Whether you’re heading to Playa del Carmen for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, or access to the Mayan Riviera, one of the first challenges you’ll face is getting there from Cancun International Airport.
Luckily, there are several ways to make the trip, ranging from budget-friendly options to more comfortable private transfers. Here’s an informative breakdown of each option to help you choose the best way to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen!
How to Get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen
1. ADO Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
The ADO bus is the most popular choice for budget-conscious travelers heading to Playa del Carmen. These comfortable red buses run frequently from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen’s central bus station on 5th Avenue and the Alterna at 12th Street with 20 Ave.
They run frequently throughout the day with a few departures each hour, but be aware that since recently they only depart from Terminal 2 at Cancun Airport, so you may need to get the free inter terminal shuttle to get to there.
You can book ahead using their app or website, but tickets are easily available to buy as you need them. If you buy ahead of time, you can risk losing them if your arriving flight is delayed or you have a long queue at immigration.
– Cost: Approximately 250 pesos (around $15 USD).
– Travel Time: About 1 hour.
– Pros: Affordable, convenient, and comfortable buses with air conditioning.
– Cons: You’ll need to grab a taxi or walk from the Playa bus station to your accommodation.
2. Private Transfers: The Comfort of Door-to-Door Service
Private transfers offer a stress-free way to travel directly from the airport to your hotel in Playa del Carmen. There are many companies which offer this service, allowing you to pre-book a ride, with prices varying depending on the size of your group.
Drivers will usually wait for you at the terminal with a sign, and will lead you to the vehicle. Often they have cold waters for you, for the journey.
– Cost: Prices start around $50 USD for a car (1-3 passengers) and increase based on vehicle type and group size.
– Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
– Pros: Direct service to your hotel/condo, no waiting time.
– Cons: Higher cost, especially for solo travelers.
3. Rental Car: Flexibility for Exploration
If you prefer to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car at the Cancun Airport can be a great choice. This option allows you to stop along the way and enjoy the freedom of having your own transportation during your stay.
However, it’s been noted by travelers that many car rental companies have hidden charges and add-on fees, so be extremely aware of the small print in your booking.
(We’ve created a blog on rental cars if you want more info!)
– Cost: Rental prices start at around $20-30 USD per day, plus insurance and gas.
– Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (direct).
– Pros: Full control over your schedule, easy access to nearby attractions.
– Cons: Dealing with parking in Playa, toll roads, and potential driving stress.
4. Taxis: Fast, but Expensive
As soon as you exit the arrivals terminal at Cancun Airport you will be hounded by many reps offering you a taxi service. As convenient as they are, they can be quite expensive, especially for a longer trip like this.
Official taxi stands will seem to charge a flat rate, but it’s always best to confirm the price before starting your journey, you can try to negotiate a little too. This works especially well if you can speak in Spanish and seem more ‘local’.
– Cost: Around 1,200 to 1,500 pesos (approx. $60-70 USD).
– Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
– Pros: Immediate availability and direct service.
– Cons: The most expensive option.
Note: While Uber has some limited operation in Cancun on the hotel zone, it’s not readily available or reliable at the airport, or in the area surrounding Playa del Carmen, so taxis are usually the go-to for those seeking a direct car service.
5. Tren Maya: A Scenic Journey
The Tren Maya is one of the newest and most exciting travel options for getting from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. Still in development, the train currently offers limited services between the Cancun Airport and Playa del Carmen with jungle views along the way. From the airport, there is a free shuttle bus that will take you to the train station.
As the Tren Maya expands, it may become an even more appealing option for travelers looking for an alternative to buses or cars, but with its station in Playa being deep inland past the Colonia of Villas del Sol, you’ll still need to find a taxi or other arrangement once you arrive at the station.
– Cost: 197 pesos ($11 USD) for tourist class, 315 pesos ($18 USD) for premier class
– Travel Time: Around 25 minutes for the train ride itself, but with transfers, it can take up to 2 hours
– Pros: Affordable, eco-friendly, and scenic (with stops at Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen)
– Cons: Limited schedule (2 – 3 daily departures) and requires additional transport to get from the Playa del Carmen train station to downtown.
Now you know the best ways to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen
What’s the Best Airport Transport Option for You?
The best transportation method depends on your priorities:
– On a budget? The ADO bus is your go-to.
– Looking for convenience? Private transfers offer comfort and ease.
– Prefer flexibility? Renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore.
– Want a new experience? The Tren Maya offers a scenic, eco-friendly option with limited service.
No matter how you choose to travel, Playa del Carmen awaits with its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture! Safe travels and enjoy your time in the Riviera Maya.
Before You Arrive in Playa… Think of KKIS
We all know that Playa del Carmen is a slice of paradise, and the journey from Cancun Airport is just the beginning of your adventure. Whether you’re taking a private transfer, hopping on a shuttle, or catching the ADO bus, you’re on your way to relaxation. But while you’re enjoying the convenience of transportation and the scenic route, there are young minds here who are struggling to get the education they deserve.
High school education in this region isn’t always a given. Families face tough choices—covering admission fees, uniforms, and school supplies, or having their children enter the workforce early to help support the household.
But here’s where you can step in, superhero style. For less than what you’d spend on your airport transfer ($2 USD per day), you could help a student stay in school. That’s like skipping a single taxi ride to give a kid a brighter future. Now that’s a feel-good journey!
So as you make your way into Playa del Carmen, why not add a little extra kindness to your travels? Your donation to KKIS could be the boost these students need to keep their educational dreams alive. Think of it as fueling not just your trip, but their future, too.
Reach out today to find out how you can donate or volunteer. Because nothing feels better than giving back, except maybe arriving at your beachside destination!