If you’ve ever winced at the high cost of a taxi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen or Tulum, you’re not alone. But while most tourists pay a premium for private shuttles, savvy travelers and locals use a well-known secret to travel the entire Riviera Maya for just a few dollars: the colectivo.
This isn’t a guided tour or a luxury van. It’s the authentic, budget-friendly transportation method that will save you a fortune and get you where you need to go. Here’s exactly how to use it for 2025.
What is a Colectivo?
Think of a colectivo as a shared public van. These white, air-conditioned vans continuously run up and down Highway 307, the main artery connecting Cancun all the way south to Tulum. They don’t have a strict schedule; instead, they leave their starting point when they are full and pick up people along the highway. It’s a fast, efficient, and incredibly cheap way to get around.
The Main Routes and 2025 Prices
The colectivo system is split into two main routes. To travel the full length of the Riviera Maya, you make one simple change in Playa del Carmen. By choosing this method, travelers can make the trip for about $3, a staggering savings of over 95% compared to a typical $60 to $100 taxi fare.
- Route 1: Cancun to Playa del Carmen: The main terminal in Downtown Cancun is located a block from the main ADO bus station. The trip costs approximately $50 MXN (about $2.75 USD).
- Route 2: Playa del Carmen to Tulum: Playa del Carmen to Tulum: In Playa del Carmen, the terminal for Tulum is located under the highway overpass, near the Chedraui supermarket and McDonald’s.
You can also get off anywhere in between. A short trip from Playa del Carmen to Akumal, for example, might only cost you $35 MXN. Just tell the driver where you are going when you get in.
How To Use The System Step-By-Step
Using the colectivo is easy when you know the rules.
- Find the Terminal or the Highway: In Downtown Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, go to the designated colectivo stand. If you are anywhere else, simply walk to the main Highway 307 and stand on the shoulder on the side of the road heading in your desired direction.
- Flag One Down: Look for the white vans. If one has space, the driver will flash their lights. Just raise your hand to signal them to pull over.
- State Your Destination: As you get in, tell the driver where you want to go, for example, “Puerto Morelos” or “Xpu-Ha.” They will nod to confirm.
- Pay When You Get Off: The custom is to pay as you exit the van. It is essential to have small Mexican peso bills and coins. Drivers will not have change for large bills, and US dollars are not accepted.
- Get Off at Your Stop: When you are approaching your destination, clearly say “Bajan, por favor!” (BA-han, por fa-VOR!), which means “Getting off, please!” The driver will pull over at the next safe spot.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Use Colectivos
This method is perfect for adventurous travelers, digital nomads, and budget-conscious couples. If you’re traveling light with just a backpack, it’s the best way to explore.
However, you should probably stick to a private shuttle or ADO bus if you have large suitcases, are traveling with a large family, or are on a very tight schedule. Colectivos do not have trunk space for big luggage and they do not enter the Cancun International Airport. They will drop you right on the highway, meaning you may have a short walk to the entrance of your resort or beach club, which is all part of the adventure. Happy cheap travels from The Cancun Sun!
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