You can get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen by ADO Bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.
The most popular and cheapest option is the ADO Bus, which costs USD 18 and takes a bit over 1 hour.
The fastest way is by private transfer or taxi, which takes 1 hour.
Exploring the diverse landscapes of Mexico multiple times has equipped me with insider knowledge of the most efficient modes of transportation throughout this stunning nation.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Bus | 1.5 hrs | $18 |
| Shared Shuttle | 1 hr | $24 to 75 |
| Private Transfer | 1 hr | $74 to 145 |
| Taxi | 1 hr | – |
| Rental Car | 1 hr | – |
Getting from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen
1. ADO Bus
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
ADO is the only bus company with permission to offer transportation from the airport.
The price for a one-way ticket starts at 18 USD. All ADO buses have air conditioning, reclinable seats, a bathroom, and TVs.
ADO Bus Schedule:
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:30am | 10:00am | 1h 30m | $18 |  |
| 09:20am | 10:50am | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 10:30am | 12:00pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 10:50am | 12:25pm | 1h 35m | $18 | |
| 11:20am | 12:50pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 11:40am | 01:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 12:00pm | 01:30pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 12:30pm | 01:45pm | 1h 15m | $18 | |
| 01:00pm | 02:30pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 01:50pm | 03:00pm | 1h 10m | $18 | |
| 02:20pm | 03:50pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 02:40pm | 04:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 03:00pm | 04:30pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 03:40pm | 05:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 04:20pm | 05:50pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 04:40pm | 06:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 05:20pm | 06:50pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 05:40pm | 07:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 06:00pm | 07:30pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 06:40pm | 08:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 07:00pm | 08:30pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 07:40pm | 09:10pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 08:45pm | 10:15pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 09:00pm | 10:35pm | 1h 35m | $18 | |
| 09:25pm | 10:55pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
| 10:25pm | 11:55pm | 1h 30m | $18 | |
2. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 1 hour
Another convenient way to travel is by shared van shuttle. All shuttle vans are air-conditioning, and the driver will drop you off at your hotel in Playa del Carmen.
Between 09:00 AM and 06:00 PM, one van leaves from the airport every hour.
As seats are limited, we recommend you make a reservation in advance.
Shared Shuttle Schedule:
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00am | 09:00am | 1h | $24 | |
| 09:00am | 10:00am | 1h | $75 | |
| 09:30am | 10:30am | 1h | $24 | |
| 10:00am | 11:00am | 1h | $75 | |
| 10:30am | 11:30am | 1h | $24 | |
| 11:00am | 12:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 11:30am | 12:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 12:00pm | 01:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 12:30pm | 01:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 01:00pm | 02:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 01:30pm | 02:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 02:00pm | 03:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 02:30pm | 03:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 03:00pm | 04:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 03:30pm | 04:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 04:00pm | 05:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 04:30pm | 05:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 05:00pm | 06:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 05:30pm | 06:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 06:00pm | 07:00pm | 1h | $75 | |
| 06:30pm | 07:30pm | 1h | $24 | |
| 08:00pm | 09:00pm | 1h | $24 | |
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 1 hour
A private transfer to Playa del Carmen might be your best option if you prefer more comfort and flexibility.
Your driver will pick you up at the airport in Cancun and drop you off at your hotel in Playa del Carmen. This option is especially interesting if you are traveling in a group.
Prices for a private transfer:
- 1-7 passengers: $74
- 1-10 passengers: $116
- 8-10 passengers: $129
- 11-16 passengers: $145
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 1 hour
Playa del Carmen is a good starting point for visiting some of Yucatan’s highlights, such as the amazing cenotes.
If you prefer exploring the area independently rather than with a guided tour, we recommend renting a car at Cancun Airport and driving to Playa del Carmen.
5. Uber or Taxi
Journey Duration: 1 hour
If you haven’t booked a transfer in advance and do not want to take the bus, you can also take a taxi from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen.
Due to the higher fare, we recommend booking a transfer in advance.
Best day tours in Playa del Carmen
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel?
Travel between these two cities is generally considered safe. However, it is always recommended to stay informed about travel advisories, use reputable transportation providers, and remain vigilant about personal safety.
Can I use public transportation?
Yes, ADO buses are a popular and economical public transportation option, with hourly departures daily from the Cancun Airport bus stations to Playa del Carmen.
Are there any car rental services available at Cancun Airport?
Yes, several international and local car rental companies operate at Cancun Airport, offering a range of vehicles for hire.
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