It couldn’t be easier to get from Cancun to Tulum and in this guide, I have included all the information you need to make your transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum as simple and easy as possible.
Whether you’re on a budget and don’t mind taking the long route on the shuttle bus or money isn’t an issue and you prefer door-to-door service in a private car, this guide covers it all.
Overview – Cancun To Tulum
When looking at how to get from Cancun to Tulum, it’s important to note the distance is 120 km (74 miles) and it takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by vehicle.
See below for a quick overview of transportation to Tulum:
- Private Driver
- Shuttle Bus
- Rent A Car
- ADO Bus
Related Article → 20 Things To Do In Tulum
Private Driver
It sounds fancier than it is and is probably one of the quickest ways to get from Cancun Airport To Tulum, but transport with a private driver is going to be one of the more expensive options to take.
Whether it be a taxi from Cancun to Tulum, a private driver company, or simply an Uber, this mode of transport will be your best option if you’re looking for a quick, problem-free transfer.
Costs
For a taxi or Uber from Cancun, you’re looking at around $50 USD. This may vary depending on traffic, what company you book with, and what time of day you travel.
Bearing in mind, a private car is not always going to be the cheapest way to travel.
My advice would be to haggle and even try and sort out a fixed price as the taximeter will always be more.
A concierge or private car hire for 3 to 4 people will cost you about $115 USD, whilst if you’re traveling in a larger group, you can hire a limousine for $330 USD.
Cancun To Tulum Shuttle Bus
When deciding on how to get from Cancun to Tulum, another option to consider is the shuttle bus that runs from Cancun Airport to Tulum.
This is the perfect option if you’re a budget traveler looking to save a bit of money on transportation.
The shuttle bus will wait until it’s fully loaded with passengers before leaving the airport and it will make several stops along the way before reaching Tulum.
Costs
The shuttle bus will fit between 1 to 12 people and as standard will cost you around $32 USD per person for a one-way trip.
If you’re feeling a little more generous with your money, you can take the deluxe shuttle bus which is a little nicer in style and it comes equipped with air conditioning.
This more luxury shuttle will cost you around $42 USD per person for a one-way trip.
Rent A Car – How To Get From Cancun To Tulum
Another great option is to hire a car from Cancun Airport. If you’re up for it and feeling confident with driving in a foreign country, this is a great way to get around.
Plus, as a family, you’ll get to see all things to do in Cancun with teens without the need to book a tour.
Renting a car is also a great option if you’re traveling with a group of friends as splitting the cost between you all could actually make this a more affordable option.
Yucatan Peninsula is said to be the safest place to drive in Mexico when it comes to getting behind the wheel yourself, so it’s definitely an option to consider.
I always use Discover Cars to search and book car rentals in Mexico as they generally offer the best rates.
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Costs
The average cost of car rentals in Cancun is approximately $30 USD per day, depending on the season.
Beware there are several things to look out for when renting a car in Mexico.
The first is tourist scams as there can be a lot around the airport and a lot of people looking to take advantage of travelers making their way around the country.
The other thing is to keep your rental agreement and ID on you at all times in the car. This avoids any confusion or hold-ups if you happen to get pulled over.
Avoid speeding to avoid getting pulled over.
Note: They drive on the right-hand side in Mexico and you may also find parking a problem once you reach Tulum.
But if you’re willing to overlook all of that, stick within the speed restrictions and you’re comfortable with driving in a foreign country, then go for it and hire a car.
RELATED GUIDE: 21 Things To Do In Isla Mujeres
Bus From Cancun To Tulum
The ADO Bus is another great option for your transportation with buses running daily from 10:45 am to 9:35 pm.
It’s safe to say that the ADO Bus from Cancun to Tulum is a really affordable way to get from A to B.
ADO Buses depart from T2, T3, & T4 of Cancun Airport, taking you directly to Tulum.
Costs
The cost of the Cancun bus to Tulum is around $14 USD per person, though bear in mind the ADO Bus won’t take you directly to your hotel and instead, take you to the Tulum Bus Station.
However, this option is definitely one of the cheapest ways to travel from Cancun Airport to Tulum.
Search Now: Bus from Cancun to Tulum
Things To Do In Tulum
Another way to get to Tulum is to take a day trip from Cancun.
And once you have arrived safely, I have you covered with a complete travel guide of things to do in Tulum, how to get around, the best places to eat, and much more!
Must Read → 20 Epic Things To Do In Tulum
Where To Stay In Tulum
Tulum is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and you’ll be spoiled for choice with cheap hostels, luxury hotels, and beachside resorts!
Tulum has it all to suit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.
The majority of the accommodation in Tulum can be found in 3 main tourist areas: The Main Town, Tulum South Beach, and Tulum North Beach.
I have put together a complete guide on Where To Stay In Tulum which you should definitely check out.
If you’re in a hurry, I have listed a few Tulum accommodations below that I can personally recommend:
Luxury: The Beach Tulum
Receive celebrity treatment at The Beach Tulum with this adult-only, beachfront resort in South Tulum. Features include an outdoor pool, a beach club, an onsite restaurant, and even a spa.
Each luxurious, beach-front room has stylish, minimalist décor, air-conditioning, free wifi, and a seating area.
These deluxe rooms come with large comfortable beds, private entrances, and ensuite bathrooms, and are right on the shoreline in the South Beach area, surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Mid Range: Playa Esperanza Hotel
This eco-sensitive hotel and resort boasts unique cabins made from natural materials and is located right on the shoreline of Tulum’s North Beach.
With 15 different styles of rooms to choose from, natural interiors, large comfortable beds, and private bathrooms. You can also enjoy the free wifi, beach bar, and ocean views.
This is great for a group of friends traveling together or couples.
Budget: Che Tulum Hostel & Bar
One of the most top-rated hostels in Tulum, with an outdoor pool, a lively bar, and a large green area to hang out.
Each bedroom has been modeled to offer natural lighting and features private bathrooms, air-con, and comfortable mattresses. With a huge range of rooms on offer, pick from one of the many dorm rooms or private rooms.
This budget hostel in Tulum is great for solo travelers chasing that hostel life.
FOR MORE OPTIONS IN TULUM, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM
What To Pack For Tulum
When visiting Tulum, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden Money Wallet
Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!
Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!
Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
More Mexico Travel Guides
Click the button below to view all articles related to Mexico!
Final Thoughts – Cancun To Tulum
Traveling between two major cities like Cancun and Tulum can be daunting but fear not, there are plenty of options and I hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip and put your mind to rest in the process.
If you have any questions please leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!
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Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.
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Thanks For Reading
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