Loading

Please wait
Top

Easy guide to Getting Around Cancun in Public Transit

Discover the convenience of Cancun in public transit. Learn about the city’s efficient public transit options, tips, and routes to navigate like a local.

Introduction

Whether you’re seeking a winter escape from the cold or yearning to explore the enchanting Caribbean coastline, Cancun stands out as a true paradise for tourists and vacationers. Nestled on the northeastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, this Mexican gem boasts stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a vibrant cultural scene. 

While Cancun’s natural beauty and lively atmosphere are undeniable attractions, getting around the city has never been easier with Cancun’s intercity public transit system. With affordable and efficient options, you can seamlessly navigate between the city’s pristine beaches, bustling markets, and archaeological wonders. So, let’s move around Cancun in public transit for an unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise.

A beach with umbrellas and a pool
Beautiful Cancun
People standing in front of a bus station. ADO bus a great way to travel in Cancun in public transit
ADO bus counter at airport

Entering Cancun

At Cancun Airport, take the ADO bus shuttle to ADO station at Cancun Downton.

Cost – 100 pesos.

The bus is named ADO Aero Puerto and can be easily identified at exit. There are other private bus services as well such as Discover Cancun, which are more expensive but take you to your specific hotel.

A group of people standing in a large building with red buses
ADO bus station at Cancun Centro

Travel between the 2 main Zones in Cancun

Cancun is divided into two main zones: Cancun Downtown and Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera).

Most people come to enjoy the All Inclusive Resort scene at Cancun, which is prevalent in the Hotel Zone with an array of hotels and resorts. Whereas Cancun Downtown is where you can find the hustle bustle of local markets and a much more authentic Mexican vibe. 

The commute between these two zones can be frequented by R1 and R2 buses. These are regular big buses that come in red and white colour and move from Cancun Downtown to all across the Hotel Zone, making stops as it goes. This makes traveling Cancun in Public Transit super easy.

A resort with a pool and a beach
Cancun Zona Hotelera where you can find all the resorts and hotels.
A group of people at a market
Cancun Downtown, bustling market scenes and authentic Mexican vibe.
A group of people in bus stop. Fun to visit Cancun in public transit.
Traveling in R1 bus at Cancun

Travel to Puerto Juarez for Island trips.

Other attractions from Cancun are the day trips to stunning Islands such as Isla Mujares and Cozumel. You can reach these pristine islands using a short ferry ride.

Catch the ferry to the islands from Puerto Juarez port. To reach Puerto Juarez, hop on to the R6 collectivo van from Cancun Downtown. If you are in the Hotel Zone you will need to take an R1 or R2 bus to downtown Cancun and get off at the main ADO bus station.

All buses are available near the ADO bus station, within a short 5 minute walk.

A group of people walking on a street with a van on the side
Collectivo pick up on the road. A chaotic but atmospheric experience.

Download the Moovit app and watch for other bus routes as well.

Cost of traveling in public transit within Cancun

The cost of riding the bus internally in Cancun is 12 pesos each way, which is less than a dollar.

This makes travel not only cheap and convenient, but also gives  a local flavour to traveling in the heart of Mexico with local people.

Travel from Cancun to other places

Playa del Carmen

Cost – 100 pesos

Time taken to reach – 1.5 hours

Chichen Itza

Cost – 400 pesos

Time taken to reach – 3 hours

Tulum

Cost – 250 pesos

Time taken to reach – 2 hours 50 minutes.

 

a stone building on a hill by the ocean with Tulum in the background
Beautiful Landscape of Tulum...A must-visit

Want to travel to Tulum? Read about our Local 3-Day Tulum itinerary, if you are looking for offbeat and local experience.

How to book tickets online

If you want to purchase tickets online, you can visit Busbud.

Hello, we are Sam and Aman, Local Backpackers! Welcome to our world of wanderlust and exploration! We are a travel-loving couple who share a passion for discovering new places, experiencing different cultures, and creating unforgettable memories.

Comments:

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.