Getting Around: Puerto Morelos

Colectivos: Shared Vans

The main public transportation for inter-town travel in the Riviera Maya, including Puerto Morelos, is the "colectivo" system. These shared vans are economical and popular.

Colectivos are white, air-conditioned passenger vans operating on fixed routes along Highway 307. They act like shared taxis, picking up and dropping off passengers. They do not enter the beach town area; their stop is on Highway 307.

Using Colectivos

Routes run north towards Cancun and south towards Playa del Carmen.
Main stop is on Highway 307 near the pedestrian bridge in Puerto Morelos.
Wave to catch one; tell the driver 'baja' or 'aquí, por favor' to exit.
Run frequently (every 5-10 minutes) from early morning until late evening.

Fares

Fares are paid in cash (Mexican Pesos) directly to the driver upon exiting. Fares are fixed by distance.

Accessibility

Colectivos are not generally wheelchair accessible.

Colectivo Usage Tips

Boarding & Exiting

Confirm destination with the driver when boarding.
Speak your destination clearly to the driver.
Be patient; colectivos can be crowded.

Safety & Comfort

Keep an eye on your belongings. They are generally safe.
They do not enter the beach town; you need a local taxi or walk from Hwy 307.
Often a more budget-friendly option than taxis for inter-town travel.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Identification

Taxis are typically white, with a taxi sign and number on the roof.

Hailing

Find taxis at stands (main square, highway colectivo stop) or flag them down.

Negotiate Fare

Agree on the fare before entering the taxi, especially for longer distances.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and DiDi operate in Cancun/Playa, but availability in Puerto Morelos is limited.

Rental Choices

Explore the region at your own pace with rental vehicles.

Car Rental Procedures

Car rental agencies are widely available at Cancun International Airport.
You need a valid driver's license (IDP recommended for some).
A credit card for the security deposit is required.
Minimum age requirement is usually 21 (sometimes 25 for certain car types).

Rental Insurance & Safety

Mandatory Mexican car insurance is required by law.
It is strongly advised to take full comprehensive coverage.
Main highways are generally well-maintained, but rural roads can vary.
Be vigilant for 'topes' (speed bumps), which are plentiful and often poorly marked.

Other Rental Options

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common but available.
Ensure you have the proper license endorsement and wear a helmet.
Puerto Morelos is great for cycling; local shops and hotels offer rentals.

Cycling is an excellent way to explore the beach town or ride to the Colonia.
Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; be mindful of pedestrians and cars.
Bicycle rental prices are reasonable for daily or weekly rentals.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits are posted in km/h.

Road Conditions

Main highways are generally well-maintained. Rural roads can have potholes or uneven surfaces.

Parking

In the beach town, parking is generally available, sometimes metered or in designated lots. In the Colonia, street parking is common.

Active Exploration

Puerto Morelos's charm lends itself well to exploration on foot or by bicycle.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The entire beach town area of Puerto Morelos is very walkable.
Main square, pier, leaning lighthouse, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance.
Strolling along the beach offers beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Malecon (waterfront promenade) provides a pleasant walking path.

Walking Tour Options

You can easily take a self-guided walking tour through the beach town.
Explore its colorful streets, artisan shops, and historical markers.
Local guides may offer informal historical or culinary walking tours.
Highway 307 is not suitable for walking or cycling for extended periods.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Not typically found within Puerto Morelos itself.

Many tour operators offer pick-up services for day trips to major attractions like Chichen Itza or Xcaret parks.

Boat Taxis

Within Puerto Morelos, water transportation is mainly for specific activities.

Local boats take visitors out to the National Reef Park for snorkeling or diving. Fishing charters also depart from the pier.

Accessibility Services

Mexico, including Puerto Morelos, is still developing its infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges.

Contact your accommodation and tour operators in advance to confirm their accessibility features.

Local Transport Tips

Getting Around Town

The beach town is highly walkable.
Taxis are the most reliable option for local travel.
Bicycle rentals are great for exploring both the beach town and Colonia.

Inter-Town Travel

Colectivos are economical for trips to Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
Consider rental cars for exploring the wider Yucatán at your own pace.
Confirm routes and fares for all transportation options before starting your journey.

Local Taxi & Driving Advice

Negotiate taxi fares upfront for longer distances.
Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
Avoid unmarked vehicles posing as taxis.
Mandatory Mexican car insurance is critical if renting a car.

Be vigilant for 'topes' (speed bumps) on roads.
Avoid driving long distances at night, especially on rural roads.
Always carry small bills for easy payments and tips.
Have a mix of cash (pesos) and cards for purchases.

Departure Checklist

Ensure a smooth departure from Cancun International Airport.

Before You Leave Town

Confirm flight times and terminal information in advance.
Arrange your airport transfer with enough time for check-in and security.
Have your passport and any FMM receipt readily available.
Ensure all required travel documents are in order.

At the Airport

Arrive 2-3 hours before an international flight; 3-4 hours during peak season.
Check in online if your airline allows to save time at the airport.
Be prepared for standard airport security checks.
Do not be confused by unofficial requests for "exit fees."

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Shopping

Duty-free shops are available in all terminals for last-minute shopping.

Find souvenirs and gifts.
Browse international brands.
Tax-free shopping.

Dining Options

A wide selection of restaurants and cafes is available.

Options from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Grab a quick bite or relax before your flight.
Find Mexican and international cuisine.

Comfort & Amenities

ATMs are plentiful for withdrawing Mexican Pesos.

Currency exchange booths are also available.
VIP Lounges offer comfort and amenities.
Information desks assist with directions and inquiries.

Final Security & Checks

Security Screening

Be aware of current TSA or international security regulations.
Remove electronics from bags for screening.
Adhere to liquid restrictions in carry-on luggage.

Immigration & Documents

If you received a physical FMM form, present the bottom portion.
If entry was digital, you may need to scan a QR code from a receipt.
Ensure all boarding passes and necessary documents are easily accessible.

Final Thought

Navigating Puerto Morelos is part of the adventure. Embrace the local pace, enjoy the journey, and create lasting memories.

The blend of natural beauty, local culture, and thoughtful amenities makes Puerto Morelos a distinctive destination.

Getting Around