Best Way to Get From Cancun to Tulum
If you’re looking for the best way to get from Cancun to Tulum, you’re in the right place.
I used to live in Cancun and have made the trip to Tulum more times than I can count.
The good news is it’s pretty easy to get there, and you’ve got plenty of options at different price points.
Tulum is about 80 miles (130 km) from Cancun. The drive is beautiful, with most of it cutting through lush jungle.
You can take a private or shared shuttle, rent a car, hop on the ADO bus, grab a taxi, or even splurge on a helicopter ride.
Here’s a breakdown so you can choose what works best for you.
Best Way to Get From Cancun to Tulum
#1 TOP PICK
Cancun to Tulum at a Glance
| MODE OF TRANSPORTATION | DURATION | COST (ONE WAY) |
|---|---|---|
| Private Shuttle | 1.5 hours | $160 and up (1-3 people) |
| Shared Shuttle | 1.5 – 2 hours | $75 and up per person |
| Rental Car | 1.5 hours | $30 – $60 per day plus fees & insurance |
| ADO Bus | 2.5 – 4 hours | $12 – $25 per person |
| Tren Maya | 1.75 hours | $24 – $40 per person |
| Taxi | 1.5 hours | $90 – $150 (1-4 people) |
| Colectivo | 4 hours + | $3 – $10 per person |
| Tour to Tulum from Cancun | 5 – 8 hours | $50 – $150 per person |
| Helicopter | 1 hour | $5,000 – $10,000 |
9 Ways to Get from Cancun to Tulum
Most travelers start their trip to Tulum from Cancún Airport, but you can also easily get there from the Hotel Zone or downtown.
If you’re in the Hotel Zone, shuttles, taxis, and tours will usually pick you up right at your hotel.
For the ADO bus, you’ll need to get to the downtown station, which is a short taxi or local bus ride away.
If you’re already in downtown Cancún, you can catch the ADO bus directly or rent a car from one of the local agencies before heading to Tulum.
1. Private Shuttle
If you want the fastest, most stress-free way to get to Tulum, book a private shuttle. You’ll get door-to-door service on your schedule.
My top choice is Cancun Airport Transportation. Their service is reliable, their prices are good, and you don’t have to juggle your luggage through a bus station.
Cost: Starts around $160 per vehicle, depending on group size and type.
Tips for Booking a Private Shuttle:
- Book in advance to lock in rates and secure your spot.
- Double-check your pickup details and make sure taxes and fees are included.
Private Shuttle Pros:
- Direct, no waiting, no stops.
- Comfortable and private.
Private Shuttle Cons:
- You won’t meet other travelers like you might on a shared ride.
- More expensive than public transport.
2. Shared Shuttle
A shared shuttle is a good middle ground between cost and convenience. Perfect if you’re traveling solo or with a friend and don’t mind a few extra stops.
I like the Cancun Travel Experience because they run shuttles about every 30 minutes, so you’re not stuck waiting for hours.
Cost: Around $75 per person.
Tips for Booking a Shared Shuttle:
- Book online ahead of time.
- Check departure times so they line up with your arrival.
Shared Shuttle Pros:
- Cheaper than private transfers.
- Direct to Tulum without multiple bus stops.
- Easy way to meet other travelers.
Shared Shuttle Cons:
- Less privacy.
- Slightly longer travel time if others are being dropped off first.
- Often drop you downtown, meaning you might still need a taxi to your hotel.
3. Rental Car
Renting a car gives you the most freedom. You can stop at cenotes along the way or explore side roads at your own pace.
I book through Discover Cars because their insurance is much cheaper than booking direct, and it’s saved me hundreds. Just remember: in Mexico, you must purchase insurance, and agencies often try to upsell you.
Cost: $30–$60 per day, plus fuel and insurance (around $100 for a week).
Tips for Renting a Car:
- Compare prices and insurance costs.
- Check Google reviews for the rental agency.
- Understand fuel policies and mileage limits.
Rental Car Pros:
- Total flexibility.
- Comfortable and private.
- Great value if costs are split between several people.
Rental Car Cons:
- Navigating unfamiliar roads.
- Parking in Tulum can be tricky.
- Signs are in Spanish only.
4. ADO Bus
ADO buses are clean and comfortable. They have air-conditioning and onboard restrooms (using one is a bit of a challenge – believe me!). You may even get a movie.
Cost: $12–$25 per person.
Tips for Taking the ADO Bus:
- Buy tickets online or at the station, and book in advance during high season.
- Get there early to find your bus.
- Know the schedule so you can plan around it.
ADO Pros:
- Cheapest comfortable option.
- Direct to Tulum without local stops.
- No need to drive.
ADO Cons:
- Less flexibility.
- Slower than a car or shuttle.
- No pets allowed.
5. Tren Maya
The Tren Maya now runs from Cancún Airport to Tulum. The train is modern, air-conditioned, and offers scenic views along the way.
You’ll board at the Cancún Airport station and make a stop in Playa del Carmen before arriving at the Tulum station. From there, you’ll need to take a short taxi or shuttle into town or to your hotel.
Right now, departures are limited to a few trains per day, so you’ll need to plan your arrival time around the schedule.
Cost:
- Tourist Class: $24.
- Premier Class: $38.
- Small fees apply for the airport shuttle to the train station (about 35 pesos) and from Tulum station to town (about 55 pesos).
Tips for Booking Tren Maya:
- Check schedules in advance since there are currently only a few departures each day.
- Arrive early to allow time for the airport shuttle to the train station.
Tren Maya Pros:
- Comfortable and scenic ride.
- Avoids road traffic between Cancún and Tulum.
- Easy connection if you’re landing at Cancún Airport.
Tren Maya Cons:
- Limited departure times.
- Requires transfers at both ends (airport to station and Tulum station to hotel).
- Not ideal if you’re starting from downtown Cancún or the Hotel Zone.
6. Taxi
If you like flexibility and minimal planning, a taxi works. Just be ready to negotiate and agree on the price before you get in.
Cost: $90–$150.
Tips for Taking a Taxi:
- Agree on a price before getting in.
- Use official taxi stands or arrange through your hotel.
- Avoid airport taxis unless you’re fine paying a premium.
Taxi Pros:
- Private and direct.
- Fast if there’s no traffic.
- Good for last-minute travel.
Taxi Cons:
- Pricey for solo travelers.
- Rates can vary widely.
7. Colectivo
Colectivos are local shared minibusses that are popular in Mexico. A Colectivo will be the cheapest way to get to Tulum, but not at all the best way.
They do offer a unique and authentic experience of Mexican transportation. I recommend you ride one during your stay in Mexico, but not for such a long distance.
Cost: $3–$10 per person.
Tips for Taking a Colectivo:
- Pay in pesos and carry small bills.
- They leave when full, not on a set schedule.
- Expect minimal luggage space.
Colectivo Pros:
- Cheapest way to go.
- Immersive local experience.
Colectivo Cons:
- No air conditioning, and it can get crowded.
- Not ideal with luggage.
- Language barrier possible.
8. Tour to Tulum From Cancun
If you just want to add a day trip to Tulum to your itinerary, a guided tour is a great option. You’ll get transportation, knowledgeable guides, and sometimes even meals.
For a quick half-day tour, I recommend the Tulum Ruins Guided Tour. It has 5/5 stars with 141 ratings. You can see the ruins and get back to Cancun in time to spend the afternoon on the beach.
If you want to see more than the ruins, check out the Tulum Ruins with Cenote and Swimming with Turtles Tour.
Cenotes are natural sinkholes full of cool, fresh water that are one of my favorite things in Mexico. You can snorkel, swim, or even scuba dive in them. Add that to swimming with turtles, and you’ve got an amazing day.
Cost: $50–$150 per person.
Tips for Booking a Tour:
- Check reviews and what’s included.
- Pick a tour that matches your interests, just ruins, or ruins plus cenotes and turtles.
Tour Pros:
- Stress-free with everything planned.
- Learn more from a guide.
- Often includes extra stops.
Tour Cons:
- Fixed schedule.
- Less freedom to explore on your own.
9. Helicopter Transfer
If you want a luxurious and unforgettable journey, taking a helicopter is an option that combines opulence with breathtaking views.
I’ve never done this and I don’t know anyone who has, but it is possible.
Cost: $5,000–$10,000.
Helicopter Pros:
- Fastest way to Tulum.
- Private and unforgettable.
Helicopter Cons:
- Extremely expensive.
- Weather dependent.
Tulum Airport
Tulum’s Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport opened in December 2023, with international flights starting in March 2024.
It’s about 20 miles southwest of Tulum and connects to town by taxi, ADO and Kolors buses, and the Tren Maya station that opened in September 2024.
If you’re flying into Cancun, the new airport won’t save you time. There are no flights between the two cities.
Frequently Asked Questions: Getting From Cancun to Tulum
What is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum?
The cheapest is colectivo (local shared minibus), with fares typically much lower than other transportation options. The next cheapest (and much faster) way is ADO, with tickets ranging from $12 to $25.
What’s the best way to get to Tulum from Cancun?
The best way to get to Tulum is on a private shuttle through Cancun Airport Transportation. They provide excellent service at a great price.
How far is Cancun Airport from Tulum?
Cancun Airport is approximately 73 miles (118 kilometers) from Tulum.
What is the travel time between Cancun and Tulum?
The drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the mode of transportation used.
Is driving a car between Cancun and Tulum safe?
Yes, driving between Cancun and Tulum is very safe.
Is it safe to take the ADO bus if I’m traveling solo?
Yes, the ADO bus is very safe. I’ve taken it solo many times and have never felt nervous.
Is There Uber in Cancun & Tulum?
There is Uber in Cancun, but not in Tulum. You can’t take an Uber between the two cities.
Is it possible to fly from Cancun to Tulum?
At this time, no, you can’t fly between Cancun and Tulum.
What airport do you fly into for Tulum?
You can fly directly into Tulum, with a change of planes in Mexico City or Guadalajara. Otherwise, many people fly into Cancun as there are more options for now.
Wrap-Up: Getting to Tulum from Cancun
The best way for you to get from Cancún to Tulum depends on your budget, schedule, and how much convenience matters to you.
If you want the fastest and easiest option, a private shuttle is hard to beat. For a balance of cost and comfort, the ADO bus or Tren Maya are solid picks if their schedules fit your plans.
If you like total flexibility, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore along the way.
Whatever you choose, the trip is straightforward, and you’ll be in Tulum before you know it. The journey is just the first step in enjoying everything this part of the Riviera Maya has to offer.
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Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips
Do I need travel insurance?
YES. No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing. They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.
Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?
YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company. They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.
Will my phone work in Mexico?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.
You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.
What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?
For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, check out Hostel World. If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO, which is often cheaper with more options.
What do I pack for Mexico?
My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.
What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?
For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner.
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Probably Not. U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website.
For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa.
