How to Get to Bacalar?

Bus, Car, and Rental Cars
Transport to Bacalar by bus or car

Bacalar is located 320 kilometers south of Cancun, like a well-kept secret of Quintana Roo. 210 kilometers south of bustling Tulum, and just 20 kilometers north of Chetumal, the state capital, Bacalar offers a serene break in your journey. The Belize border, a gateway to Central America, is just 30 kilometers away.

By Bus

The bus is the most practical and economical way to reach Bacalar from the main cities of the Yucatán:

  • From Cancun: A journey of about 5h30 with ADO. Price ranges between $35 and $45.
  • From Playa del Carmen: A journey of 3h30 to 4h30 with ADO. Average price: 300 Mexican pesos (approximately $15-20).
  • From Tulum: A journey of about 3h with ADO. Price ranges between $20 and $30.
  • From Mérida: Several daily departures, duration about 5h10. Price around 666 pesos ($35).

ADO buses are comfortable and have luggage storage. The bus is the easiest and most economical way to travel around the region. Book in advance, especially during high season, to get the best rates.

By Car

Renting a car is a practical option for more flexibility:

  • From Cancun: About 4h drive.
  • From Tulum: About 2h30 drive.
  • From Playa del Carmen: About 3h30 drive.

The road is relatively simple; just follow the Carretera 307 along the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. The road condition is generally good, but driving at night is not recommended as the road is two-way and unlit.

By Rental Car

It's entirely possible to reach Bacalar by rental car. Here are the key details:

Car Rental

You can rent a car directly at Cancun Airport or in major tourist cities like Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Prices vary depending on the season and type of vehicle, but on average:

  • Compact car: around €400 per week.
  • SUV: around €520 per week.

It's recommended to opt for full insurance and unlimited mileage.

Benefits of Renting

  • More flexibility for making stops along the way (cenotes, archaeological sites, etc.).
  • Easy exploration of the Bacalar surroundings once you're there.
  • Ideal for a road trip across the Yucatán region.

Tips

  • Book your vehicle in advance to get the best rates, especially during high season.
  • Carefully check the conditions (insurance, fuel, etc.) before signing the contract.
  • Plan regular breaks as the journey is quite long.

Renting a car is a great option for getting to Bacalar if you're looking for independence and flexibility in your travels.

By Shared Minivan (Colectivo)

Colectivos are shared minivans seating 12 to 15 people, widely used by locals for their low cost and local service. Here's what you need to know:

There is a direct colectivo line between Tulum and Bacalar, with 4 daily departures from Tulum:

  • 9 AM
  • 2 PM
  • 4:30 PM
  • 6 PM

The Tulum-Bacalar colectivo trip costs 200 pesos per person. It's recommended to reserve your seat in advance by contacting the driver via WhatsApp.

The starting point in Tulum is located at the corner of Avenida Tulum and Calle Orion Nte.

From Bacalar to Tulum, there are also 4 daily departures:

  • 6 AM
  • 8:20 AM
  • 9:20 AM
  • 2 PM

Colectivos have limited luggage space and usually don't accept large suitcases. The comfort is more basic than ADO buses but sufficient for the journey duration.

While colectivos are an interesting option, ADO buses remain recommended for more comfort on this route. It's important to note that colectivo schedules may be less reliable than ADO buses, and departure may be delayed until the vehicle is full.

From Belize

If you're coming from the islands of Belize (Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye), you can take a boat to Chetumal and then a taxi or bus to Bacalar.

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