If you’re planning a trip to the Maya Riviera, there’s no need to automatically choose Cancun because you’re flying into Cancun. In fact, the airport is actually between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, so getting to Playa del Carmen is very reasonable in a quick one hour drive.
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Most all inclusive resorts will pick you up at the airport by a larger bus or shuttle to transport you to your resort in Playa del Carmen. But if this isn’t the case, or perhaps you’re not staying on a resort then here are more easy options to get to Playa del Carmen.
Rent a Car
A rental car is a good idea if you plan to travel around the Maya Riviera and don’t want to take public transportation. In addition to the car rental fees, insurance is mandatory in Mexico. Renting a car is quite easy in Mexico. You don’t need an international driver’s license. Roads in the Mayan Riviera are well constructed, with lots of signage and easy to navigate with Google Maps. But keep in mind that Mexico only has full-service gas stations, you do not pump it yourself.
Like in most other countries, the car rental companies inside the airport are significantly more expensive than in town but you’re paying for the convenience of being able to drive directly from the airport. If you’re on a budget it’s much better to head to Playa del Carmen and rent a car there.
Private Taxi
As soon as you leave the arrivals area there will be a number of official and non-official drivers that bombard you to see if you want to get a taxi. Generally around $60 for a group of 3-4 people, this can be almost as cost efficient than taking other transportation and much faster. You’ll also be dropped directly at your destination, which is perfect if you’ve never been to Playa del Carmen before and are uncertain of the directions.
However, you’ll need to ensure all of your luggage can fit in the trunk of the car so pack lightly.
Private Transfer
If you have a group of four or more it’s worthwhile to look into a private transfer in a shuttle bus, which usually costs about $10/person. You can book in advance so that someone at arrivals has a sign waiting for you. There’s usually a discount to book return to the airport, which is one less detail you need to worry about for your holiday.
ADO Bus
The least expensive route for solo travels is the national bus system called the ADO. If you can’t find it just ask for the ahh-day-oh. When you arrive in Cancun, just outside arrivals on the right-hand side there is an ADO ticketing stand and the bus runs every 40 minutes. The cost is 208 pesos (just over $10 USD) and they do accept US dollars but will give pesos as change.
You will need to put your luggage underneath the bus. It is a 75 minute air conditioned bus ride, often with a movie in Spanish playing. It arrives at the ADO station at 5th Ave and Juarez. You can walk to your destination or if you need a cab there are drivers outside.
If you’re planning to return to the airport by the ADO it’s best to buy a few days in advance as the bus to the airport is usually full.
Fly to Cancun, to meat Playa del Carmen and spend great vacations on wonderful beaches.
Cover photo credits: Bacon is Magic
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