We’ve made the journey from Cancun to Tulum numerous times and have gathered some insights that might not be immediately obvious to many travelers. One crucial piece of advice is that your departure point within Cancun greatly affects your travel options to Tulum.
Depending on whether you start at the Cancun Airport, downtown, or the hotel zone, you’ll find different transportation methods available. For those who prefer a more straightforward and comfortable route, we highly recommend opting for a private transfer.
However, if you’re looking for more economical ways to travel, there are several budget-friendly alternatives. Below, we’ve provided a chart summarizing the main transportation options from Cancun to Tulum, catering to various needs and budgets.
Where is Tulum?
Tulum is a captivating beach town situated about a 1.5-hour drive south of Cancun, nestled at the southern end of the Riviera Maya. Distinct from the more developed areas like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Tulum stands out as a rising star in the Yucatan Peninsula, celebrated for its bohemian flair and laidback atmosphere.
As Tulum continues to develop, it remarkably preserves its wild, jungly ambiance and unique architectural style. Unlike Cancun, you won’t find the large, sprawling all-inclusive resorts here. Instead, Tulum’s expansive beaches are adorned with boho chic art galleries and eco-friendly, barefoot luxury cabañas constructed from natural materials, reflecting the quintessential Tulum style that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The natural beauty of the area around Tulum is breathtaking and rich with attractions. It offers secluded lagoons perfect for kayaking and snorkeling, turtle reserves where you can witness marine life in its natural habitat, and ancient Mayan ruins that stand as poignant reminders of a civilization that once thrived here.
The nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a sanctuary for thousands of species of flora and fauna, offering endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature.
Travel Options from Cancun to Tulum
| Method | Length | Cost | How to Book |
| Private Transfer | 90 mins | $165 /vehicle | Book here |
| ADO Bus | 2 hrs | $13 /person | Book here |
| Rental Car | 90 mins | $20+ /day | Book here |
| Collectivo | 4+ hrs | $8 /person |
This table should help you decide the best way to travel to Tulum based on your budget and preferences.
Tulum, once a quaint coastal town, has evolved into a trendy beach destination adored by hipsters, honeymooners, and yogis. It’s a place where lush jungle meets pristine shoreline, accented by expansive wilderness and stylish accommodations like treehouses.
Your journey to Tulum starts with a flight to Cancun. Due to ongoing construction on the Federal Highway, the trip from Cancun to Tulum may take a bit longer than before. In this guide, we will detail the different ways you can travel from Cancun to Tulum. Let’s explore these options.
Method 1: ADO Bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Traveling by the ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum is the most popular transportation method. ADO buses offer comfort, air conditioning, and ample luggage space underneath. This journey usually takes about 2 hours.
Buses depart daily at 10:55 AM, 12:25 PM, 2:25 PM, 4:55 PM, 8:00 PM, and 9:45 PM. If these times don’t suit your schedule, you can opt for a bus to Playa del Carmen, which runs every half-hour, and then transfer to a Tulum-bound bus from there.
The bus ride takes approximately 2 hours, plus additional time to travel from the Tulum bus station to your hotel.
Cost: Approximately 288 MXN (around $13.50 USD).
Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be purchased via the ADO bus website, which might be challenging with some USA credit cards. An alternative is the Bookaway site, which offers easier booking options. Alternatively, tickets are available at the airport’s ADO counters; to avoid long lines, try the lesser-known ADO kiosk next to the buses for quicker service.
Arrival in Tulum: The Tulum bus station is situated on the outskirts of Tulum town. If your accommodation is on the beach, plan for a taxi ride of over 30 minutes, particularly during peak sunset traffic.
Method 2: Private Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum
If you’re looking for a hassle-free vacation, the quickest and most convenient way to get from Cancun Airport to your Tulum hotel is through private transportation. Enjoy the comfort of a bilingual English-speaking driver who will greet you at the airport and drive you directly to your hotel in Tulum.
We highly recommend Cancun Airport Transportation, which boasts a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor.
Duration: 90 minutes.
Cost: $165 for a one-way trip, or $320 for a round trip per vehicle. This is quite cost-effective for larger groups sharing the expense.
Booking: Make your reservations in advance via the Cancun Airport Transportation website.
Method 3: Renting a Car from Cancun International Airport to Tulum
Renting a car is a convenient way to travel from Cancun International Airport to Tulum. The highway is broad, well-maintained, and resembles typical U.S. roads. With your own vehicle, you can freely stop at attractions like Playa del Carmen, eliminating the need to rely on taxis for trips between the beach and town.
The drive to Tulum takes about 90 minutes, plus an additional 30 minutes to pick up your rental car at the airport.
Cost: Rates start at approximately $20 per day, including insurance.
Where to Book: Discover Car Hire is recommended for comparing prices from various car rental providers.
Pro Tip: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers your stay in Mexico!
How far is it from Cancun to Tulum?
If you’re wondering about the distance from Cancun to Tulum, it’s important to note that Cancun is quite extensive, and the distance varies depending on your starting point in the city. Here are the general driving distances and times from key parts of Cancun to Tulum:
From Cancun Airport to Tulum
The journey covers 73 miles (118 km) and typically takes about 1.5 hours by car. The route takes you directly south via the 307 Highway, offering scenic views along the coast.
From Cancun Downtown to Tulum
A slightly longer route, covering 81 miles (131 km). The drive usually takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, passing through vibrant towns and picturesque landscapes that provide a glimpse into local life.
From Cancun Hotel Zone to Tulum
The longest stretch, about 85 miles (137 km), this drive takes around 2 hours. Starting from the renowned hotel zone, the route winds southward, past Playa del Carmen, and through the heart of the Riviera Maya, allowing you to enjoy coastal vistas before arriving in the serene town of Tulum.
How to Get From Downtown Cancun to Tulum
Planning to head directly to Tulum after landing? Excellent choice. Let’s look at your three main transportation options: bus, private transfer, or car rental:
Here’s a guide on how to get from Cancun to Tulum, catering specifically to travelers looking for the best transportation options:
1. Cancun to Tulum by Taxi
Taking a taxi should be considered a last resort due to the lack of metered fares and the potential for inflated prices based on appearance. At the airport exit, it’s common to be approached by locals offering taxi services. It’s best to politely decline.
If you must take a taxi, agree on a fare before boarding—fair rates range from 1800-3000 MXN (US$90-150). However, we highly recommend opting for a private transfer to avoid the hassle of negotiating with taxi drivers. Unfortunately, Uber is not available at Cancun Airport or in Tulum.
2. Cancun to Tulum by Private Transfer
For a stress-free experience, booking a private transfer from Cancun airport to Tulum is ideal. We always choose Cancun Airport Transportations for their reliability and excellent door-to-door service. Although it’s pricier—around US $110 one-way or US $210 round-trip—it’s incredibly convenient, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group, as you can share the cost.
A private transfer is also the safest option, offering fast service with a bilingual driver who adheres to safety protocols and ensures your comfort with air-conditioned vehicles. If celebrating a special occasion, consider splurging on a limo!
Pros and Cons of a Cancun Private Transfer
Pros: Fastest route to Tulum, no waiting for other passengers, bilingual driver, luxury vehicle options.
Cons: Most expensive transport option.
3. Cancun to Tulum by Shared Shuttle
Shared shuttles are an economical choice for solo travelers or those on a budget, costing about 740 MXN (US$37) per person one-way. Services like Cancun Shuttles offer sanitized, comfortable, and air-conditioned vehicles.
The main downside is the additional travel time required for picking up and dropping off other passengers, which can extend the journey by 2 to 3 hours. For two or more travelers, the small savings might not justify the longer trip compared to a private transfer.
Pros and Cons of a Cancun Airport Shared Shuttle
Pros: Cost-effective, reliable, comfortable, and air-conditioned transport with a bilingual driver.
Cons: Longer travel times due to multiple stops; shared space with up to 12 passengers.
4. Cancun to Tulum by Car Rental
Renting a car is perhaps the best way to explore Tulum independently, particularly for those planning a Yucatan road trip. Traffic can be heavy, especially along the beach road, but having your own vehicle allows for flexibility and is perfect for day trips.
Average rental rates are 600-800 MXN (US$30-40) per day, including insurance and taxes. We recommend using DiscoverCars.com, which compares prices across major rental companies and consistently offers the best rates and service.
Remember, when renting a car in Mexico, you need insurance—it’s not just a scam; it ensures you’re covered in incidents.
If you’re comfortable behind the wheel, we definitely recommend renting a car as it’s the easiest way to explore the Yucatan Peninsula. Driving in Mexico is generally straightforward, with most road signs displayed in both Spanish and English.
Just be cautious of potholes and the occasional unpredictable driver! Most rental companies recognize drivers’ licenses from around the world, so you typically won’t need an international driver’s license to drive in Cancun.
Pros: Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, stop as often as you like, and even take short detours to explore nearby areas.
Cons: However, be prepared for challenging traffic in Tulum, and parking at Tulum Beach can be quite difficult.
Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience in Cancun
We suggest using the car to get to Tulum and then leaving it at your hotel. While it’s great for visiting cenotes and Mayan archaeological sites nearby, we wouldn’t recommend using it for beach trips.
When renting a car from Cancun Airport, we recommend taking several precautions to ensure a smooth experience. Here are some tips we’ve gathered for travelers:
1. Insurance is Crucial
Contrary to what some might suggest, it’s essential to purchase both Personal Liability Insurance and Car Insurance. The landscape around car rental insurance has changed, and it’s no longer optional to go uninsured.
2. Document the Vehicle’s Condition
Before driving off, inspect the car thoroughly. Take detailed photos and videos of both interior and exterior, noting any dents, scratches, stains, or tears in the fabric. This documentation can be invaluable in case of disputes over the vehicle’s condition upon return.
3. Keep All Documentation
Always keep copies of the rental agreements, booking information, and any paperwork related to the car. This will be crucial if you need to reference your agreement or resolve issues during your rental period.
4. Beware of Common Scams
In Mexico, a prevalent issue is car rental companies charging exorbitant fees for supposed damages. On our first rental, we were charged $50 for a missing safety device we didn’t recall being there—and had no proof to dispute it.
5. Adhere to Speed Limits
It’s important to always stay within the speed limit. Despite observing that local driving habits may involve speeding, police often target tourists.
While we haven’t personally experienced this, several travelers have reported being stopped and asked for bribes for traffic violations.
Follow these tips for a hassle-free car rental experience while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Cancun and Tulum.
Is it safe to drive from Cancun to Tulum?
Absolutely! Highway 307, the main road linking Riviera Maya beach towns, is a well-maintained, four-lane thoroughfare connecting the region. However, it’s worth noting that there are several police checkpoints and speed bumps throughout the journey. The police generally check for any signs of abnormal behavior and typically only stop drivers who appear suspicious.
For more travel tips, hacks, and strategies to make your journey as safe as it is unforgettable, check out our destination guides. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, our guides are designed to help you navigate your adventures with confidence and ease.