There are several simple and cost effective ways to get around Playa del Carmen, its neighboring communities and outlying cities. We will be briefly discussing colectivos, long and short distance coaches – ADO buses, as well as the around town buses. We will talk about these various forms of transportation with a mix of personal experiences and available online information.
Colectivos in Playa del Carmen
Let’s start out by talking about colectivos. This type of transportation is the most affordable means of getting around. You can utilize this economical form of mobility to maneuver from one town to another. For example: from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Aventuras would be 35 pesos or approximately 2 USD (figuring exchange rate at 18 to 1) per person. The same cost would apply if you traveled to Puerto Morelos. Also, for only 40 pesos you can travel to Tulum. You can catch a colectivo by going to the main terminal on 15 Avenida and Calle 2 in Playa del Carmen.
Colectivos mostly travel between towns along Mexico’s Federal Highway – Carretera Highway 307. If you stand on the side of the highway – there are designated locations, you can flag one down. However, if they have room, they will stop. If not, stay put and one will come by that will have space. Don’t expect assigned seating, luxury cabin features or reliable air conditioning. However, it’s a great way to get from Playa to many nearby communities for a very reasonable price.
Tucsa buses when traveling inside the town
When traveling inside the city of Playa del Carmen there are city buses – Tucsa buses. There are also colectivos that specifically run along Playa’s main thoroughfares. Both fares are 5 to 10 pesos per person. You should always carry exact change or a collection of coins. Bus drivers are limited to giving back change. As a tourist or a new resident, the Tucsa buses are good for going to the larger malls like Plaza Las Americas and Centro Maya. With inexpensive fares comes no-frill rides that provide no air conditioning and usually standing room only.
ADO for further away destinations
If you are looking at traveling to further away destinations, using the ADO bus system is the best way to go. Mexico’s ADO is comparable to America’s Greyhound bus system. They have very comfortable seating, AC, in-route videos and plenty of room for luggage. They offer specific routes like non-stop to and from the Cancun airport, places like Merida, Tulum and Chetumal to mention just a few.
ADO prices vary depending on the destination. For example; a one-way ticket from the airport to Playa de Carmen or vice versa is approximately 170 pesos or 9 USD per person. If you depart Playa’s main terminal going across the Peninsula to Merida, a one-way ticket with limited stops is 464 pesos (26 USD) per person. Again, departing Playa del Carmen and going to Chetumal, Mexico, will cost 364 pesos (19 USD) per person one-way with a stop in Tulum. It is very inexpensive and quite a comfortable ride when wanting to get around the Yucatan Peninsula.
There are other ways to explore the Riviera Maya as well. There are taxis, private shuttle services, and tour groups that offer package deals to certain out-of-town attractions. If you feel adventurous, rental car pricing is very reasonable. But we offer a bit of advice and that is to always buy the additional insurance. Once you arrive and get settled into your new home, getting around will become second nature to you. If you are a permanent resident, always ask for the local discount or rate. This also applies to more than transportation. Living in Mexico does has its privileges!
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