Tulum, a dreamy paradise located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, is known for its ancient Mayan ruins, cenotes, and white sandy beaches. To reach Tulum, most travelers fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) and then make their way to Tulum.
The distance from Cancun to Tulum is approximately 131 kilometers (81 miles), and the journey by road typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
How To Go From Cancun Airport To Tulum?
There are various transportation options available for this journey:
ADO Bus
The ADO bus service is a popular choice for travelers due to its comfort and affordability. These buses are equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, and at least one bathroom, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Direct trips from Cancun airport to Tulum are scheduled throughout the day, making it a convenient option. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, and the cost is quite reasonable at around 262 pesos, which is about $13.70 USD.
Connecting ADO Bus at Playa del Carmen
If the direct ADO bus timings don’t match your schedule, you can opt for a connecting bus at Playa del Carmen. This involves taking a bus from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen and then another bus to Tulum.
The journey from Playa del Carmen to Tulum is shorter, taking about 50 minutes to an hour, and is also budget-friendly, costing around 70 pesos, roughly $3.73.
Mayab Bus
For a more economical option, the Mayab bus is a viable choice. It’s a second-class bus service, commonly used by locals for short distances.
While it may not offer the luxuries of the ADO buses, such as air conditioning and toilets, it’s significantly cheaper and offers the flexibility of dropping passengers off at various points along the highway.
Taxi
Taxis available inside Cancun Airport are operated by private companies and tend to be more expensive, especially if booked last minute. The cost can go up to 2000 pesos, about $106.41 USD. The journey to Tulum by taxi takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s important to agree on the fare before starting the journey, as taxis in Tulum are not metered.
Renting a Car
Renting a car provides the most flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Car rentals in Mexico are surprisingly affordable, with daily rates as low as 57 pesos (around $3 USD) during the low season. Renting a car is a great option if you plan to visit multiple destinations in the Riviera Maya area.
Airport Shuttle
For those seeking convenience, especially when traveling in a group, airport shuttles are a great option. The cost varies depending on the season and the shuttle company, ranging from 602 pesos (about $32 USD) to 1880 pesos (around $100 USD). Shuttles can take you directly to your hotel in Tulum, offering a hassle-free travel experience.
Tulum is easily accessible from Cancun Airport with various transportation options catering to different budgets and preferences.
Whether you choose the comfort of an ADO bus, the flexibility of a rental car, or the convenience of a private shuttle, your journey to Tulum is sure to be part of an unforgettable experience in this beautiful region of Mexico.
