The Riviera Maya is a prime destination for travelers from all over the world. To fully enjoy this beautiful part of Mexico, it is essential to understand the different transportation options available. In this article, we will guide you through colectivos, cabs, car rentals and other means of transportation to make your stay easier.

Colectivos

Colectivos are public mini-buses that serve the Riviera Maya. They offer an economical and convenient way to travel between the main cities and attractions in the region.

Colectivo Fares and Schedules

Colectivo fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but are generally very affordable. For example, a trip from Playa del Carmen to Tulum costs about 45 pesos (about US$2). Colectivos usually run every 10 to 15 minutes in tourist areas, but it is important to check local schedules as they can vary.

Main stations of colectivos

There are several main stations where you can take a colectivo:

Playa del Carmen: The main station is on Calle 2 Norte, between Avenues 15 and 20.
Cancún: You will find colectivos near the Las Americas shopping center or at the intersection of Tulum and Uxmal avenues.
Tulum: The main station is located on the main avenue near downtown.

Taxis

Cabs are also available throughout the Riviera Maya. They offer more comfort than colectivos, but are also more expensive.

To avoid scams, it is recommended to negotiate the price of the trip before getting on board. Fares vary depending on the distance and the tourist area, but to give you an idea, a trip of about 10 minutes can cost between 50 and 100 pesos (about 2 to 5 USD).

Some cab booking apps, such as TaxiCaller or Easy Taxi, can be used in certain areas to facilitate booking and avoid direct negotiations with drivers.

Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a great option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace and discover places less accessible by public transportation. However, this option can be more expensive than the other means of transportation mentioned above.

To choose the best option, compare the offers of the different rental agencies available in the area (such as Hertz, Avis or Europcar) and consider the type of vehicle you will need depending on the number of passengers and the terrain you wish to explore.

Other transportation options

Other alternatives for getting around the Riviera Maya include:

Bicycles: Renting a bicycle is an environmentally friendly and convenient option for exploring local areas at your own pace.
ADO Buses: ADO buses are long-distance buses that serve several important destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. They offer a comfortable way to travel, with reasonable fares and regular schedules.
Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle services are available to transfer between Cancun’s airport and the main tourist areas. Rates vary depending on the type of service (private or shared) and the destination.

Getting around between tourist attractions

To get to popular tourist sites such as cenotes, beaches and ruins, you can use :

Colectivos: They serve many tourist sites, including ecological parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha.
Cabs: They can be a fast and convenient option to reach more remote sites or less accessible by colectivo.
Car rental: It will allow you to explore at your own pace and visit several sites in one day.

Travel tips and tricks

Here are some additional tips to make your travel in the Riviera Maya easier:

Take out travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events related to transportation or activities on site.
Organize your luggage according to the means of transportation you will use, favoring light and easy to carry bags.

In summary, the Riviera Maya offers a variety of transportation options to meet the needs and preferences of each traveler. Whether you choose economical colectivos, convenient cabs, the freedom of a rental car or other alternatives, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful part of Mexico.

Discover all our articles on Mexico in our blog

If you have any questions about the Visitax tourist tax, please contact us

Sandra Leutmann

Sandra Leutmann, a distinguished international travel expert, holds a diploma from the University of Bremen. With over two decades of experience, she has traversed the globe, enriching her insights into diverse cultures and destinations. Sandra’s expertise is sought after by travelers and industry professionals alike, as she crafts bespoke itineraries that promise authentic and memorable experiences. She was a keynote speaker at the TTG Travel experience conference in Rimini and the WTM in London.