Tulum by foot, bike, scooter, ATV, colectivo, car and taxi
Navigating Tulum can be a bit of an adventure, as the town is spread out between its main areas: Tulum Pueblo (Downtown), Aldea Zama, La Veleta, and the Beach Road (Zona Hotelera). Here are your main options for getting around:
1. Bicycles
- Best For: Eco-friendly travel and short distances.
- Where to Rent: Bike rentals are available throughout Tulum, especially in downtown and Aldea Zama.
- Cost: ~$10–$15 USD per day.
- Tips:
- Tulum has dedicated bike paths, especially between the downtown area and the beach.
- Bring sunscreen and water, as it gets hot during the day.
2. Scooters
- Best For: Exploring multiple areas quickly and easily.
- Where to Rent: Rental shops are available in downtown and beach areas.
- Cost: ~$25–$40 USD per day.
- Tips:
- You’ll need a valid driver’s license.
- Wear a helmet, as traffic on the Beach Road can be busy.
3. ATVs
- Best For: Adventurers exploring the jungle or cenotes.
- Where to Rent: Tours and rentals are available at local adventure companies.
- Cost: ~$100 USD per day, depending on the model.
- Tips:
- Check local regulations and ensure you’re renting from a reputable provider.
4. Cars
- Best For: Visiting cenotes, ruins, or towns outside of Tulum.
- Where to Rent: Rental agencies are located in Tulum and Cancún.
- Cost: ~$30–$70 USD per day, plus insurance.
- Tips:
- Parking can be challenging in the hotel zone, especially during peak hours.
- Roads can be uneven or unpaved, so drive carefully.
5. Colectivo (Shared Minivan)
- Best For: Budget-friendly travel along main routes.
- Advantages:
- Cheapest option for trips to places like Playa del Carmen or local cenotes.
- Fares range from ~$1–$5 USD.
- Challenges:
- Limited to fixed routes.
- Less comfortable and reliable compared to private options.
6. Taxis
- Best For: Short trips or when you don’t want to rent.
- Cost:
- Downtown to the beach: ~$10–$20 USD, depending on distance.
- Always confirm the price before getting in, as taxis in Tulum do not use meters.
- Tips:
- Prices can be high, so consider negotiating.
- Taxis are easily hailed in most parts of Tulum.
Additional Notes
- Walking: While possible in smaller neighborhoods, walking between main areas (like from downtown to the beach) isn’t practical due to distance (~4–5 km or ~2.5–3 miles).
- Eco-Friendly Options: Biking and scooters are popular among eco-conscious travelers, aligning with Tulum’s reputation for sustainability.
Whether you’re zipping down the Beach Road or exploring cenotes in the jungle, there’s a transportation option to suit your pace and adventure style.