Overview Compare Minivan Taxi Bus Colectivo From Airport Questions To Stay
Want to know how to get from Cancun to Tulum? In this post, we’ll share a summary of all 5 ways to get there and compare each option on duration, costs and level of comfort. For each option, we go into more detail to help you decide which transport provider to book with and where to buy your tickets.
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. Despite the many things you can do in Cancun, with its busy nightlife and big, luxurious resorts, Tulum offers a more laid-back atmosphere. Also, the beaches are just as good as Cancun’s, if not better, due to less development and tourists.
Tulum is not just a beach destination either. The city was actually named after the famous archaeological Mayan ruins that sit upon a cliff overlooking the turquoise ocean. The 7.5 m tall ruins are impressive on their own but cast against that backdrop, you can’t help but be in awe.
Recommended reading: Gecko Routes Tulum travel guide – packed with tips about the best areas to stay, restaurants you don’t want to miss and how to get around in Tulum.
How to get from Cancun to Tulum (Sorted by popularity)
Cancun and Tulum are both located in the Yucatan peninsula. With a distance of 130 km (81 miles), it takes 2.5-3 hours to travel from Cancun to Tulum. Costs vary between 87 MXN ($4.60) for the bus to 2,030 MXN ($105) for a private taxi.
Here are the 5 different ways: a 2.5-hour shared minivan, a 2.5-hour taxi, a 2.5-hour bus, a 2.5-hour direct colectivo, or a 3-hour colectivo via Playa del Carmen.
If you want to skip any possibility of hassle, then a door-to-door shared minivan is a great option. It takes you straight from Cancun to Tulum starting at 580 MXN ($30.50).
Travelling in a group or just prefer a private drive? Taxis are a bit more expensive on this route, but it will be the quickest option to travel door-to-door. Taxi fares start from 2,030 MXN ($105).
A bus is a good option if you want more legroom. Note that they are not the safest, particularly from petty thieves. You can take an ADO bus or AU bus, which both go directly from Cancun to Tulum and are reasonably comfortable. Bus fares start from 220 MXN ($11.50).
On a budget? You can take a direct colectivo from Cancun to Tulum for 130 MXN ($6.50). This is the option preferred by locals and doesn’t really offer a lot of legroom or even space for your luggage. Even cheaper is the indirect colectivo via Playa del Carmen. Combined fares are only around 87 MXN ($4.60), but you’ll have to switch colectivo around 1.5 hours into your journey.
Another option that we don’t discuss further in this article is renting a car to drive from Cancun to Tulum. Prices start from $25 per day when you rent a car via Skyscanner but will be higher when you book with a local agent.
Direct transport from Cancun Airport to Tulum
If you’re flying into the Cancun International Airport on the Yucatan Peninsula, we have good news. Cancun Airport is the closest airport to Tulum and transportation to Tulum is easy. No need to travel first to downtown Cancun. Find out more about travelling straight from Cancun Airport to Tulum in the last section of this article.
Transportation from Cancun to Tulum
Colectivo via Playa del Carmen
- Cancun
- 1.5 hours
- Playa del Carmen
- 1 hour
- Tulum
If you want to avoid going to/from bus terminals, shared minivans conveniently take you door-to-door. This service from Cancun to Tulum is offered by several companies and is commonly booked online.
Although still more expensive than the bus, this shared minivan may be a good option if you’re staying far from the bus terminals and want to save some money on taxis. You can book this service via BookAway.
Shared minivans include hotel pick-up and drop-off and cost around 580 MXN ($30.50). They run every hour from 08:00 to 19:00. Travel time varies depending on the number of passengers and additional stops on the way, but travel time from Cancun to Tulum is normally between 2.5 and 3 hours.
Cancun to Tulum by Private Transfer
If you’re in a group, travelling by taxi or private transportation from Cancun to Tulum is a more practical option compared to taking the minivan. Prices start from 2,080 MXN ($110) for a taxi ride with trusted companies. Some taxi drivers from the streets may be willing to charge a lower rate. But keep in mind that they may not be as reliable as taxi drivers from established companies.
Another option is to rent a private car. It’s a bit cheaper than a taxi with rates from 2,030 MXN ($105) for a 4-seater car, but you’ll get a more spacious vehicle and a professional driver. You can also conveniently book this private transport from Cancun to Tulum online through BookAway.
Important: When booking your ride online, make sure that your car’s departure point is downtown Cancun or the Hotel Zone, wherever you’re staying. Fares for taxis and private cars from Cancun Airport to Tulum are about $30 cheaper and may look tempting, but keep in mind that the airport is 20 minutes away from Cancun’s tourist area.
Check Private Transfers with BookAway
Cancun to Tulum by Bus
Buses operating from Cancun to Tulum depart from ADO Bus Station along Calle Pino in the city centre. The terminal is easily accessible by foot or by a short taxi ride.
If you’re staying in Cancun hotel zone, you can save some money by taking the bus. Lines R-1, R-3 and R-38 all make a stop at Avenida Tulum, right in front of the bus terminal.
Step 1: Cancun to Tulum
Transportation from Cancun to Tulum is operated by two main bus companies: ADO Bus and AU Bus. Both are good in terms of quality, but most travellers take the ADO Bus because of their more frequent departures.
All buses are labeled as first class, meaning they include AC, a toilet and reclining seats. ADO buses also have TV, but you might not have any need for it as your eyes will be glued to the window view for most of the journey.
You can get a bus ticket from Cancun to Tulum for 220 MXN ($11.50).
Bus schedules from Cancun to Tulum
ADO Bus from Cancun to Tulum
You can book your tickets online or buy them directly from the ADO bus terminal, where all buses depart from. When booking, pay attention to the departure and arrival points. Some buses depart from the airport and some will drop you off at Tulum’s archaeological site. Double-check your booking to ensure the right bus journey!
Check Bus Tickets with BookAway
Step 2: Tulum Bus Terminal to City Centre
When you travel with ADO or AU bus from Cancun to Tulum, the bus will arrive at the ADO bus station, the main bus terminal in Tulum. It’s located in Tulum town centre, and your accommodation might be within walking distance. For those staying in the beach area, the best option is to take a taxi.
Taxis in Tulum are not metered so you need to agree on the rate before stepping in. A good average rate to the Tulum beach area is 150 MXN ($7.50).
Cancun to Tulum by Colectivo
Most colectivos operating from Cancun to Tulum are indirect, meaning you’ll have to make a stop and transfer at Playa del Carmen. With combined fares from 87 MXN ($4.60), we can’t argue that this is the cheapest rate.
However, we also found a direct colectivo that is only $2.50 more expensive. With this economy minivan ride offered by Sindicato Lazaro Cardenas, you’ll have a more comfortable 2.5-hour journey from Cancun to Tulum. You won’t have to make a minivan transfer and you can complete your journey at least 30 minutes faster!
The direct colectivo from Cancun to Tulum departs every hour, on the hour, from 08:00 to 20:00. A ticket costs 130 MXN ($6.50).
Departure and arrival station
You can board the colectivo from Puente Peatonal in downtown Cancun.
You will be dropped off along Calle Jupiter in Tulum city centre. This is about 10 km away or a 15-minute drive from the Cancun hotel zone.
Direct colectivo schedule from Cancun to Tulum
We highly recommend booking your ticket online beforehand to avoid any hassle and to be assured of a seat. You can easily do so via BookAway, which offers great customer service.
Indirect colectivo via Playa del Carmen
Do you prefer to take the colectivo the local way? And the cheapest way possible? If yes, then you can take the indirect route via Playa del Carmen. For this option, you’ll first have to take a colectivo to Playa del Carmen and then switch to another one going to Tulum.
Combined fares are only around 90 MXN ($4.70) and can be paid directly on the bus.
Step 1: Cancun to Playa del Carmen
Colectivos from Cancun to Playa del Carmen depart from two stops that are located around Cancun’s Central Bus Terminal in the city centre.
There are two companies operating this route: Playa Express and Colectivos Foraneos. Each company has its own stop and the buses depart every 15 minutes or when the vehicle reaches capacity.
Playa Express operates from 04:00 to 23:00, while Colectivos Foraneos runs 24 hours. Keep in mind that Playa Express vehicles are more comfortable with more space between seats and working AC, so we recommend making this your first choice.
The rate to Playa del Carmen is 45 MXN ($2.30), but it can increase during peak tourist season between December and February. Unfortunately, there’s no option to book online. You’ll need to go to the stop and pay directly to the bus driver.
Step 2: Playa del Carmen to Tulum
When you arrive in Playa del Carmen, get off at the last stop. This is where you’ll also find the colectivos to Tulum. They are operated by the same two companies and run every 15 minutes as well.
The ride from Playa del Carmen to Tulum costs around 42 MXN ($2.20), but prices can increase during peak tourist seasons.
The colectivo’s last stop is just a couple of blocks away from the main bus station in Tulum. However, unlike buses, you can get off prior if your accommodation is on the way or if you want to go to the archaeological ruins before entering Tulum town.
Colectivos between Cancun-Playa del Carmen-Tulum
Colectivos running on the route from Cancun-Playa del Carmen-Tulum are originally not intended for tourists. They mainly transport locals and workers from the resorts and tourist attractions.
But in the past years, they have become popular among independent travellers and low-budget tourists to bring them around the Riviera Maya. The advantage is that they stop everywhere so they allow people to visit multiple beaches, cenotes and ruins without paying for expensive tours.
How to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum
If you want to travel directly from Cancun Airport to Tulum, you can take a direct bus, taxi, shared minivan, airport shuttle or a private shuttle. It’s the closest airport to Tulum, so you’ll have plenty of options!
All four options have an average duration of 2 hours, but the bus may take an extra 15 minutes as it makes a stop in Playa del Carmen.
Transportation from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Shuttle from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Shared minivans are a great way to travel from Cancun International Airport straight to your hotel’s doorstep. They depart every hour, 24 hours a day. You can book a Cancun airport shuttle from Cancun to Tulum on BookAway with fares from 492 MXN ($26).
Taxi from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Another good option from Cancun Airport to Tulum is to hire a private transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you outside the arrivals gate to take you to your accommodation in Tulum.
A private transfer is a convenient way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum, even cheaper than the bus or minivan if you’re travelling in a group. Through BookAway, you can get a 6 to 8-seater minivan for 1,390 MXN ($73).
You can get a private shuttle from one of many companies providing them at Cancun Airport. Better yet, check the availability and book one online. Two local agencies with the best reviews and cost-benefit ratio are eTransfers and Happy Shuttle Cancun. Rates start at 1,400 MXN ($74) for a one-way trip.
Taxis are also available 24 hours a day at Cancun International Airport and the average rate to get to Tulum is 1,600 MXN ($84). You can buy your ticket at any taxi counter inside the arrivals hall.
Bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Buses from Cancun International Airport to Tulum are run by the ADO bus company. They depart five times a day from 11:05 to 21:45 (roughly every 2 hours). A very popular company in Mexico, you are assured of a comfortable and secure ride when taking an ADO bus.
Make your way to the ADO bus counter in the arrivals hall to buy your ticket or book it online through ClickBus. A bus ticket costs 300 MXN ($15.50).
All buses park at the main ADO bus station in Tulum Centro.
Tulum to Cancun guide
Looking for the opposite route? Check out our guide from Tulum to Cancun.
Frequently asked questions
How can I book a rental car to drive from Cancun to Tulum?
Rental cars start from 570 MXN ($30) for a 24-hour rental and 2,375 MXN ($125) if you want to rent for a week. For the cheapest rental cars and the most extensive selection, book one through Kayak or Skyscanner.
Make sure you have a valid driver’s license! We also recommend that you check out our Top 10 Tips on car rentals to help you save money.
What are the best beaches in Tulum?
Tulum is a beautiful beach destination in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. With its white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, Tulum is a perfect alternative for beach-goers who find it too busy in Cancun.
A few of the most popular beaches in Tulum are Playa Paraiso, Playa Ruinas, and Playa Las Palmas.
How is the nightlife in Tulum?
The nightlife in Tulum is vibrant and varied, offering something for everyone. The town is known for its lively beach bars, which offer a great atmosphere and plenty of drinks and music.
Many of the bars also offer live music and DJs, making them a great place to dance the night away.
For those looking for a more relaxed evening, there are plenty of restaurants and bars that offer a great atmosphere and delicious food.
What are the best months to visit Tulum?
The best months to visit Tulum is between December and April. During these months, the temperatures are not too high and there is almost no rainfall.
The summer months of May to August are also great times to visit, as the weather is still warm and there are fewer crowds. However, the humidity can be quite high during this time.
When did the Maya’s live in Tulum?
The city of Tulum, located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, was founded by the Mayan civilization sometime around the 13th century. Tulum is famous for its well-preserved ruins, which are some of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico.
Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited and built by the Mayans and is believed to have been occupied between the 13th and 15th centuries.
The city was built on a limestone bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and was used as a major trading port connecting the Mayans to other cultures in the region. This 12-meter-high cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea made Tulum a perfect place to protect them from invaders from the sea.
Our favourite 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
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.
Hi; I am in a wheelchair as well and I do not see any mention of how you get down to Mexico as well as getting around.
My hips are fused so no stairs, wheelchair cabs or my trusted Quickie 710.
I have so many questions for you but later.
A reply back would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Iain Fraser
Hi, Iain! Thanks for reaching out to us! I apologize for not having much information about travelling for handicapped people on our post, but I’d still love to help out! If you’re arriving at Cancun Airport, you can book a private transfer through forHandicapTravelers or CancunPlus. They offer special transportation for handicapped people to hotels in nearby towns.
As for getting around, Cancun is one of the areas in Mexico that are wheelchair accessible. You can read more on this post on BookAway.