Playa Del Carmen Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico Travel Guide
Playa del Carmen does not have a metro or tram system. The main form of public transportation within the city and for connecting to nearby towns is the Colectivo system. These are white passenger vans (typically 12-15 seaters) that operate on fixed routes, similar to shared taxis or minibuses. Colectivos are a very cost-effective and frequent way to travel short to medium distances. They run along designated main roads and pick up/drop off passengers anywhere along their route. You simply flag them down from the side of the road, or go to their designated stops. Formal, widely published route maps for Colectivos are not common. Their routes are well-known locally and operate along the main highways. Fares are paid in cash (Mexican Pesos) directly to the driver upon exiting the Colectivo. Fares are fixed based on distance. Colectivos generally operate from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (around 10:00 PM-11:00 PM). Their frequency is very high, especially during daylight hours; vans depart every few minutes once they are full. You rarely wait long for a Colectivo on the main routes.
Main Colectivo Hubs: The main hubs for Colectivos are concentrated on Calle 2 Nte (for departures both north and south) and Calle 1 Sur (for arrivals from the south) in the downtown area of Playa del Carmen. You will see many vans lined up, and drivers often call out destinations. To catch a Colectivo, stand by the roadside along their known routes and wave your hand. When you get in, tell the driver your destination. They will typically drop you off on the side of the highway near your requested stop. When you wish to get off, say "Bajo" (BAH-hoh, meaning "I get off") or "Aquí, por favor" (ah-KEE por fah-VOR, meaning "Here, please"). Colectivos are not wheelchair accessible. General accessibility for public transport in Playa del Carmen is limited. Sidewalks can be uneven.
Flag down from roadside or go to designated stops.
Pay cash upon exiting, fixed by distance. Have exact change.
Significantly cheaper than taxis for regional travel.
Use official, marked taxis. Confirm fare. Share route info when alone at night.
Verify driver, plate, and model via app before entering.
Mainly cash (MXN). Some accept cards, but cash is standard.
Higher rates from CUN. Pre-booked private shuttles often better value.
Explore Playa del Carmen and its surroundings with various rental choices for greater flexibility.
Fifth Avenue is a main pedestrian thoroughfare. The beachfront is walkable. Downtown streets are generally walkable, but sidewalks can be uneven.
Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists often share roads or sidewalks. Exercise caution due to traffic.
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas outside the main tourist zone. Avoid cycling on major highways like 307.
Beyond the standard options, Playa del Carmen offers unique ways to explore the region or assist those with specific needs.
Many sidewalks in older areas are uneven, making navigation difficult.
Use caution.
Colectivos generally lack accessibility features.
Limited options.
Research and confirm accessibility directly with hotels/providers before booking.
Plan ahead.
Playa del Carmen offers diverse transportation. Colectivos for budget-friendly regional travel, taxis for convenience, and rentals for flexibility. Walking and cycling are great for local exploration.
