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Tulum is a beach town with Maya ruins above the sea. It's 196 kilometres (122 miles) up the coast from Bacalar. The bus is the cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum at $19 (330 MXN). It runs direct and takes 2h 50m - 2h 55m. A private transfer is the quickest option, and it costs a good deal more.
Distance from Bacalar to Tulum
Bacalar and Tulum are about 196 km (122 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 215 km by road. The quickest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum is by taking the private transport, which takes around 2h.
2 ways to travel from Bacalar to Tulum
There are two ways to travel from Bacalar to Tulum. The journey takes 2h–2h 50m and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $19 (330 MXN).
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Bacalar to Tulum by Bus
ADO and AU are the bus companies operating on this route. ADO offers a more comfortable ride with better seats and onboard toilets, while AU is the cheaper option with simpler buses and no restrooms. Check out our Mexico Transport Guide for a full comparison of their bus types and amenities.
The bus trip takes 2h 50m - 2h 55m. Ticket prices start from $19 (330 MXN).
Departure station
Buses to Tulum depart from ADO Bacalar Bus Terminal, which you can find on the town’s main road. If your hotel is too far from the bus station to walk, then the best option is to take a taxi.
Taxis in Bacalar are not metered, so make sure to agree on the rate before stepping in. Rates start from $6.40 (110 MXN) when coming from Bacalar Lagoon.
Bus schedule from Bacalar to Tulum
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
It’s best to book online beforehand via BookAway for a better chance of securing a seat at your desired date and time.
Tickets are also available to buy at the bus station, but there’s a risk of tickets being sold out for your preferred trip. If that happens, then you’ll have to wait a bit for the next trip.
Arrival station
In Tulum, the bus arrives at ADO Terminal de Autobuses Tulum in the town centre, within walking distance of many accommodations in town. But if you’re staying around the beach area, then it’s best to take a taxi.
Same as the taxis in Bacalar, the taxis in Tulum are not metered. You need to agree on a price before stepping in. The average rate from the bus terminal to the beach area is $17 (300 MXN).
Bacalar to Tulum by Private Transport
A private transfer from Bacalar to Tulum is the easiest and most convenient transport option. The journey takes 2h, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Taxi apps Uber and Didi are also available on this route. They are usually the most budget-friendly option, with prices starting at $135 (2,370 MXN) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $61 (1,060 MXN) each.
If you prefer booking in advance, platforms like BookAway or 12GoAsia. are great choices. They’re very reliable but come with a higher price tag, starting at $180 (3,150 MXN).
Our favourite places to stay in Tulum
Here are our favourite places to stay in Tulum for every budget.
Treat YourselfHotel Casa Santiago Tulum
There are too many great things to mention about Casa Santiago. It’s an eco-sustainable hotel with a refreshing pool and sun-loungers, perfect for relaxing around. An added bonus, all rooms offer balconies with pool views.
The star of the show though? The staff! They’re always there to help you out. Whether it’s answering a question, or helping you to organise a tour in Tulum.
- Outdoor pool and sun terrace
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Eco-friendly and sustainable hotel
- Natural toiletries made in the region
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Treat YourselfTurquoise Petit Hotel Tulum
Put on your complimentary bathrobe and enjoy the tranquility of this hotel. Every aspect of the hotel is so beautifully and intricately designed that you can’t help but be relaxed here. The decor is truly stunning with splashes of turquoise all around you.
There’s not one, but two pools to take a refreshing dip in after you’ve enjoyed your complimentary breakfast. And at the end of the day, the modern and spacious rooms are the perfect place to retire to at the end of the day.
- Two outdoor swimming pools
- Beautifully decorated
- Attentive and friendly staff
- Great breakfast included
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Mid-RangeLa Palmita Budget Boutique Hotel
The creative murals that you’ll find throughout the entire hotel, give La Palmita a vibrant and artistic feel. Wherever you look, you’ll feel inspired.
The beds are massive and incredibly comfortable, offering a great night’s sleep after a busy day in Tulum. You can also chill on your own private balcony or the big roof terrace. Plonk yourself in one of the many hammocks and enjoy the sunset.
- Bike rental available
- Rooftop with hammocks and yoga mats
- Excellent location
- Huge beds
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
BudgetTubo Tulum
Looking for something a bit different? Tubo Tulum makes sleeping an experience of its own. You can sleep in a tent or in one of their large concrete tubes that house a comfy double bed.
The eco-friendly concept of the hostel, alongside their tropical garden, makes you feel like you’re chilling in the middle of the jungle. A very memorable stay for a very reasonable price.
- Great location
- Communal kitchen
- Delicious breakfast included
- Original and eco-friendly hotel
Private tents start from $19 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Tulum?
Cancun might be the most famous destination on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, but many people actually prefer to spend their time in the Riviera Maya in Tulum. Lying by the Caribbean coast, Tulum is becoming an ever-more popular beach destination in the Riviera Maya. It used to be overshadowed by bigger cities nearby like Playa del Carmen and Cancun. But as more people want to escape the bustle of these places, many are now heading to Tulum for a more laidback, bohemian vibe.
The town of Tulum was named after its stunning Mayan ruins perched on top of a cliff, overlooking the ocean below. But as beautiful as these ruins are, for us the best thing to do in Tulum is to go cenote-hopping! Some of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico can be found here.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Bacalar to Tulum, roughly 196 kilometres (122 miles) apart. In all, there are 2 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $19 (330 MXN). The quickest trip takes 2h.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Bacalar to Tulum?
The distance from Bacalar to Tulum is 196 kilometres (122 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum?
The fastest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum is by private transport and takes 2h.
What is the cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum?
The cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Tulum is by bus with ticket costs starting from 330 MXN.
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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