Pendour Pro-Tips to Get to Tulum -

Here’s our brief guide of hints and tips about how to get to Tulum in Mexico. This dreamy travel destination has featured in several other Wanderlust posts by Linda Bell, our Founder! Think tropical pristine beaches stretching out from verdant jungle; lively night life; cultural and historical sites; culinary flair and inventive architecture with inspirational decor. Tulum is a place like no other . . . .

Our suggestions here will help to ensure your transition from worldwide wanderer to Tuluminati is as dreamy as it can be!

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CUSTOMS & VISAS

Citizens of most countries do not require a visa to visit Mexico for 6 months or less.

Upon entry to the country, the immigration official will ask a few simple questions about where you are staying, how long for and whether or not you have been to Mexico before. They will then stamp your passport.

Even if you can not speak Spanish fluently, the staff tend to be especially friendly if you can at least attempt some everyday phrases – Hola, Gracias and Adios!

Following immigration and collection of any checked baggage, be prepared to have all of your handbags, coats and suitcases x-rayed. You will also be searched by sniffer dogs as quite rightly there is zero tolerance on any illegal substances. Additionally, there are often spot checks on luggage, so don’t be scared if you’re invited over for a quick inspection.

ARRIVAL AT CANCúN AIRPORT

Most visitors will travel to Tulum via Cancún airport. Cancún is a major city on the Yucatán Peninsula and about a 2.5 hour drive away from Tulum. (By car the journey often takes longer due to traffic!) The airport serves national flights to and from many destinations in the USA, Canada and Europe, though these flights may not be every day.

If you are arriving in Cancún, it’s best to arrange transport to Tulum directly with your hotel, as they can ensure a seamless experience. For example, Zamas Hotel ensures a relaxed fare all round with good communication via Whatsapp. Staff in uniform are easy to spot in the hustle and bustle of arrivals and provide cool water as soon as you take your seat in their vehicle. Face flannels are a welcome treat in the heat after a long flight – you’re now on your way to Paradise!

You may also like to hire a car. It’s best to go to the desks and barter for the best deal. Don’t be nervous, it’s a great way to get to meet people! Suss out your favourite company – with your gut feeling – oh and it’s fun! Mex and America are often been the cheapest, but it can depend on how many days you are looking to rent for and whether or not you intend to return the vehicle to the same location.

It’s important to check that the car is fully covered as many car rental companies do not accept insurance from your credit card company. Smaller cars are ideal especially with a higher chassis if you really want to go exploring.

Check out our detailed Guide to Driving In Mexico for more suggestions and what to look out for! (Coming soon. . . . )

ARRIVAL AT TULUM AIRPORT

This wonderful new airport serves flights predominately to and from the USA, through it’s sure to expand soon!

Located close to the National military school this huge undertaking has resulted in a beautiful contemporary style airport. Quick processing times, lots of natural light and decorative features bring the jungle vibe indoors!

This small airport is much easier to navigate than Cancún with fewer queues, waiting times and no large cruise or coach groups! Again as with Cancún, it’s a good idea to book transport directly with your accommodation – then look out for the drivers holding signs bearing your name or the name of your hotel!

TAXI FROM TULUM AIRPORT

Taxis from Tulum airport to Tulum Pueblo or Zona Hotelera tend to be on the extortionate side, sometimes costing as much as taxis from Cancún to Tulum! In this way they are quite pricey but of course a great way to begin your stay, especially if you are a larger group, with little pre-planning required.

When you exit customs at Tulum airport, staff from the taxi companies will call out at you. If you fancy it, you can haggle a bit to ensure you get the best rate!

After any flight delays, red eyes or early mornings, this is probably the quickest route to mezcal by the waves!

CAR HIRE AT TULUM AIRPORT

Upon exit of customs, head past the initial car rental desks and check out the very last stand in the corner of the Arrivals hall.

So far America offers the best rates with inclusive insurance. You can return the car to Tulum or Cancún Airports and there is also a depot on the road between Tulum town and the Playa for any issues, or if you only plan on having a car for a few days’ exploring. As recently as the end of 2025, an eight day hire with a different drop-off location for a small car is about 400 USD, with no pre-booking.

AUTOBUS TRANSIT FROM TULUM AIRPORT

Travelling by bus perhaps refelcts most closely the adventurous spirit of Tulum! Once you have secured your ticket, approximately 11 dollars per person, be sure to head over to the red ADO busses with plenty of time! Grab a carton of refreshing coconut water on the way from one of the cafes in the Arrivals Hall as it’s a good 40 minute ride to the depot in Tulum Pueblo.

Enjoy the scenery and smooth new road – all traffic free and lined by the beautiful green and verdant jungle. Several little villages will whizz right past your window, a glimpse of how locals live.

Look out for Cenotes Escondida and Cristal on the approach to Tulum as these are well worth coming back to for a refreshing swim!

Once you get to the main ADO depot in Tulum it can be a tad chaotic as there isn’t much space and lots of luggage to offload. Outside the depot is a taxi rank along the main road, but don’t let them take you for a ride with their higher rates!

Instead, cross over the road to the restaurants and (after a chilled cerveza!) hail a cab. You will find the rate significantly less than on the opposite side directly outside of the bus depot.

AND NOW YOU'RE IN TULUM

We have a whole suite of Pendour Picks highlighting the most authentic places to stay, go and eat during your visit to this upscale, boho beach-meets-jungle scene.

Check out our Pendour Picks for a Traditional Trip to Tulum. Discover classic beach clubs, restaurants and music spots not to be missed!

Feel like a true cast-away as you read our Review of Zamas Hotel – Where to Stay In Tulum.

Connect with the past – catch our article Descending gods and Jaguars and learn about Tulum’s new Archaeological Museum, nestled deep in the jungle.

Read our Driving Guide to Mexico for more thoughts about getting around Tulum during your stay.

NEED TO KEEP CONNECTED IN TULUM?

Hoping to work remotely or keep up to date whilst you’re in the jungle?

You may need an e-SIM! eSIMania offer a range of programmes to keep you online. With no additional roaming fees, worldwide coverage and instant delivery, there’s a programme for every destination and wallet! A seven day plan in Mexico starts from just $6!

EXPLORE MORE WITH AN ORGANISED TULUM TOUR

If you like the idea of a relaxed and friendly guided tour, taking in your personal interests, GoWithGuide is the service to choose! Their bespoke offering means you can select a local guide who actually lives in the Tulum area. Your GoWithGuide will work with you, developing an adaptable programme to help turn your dream Riviera Maya itinerary into reality! Follow this link for Tulum’s local guides who are ready to welcome you as friends and share some of Tulum’s blissful and most coveted spots!

A PENDOUR P.S.

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