What to expect when visiting Palenque
Palenque is a top destination in Mexico for archaeology and Mayan history lovers. There’s really not much to see in Palenque town, but its jungles are another story. Palenque’s real attraction lies in the archaeological ruins hidden within the rainforest, just 20 minutes outside of town.
The whole complex has an Indiana Jones feel to it. Its structures are impressive, but they are unfortunately not as well-preserved as Chichen Itza. Still, some people actually prefer the ruins in Palenque because you’re able to climb on them, literally taking the experience to whole new heights.
2 ways to get from Merida to Palenque
There are two ways to travel the distance of 530 km (329 miles) from Merida to Palenque: by bus (9 hours 05 minutes) and flight (2 hours 40 minutes). The journey takes between 2h 40m - 9h 05m and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from 1,030 MXN ($61) for the bus.Where to stay in Palenque?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Palenque at the bottom of this page.
Merida to Palenque by Bus
Despite the long duration of 9 hours 05 minutes, we still think the bus is the better way to get from Merida to Palenque. You can just sit back, get a good night’s sleep, and wake up in Palenque.
Step 1: City Centre to Merida Bus Terminal
Buses from Merida to Palenque depart from the main bus station called CAME. This station is conveniently located in the city centre and within walking distance of many hostels and hotels.
It’s faster and easier to get to the bus terminal by taxi with fares from 50 MXN ($2.90).
Step 2: Merida to Palenque by Bus
Buses from Merida to Palenque depart three times a day, with one departure in the morning and two in the evening. Because the journey takes 8 hours 50 minutes, we recommend taking a night bus. Note that the buses only come with reclining seats, not sleeper beds. Still comfortable, but may not be suitable for some travellers.
ADO, Mexico’s largest bus company, operates the buses for this route. ADO is known for its great service, with buses equipped with AC, reclining seats and a toilet.
The bus journey that takes 8 hours 50 minutes from Merida to Palenque includes a few stops for food and bathroom breaks. A bus ticket costs 920 MXN ($54).
Night buses do tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends, so it is better to book ahead online. We recommend doing so via BookAway because they do not add any hidden fees.
If you prefer to buy your tickets at the bus station, make sure to get there at least 30 minutes before departure time.
Step 3: Palenque Bus Terminal to City Centre
Once you arrive in Palenque, the bus will drop you off at the Central Bus Terminal, where you’ll find the main square just a 10-minute walk away.
If you’re staying outside of town, or just don’t want to walk around with all your luggage, the best option is to take a taxi with rates starting from 60 MXN ($3.50).
Merida to Palenque by Flight
When taking a flight from Merida to Palenque, you can only fly up to Villahermosa. From here, you’ll have to travel another 145 km southeast by land to Palenque.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: City Centre to Merida Airport
Flights depart from Merida Airport, located 10 km southwest of the city and only accessible by taxi.
Taxi rates from the tourist area to Merida Airport range starts at 200 MXN ($11.80) depending on the location of your hotel.
Step 2: Merida to Villahermosa by Flight
Again, from Merida, the nearest airport to Palenque that you can fly to is Villahermosa Airport. However, it’s important to keep in mind that direct flights from Merida to Villahermosa depart only on Mondays and Fridays.
Viva Aerobus is the only airline offering direct flights for this route. If their flight departures don’t fit your schedule, the only alternative is an indirect flight with a layover in Mexico City.
However, taking an indirect flight doesn’t make sense because it will take at least 4.5 hours. Your total travel time will then take about 7 hours plus a 2-hour waiting time at the airport – longer than a direct bus.
Ticket prices for a direct flight from Merida to Villahermosa start from 835 MXN ($49) and the flight journey takes 1hr 10m.
TIP: Book your flights from Merida to Villahermosa a few weeks in advance to get better deals!
Step 3: Villahermosa Airport to Palenque by Bus
To get to Palenque from Villahermosa Airport, the cheapest option is to take a direct bus. The bus departs from the terminal right outside of the airport and takes you straight to Palenque city centre.
This bus service is provided by ADO Aeropuerto, a sub-branch of ADO that specialises in airport transfers at affordable rates. They have several departures throughout the day, but there are only two trips that you can take after an early evening flight to Villahermosa. All buses have AC, reclining seats and a toilet.
A bus ticket costs 350 MXN ($21) and you will arrive in Palenque after 2 hours 10 minutes.
Bus trips are limited, so we highly recommend that you book your ride beforehand. ClickBus is a reliable booking platform that also often offers discounted bus rates when you book in advance.
Bus arrival in Palenque
The bus from Villahermosa will drop you off at the central bus terminal in Palenque. There are a number of accommodation options within a short walking distance from the bus station.
If you’re staying outside of town, or just don’t want to walk around with all your luggage, the best option is to take a taxi with rates starting from 60 MXN ($3.50).
Alternative option: Private transfer from Villahermosa to Palenque
If for some reason you missed the bus from Villahermosa to Palenque, your only alternative is to take a private transfer. They’re quite expensive though with rates from 4,250 MXN ($250).
A cheaper option if you have the extra time is to just spend the night in Villahermosa and then take the bus the next day.
Our favourite places to stay in Palenque
Hotel Chan-Kah Resort Village - Treating Yourself
If you’re looking to treat yourself, Chan Kah Resort is one of the best places to do that in Palenque. You can give yourself the gift of relaxation without the expensive price tag. Plus, you can speed up the relaxation process with a delightful massage at the onsite spa facilities, or by enjoying a drink at their bar.
Possibly the best part, as you splash around in the lagoon-style pools, you’ll be able to hear the monkeys cry in the jungle trees all around you. Alternatively, you can enjoy the jungle symphony whilst enjoying dinner in one of the two restaurants.
- Bungalow-style rooms
- Situated within the jungle
- Spa facilities
- Large swimming pools
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Hotel Chablis Palenque - Mid Range
The central courtyard of the hotel truly feels like a magical oasis, with its palm trees and thriving greenery. And you’ll find not only a swimming pool, but also a hot tub. You won’t ever want to leave, and don’t have to, with their on-site restaurant that serves both delicious international and local dishes.
Located a short walk from the bus station, you won’t need to be dragging your luggage all around town. It’s location also makes your visit to Palenque ruins easy and convenient.
- 15 minutes from Palenque ruins
- Close to the bus station
- On-site restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pool and hot tub
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
Cabañas Bambután - Budget Friendly
When you think of Palenque, the ruins surrounded by jungle immediately come to mind. Staying at Cabanas Bambutan is the perfect way to experience Palenque, surrounded by nothing but nature and wildlife.
Their bamboo-style buildings help you to feel connected to nature, whilst still providing ultimate comfort and a good nights sleep. Enjoy a drink at their onsite bar or chill out in the lush gardens.
- Unique accommodation
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Onsite bar
- Surrounded by nature
Double rooms start from $15-40 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Merida to Palenque
What is the distance from Merida to Palenque?
The distance from Merida to Palenque is 530 km (329 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Merida to Palenque?
The fastest way to get from Merida to Palenque is by flight and takes 2 hours 40 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Merida to Palenque?
The cheapest way to get from Merida to Palenque is by bus with ticket costs starting from 1,030 MXN ($61).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Merida to Palenque. 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!
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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.
la informacion es buena, pero para una persona como yo me falta un poco, me gustaria viajar en autobus y en puntons intermedios uno o dos en la ruta merida palenque buscar hospedaje e informacion de interes de los lugares.
Hi Alberto, the writer in our team travelled from Merida to Palenque without any stops, but you can split the trip by staying for the night in Campeche City. This city has some interesting archaeological and historical sites to visit, as well as a range of hotel options. If you’re more into nature, you might consider staying the night in Escarcega City. It’s about 40 minutes away from Cenotes Miguel Colorado that offers activities like ziplining and kayaking. From Escarcega, there are several buses that go to Palenque daily.
PD: Esta respuesta está escrita en inglés para que sea útil para los viajeros de todo el mundo. Recomiendo usar Google Translate para traducir esta respuesta al español.