Tulum is well connected with Merida. You can get from Merida to Tulum by bus, private transfer, or rental car.
Are you ready for an adventure transporting you to a tropical paradise?
Look no further than Tulum, Mexico! This little slice of heaven on the Caribbean coast bursts with excitement and culture.
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From the moment you step foot on its sandy shores and see the crystal clear waters, you’ll know you’re in for a wild ride. Imagine yourself lounging on the beach, sipping on a refreshing cocktail, and feeling the warm sun on your skin!
But Tulum isn’t just about relaxation; it’s also about discovery! The ancient Mayan ruins are waiting for you to explore and uncover the secrets of the past.
And let’s not forget the delicious local cuisine, which will take your taste buds on a journey they won’t soon forget.
Tulum offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and relaxation. So whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beach, relax at one of the beach clubs in Tulum, explore the ruins of an ancient civilization, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, Tulum has something for everyone!
Explore all the adventure opportunities in Tulum and book a guided tour today to get the best experiences on your Mexican vacation!
So, pack your bags, put on your adventure hat, and get ready to discover the magic of Tulum!
Traveling between Merida and Tulum is easy, and you can choose between a bus, private transfer, and rental car!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Merida to Tulum.
How far is Tulum from Merida?
The distance from Merida to Tulum is 161 miles or 259 kilometers. The journey takes about four hours.
Transportation Options from Merida to Tulum
The following table outlines all transportation options from Merida to Tulum:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Coach Bus from Merida to Tulum | 4 hours | USD 25-USD 35 |
| Private Transfer from Merida to Tulum | ~3 hours 40 minutes | – |
| Rental Car | ~3 hours 40 minutes | – |
Getting to Tulum from Merida
1. ADO Coach Bus from Merida to Tulum
Journey Duration: 4 hours
If you’re on a limited budget or traveling alone from Merida to Tulum, taking the ADO coach bus is an affordable, convenient, and comfortable option.
The ADO bus company is the most reputable service provider in Mexico, and many people choose to travel by bus because it is so economical and well worth the price!
Comfortable seating, air conditioning, and an onboard bathroom are all available to make your trip as comfortable as possible!
Traveling by bus takes about 4 hours from Merida to Tulum, and tickets cost between USD 25 and USD 35, depending on which bus you take.
These buses are the only direct form of public transportation operating on lengthy routes like this one.
Some buses make one stop along the way or don’t stop at all, and they depart directly from ADO Merida station.
So check the schedules and book a seat now if you want to guarantee a spot on one of the buses!
Merida to Tulum ADO Coach Bus Schedule:
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:50 PM | 10:50 PM | 4 hours | USD 25 |   |
| 06:40 AM | 11:00 AM | 4 hours 20 minutes | USD 34 | |
| 11:40 AM | 04:00 PM | 4 hours 20 minutes | USD 34 | |
| 11:50 AM | 03:50 PM | 4 hours | USD 35 | |
| 11:50 AM | 04:00 PM | 4 hours 10 minutes | USD 35 | |
| 06:50 AM | 10:50 AM | 4 hours | USD 35 | |
| 08:50 PM | 12:50 AM | 4 hours | USD 35 | |
2. Private Transfer from Merida to Tulum
Journey Duration: ~3 hours 40 minutes
Another convenient but more expensive option is to arrange a private transfer from Merida to Tulum. If you’re going on a group trip with others or if you want a convenient and comfortable way to go around, this is a great solution!
Because you can book a private vehicle whenever you want, you don’t have to worry about public transportation schedules!
No bus stops, no crowds, and no confusion—you will be picked up from your Merida hotel and taken to your destination in Tulum. Unlike driving alone, having a private transfer on long road trips allows you to relax without worrying about the roads.
Traveling from Merida to Tulum takes roughly 3 hours and 40 minutes, making this the fastest traveling option. Your driver will also allow you to make a small stop if necessary.
Additionally, since the cost of this option is per car rather than per person, a private transfer is an excellent option if you are traveling in a group. Instead of ordering a cab, it is more practical to split the overall cost among the passengers.
Have a hassle-free journey by booking your private transportation from Merida to Tulum right away!
3. Driving with Rental Car from Merida to Tulum
Journey Duration: ~3 hours 40 minutes
Lastly, traveling alone by renting a car is one of the most amazing ways to discover the Riviera Maya! Therefore, if you plan to travel while on vacation in Tulum, we highly suggest renting a car in Merida and driving yourself!
Driving a car is your fastest option if you need to go anywhere quickly because of a tight schedule. But, on the other hand, if you have endless time, renting a car will allow you to change your itinerary as you go, which may make your trip more exciting and enjoyable!
Additionally, given that the route from Merida to Tulum is paved and well-maintained, traveling across Mexico and arriving in Tulum should be rather easy and safe!
Driving from Merida to Tulum takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. It’s also possible to find some fantastic car rental deals!
Best day tours in Tulum, Mexico
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Tulum, Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get from Merida to Tulum?
The fastest way to get from Merida to Tulum is by car. The car drive from Merida to Tulum takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes!
You can either arrange a private transfer or get a car rental and arrive at your destination as fast as possible!
What is the cheapest way to get from Merida to Tulum?
The cheapest option to travel from Merida to Tulum is the ADO Coach Bus, with the cheapest bus tickets costing only USD 25.
Does Tulum have an airport?
There isn’t an airport near Tulum. The closest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport, so traveling from Merida to Tulum by plane isn’t a convenient option.
What is the best way to get to Tulum?
Booking a private transfer is the quickest, easiest, and safest way to get from Merida to your accommodation in Tulum. Your driver will meet you in Merida and bring you directly to your accommodation in Tulum.
Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?
It is perfectly safe to rent a car and drive around Mexico to explore the country!
