How to Get From Tulum to Playa del Carmen (By a Local)
Are you looking for the best way to get from Tulum to Playa del Carmen? You’re in the right place. I lived in the area for almost two years and made the trip many times.
Maybe you’re flying into Tulum for your vacation in Playa del Carmen. Or maybe you’re staying in Tulum and want to take a day trip to Playa (as it’s commonly referred to).
You don’t want to waste your time or money so it’s important to know all your options.
Just want the bottom line? The best way to get from Tulum to Playa del Carmen is to take the ADO bus. There are frequent departures between the two cities. Buses are inexpensive, comfortable, and clean.
But you have other options also. Let’s take a look so you can choose the best way for you.
5 Ways to Get From Tulum to Playa del Carmen
There are five different ways to get to Playa del Carmen from Tulum: ADO bus, private shuttle, rental car, taxi, and colectivo (shared vans popular with locals).
Let’s take a look at each.
1. ADO Bus
Travel Time: 1 hour
Cost: Approx. $4 – 7 USD
My favorite way to get to Playa del Carmen from Tulum is to take the ADO bus. The trip will take about an hour.
ADO buses are clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned. And they have restrooms. They run between Tulum and Playa del Carmen throughout the day.
Tulum has two ADO bus terminals. One is in Centro (downtown). The other is near the ruins. Centro has about 18 departures daily. There are three from the ruins.
The bus station in Playa is right downtown so you’ll be let off right in the middle of everything. If you’re continuing on to other parts of Riviera Maya, you’ll find taxis right outside.
If you’re going on to Cozumel, you’ll just be a short walk to the ferry terminal. However, if you are going from Tulum to Cozumel, read this article for more information including taking the ferry.
You can buy your ADO bus ticket in advance on Busbud or when you arrive at the station. You’ll generally get the best price if you buy in advance.
2. Private Shuttle
Travel time: 1 hour
Cost: Approx. $36 – $83 USD per person
Taking a private shuttle to Playa del Carmen is a good option if you have a big group. The per-person cost is lower the more people you have.
You can prearrange your shuttle to pick you up at your hotel or at the airport at whatever time you want.
I’ve searched high and low for better prices on shuttles and this is the best I’ve found.
3. Rental Car
Travel Time: 1 hour
Cost: Varies, could be as low as $40 USD per day
If you have a rental car, it’s easy enough to drive up to Playa del Carmen. This is a good option if you want to do a lot of exploring.
My go-to company for rental cars is Discover Cars. They have the best prices and a great selection. Of course, prices vary widely. The best price I’ve seen is around $40 per day.
In Mexico, you’re required to buy insurance when you rent a car. Discover Cars includes insurance at a much lower rate than the actual rental car company. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars with them.
4. Taxi
Travel time: 1 hour
Cost: Approx. $30+ USD each way
Taking a taxi is easy enough. You’ll find them everywhere in both Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Just be sure to agree on the fare before you get in.
This is the most expensive option, but you will have the most flexibility.
If you like your driver, be sure to ask for their phone number. It’s always good to have a trusted taxi driver on speed dial. You’ll need WhatsApp, as that’s what pretty much everyone uses to communicate.
5. Colectivo
Travel Time: 2 – 3 hours
Cost: Approx. $2 – $5 USD
This is hands down the most budget-friendly option. But, fair warning, it’s also the one that’ll test your patience time-wise.
Colectivos are shared vans that are popular with locals. Since these vans make stops to pick up and drop off passengers along the way, your travel time can stretch a bit. How much? Well, that depends on the day’s demand and the number of stops.
Here’s a pro tip: make sure you’ve got pesos on you. Colectivo drivers only accept cash and usually won’t take U.S. dollars.
Also, drivers don’t always speak English. Brushing up on your Spanish can come in handy, or at least know the basics to communicate your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions: Getting to Playa del Carmen From Tulum
How much is a taxi from Tulum to Playa del Carmen?
A taxi to Playa del Carmen from Tulum will cost around $30. However, prices vary.
Is there a shuttle from Playa del Carmen to Tulum?
There are private shuttles between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. As of this writing, there are no regularly scheduled shared shuttles between the two cities.
Is it better to stay in Tulum or Playa del Carmen?
Choosing between Tulum and Playa del Carmen depends on your preferences: Tulum offers a more laid-back, bohemian vibe with stunning beaches, while Playa del Carmen is bustling with nightlife, shopping, and a wider variety of dining options.
How far is Tulum to Playa del Carmen?
Tulum is about 64 kilometers (40 miles) from Playa del Carmen, translating to roughly a 1-hour drive depending on traffic and the mode of transportation chosen.
What is the safest way to travel between Cancun and Playa del Carmen?
The safest way to travel between Cancun and Playa del Carmen is by using the ADO bus service, known for its reliability, comfort, and direct routes connecting the two destinations.
Wrap-Up: How to Get to Playa del Carmen From Tulum
When I travel between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, I take ADO buses. I love them. They’re comfortable and clean and you can’t beat the price.
However you make the trip, the journey between Tulum and Playa del Carmen is sure to be part of the adventure.
Whether you’re soaking in the scenic views from the comfort of an ADO bus, navigating the local vibe in a colectivo, or opting for the flexibility of a rental car, each mode of transport offers its own unique experience.
Remember, it’s not just about the destination but the memories you create along the way.
Related Posts
- How to Get From Cancun to Playa del Carmen
- How to Get From Tulum to Cozumel
- How to Get From Cozumel to Riviera Maya
- Cozumel vs. Playa del Carmen: Which is Better?
- Riviera Maya vs Cozumel: Which is Better?
- Cozumel vs Tulum: Which is Better?
- Best Time to Visit Xcaret in Mexico
- 25 Amazing Cenotes for Mexico Cave Diving
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