You can get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum by ADO bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.
The cheapest and most popular option is the ADO bus, which costs USD 6 and takes between 1 and 1.5 hours.
The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi. The journey by car takes only 50 minutes.
With its lively festivals and tranquil beaches, Mexico has offered me countless memories and travel experiences over the years.
In this guide, I share my first-hand experiences and tips, ensuring you navigate Mexico joyfully and effortlessly!
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Bus | 1-1.5 hrs | $6 to 12 |
| Shuttle | ~1 hr | – |
| Private Transfer | ~50 min | $114 |
| Taxi | 50 min | – |
| Rental Car | 50 min | – |
How far is Tulum from Playa del Carmen?
Playa del Carmen and Tulum distance is 46 miles or 74 kilometers.
It takes about 50 minutes to travel from Playa del Carmen to Tulum.
How to get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum?
1. ADO Bus
The cost to ride an ADO Bus starts at USD 6 or about MXN 105 and can go up to USD 12. Depending on your departure time, the journey takes 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Departures are frequent throughout the day, so you should have no problem catching a bus at any preferred time!
Riding an ADO Bus is one of the most preferred options because of its safety features and dependable service. It is recommended for budget travelers and those not hurrying to reach Tulum.
Since this is a popular transportation choice, we recommend checking out the schedules and booking your tickets online in advance here!
ADO Coach Bus Schedule
The table below displays the ADO bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04:40pm | 06:00pm | 1h 20m | $6 |  |
| 07:00pm | 08:20pm | 1h 20m | $6 | |
| 06:30pm | 07:30pm | 1h | $7 | |
| 12:30am | 01:40am | 1h 10m | $9 | |
| 01:30am | 02:50am | 1h 20m | $9 | |
| 06:30am | 07:30am | 1h | $9 | |
| 07:30am | 08:50am | 1h 20m | $9 | |
| 08:05am | 09:00am | 55m | $9 | |
| 08:50am | 10:00am | 1h 10m | $9 | |
| 09:20am | 10:40am | 1h 20m | $9 | |
| 10:00am | 11:30am | 1h 30m | $9 | |
| 10:35am | 12:00pm | 1h 25m | $9 | |
| 01:30pm | 02:25pm | 55m | $9 | |
| 03:35pm | 04:50pm | 1h 15m | $9 | |
| 05:30pm | 06:47pm | 1h 17m | $9 | |
| 10:30pm | 11:40pm | 1h 10m | $9 | |
| 12:35pm | 02:00pm | 1h 25m | $12 | |
2. Shuttle
You can also take a shuttle. Colectivos, as locals call them, are a cheaper alternative to buses. The fare costs about 40 pesos, and the total travel time is about an hour – depending on the number of stops your Colectivo makes.
Colectivos are, in general, minivans with no air conditioning. You can hail one along the road if you see space or go to their pick-up points for a better chance at seats.
Riding a colectivo is a must when visiting Quintana Roo. It is one of the most efficient ways of traveling from city to city, from cenote to cenote, and from one destination to the next.
If you have a lot of luggage, think twice about taking a Colectivo. As the name suggests, the minivan is too tiny to carry many bags.
3. Taxi
If you’re traveling with a group or family and prefer not to share rides with strangers, opting for a taxi is a viable option.
This choice provides ample space for your luggage and absolute privacy, ensuring a more comfortable journey for everyone involved. Also, a taxi ride can be more efficient than public transport, as it can drop you off directly at your hotel or location in Tulum.
However, please be aware that given the considerable distance from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, approximately 64 kilometers (about 40 miles), your taxi fare will likely cost around 600 pesos, potentially more depending on traffic and the time of day.
Therefore, it’s recommended that you negotiate and agree on a fixed price with your driver before starting the journey. This way, you can avoid any unexpected costs or disputes upon arrival at your destination.
4. Private Transfer
If you value comfort, convenience, and the flexibility to travel on your schedule, then choosing a private transfer could be your ideal solution.
With this service, your driver will conveniently pick you up directly from your hotel in Playa del Carmen at your specified time. This eliminates the stress of adhering to public transportation schedules or haggling with taxi drivers.
Additionally, for a small extra charge, many private transfer services offer the flexibility to make stops along the way, perfect for capturing scenic photographs or exploring the region’s hidden gems.
Private transfers can be incredibly cost-effective if you’re traveling in a group. When the fare is split among multiple passengers, the price per person becomes quite affordable, making this luxury option surprisingly economical!
Different companies offer a variety of deals, packages, and vehicle options to cater to various group sizes and needs.
Prices for a private transfer:
- 1-7 passengers: USD 125
- 8-10 passengers: USD 129
- 11-16 passengers: USD 229
5. Rent a car
You can also choose to rent the car for the whole duration of your stay in Quintana Roo and use it to do all the best things to do in Tulum and beyond.
It takes 54 minutes to drive nonstop to Tulum from Playa del Carmen. You must go straight and stay on 50 Avenida Sur/Cancun—Chetumal/Carr. Tulum – Cancún/México 307.
The cost to rent a car starts at 52 USD per day. You can conveniently leave the rental vehicle in Tulum or drive it back to Playa del Carmen.
Before renting a car, consider travelers’ comments about the difficulty of finding parking spaces in popular tourist destinations in Tulum. You must also research road signs, rules, and maps before your trip.
Best day tours in Tulum, Mexico
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 drive?
It is generally safe to drive. The road conditions between the two cities are good, aside from some potholes, poorly marked roads, and dim lights. To avoid these, consider driving during the daytime. Regarding crime, the area is regularly patrolled by police, so this should give you a sense of security.
Is it worth going to Tulum?
It is worth going to Tulum. It is home to numerous beautiful cenotes, lovely locals, stunning beaches, and world-renowned ruins. Reading about all the best things to do in Tulum will convince you even more.
How much does a taxi cost?
Taxi fares can fluctuate based on the time of year and the individual taxi company, but generally, a one-way taxi trip can cost anywhere from 600 to 900 MXN or USD 40 – 50.
Is there a direct bus?
Yes, the ADO bus service provides direct transportation. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned.
Are colectivos a safe way to travel?
Colectivos, or shared vans, are a common method of transportation in this region. They are generally safe, but as with any public transport, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take care of your personal belongings.
Can I rent a car in Playa del Carmen?
Yes, there are numerous car rental companies in Playa del Carmen. Driving allows more flexibility to stop along the way and explore other sites, like the cenotes or the ruins of Coba.
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