance-wise, the Tulum Airport to Downtown Tulum is about 25 miles (40 km). The drive takes about a 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. To get to Tulum Beach from Tulum Airport, it takes a bit longer.

This state-of-the art airport has unique features like a regular terminal for all travelers, and luxury terminal for visitors arriving by private plane.

Though the Tulum Airport is now open, you used to have to use Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), and some travelers still fly into Cancun Airport if it makes more sense for them. ▶︎ Book your flights to Cancun here .

Is there a Cancun to Tulum flight?

Only by private plane — The airport in Tulum Mexico is less than 100 miles (125 km) from the airport in Cancun, so there aren’t any commercial flights.

🚁 Cancun to Tulum helicopter

There is a Cancun to Tulum helicopter transfer service, but it’s pretty steep at $2,250 USD one way for four people.

The flight is short, at just 50 minutes, and you do get some nice views along the Caribbean Sea.

Keep in mind there are also luggage weight restrictions, so isn’t the most practical Cancun Tulum route for many travelers. If you’d like to book a helicopter tour, there’s Cancun Helicopter .

⚠️ Note: I have never used this company, but I wanted to list them so readers know all their Cancun to Tulum travel options.

Are there accessible Tulum shuttles?

Yes — Cancun Airport Transportation has vans with a wheelchair ramp . They are equipped for easy access and accommodate a variety of wheelchair styles, including manual chairs, electric chairs or scooters.

The anchorage system of the wheelchair to the van can carry passengers safely, either in the comfort of your own chair or if you prefer, our experienced staff will help you move to one of the seats of the van.

The well-cared-for  Accessible Transportation   Vehicles can take one person in a wheelchair, plus five companions. Upon request, you can book a van that accommodates two people in wheelchairs, and up to three companions.

Is there a Cancun to Tulum shared shuttle?

Yes — This is the best shared shuttle from Cancun to Tulum , as it has the highest rating. Prices can fluctuate, but the shared shuttle to Tulum is about $75 USD for round-trip tickets.

For those doing solo travel in Mexico , backpacking or visiting Tulum on a budget , the shared shuttle is more economical than the private shuttle. It does take 1-1.5 hours longer than the private shuttle, so keep that in mind.

The shared airport shuttle from Cancun to Tulum carries up to 12 passengers. Most shuttles from larger companies, like Happy Shuttle Tulum and eTransfers Tulum, will be a Nissan Urvan, Toyota Hiace, or a similar style van.

With all seats full, the Cancun to Tulum shuttle time trip can be up to four hours, though it’s usually closer to 2.5 or 3 hours. In the private shuttle , it’s just 1.5 hours.

Prefer the private shuttle from Cancun Airport to Tulum after all?

While it does cost about $135 USD more at $210 for round-trip tickets, it’s also a lot more convenient to book the shuttle service from Cancun to Tulum.

🤔 Tulum Private Shuttle vs Shared Shuttle: Which is better?

With the shared shuttle, you’ll have to pick up passengers in all four airport terminals. You’ll also make several off-highway stops along the way to other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen , Riviera Maya, Playa Maroma Beach and more.

⚠️ Note: If you’re arriving on the weekend or during the busy season in Tulum ( December to March ), expect a full shuttle.

Unless you’re a solo traveler, or on a very strict budget, this private shuttle is the best option. Not only do you get door to door service in less than half the time, it’s also often cheaper because you’re splitting it with a group.

For up to three passengers, the private shuttle is $310 round trip — so $155 when split by two, and just $103 split three ways. The shared shuttle is about $75 round trip per person , so private is usually the best way to go for cost and convenience.

How much is a private shuttle from Cancun to Tulum?

Cancun Airport Transportation, the highest-rated and best Cancun to Tulum shuttle, is $160 USD for 1-8 passengers, one-way. You can SAVE $10 by booking the round-trip shuttle , which is $310 USD.

🚐 Traveling to other places in Yucatan?

Cancun Airport Transportation has private shuttles and luxury shuttles to places all over the Yucatan Peninsula — including all the top Mexico travel destinations like Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Riviera Maya, Cozumel Island and Isla Holbox Island .

Thy also have shuttles to Bacalar Lake, Merida, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Playa Maroma (one of USA Today’s Best Beaches in the World), Akumal, Valladolid, Isla Mujeres, Mahahual (Costa Maya) and more.

How much do you tip a shuttle from Cancun to Tulum?

Standard tipping rates in Mexico are usually 15% for a professional service, like the Tulum shuttle. Of course, more is welcome if your driver goes above and beyond.

How do I contact Cancun Airport Transportation?

Here are your options: 1) You can message them online when you head to their website , 2) You can call them toll free at 855-577-9836, or call them at +52-1-998-980-3458 from Cancun, and/or 3) message them on Whatsapp 52-1-980-3458.

Is there Uber in Cancun?

Yes (kind of) — Uber is legal in Cancun but many travelers opt not to use it because there are sometimes clashes between Cancun Uber drivers and Cancun taxi drivers.

Besides these incidents , many Uber drivers won’t want to take you to Tulum because it’s a long drive. Round-trip, the Cancun to Tulum drive is about four hours.

That’s not to say you can’t try to get an Uber to Tulum from Cancun, only that you might not. Personally, I know people who have tried, but not who have been successful at it.

🤔 Can I take Uber from Cancun to Tulum?

While there is Uber in Cancun, you can’t get Uber at Cancun Airport — as it is illegal for Uber drivers to enter the Cancun Airport. To get an Uber, you have to fully exit the airport, then call Uber from the main street.

There is no Uber in Tulum, so you can’t take an Uber from Tulum to Cancun Airport. You can take a taxi from Tulum to Cancun Airport, and they will drop you off curbside in the Cancun Airport departures area.

Is there Uber in Tulum?

No — There’s no Tulum Uber service , no Lyft in Tulum, and no Tulum ride-share options of any kind.

However, there are plenty of cabs in Tulum, so don’t worry! Once in Tulum, you can get around by taxi, renting a bike, renting a moped, or driving your rental car .

How much does it cost to get from Cancun to Tulum by taxi?

It depends — While there are standard rates, many tourists don’t know them, and taxi drivers take advantage of that. For safety, convenience, and fair pricing, opt for this Cancun to Tulum shuttle .

🚕 How expensive is a taxi from Cancun to Tulum?

The short answer is A LOT! It can be up to $200+ USD one way, depending on your luck — or your un-luck. The going rate is closer to $125-150 one way, but that’s only if the taxi driver doesn’t up-charge you with a “tourist tax.”

In truth, a Cancun to Tulum taxi is your worst option . You should only even consider this in an emergency when you have no other options. Here’s two reasons why:

Normal taxis are not allowed inside Cancun Airport; only sanctioned airport taxis. Cancun Airport cabs have to pay a special tax to be able to enter, and that fee is passed down to you.

Beyond this fee, sadly, scamming travelers isn’t uncommon with taxis in Mexico (or anywhere really). Below, you’ll find what you need to be aware of if you’re planning to take a taxi from Cancun Airport to Tulum Mexico.

Once you walk outside of the airport, and even as you’re approaching the exit, you’ll start to be approached by the Cancun Airport taxi services.

Depending on how they judge your appearance (ie. how well you’re dressed, if you look like it’s your first time in Mexico, etc.), they’ll quote you that price. For this reason, you may get a price of up to $125 USD one-way, which is more than booking this private transfer .

However, if it’s nighttime or they don’t think you know any better, it’s just the price they will quote you. They are hoping you don’t know better — But now you do!

My advice? Save yourself the hassle and haggle and book this Cancun to Tulum private shuttle now. With this, at least you know the Cancun to Tulum shuttle cost up-front, and won’t receive any pricey surprises in Cancun.

They will meet you right outside the Cancun Airport, walk you and your luggage to the van, SUV or limo, pack your stuff up, and drive you straight to your Tulum accommodation . All you have to do is kick back, relax and enjoy the ride!

What’s the best place to stay in Tulum?

While “best” is a relative term, most travelers will find that the best place to stay is one of these hotels on Tulum Beach .

However, you really can’t go wrong anywhere in Tulum, as it’s such a small town.

At only about five miles from one end to the other, Tulum basically consists of these three Tulum neighborhoods: Downtown Tulum (AKA Tulum Town or Tulum Pueblo), Aldea Zama and Tulum Beach .

Below, you’ll find info on each — or you can use the guides below to book your hotel in Tulum.

• 23 Best Resorts in Tulum Mexico
• 10 Best All Inclusive Resorts in Tulum
• Tulum Beach House Rentals : 10 Best Beachfront Tulum Villas
• Tulum Glamping : 11 Boho Glampsites & Tulum Treehouse Hotels
• 11 Best Cheap Hotels in Tulum Mexico

🏝️ Tulum Beach

Instagram worthy Tulum Beach is the Tulum you’ve seen in IG photos, YouTube videos and viral TikToks. This area is also known as the Tulum Hotel Zone, as it’s where you find all the best Tulum hotels.

Here, you’ll find all the beautiful beach resorts and all-inclusive resorts (like Dreams Tulum Resort ), large-scale art installations, high end restaurants, cool bars, all the best Tulum photo spots and more.

It’s also the most expensive part of Tulum — though you can find some relatively inexpensive hotels on Tulum Beach, like Casa Ganesh by Ahau Collection and Coco Tulum .

☀️ Tulum Town: AKA DOWNTOWN TULUM or Tulum Pueblo

Traveling to  Tulum on a budget ? Then Tulum Town (downtown) is the place to stay, as you’ll find all of the best cheap hotels in Tulum here.

This is a lively area with great  cheap eats , cute shops and a unique charm. While it’s not among the Instagrammable Tulum spots you’ve seen, it has a more down to earth feel, and many locals live there.

☀️ Aldea Zama Tulum

When friends, family and  followers  ask me where to stay in Tulum, I always suggest Aldea Zama.

It has a great central location between the beach and downtown, and a lot of newer construction buildings, with modern amenities — like high speed WiFi and AC — not always available on the beach.

Is Tulum safe right now?

For the majority of travelers, Tulum is safe. If you want to do a deep dive into this topic, head to Is Tulum Safe: Ultimate Guide to Tulum Travel Safety .

Aside from hurricanes, drinking too much (don’t forget your anti-hangover meds ), sunburns and petty theft, Tulum is safe. In fact, all of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is considered safe  for visitors.

Though Tulum is mostly safe , you still have to follow general travel safety measures. These are the basic and bare minimum precautions you’d want to follow when traveling anywhere.

The general travel safety measures would include avoiding places and people that seem unsafe, watching your alcohol intake, never taking drinks from strangers, not buying drugs, and staying aware of your surroundings and belongings.

Do these, and you’ll have a great Tulum vacation.

Is Tulum expensive?

Frankly, Tulum isn’t cheap, and it’s fast becoming one of the most expensive Mexico beaches .

Now, that’s not to say Tulum budget travel is impossible — only that it requires a solid plan.

In this case, the cheapest transportation from Cancun Airport to Tulum is the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum. You can also follow these other Tulum budget tips to save some money here and there while traveling to Tulum Mexico.

Is Tulum worth visiting?

If you understand what you’re signing up for — high price tags, rustic vibes and large crowds — and you don’t mind those things, you’ll enjoy your Tulum vacation.

If you’re looking to lay on a beautiful Mexican Caribbean beach, sip cocktails, take photos, see the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico , swim in the  cenotes and go snorkeling , then Tulum is for you because there are so many amazing things to do in Tulum .

Like all places, the key to enjoying Tulum is managing your expectations of it — Think Instagram vs. Reality.

If you’re aware the photos you’ve seen online are heavily edited, cropped and filtered, then you’re already well on your way to managing Tulum expectations.

Cancun vs Tulum: Which is better?

Determining which place is better will come down to personal preferences and travel style. The two cities share the same beautiful beachfront real estate along the Caribbean Sea, but have totally different vibes.

Cancun is ideal for travelers who just want to relax, swim, eat and drink. In fact, Cancun has some of the best all inclusive resorts in Mexico where you can do just that.

While there are also all inclusive Tulum Resorts , Tulum wins in the culture department and the cool department. In general, there are more things to do in Tulum, as most Cancun travelers just stay at their resorts.

Though possibly on its way to becoming over-crowded, Tulum still has a lot to offer. There’s the Tulum Ruins right on the beach, Tulum ce n otes (natural jungle pools) to swim in, great Tulum day trips , and the overall bohemian vibe.

Cancun, however, is more established, with a more solid tourism infrastructure. Still, they are both two of the best Mexico resort towns , and you can’t go wrong with either choice.

Final Thoughts: Cancun to Tulum Shuttle

While there’s no Tulum Airport (yet), Cancun has one of the biggest airports in Mexico, with direct flights from around the world — so you’ll have no issues getting to Cancun. Once you’re there, you’ll need to make your way to Tulum, located 1.5-2 hours south.

When factoring in convenience and price, booking private transportation in advance is the best way to get from Cancun to Tulum. For solo travelers and Tulum budget travel, this Tulum shared shuttle will save you some money, but definitely add some time to the trip.

Tulum Travel Planning Guide

1. should i buy mexico travel insurance.

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

2. Can you drink the water in Tulum?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

3. Is it safe to rent a car in Tulum?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

4. Will my phone work in Tulum?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy this Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

5. What’s the best way to book my Tulum accommodations?

For Tulum hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

6. What do I pack for Tulum?

Head to the Ultimate Tulum Packing List to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

7. What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend Skyscanner .

8. Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you do a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa or passport stamp upon arrival.

Tulum airport opens to U.S. flights, helping tourists skip Cancún crowds

Traveling to the Mayan Riviera in Mexico is about to get easier.

Starting this week, visitors to the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula can say goodbye to the crowded halls of the Cancún airport and potentially hours-long drive south; U.S.-based flights to recently opened Tulum International Airport start Wednesday.

American Airlines and Delta Air Lines begin flights on March 28, followed by United Airlines on March 31. The new routes will connect Tulum to major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, and Newark.

Air Canada starts flying to Tulum in May, and JetBlue Airways and Panama’s Copa Airline s in June.

“Imagine taking a morning flight from the United States, and by lunchtime, you’re sipping margaritas on our beautiful beach,” said Laura Diver, the marketing manager for Colibri Boutique Hotels , which manages several properties in Tulum.

A bumpy start

The Tulum airport, like many of the big recently opened infrastructure projects championed by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, remains a work in progress.

Construction continues despite some domestic flights beginning in December. Karla Cayetano, a reservations manager at the Kanan Tulum resort, said workers were still “finishing some details” to the terminal and access road. Despite this, she said some of the resort’s guests are already arriving there rather than to Cancún.

Ground transportation options are limited and costs are high. David Ortiz Mena, the president of the Tulum Hotel Association, highlighted this as a “great concern” in a December statement . Talks with the airport and government authorities over lowering the ground transportation tax were still underway in mid-March.

And protesters have blocked the access road to the airport, and adjacent Tren Maya station, over land rights.

The issues are not unlike those that have plagued the Tren Maya since it opened in December. Trains are limited and delays are frequent on the ambitious and controversial 947-mile passenger rail loop pushed by the Mexican president. The booking system has been unreliable . Much of the track that will eventually encircle the Yucatán has yet to open.

But the Tulum airport, like the Tren Maya, is widely expected to significantly improve access to the Mayan Riviera once the kinks are worked out.

Alternative to Cancún

The Mayan Riviera is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico. It stretches from north of the all-inclusive resorts of Playa del Carmen to south of chic Tulum, with its beachside Mayan ruins.

Last year, the Riviera Maya boasted the most available hotel rooms — and occupied rooms — in the country, beating nearby Cancún and Los Cabos on the Pacific coast, according to data from the government of Mexico’s tourism secretary.

The Cancún airport is the main gateway for visitors to the region. In fact, last year the airport was the main gateway to all foreign visitors to Mexico, and the most popular among American tourists. A presentation from Mexico’s tourism secretary shows nearly 4.8 million American visitors to Mexico passed through the Cancún airport last year, representing more than a third of all the Americans who visited the country.

That’s why airlines are clamoring to fly to Tulum, even with its early issues. The new airport gives travelers an alternative to the busy Cancún airport.

“We’re pretty excited about some of the [travel] demand we’re seeing,” said Amy Martin, vice president of North America network planning at Delta.

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Is there an elevator in the main lobby? - Tulum Forum

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Is there an elevator in the main lobby?

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2 replies to this topic

Which resort?

But you may be talking about a big resort up the coast a bit?

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Looking For a Family Vacation This Summer? Hilton’s All-Inclusive Resorts Have You Covered

By Anna Tingley

Anna Tingley

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It’s officially May, which means it’s time to begin booking spring and summer travel — and successfully get your family vacation out of the group chat.

Finding the right family vacation, which should offer enough stimulation and activities for the kids, but rejuvinating relaxation for adults, can feel like an ominous task. Thankfully, Hilton ‘s wide array of all-inclusive resorts has you covered.

Popular on Variety

Hilton tulum riviera maya all-inclusive resort.

Nestled along the pristine shores of the Caribbean’s coastline, the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort is one of, if not the best, family-friendly resorts. The all-inclusive resort has facilities for every age group, including a vibrant kids club catered towards children aged 4-12, featuring an outdoor playground and scheduled activities such as piñata making and mask decorating. Teens aren’t left out either, with a dedicated club offering a range of activities from water volleyball to video game showdowns.    Their spacious Family Suites, designed with kids in mind, are located closer to the property’s family-friendly amenities such as the sparkling pools, water slides and the Kids Club. Exclusive suite amenities include large building blocks, a teepee, toys, sunblock and bath toiletries for kids, a teddy bear and coloring books For adults seeking relaxation and culinary delights, the resort boasts an international bar and the expansive buffet at Vela Sur, where gastronomic delights await around the clock. Looking for a sweet treat? An adorable ice cream and churro shop is just a skip away from one of the resort’s nine pools, each offering its own unique ambiance, from a tranquil oasis for the adults to a lively hub for the whole family.   For a taste of Mexico’s rich viticulture, parents can embark on a guided journey with a sommelier, accompanied by delectable hors d’oeuvres inspired by the country’s renowned wine regions. And for a lazier day, 16 treatment rooms and hydro massage therapy await amidst the lush tropical forest. Meanwhile, fitness enthusiasts can break a sweat at the on-site gym or partake in beachside group classes led by certified instructors.  Most extraordinary are the resort’s Enclave rooms, which include private check-in and check-out, access to the Enclave Lounge for more private dining and pool experiences, and charming in-room welcome amenities and more thoughtful perks that will make your stay feel even more special. 

Hilton Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort

Nestled between Cancun and the quiet fishing village of Puerto Morelos, set on a secluded stretch of Mayan Coastline, the Hilton Cancun offers a quieter escape for families. The all-inclusive resort, which first opened in November 2021, features 715 stylish guest rooms – all offering panoramic views of nature and the ocean, including the resort’s sought-after Swim-Up Poolside rooms, featuring a pool connected directly to the patio.  The headlining feature of Hilton Cancun, however, is their wide range of culinary experiences. The property has 12 all-inclusive, authentic, globally inspired restaurants, including five signature restaurants, a kid-friendly all-you-can-eat ice cream and churro shop, and a taqueria with a mezcal and tequila bar.   While the kids busy themselves at the splash pool or with games and activities at the kids club, adults can relax at the Waldorf Astoria Spa Cancun. Just next door to the resort, the unique spa blends innovative treatments with holistic Mayan traditions. The spa offers 21 treatment rooms, both inside and outside, that incorporate fresh garden herbs, locally sourced oils, and healing crystals.  

Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Resort

You also can’t go wrong with the white sand and blue water of Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic, which boasts both family-friendly and adults-only resorts depending on what type of vacation you’re looking for.   For families, the best option for lodging is the all-Inclusive Family Resort nestled in the lush jungles, gorgeous weather and expansive beaches of the island. The resort’s headlining perks come with their family-friendly daily offerings, including a water park features winding tube slides, a palm tree-lined lazy river, and a kids’ splash zone; free kayaking, snorkeling, and windsurfing sessions; and supervised activities at their kids/teens clubs, such as  treasure hunts, sandcastle building, beach camping, foam parties, bonfires and a gaming room.  And if you enjoyed your stay and want to go back without the kiddos? Look no further than Hilton La Romana’s All-Inclusive Adults-Only Resort . The luxury retreat features oversized guest room (stocked with international and domestic top-shelf spirits and an in-suite mini-bar), gourmet dining offered at five different restaurants (no reservations required), infinity pools, ocean-front bars, a day spa, nightly entertainment, a casino, a tree-lined private beach, and a dive center.  

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