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 pool 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 alongside the primary highways. Fares are paid in cash (Pesos) directly to the driver upon exiting the Colectivo. Fares are fixed based on distance. Colectivos generally operate from early morning (approximately FIVE:00 AM) until late evening (about 10:00 PM-11:00 PM). Their the frequency of 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 major centers for Colectivos are concentrated on Calle 2 Nte (for departures both north and south) and Calle 1 Sur (upon arrival from the south) in the downtown area of Playa. 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. Once you wish to get off, say "Bajo" (BAH-hoh, meaning "I get off") or "Aquí, please" (ah-KEE por fah-VOR, meaning "Here, please"). Colectivos lack wheelchair accessibility. How accessible things are in general for public transport in Playa is limited. Sidewalks can be uneven.
Flag down from roadside or visit designated stops.
Pay cash upon exiting, fixed by distance. Have exact change.
Significantly cheaper than taxis for regional travel.
Take 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 take credit 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 primary pedestrian thoroughfare. The beachfront is walkable. Downtown lanes are generally walkable, but sidewalks can be uneven.
A small number of dedicated cycle paths. Cyclists often share roads or sidewalks. Exercise be wary of traffic.
Don't walk by yourself at night in poorly lit areas away from the main tourist zone. Avoid cycling on major highways like 307.
Beyond the standard options, Playa del Carmen offers one-of-a-kind approaches to discover 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.
Not many options.
Research plus check 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.
