Tulum is one of my all-time favorite tropical destinations for so many reasons. From the nearby cenotes and Mayan ruins, to the white sand beaches and bohemian restaurants (and Instagram spots), this dreamy destination truly has something for all kinds of travelers. And what is even better is that with the new Tulum airport opening up, getting to paradise in 2024 just got a whole lot easier!
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Below I’m sharing everything you need to know on how to get to Tulum, Mexico in 2024 + more details on Tulum’s new international airport:
Getting to Tulum in 2024 just got a Whole Lot Easier
Before this year, there were no international flights directly to Tulum so the best way to get there was from Cancun (Cancun International Airport used to be the closest airport). Cancun airport is also a 2 hour ADO bus ride away from Tulum.
And while I love the ADO bus system and how comfortable they are, you used to have to spend a lot of travel time just to get there.
Now with the new Tulum airport open, getting there is a lot quicker (and now you can even make it a great destination for a weekend getaway!)
Tulum International Airport (TQO)
Tulum International Airport just opened up on December 1st, 2023 and is now the nearest airport to Tulum. For the first few months of operation, only domestic flights are flying into and out of TQO. But starting on March 28th, 2024, international travel is also becoming available to Tulum.
Which airlines fly into Tulum International Airport?
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Aeroméxico
- VivaAerobus
- Volaris
Which airports will have direct flights to Tulum?
Here are the airports within the United States that offer nonstop flights to Tulum airport:
- Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
- Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
How to Get to Tulum from Cancun
Prior to 2024, the closest airport to Tulum was Cancun International Airport (CUN). So for anyone who’s traveled to Tulum before this year, this was mostly likely the airport they flew into.
Cancun International Airport is located about a 3-hour drive from Tulum. And there are a few different ways you can get to Tulum from Cancun. Here are more details on these options below:
Option 1: ADO Bus
One of the more economical options for getting to Tulum from Cancun is the ADO bus. The ADO bus company operates several routes throughout Mexico, including frequent services to popular tourist destinations like Tulum.
To get to Tulum using the ADO bus, you’ll need to first make your way to the bus station located outside of the Cancun airport. The bus terminal in Cancun is about a 30 minute drive from CUN. From there, you can catch a direct bus to Tulum which is approximately a 2-hour ride.
You can have a look at ADO bus tickets and the schedule options here.
Option 2: Rent a Car from Cancun International Airport (CUN)
A more flexible and convenient option is to rent a car from the Cancun airport. This will give you the ability to explore the area at your own pace and make stops along the way. (You could also hit up Playa Del Carmen along the way!)
There are a lot of different rental companies that offer car rentals from Cancun airport. You can check out different rental options here.
Option 3: Private Shuttles / Private Driver
Private shuttles or a private driver are also available for hire from Cancun airport. While they are not the cheapest option, they are the most comfortable and direct way to get to Tulum. You can book a private driver ahead of time and have your transfer meet you right at the airport when you land.
I hope this guide was helpful in planning your next getaway to Tulum! Be sure to check out my other Tulum content on the blog:
————— More on the Blog —————
Tulum Packing List: What to Wear, Style Guide & Outfit Ideas
Eco-Luxury in Paradise: Hotel Nomade Tulum, Mexico
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These are my go-to websites for finding the best deals on flights, accommodation, tours & day trips:
- TripAdvisor.com for all things travel reviews
- Viator.com for tours and day trips
- Kiwi.com for finding the best flight deals
- Booking.com for hotel deals
- Hostelworld.com for booking hostels around the world
- VRBO.com for vacation rentals
- Rentalcars.com for easy rental vehicles
The Gal Behind the Blog
Hi I’m Rylie – Welcome to my corner of the internet!
I’m a solo traveler & photographer turned full-time corporate travel agent – born and raised in Southern California but now based in Colorado.
