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!
What are the 3 ways to travel from Bacalar to Cancun?
There are 3 ways to travel the 340 kilometre (211 miles) distance 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 625 MXN ($36.50).
Where to stay in Cancun?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cancun at the bottom of this page.
Bacalar to Cancun by Bus
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.
Step 1: Bacalar City Centre to Bus Terminal
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 ($6.40). Note that taxis are not metered in Bacalar.
Step 2: Bacalar to Cancun by Bus
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 510 MXN ($29.50). The journey takes around 4h 55m - 6h 5m.
We recommend booking your bus ticket online via BookAway to be assured of a seat at your desired time and day.
You can also buy tickets at the bus station. But get there at least 30 minutes before your preferred bus departure. Otherwise, tickets may be sold out and you’ll have to wait for the next trip.
Step 3: Cancun Bus Terminal to City Centre
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 ($11.60). 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 ($0.80).
If you’re heading to Cancun Airport from Bacalar, the bus will drop you off at ADO Conecta Aeropuerto.
Bacalar to Cancun by Flight
Taking a flight from Bacalar to Cancun can be quite expensive with combined rates from 2,890 MXN ($170). 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.
Step 1: Bacalar City Centre to Chetumal Airport
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 ($35) and the taxi journey takes around 40 minutes.
A cheaper yet slower alternative is a 50-minute bus, which only costs 69 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.
Step 2: Chetumal to Cancun by Direct Flight
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 2,240 MXN ($130) when you book at least a few weeks ahead. Regularly check Skyscanner for the cheapest flights!
Step 3: Cancun Airport to Cancun City Centre
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 125 MXN ($7.40) and you can book them beforehand through BookAway.
Going straight to the Hotel Zone? We recommend taking either a shared minivan for 140 MXN ($8) or a private transfer for 430 MXN ($25) — both options are also available on BookAway.
For more info, check out our Cancun Airport guide.
Bacalar to Cancun by Private Transport
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 4,680 MXN ($270) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 1,560 MXN ($91) each.
Private Transport options from Bacalar to Cancun
Cancun to Bacalar guide
Travelling the other way? See our page about Cancun to Bacalar.
Best places to stay in Cancun
Sina Suites - Treating Yourself
Resorts in Cancun can cost you a bomb! Sina Suites gives you that resort-style feel without the high prices. Ever wanted your own private marina in a hotel? No? Well now you probably do, and Sina Suites has one. It also has a large swimming pool set amongst gardens that overlook the lagoon.
Every day, enjoy a continental breakfast and delicious Mexican food in their poolside restaurant/bar that sits underneath a traditional thatched hut! You’ll also get more than just a room here, most suites also offer a kitchenette and balcony.
- Views overlooking Cancun lagoon
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Bar and restaurant
- Great location
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Viento Suites - Mid Range
Viento Suites is an escape from the busy and hectic Cancun. Once you’re inside the walls of this hotel, chilling in the garden beside the swimming pool, you’ll forget about the outside world.
The location couldn’t be more perfect. It’s situated within Downtown Cancun, but also very close to the Hotel Zone and beaches. The rooms look like those found in a high-class hotel, but without the extortionate prices.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- BBQ facilities
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
Yellow Capsule Hotel - Budget Friendly
Looking for a unique sleeping experience? The Yellow Capsule Hotel will definitely give you that. Instead of traditional rooms, you sleep in a pod. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the future when you clamber into your bright and spacious pod.
The capsules are clean and include everything you need for a comfy stay, a mirror, outlets, a safe and storage space. When you’re done hanging around in your pod, you can chill at the hotel’s terrace and enjoy their free breakfast.
- Cool capsule sleeping experience
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great location
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
Estancia Tulbayab 36 - Budget Friendly
If you’re looking for a more homely feel than a to hotel, then definitely stay at Estancia. The owners will instantly make you feel welcome and are always there to offer advice.
The homestay offers a very convenient location, close to the local markets and not too far from the ADO bus station. The rooms are clean and spacious, plus a steal for the price. If you fancy doing some cooking whilst in Cancun, you can make use of the communal kitchen.
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
- Helpful and friendly hosts
- You’ll feel at home
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Bacalar to Cancun. 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 Bacalar to Cancun
Can you rent a car from Bacalar to Cancun?
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
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!
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.
