How to get from Bacalar to Cancun

Why visit Cancun?

Cancun is a vibrant beach city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With its crystal blue waters and snow-white sand, the city can be too touristy for some visitors. But its location on Mexico’s east coast makes it the perfect gateway to other destinations like Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres and Holbox.

You’ll find most tourists in the Hotel Zone, which is full to the brim with all-inclusive resorts, restaurants and lively bars. Depending on what you’re looking for, Cancun can just be a short stopover or a holiday destination by itself. Whichever you decide, make sure to explore other nearby destinations for a more authentic Mexican experience!

There are 3 ways to travel the 340 kilometres (211 miles) from Bacalar to Cancun. You can choose between the bus, private transport and flight. The journey takes 3 hours to 6 hours 40 minutes and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 665 MXN ($36).

The bus service from Bacalar to Cancun takes around 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours 40 minutes, including the short transfers to and from bus stations.

Buses depart from ADO Bacalar, along the main road, some 2 km west of the tourist area. If your hotel is located nearby, you can consider walking to the bus station.

If you’re staying by the beach or coming from a boat tour at Bacalar Lagoon, you’ll have to take a taxi. Rates from the lagoon and anywhere within Bacalar city limits start from 110 MXN ($6). Note that taxis are not metered in Bacalar.

Several buses run between the two cities daily.

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.

Ticket prices from Bacalar to Cancun start from 545 MXN ($29.50). The journey takes around 4h 55m - 6h 5m.

Buses park at ADO Cancun Bus Station along Calle Pino in downtown Cancun. From this terminal, many hotels in the city centre are just within walking distance.

Are you heading to the Hotel Zone? If yes, then you can get there via a 20-minute taxi/ Uber that costs around 200 MXN ($10.90). A cheaper alternative would be to take the local bus. Line R-1 stops right in front of the bus terminal and can take you to the beach area in around 25 minutes. A bus ticket costs 13 MXN ($0.70).

If you’re heading to Cancun Airport from Bacalar, the bus will drop you off at ADO Conecta Aeropuerto.

Taking a flight from Bacalar to Cancun can be quite expensive with combined rates from 3,040 MXN ($165). It’s also indirect, so you’ll still have to travel by land for half of the journey.

One great thing about it though is the picturesque views of the peninsula, which you can enjoy from a bird’s eye view.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Since Bacalar doesn’t have its own airport, you’ll have to take a taxi to the nearest one — Chetumal Airport is located 40 km southeast.

We recommend asking your hotel in Bacalar to help you find the best deals. Rates start from 600 MXN ($32.50) and the taxi journey takes around 40 minutes.

A cheaper yet slower alternative is a 50-minute bus, which only costs 74 MXN ($4). However, there are no direct buses from Bacalar to Chetumal Airport. The bus can only take you up to ADO Chetumal Bus Terminal in the city centre. From here, you’ll need an additional 15-minute taxi to Chetumal Airport.

If you’re in a hurry, we recommend taking a direct taxi instead.

From Chetumal Airport, a flight to Cancun takes 1h 35m. During this short period, you can enjoy some really amazing views of the Quintana Roo and the Riviera Maya.

Aerus and Hahn Air Technologies offer direct flights with 2-3 departures a day. Aerus generally offers lower fares compared to Hahn Air.

Prices for airline tickets can go as low as 2,400 MXN ($130) when you book at least a few weeks ahead. Regularly check Skyscanner for the cheapest flights!

From Cancun International Airport, you’ll then have to travel 18 km north to get to the city centre. There are 3 ways you can do this: via taxi, a shared minivan, or a bus.

Heading to downtown Cancun? There are ADO buses departing from any of the airport’s terminals. They will take you to ADO Centro, which is just within walking distance of many hotels in the city centre. A ticket costs 135 MXN ($7.40) and you can book them beforehand through BookAway.

A private transfer from Bacalar to Cancun is the easiest and most convenient option.

It’s also a great way if you want to head straight to Cancun Airport. You can be sure that you can make it in time for your flight as private transfers don’t make unnecessary stops and are 2 hours faster than the bus. That gives you more time to enjoy the seven colours of the beautiful lagoon before setting off for Cancun!

The journey takes 4 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation or the airport — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Prices for private transfer start at 5,000 MXN ($270) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 1,670 MXN ($91) each.

Private Transport options from Bacalar to Cancun