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Tulum is a beach town 125 kilometres (78 miles) down the coast from Cancun. Its cliff-top Mayan ruins look straight out over the Caribbean. The cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum is the colectivo, a shared van, at $5.40 (95 MXN). A private transfer takes 1h 30m - 2h 30m.
Distance from Cancun to Tulum
Cancun and Tulum are about 125 km (78 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 130 km by road. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 1h 30m and 3h 55m.
4 ways to travel from Cancun to Tulum
There are four ways to travel from Cancun to Tulum. You can choose between the bus, colectivo, minivan, and private transport. The journey takes 1h 30m–3h and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at $5.40 (95 MXN).
2 legs — see itinerary
- Bus, Centro→Tulum45m
- Tulum Bus Terminal to City Centre20m
2 legs — see itinerary
- Colectivo from Cancun to Playa del Carmen1h 30m
- Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum1h 30m
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1Cancun to Tulum by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to travel from Cancun to Tulum — that is, if you're staying in the city centre of both cities.
Prices for a bus ticket start from as low as $16 (275 MXN). But if you're coming from the Hotel Zone in Cancun and/or heading to the beach areas in Tulum, chances are you'll have to pay extra for a taxi transfer. And taxis in both Cancun and Tulum are known for their expensive rates.
We break down their prices below.
Step 1: How to get to Cancun Bus Station
Buses bound for Tulum depart from ADO Cancun Bus Station in downtown Cancun, with many hotels and hostels located close by or just a few blocks away.
If you are staying outside the city centre, or in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, you have 2 ways to reach Cancun Bus Station: a 15-minute taxi or a 30 to 45-minute bus.
Taxis are more convenient and can take you directly from your hotel to the bus station. Fares start from $11 (200 MXN) when coming from the Hotel Zone.
On a budget? Buses run frequently between the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun. They're a reliable choice, but a bit slower than a taxi. Take either R1 or R2, both pass in front of the bus terminal along Avenida Tulum. A ticket costs $0.70 (13 MXN).
Step 2: Bus from Cancun to Tulum
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.
While ADO buses have slightly more legroom, the difference isn’t huge. It’s best to pick whichever option fits your schedule or budget.
Tickets cost around $16 (275 MXN), and the trip takes about 2h 25m - 2h 50m.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
Bus Option 1
ADO also operates buses from Cancun International Airport to Tulum. You can buy your ticket at the ADO counter in the arrivals hall or book it online through BookAway for extra convenience. A bus ticket costs $26 (450 MXN).
All buses from Cancun Airport park at ADO Tulum Bus Station.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Step 3: Tulum Bus Terminal to City Centre
Buses arrive at ADO Tulum Bus Station in the town centre, and many accommodations are within walking distance. For those staying in the beach area, the best option is to take a taxi.
Taxis in Tulum are not metered so you need to agree on the rate before stepping in. A good average rate to the Tulum beach area is $17 (300 MXN).
Cancun to Tulum by Colectivo
There used to be a direct colectivo service between Cancun and Tulum. But the last time we checked (December 2025), only indirect colectivo trips are available. You'll have to make a transfer at Playa del Carmen.
Switching colectivos adds an extra step, but it’s a great way to experience travelling like a local — and it’s budget-friendly. The total cost is about $5.40 (95 MXN), payable directly to the driver. Note that fares may rise during peak season.
If you're up for the ride, keep reading for a step-by-step guide!
Step 1: Colectivo from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
Two companies operate colectivos from Cancun to Tulum: Colectivo Foraneos and Playa Express. They each have their own terminal near ADO Cancun Bus Station in the city centre.
The fare to Playa del Carmen is $2.60 (45 MXN) for regular colectivos, which are what you can expect from Colectivo Foraneos. If you're taking Playa Express, expect to pay a bit more at $3.10 (55 MXN) for their larger and more comfortable Mercedes vans.
Note that rates can increase during peak tourist season between December and February. There’s no option to book colectivos online — you must pay the driver directly.
Colectivos depart every 15 minutes or when the vehicle reaches full capacity.
Step 2: Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum
Colectivos park at Playa del Carmen Colectivo Station. This is also where you’ll find the colectivos to Tulum.
Colectivo Foraneos is the sole operator for the Cancun to Tulum route. The ride costs around $2.90 (50 MXN). Also here, prices can go higher during peak tourist seasons.
The final stop for the colectivo is across the street from ADO Tulum Bus Station. Unlike buses, you can get off before the last stop if your accommodation is on the way or if you want to go to the archaeological ruins before entering Tulum town.
Cancun to Tulum by Shared Minivan
Shared minivans are a direct way to travel from Cancun to Tulum. You can get a ride for around $23 (395 MXN).
The good thing about minivans is that some companies offer door-to-door transfers. That means you won't have to spend extra on taxis going to and from minivan terminals.
Travel time varies depending on the number of passengers and additional stops on the way, but it's normally between 1h 40m - 3h 30m.
You can book a shared minivan from Cancun to Tulum via BookAway.
Option 1: Minivan from Cancun City Centre to Tulum
Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Option 2: Minivan from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Are you coming from Cancun International Airport? There are shared minivans here that can take you straight to your hotel’s doorstep in Tulum.
Rates start from $31 (535 MXN) when you book a shared minivan from Cancun Airport to Tulum on BookAway.
Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Cancun to Tulum by Private Transport
A private transfer from Cancun to Tulum is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 1h 30m - 2h 30m, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer from downtown Cancun or the Hotel Zone start at $120 (2,060 MXN) for a 4-seater private transfer. Split it with your group, and it’s about $24 (410 MXN) each.
IMPORTANT: When booking your ride online, make sure that your car’s departure point is downtown Cancun or the Hotel Zone, wherever you’re staying. Fares for private cars from Cancun Airport to Tulum are cheaper and may look tempting, but keep in mind that the airport is 20 minutes away from Cancun’s tourist area.
Cancun to Tulum
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Private Option 2
You can book a private transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum, with a driver waiting outside the arrivals hall. A 10-seater minivan on BookAway costs $94 (1,630 MXN).
Taxis are also available 24/7 at the airport. The average fare to Tulum is around $125 (2,200 MXN), and you can buy your ticket at any taxi counter inside the arrivals hall.
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
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 Cancun to Tulum, roughly 125 kilometres (78 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $5.40 (95 MXN). The quickest trip takes 1h 30m.
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 Cancun to Tulum?
The distance from Cancun to Tulum is 125 kilometres (78 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Cancun to Tulum?
Journey times from Cancun to Tulum overlap: bus 3h - 3h 55m, colectivo 3h, shared minivan 1h 40m - 3h 30m, private transport 1h 30m - 2h 30m. Depending on the departure, no single option is always the fastest.
What is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum?
The cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum is by colectivo with ticket costs starting from 95 MXN.
How can I book a rental car to drive from Cancun to Tulum?
What are the best beaches in Tulum?
How is the nightlife in Tulum?
What are the best months to visit Tulum?
When did the Maya's live in Tulum?
About the Authors
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.
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.
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