You can get from Cancun Airport to Tulum by ADO Bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.
The cheapest and most popular option is to take the ADO Bus, which costs USD 25 and takes a bit over 2 hours.
The fastest way is by private transfer or taxi/Uber. Prices start at USD 50.
Journeying through Mexico has given me insights into traversing the roads across all the best locations in this beautiful country.
Getting to Tulum from Cancun Airport
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Bus | ~2 hrs | $25 |
| Shuttle | 2 hrs | $34 |
| Private Transfer | 1.5 hrs | $125+ |
| Rental Car | 1.5 hrs | – |
| Taxi or Uber | 1.5 hrs | $50+ |
1. ADO Bus
Journey Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
The bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum departs directly from the airport.
ADO bus is the leading bus company in Riviera Maya and offers rides from the Cancun International Airport.
I recommend buying your bus ticket online in advance to save your seat and avoid queuing up at the ticket booth.
The table below displays the ADO bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:30am | 12:40pm | 2h 10m | $25 |  |
| 12:00pm | 02:45pm | 2h 45m | $25 | |
| 01:25pm | 04:10pm | 2h 45m | $25 | |
| 02:40pm | 04:50pm | 2h 10m | $25 | |
| 04:00pm | 06:30pm | 2h 30m | $25 | |
| 06:40pm | 09:25pm | 2h 45m | $25 | |
| 09:25pm | 12:10am | 2h 45m | $25 | |
2. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 2 hours
This is the best option for getting to Tulum with more comfort and less crowd.
A shared shuttle van can accommodate up to twelve passengers at a time.
A one-way Cancun airport to Tulum shuttle trip costs $98 per person. You can book your ticket online in advance. Shuttles are leaving every hour.
The meeting point for the shuttle in Cancun is at the BDExperience counter in the Arrivals Hall.
You will then be directed to your vehicle. The travel time from Cancun to Tulum by shuttle is around two hours.
The table below displays the Mexico Travel shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
This option is attractive if you travel in a group or with your family.
Prices for a private car:
- 1 to 7 passengers: USD 125
- 8 to 10 passengers: USD 129
- 11 to 16 passengers: USD 229
Booking a private transfer saves you from the hassle of looking for other passengers, waiting for latecomers, or not stopping the vehicle when and where you need to.
Unlike driving alone, it also allows you to relax in your seat without being stressed about the roads.
The private car ride from Cancun to Tulum takes about one hour and 45 minutes, depending on the number of stops you agree to make.
Transport companies will allow you to stop at grocery stores or food chains for an added charge.
4. Rental Car
Cancun Airport to Tulum drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Another great option to get to Tulum is by rental car. Just be aware that the traffic signs are written in Spanish.
To drive to Tulum from Cancun, you have to follow Mexico 307.
This route will take you directly to Tulum Centro. As you drive, you will pass by Puerto Morelos, Playa Del Carmen, and Puerto Aventuras.
There will be police checkpoints on your way to Tulum.
They will ask for documents such as your driver’s license and rental papers as a standard procedure.
It is nothing to be alarmed about – as long as you are not bringing in anything illegal.
The Cancun Airport to Tulum drive time is around one hour and 45 minutes.
5. Taxi or Uber
Journey Duration:1 hour and 30 minutes
A one-way taxi ride from Cancun Airport to Tulum costs around USD 80 or 1,700 pesos.
During favorable traffic conditions, the taxi ride to Tulum from Cancun Airport will take less than two hours.
Alternatively, you can also take an Uber to Tulum. The fare is around USD 50.
Best day tours in Tulum
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
Can you travel by Uber?
Uber is available in Cancun, and a one-way ride to Tulum costs around USD 50. Please be aware that Uber is not available in Tulum!
Is it safe to drive from Cancun Airport to Tulum?
Despite many online comments and articles that will tell you otherwise, Tulum is a safe destination. As with any part of the world, take safety precautions when driving at night. If you can set your travel time, drive during the day.
How much is Uber?
Uber has been available in the Cancun area since June 2019. Getting to Tulum from Cancun Airport with Uber will cost you around USD 50. However, Uber is currently not available in Tulum.
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