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How to Get to Tulum

How to Get to Tulum

Tulum Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Tulum

Your arrival point will typically be one of these two main airports.

Airport Options

  • Cancún International Airport (CUN): Approximately 75 miles (120 km) north of Tulum. High volume of international and domestic flights.
  • Tulum International Airport (TQO - Felipe Carrillo Puerto): Approximately 16 miles (26 km) southwest of Tulum town. A newer, more direct option.
  • TQO opened in December 2023 and continually expands its offerings.

Airlines and Routes

Both airports offer connections to various destinations.

Flight Information

  • CUN: Serviced by major international carriers (American Airlines, Delta, United, Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, etc.).
  • TQO: Serviced by Aeromexico, VivaAerobus, Volaris (domestic), and growing international carriers (American Airlines, Delta, United, Spirit).
  • Direct flights from major hubs in North America and Europe are plentiful for CUN. TQO increases direct access.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

High season (Nov-Apr) sees higher demand and prices. Low season (Aug-Oct) generally has lower prices.

Airport Facilities

CUN offers extensive duty-free shops, restaurants, car rentals, ATMs. TQO features modern, expanding facilities.

Flight Deals

Check Dollar Flight Club for flight deals. Compare prices with Skyscanner for options.

Transfer Options to Tulum

From CUN to Tulum

  • ADO Bus: Economical, comfortable, direct service to Tulum ADO bus station. Approx. 2-2.5 hours.
  • Private Shuttle/Taxi: Most convenient, but most expensive. Pre-booked options are available.
  • Rental Car: Agencies at CUN. Offers flexibility for exploration.
  • Prices for private services typically range from $80-$150 USD one-way.

From TQO to Tulum

  • ADO Bus: Direct service to Tulum town. Cost-effective.
  • Taxis: Readily available at the airport. Prices may be fixed to common destinations.
  • Private Transfers: Options are growing as the airport expands.
  • Rental Car: Agencies located directly at Tulum International Airport for immediate access.

Land Transportation Overview

Border Crossings

Not for direct air arrivals. Land entry from Belize or Guatemala involves passport and FMM card.

Train Services

Tren Maya, Mexico's new intercity railway, connects Tulum (via new airport station) with Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and other sites. Check operational routes and schedules.

Long-Distance Buses

ADO Bus: Premier service with comfortable, air-conditioned buses. Connects Tulum with major cities (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Mérida). Affordable and quality transport.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-Driving Requirements

Renting a car offers freedom, but preparation is .

Driver Checklist

  • Valid national driver's license from your home country.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is good for translation.
  • Passport and major credit card for rental deposit.

Insurance & Age

Understand insurance necessities and age limits for rentals.

Important Rental Details

  • Mexican auto insurance is legally needed and purchased from a Mexican provider.
  • Do not solely use credit card rental insurance; it typically does not cover third-party liability.
  • Minimum rental age is often 21, sometimes 25, with potential surcharges for younger drivers.

Road Conditions

What to Expect on Roads

  • Main highways (e.g., Highway 307 to Cancún) are generally well-maintained four-lane roads.
  • The Tulum beach road (Zona Hotelera) is narrow, often unpaved, and sees severe congestion.
  • Gasoline (Gasolina) is sold by the liter; attendants pump it (tip is customary).

Driving Safety Concerns

Be aware of specific safety points while driving.

Driving Precautions

  • Speed Bumps (Topes): Abundant and often unmarked. Slow down suddenly.
  • Police Stops: Occasionally occur for minor infractions. Remain polite and cooperative.
  • Driving at Night: Avoid driving off main highways due to poor lighting, unmarked obstacles, pedestrians, and wildlife.

Driving Laws

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Cell phone use while driving is illegal.
  • Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h).
  • Parking in the Hotel Zone is limited and often expensive.
  • Never leave valuables visible in a parked car.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departure Info

Sea & River Travel

Tulum's geography means sea or river arrivals are not main transport methods.

Water Transport Details

  • Tulum does not have a cruise port. Closest cruise port: Cozumel (by ferry from Playa del Carmen).
  • No direct ferry services to Tulum itself.
  • Tulum is on the Caribbean coast, not a major riverine destination. River transport is not applicable.

Departure Information

Plan for a smooth departure from Tulum.

Exit Procedures

  • Departure tax (DNR or Tourist Tax) typically in airline ticket price. Confirm with airline.
  • Quintana Roo has an "environmental tax" for visitors; payable online or at airport.
  • Arrive at CUN/TQO at least 3 hours before international flights; 2 hours for domestic.

Check-in Process

Complete online check-in or at the airport counter for your flight.

FMM Card Return

If you got a physical FMM card upon arrival, return its bottom portion to airline staff or immigration. Failure leads to fines.

Airport Facilities

CUN has duty-free, restaurants, lounges. TQO's facilities are modern and continually expanding.

Final Departure Advice

Smooth Departure

Confirm your departure tax status before heading to the airport. Allow plenty of time for check-in and security, especially for international flights.

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