You can get from Tulum to Cancun Airport by ADO bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.
The cheapest option is to take the ADO bus, which costs USD 25 and takes 2-3 hours to complete.
The most popular option is the shared shuttle since it provides convenience and affordability.
The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Over the years, my travels have frequently led me through the diverse terrains of Mexico.
In this guide, I’ll share the ins and outs of moving around this captivating country to simplify your travel plans and enhance your experience.
Transportation Options
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Bus | 2-3 hrs | $25 |
| Shuttle | 2 hrs | $34 |
| Private Transfer | 1.5 hrs | +$114 |
| Taxi | 1.5 hrs | +$USD 70 |
| Rental Car | 1.5 hrs | – |
How far is Tulum from Cancun Airport?
There is a 73-mile or 118-kilometer distance between Tulum and Cancun Airport and a driving time of about 1.5 hours.
Getting to Cancun Airport from Tulum
1. Shared Van Shuttle
Journey Duration: 2 hours
When traveling solo in Mexico, the shared shuttle is more cost-effective than a private transfer. The shuttle trip may take up to three hours, depending on how full the shuttle is.
While it is more costly than the ADO coach bus, it is cheaper than taking a taxi or a private transfer.
The shuttle service will pick you up from your hotel in Tulum, so you won’t have to carry your luggage for long distances, enabling you to enjoy your trip even more.
This service is provided multiple times throughout the day, so book the one that best fits your schedule!
Shared Shuttle to Cancun Airport Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00am | 10:00am | 2h | $34 |  |
| 09:00am | 11:00am | 2h | $34 | |
| 10:00am | 12:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 11:00am | 01:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 12:00pm | 02:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 01:00pm | 03:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 02:00pm | 04:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 03:00pm | 05:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 04:00pm | 06:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 06:00pm | 08:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:00pm | 2h | $34 | |
2. ADO Bus
Journey Duration: 2 – 3 hours
The ADO bus is your best bet if you’re not in a rush and want to save money. ADO offers transportation services to almost any destination in Cancun, Riviera Maya, and throughout the state.
With ADO, there are comfortable and clean seats and many amenities, including movies on the way, wifi, phone chargers, etc.
Traveling from Tulum to Cancun Airport takes 1 hour and 40 minutes, but it takes a bit longer on the bus. This is a good choice for couples or solo travelers.
Buses from ADO Tulum to Cancun Airport depart throughout the day, so schedule your ride by your flight time.
ADO Coach Bus Schedule
The table below displays the ADO bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:10am | 09:10am | 2h | $25 | |
| 09:00am | 11:00am | 2h | $25 | |
| 11:00am | 01:00pm | 2h | $25 | |
| 11:55am | 01:50pm | 1h 55m | $25 | |
| 02:00pm | 04:05pm | 2h 5m | $25 | |
| 03:15pm | 05:10pm | 1h 55m | $25 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:40pm | 2h 40m | $25 | |
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Private transportation from Tulum to Cancun Airport is the most accessible and convenient option. Despite cheaper methods, they often take triple the time – and who wants to deal with that before boarding a flight, checking in at the airport, etc..
While on vacation, time is always a precious commodity – no one ever has enough of it! So, if spending more saves you time, you might want to do so!
An advantage of private service is that you won’t have to share a shuttle or bus with five to thirty others. Choosing the departure time for the private shuttle is your decision. There is a price to convenience, but it is not as steep as you might think.
Prices for a private transfer:
- 1-7 passengers: USD 125
- 8-10 passengers: USD 129
- 1-10 passengers: USD 167
- 11-16 passengers: USD 229
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
If you choose to drive to the airport, you would be better off renting a car instead of private transfer service. With this method, you have the most flexibility when planning your time, and you can choose from various companies and vehicles.
Before getting on your flight, make sure you drop off your car at the designated spot at the airport and book your rental in advance!
5. Taxi
Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
If you are leaving at the last minute and have no other options, you can take a taxi to the Cancun Airport! Nevertheless, be careful because you may receive a price up to USD 200, about the cost of a luxurious private transfer.
Taxis can only accommodate 3 or 4 people, and they don’t have much space for luggage. Taxi rates vary greatly, but prices are usually high, so you must ask before you get in.
It is a good idea to ask your hotel’s concierge if they know any reliable taxi drivers or if you have taken a taxi before so that you won’t be ripped off!
Best day tours in Cancun
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
How do you get around Tulum?
Taxis are the best way to get around Tulum. Beaches, ruins, and Tulum Pueblo can all be reached via walking or biking, but you may also overexert yourself. A car rental is also an option.
How much is a taxi?
It should cost around $80 to take a taxi.
Do taxis in Tulum take USD?
White and red taxi cabs are the safest and most convenient way to get around the city. They are very easy to spot, especially along the beaches. They accept USD and pesos. In case you fall short, there is a minimum spend of USD 50 or 1000 pesos for credit cards.
Leave a Reply