How to get from Tulum to Bacalar
Why visit Bacalar?
Bacalar is one of Mexico’s hidden gems. Despite its growing popularity, it has somehow managed to escape the influx of tourists in the Quintana Roo. What’s so special about it? Bacalar Lagoon! Also called the Lagoon of Seven Colours, its crystal clear waters glow in varying hues of turquoise.
This laidback town is the perfect place to take a step back from busy destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula like Playa del Carmen and Tulum. With its eco-friendly hotels, an unlimited number of hammocks, pristine cenotes and amazing views everywhere you look, you will fall in love with Bacalar.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Tulum to Bacalar?
There are 2 ways to travel the 215 kilometre (134 miles) distance from Tulum to Bacalar. You can choose between the bus and private transport. The journey takes 2 hours to 2 hours 50 minutes and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 340 MXN ($19).
Where to stay in Bacalar?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bacalar at the bottom of this page.
Tulum to Bacalar by Bus
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.
ADO has more departures throughout the day while AU only operates evening trips.
Ticket prices start at 340 MXN ($19), and the journey takes around 2 hours 50 minutes.
Departure station
Buses bound for Bacalar depart from Tulum’s main bus station, ADO Terminal de Autobuses Tulum. This bus stop is within walking distance of many hotels in the town centre.
You can also take a taxi, but note that taxis are not metered in Tulum. An average taxi rate from the beach area to the bus terminal is around 300 MXN ($16.80).
Bus schedules from Tulum to Bacalar
Buy your tickets online beforehand for a better chance of getting a seat on your desired date and time. We like booking with BookAway because they don’t add hidden charges and also offer great customer service.
If you’d rather buy your tickets at the bus station, be there at least 30 minutes before departure time! Otherwise, there’s a huge chance of tickets being sold out for your preferred bus and you’ll have to wait for the next trip.
Arrival station
You’ll be dropped off at ADO Bacalar Bus Terminal on the town’s main road. There is an option to walk if your accommodation is nearby.
If you’re staying closer to Bacalar Lagoon, take a taxi. Just keep in mind that taxis here aren’t metered, so agree on the price before hopping in. Rates start at 110 MXN ($6.30) for a trip to the lagoon.
Tulum to Bacalar by Private Transport
A private transfer from Tulum to Bacalar is the easiest and most convenient transport option. The journey takes 2 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at 3,240 MXN ($180) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 1,080 MXN ($61) each.
Private Transport options from Tulum to Bacalar
Best places to stay in Bacalar
Agam Hotel - Treating Yourself
This place is just wow! Agam hotel boasts a bright and stunning decor that will make you feel like you’re staying in one of the fancy Tulum hotels. The difference is that the price tag is a lot lower!
There’s a swimming pool and a number of comfy loungers to spend the day on, soaking up the sun. After one night here, you’ll be looking to book more!
- Stunning swimming pool
- Delicious à la carte breakfast
- Bike rental available
- Beautifully decorated, modern rooms
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Casa Zazil - Mid Range
The ladies running this hotel provide an unforgettable service, and are great at recommending things to do in Bacalar. The hotel feels brand new with it’s light and airy rooms that boast a modern flare.
Added bonus: one of the host’s talents is preparing delicious vegan smoothies, coconut bowls and paninis. Waking up in the morning has never been so easy!
- Attentive and friendly hosts
- Delicious breakfast
- Newly renovated rooms
- Close to the bus stop
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
Hotel Ma Alob Che Bacalar - Mid Range
Hotel Ma Alob Che provides everything you could ask for at a very good price — spacious rooms, comfy beds and excellent hosts. It is slightly further out of town, but as Bacalar is so small, you’re never far from the action.
This comes with the advantage that you’ll be surrounded by only peace and quiet. The large and lush garden in the hotel is the perfect place to relish in this tranquility.
- Large and modern rooms
- Relaxing communal courtyard and garden
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Bicycles available to rent
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
Zayali - Budget Friendly
The owners of Zayali homestay welcome you as if you’re part of the family, making you instantly feel like you’re at home. The rooms are clean, spacious and well air-conditioned, guaranteeing a great night’s sleep.
The rooms also include a fridge, microwave and coffee-making facilities. Plus, there’s a great communal hangout area with hammocks and a rustic bar.
- Super friendly host family
- Big and clean air conditioned rooms
- Great location
- Free water and coffee
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Tulum to Bacalar. 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 Tulum to Bacalar
What is the distance from Tulum to Bacalar?
The distance from Tulum to Bacalar is 215 kilometre (134 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Tulum to Bacalar?
The fastest way to get from Tulum to Bacalar is by private transport and takes 2 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Tulum to Bacalar?
The cheapest way to get from Tulum to Bacalar is by bus with ticket costs starting from 340 MXN ($19).
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.
