How to get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum
Why visit Tulum?
Cancun might be the most famous destination on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, but many people actually prefer to spend their time in the Riviera Maya in Tulum. Lying by the Caribbean coast, Tulum is becoming an ever-more popular beach destination in the Riviera Maya. It used to be overshadowed by bigger cities nearby like Playa del Carmen and Cancun. But as more people want to escape the bustle of these places, many are now heading to Tulum for a more laidback, bohemian vibe.
The town of Tulum was named after its stunning Mayan ruins perched on top of a cliff, overlooking the ocean below. But as beautiful as these ruins are, for us the best thing to do in Tulum is to go cenote-hopping! Some of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico can be found here.
What are the 4 ways to travel from Playa del Carmen to Tulum?
There are 4 ways to travel the 65 kilometre (40 miles) distance from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. You can choose between the bus, minivan, private transport and colectivo. The journey takes 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at 50 MXN ($2.80).
Where to stay in Tulum?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Tulum at the bottom of this page.
Playa del Carmen to Tulum by Bus
The bus is the best option if you’re travelling with luggage. Unlike colectivos, most buses allow one large piece of luggage plus one hand luggage. They also offer more legroom and travel straight from Playa del Carmen to Tulum.
ADO and AU are the bus companies operating on this route. ADO offers a more comfortable ride with better seats and onboard toilets, while AU is the cheaper option with simpler buses and no restrooms. Check out our Mexico Transport Guide for a full comparison of their bus types and amenities.
Bus ticket prices start from 76 MXN ($4.30).
Departure and arrival stations
When booking your ticket, pay attention to the departure and arrival points.
Buses leave from two terminals in Playa del Carmen:
- Turistica Terminal – The main bus station, located across from Parque Los Fundadores and close to many hotels.
- Alterna Terminal – Around 1 km from Turistica. If you book your seat from here, the bus will stop to pick you up.
The arrival point is at ADO Tulum Bus Station in the town centre. It is about 4 km away from Tulum ruins. Depending on where you’re staying, you may have to take a 20-minute taxi from the bus station.
Bus schedules from Playa del Carmen to Tulum
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
We recommend booking your tickets online through BookAway to secure a seat at your desired time.
Alternatively, you can buy your tickets at Playa del Carmen Bus Terminal, but be sure to arrive early. If your preferred time is sold out, you’ll have to wait for the next available bus.
Playa del Carmen to Tulum by Colectivo
Colectivos are a great way to travel like a local from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. They’re the cheapest option and stop anywhere, allowing you to visit cenotes, archaeological ruins and beaches along the way.
Since colectivos are mostly used by locals, they don’t have space for luggage. That means they’re only a good option for day trips to Tulum or if you’re travelling light with just hand luggage.
The colectivo ride from Playa del Carmen to Tulum takes 1 hour 30 minutes and costs around 50 MXN ($2.80). Prices can go up during peak season (December to February). Colectivos run every 15 minutes or as soon as they’re full.
Departure and arrival stations
Colectivos depart from Colectivo Station – Playa del Carmen, 1.5 km from the tourist centre.
All colectivos park at ADO Tulum Bus Station. But, unlike buses, you can get off prior to the last stop if your accommodation is on the way or if you want to visit the Tulum ruins before entering the town.
Playa del Carmen to Tulum by Minivan
Minivans and colectivos may look alike, but they’re not the same! If you’re in a hurry, go for a minivan — it follows a more direct route and gets you there faster. Colectivos, on the other hand, are the budget-friendly option, making frequent stops along short-distance routes, which can stretch out your travel time.
A minivan ride from Playa del Carmen to Tulum costs around 86 MXN ($4.80). The minivan journey takes about 1 hour 5 minutes, depending on traffic.
There is one company operating on this route: ADO Conecta.
Minivan schedule from Playa del Carmen to Tulum
Playa del Carmen to Tulum by Private Transport
If you want flexibility when travelling from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, you can take private transport. With this option, you can ask to be dropped off anywhere in Tulum — straight to the Mayan ruins or to one of Tulum’s beautiful beaches like Playa Paraiso.
Both Playa del Carmen and Tulum are in the Riviera Maya, so rates aren’t that expensive especially if you’re in a group. Prices for private transfer on BookAway start at 1,100 MXN ($62) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 275 MXN ($15.40) each.
You can also hail a taxi from the street, but we recommend getting one outside of 5th Avenue, where prices tend to be higher due to the tourist crowd.
Taxis in Playa del Carmen are not metered. Instead, fares are based on zone charts posted inside the taxi. To avoid getting overcharged, always check the rate and agree on a price before getting in!
Private Transport options from Playa del Carmen to Tulum
Best places to stay in Tulum
Hotel Casa Santiago Tulum - Treating Yourself
There are too many great things to mention about Casa Santiago. It’s an eco-sustainable hotel with a refreshing pool and sun-loungers, perfect for relaxing around. An added bonus, all rooms offer balconies with pool views.
The star of the show though? The staff! They’re always there to help you out. Whether it’s answering a question, or helping you to organise a tour in Tulum.
- Outdoor pool and sun terrace
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Eco-friendly and sustainable hotel
- Natural toiletries made in the region
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Turquoise Petit Hotel Tulum - Treating Yourself
Put on your complimentary bathrobe and enjoy the tranquility of this hotel. Every aspect of the hotel is so beautifully and intricately designed that you can’t help but be relaxed here. The decor is truly stunning with splashes of turquoise all around you.
There’s not one, but two pools to take a refreshing dip in after you’ve enjoyed your complimentary breakfast. And at the end of the day, the modern and spacious rooms are the perfect place to retire to at the end of the day.
- Two outdoor swimming pools
- Beautifully decorated
- Attentive and friendly staff
- Great breakfast included
Double rooms start from $80 per night
La Palmita Budget Boutique Hotel - Mid Range
The creative murals that you’ll find throughout the entire hotel, give La Palmita a vibrant and artistic feel. Wherever you look, you’ll feel inspired.
The beds are massive and incredibly comfortable, offering a great night’s sleep after a busy day in Tulum. You can also chill on your own private balcony or the big roof terrace. Plonk yourself in one of the many hammocks and enjoy the sunset.
- Bike rental available
- Rooftop with hammocks and yoga mats
- Excellent location
- Huge beds
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
Tubo Tulum - Budget Friendly
Looking for something a bit different? Tubo Tulum makes sleeping an experience of its own. You can sleep in a tent or in one of their large concrete tubes that house a comfy double bed.
The eco-friendly concept of the hostel, alongside their tropical garden, makes you feel like you’re chilling in the middle of the jungle. A very memorable stay for a very reasonable price.
- Great location
- Communal kitchen
- Delicious breakfast included
- Original and eco-friendly hotel
Private tents start from $19 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Playa del Carmen to Tulum
How far are the Tulum ruins from Tulum Town?
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
