3 Best Ways to get from Merida to Celestun, Mexico

You can get from Merida to Celestun by public bus, private transfer/taxi, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Merida to Celestun is by public bus, which costs USD 3. The journey takes a bit over 2 hours.

The most popular option is the private transfer from Merida to Celestun which costs USD 45.

The fastest way to travel to Celestun from Merida is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi. The journey lasts about 1.5 hours.

“While traversing the diverse landscapes of Mexico, I’ve accumulated a treasure trove of experiences and learned some invaluable travel recommendations that can make any journey here more enriching.

In this comprehensive guide, I’m diving deep into the various transportation choices available and pairing them with practical advice, all designed to help you easily navigate Mexico’s charm while soaking in all its wonders.

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Merida to Celestun.

Transportation Options from Merida to Celestun

The following table outlines all transportation options from Merida to Celestun:

Method	Time	Price
Public Bus from Merida to Celestun	~2 hrs	$3
Private Transfer/Taxi from Merida to Celestun	~1.5 hrs	~$45
Rental Car	~1.5hrs	–

How far is Celestun from Merida?

The distance from Merida to Celestun is 66.4 miles or 106.9 kilometers. It takes 1-2 hours to travel to Celestun from Merida.

Getting to Celestun from Merida

1. Public Bus from Merida to Celestun

Journey Duration: ~2 hours

The first option to get from Merida to the nearby town of Celestun is with the local public bus!

You can catch the bus to Celestun from the Noreste bus terminal in Merida on Calle 50 at 67. 

Buses depart hourly from 05:00 AM to 08:00 PM, and the ticket costs only USD 3 each way! 

If you want to visit for the boat tour at the Reserva de la Biosfera Ría Celestun, we recommend going early, from 06:00 AM to 08:00 AM.

The last bus stop in Celestun is near the beach, so once you get off, you will need to take a short walk to the dock at the Reserve.

The drive takes a little over 3 hours, so if you want to see the stunning flamingos in Celestun, go early!

2. Private Transfer/Taxi from Merida to Celestun

Journey Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

Another convenient option to visit Celestun is booking a private transfer from Merida. 

That way, you’ll get picked up directly from your hotel by a private driver who will take you directly to Celestun River Biosphere Reserve, where you can get on a boat tour to see the flamingos!

Since the distance between Merida and Celestun is short, you can also get in a taxi for an acceptable price. But be careful when choosing a cab since some independent drivers might try to rip you off.

If you go with this option, make sure it’s a reliable taxi company or you agree on the price of the fare before departing.

But the best choice for traveling with a private vehicle is a travel agency which enables you to book your trip in advance! This way, you can ensure your journey from Merida to Celestun is safe and comfortable.

3. Driving with a Rental Car from Merida to Celestun

Journey Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

If you feel confident behind the wheel, rent a car in Merida and travel to Celestun! 

Renting a car is a common way for tourists to explore the Yucatan peninsula, especially when traveling short distances like this one!

Renting a car will give you flexibility, freedom, and plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of this place.

You can find low and affordable car rental prices in Merida, which also include insurance.

Then, once everything is set, you can drive from Merida to Celestun and arrive in about 90 minutes. You need to drive westbound on Highway 281, and you will be in Celestun in no time!

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Best day tours in Celestun, 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.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Celestun, Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Routes from Merida