What to expect when visiting 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.
2 ways to get from Bacalar to Tulum
There are 2 ways to travel the distance of 215 kilometers (134 miles) from Bacalar to Tulum by bus (2 hours 50 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes) and Taxi (2 hours). The journey duration ranges between 2 hours to 2 hours 55 minutes and the quickest way is by taxi. The lowest priced tickets start from 445 MXN ($23) for the bus.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.
Bacalar to Tulum by Bus
There are one bus companies operating on the route from Bacalar to Tulum: ADO. You will get a comfortable ride with both companies, but we’re leaning more towards ADO Bus for first-class service.
If you prefer cheap bus tickets, though, then AU is not a bad choice.
All Bacalar to Tulum buses have air conditioning, toilet and reclining seats.
The bus trip takes 2 hours 50 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes. Ticket prices start from 445 MXN ($23).
Bus schedule from Bacalar to Tulum
It’s best to book online beforehand for guaranteed seats and also to be able to check the latest bus schedules. We recommend doing so with BookAway, which offers excellent customer service.
Do you prefer to buy your tickets onsite? They’re also available to buy at the bus station, but there’s a risk of tickets being sold out for your desired time. If that happens, then you’ll have to wait a bit for the next trip.
Departure station
Buses to Tulum depart from Bacalar’s main bus terminal, which you can easily find on the town’s main road. If your hotel is too far from the bus station to walk, then the best option is to take a taxi.
Taxis in Bacalar are not metered, so make sure to agree on the rate before stepping in. Rates start from 56 MXN ($2.90) when coming from the lagoon’s beach.
Arrival station
In Tulum, the bus arrives at the main bus terminal in the town centre.
There are several accommodation options within walking distance from the bus terminal. But if you’re staying around the beach area, then it’s best to take a taxi.
Same as the taxis in Bacalar, the taxis in Tulum are not metered. You need to agree on a price before stepping in. The average rate from the bus terminal to the beach area is 150 MXN ($7.70).
Bacalar to Tulum by Taxi
Are you travelling in a group? Especially if you’re with young kids or elders, it might be more convenient to take a taxi from Bacalar to Tulum. That’s if you have the budget for it.
The taxi ride from Bacalar to Tulum takes around 2 hours and can be quite pricey with rates from 7,600 MXN ($390). Because Bacalar taxis are not metered, it’s important to take note of the average price to avoid being ripped off by taxi drivers.
Taxi options from Bacalar 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
Frequently Asked Questions about Bacalar to Tulum
What is the distance from Bacalar to Tulum?
The distance from Bacalar to Tulum is 215 kilometers (134 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum?
The fastest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum is by taxi and takes 2 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum?
The cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum is by bus with ticket costs starting from 445 MXN ($23).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Bacalar 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!
Tulum Travel Guides
The Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide
Routes from Tulum
Most popular routes in Mexico
Cancun to Chichen Itza (and back)
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.
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.
