Getting around the Riviera Maya; tips and advice for your trip to Mexican paradise

If you are looking to get around the Riviera Maya as freely as possible, renting a car can be a wonderful option. Highway 307 through the area is easy to navigate, although it can get congested in the areas near the towns. It's important to consider the best time of year to travel to Cancun. If you avoid the busiest months, traffic shouldn't be a problem. During the off-season, when a lot of rainfall accumulates, you should be prepared to drive in adverse weather conditions.

Also, be prepared to pay parking fees at the main tourist attractions and be aware that it can be difficult to get a parking space in some areas, such as the Tulum hotel zone.

In terms of price, you can find cars for as little as US$22 a day to get around the Riviera Maya as long as you drop off your car at the pick-up point.

Cancun airport is usually where you will find the best deals and prices, although we recommend you extend your search to other branches in the center of Cancun as they sometimes offer better rates as they don't have an airport surcharge.

Mainly, we suggest having full insurance cover if you decide to hire a vehicle, so you don't lose a lot of money in case anything happens, take photos of the vehicle's condition, keep all necessary documents in the glove box, be cautious of bad road conditions and drive during the day for better visibility.

1.1. Renting a motorbike for short transfers in the Riviera Maya

Experiencing the Riviera Maya on a motorbike is an adventure. With the wind caressing your face and the freedom to move at your own pace, it's the ideal transport if you plan to base yourself in one place during your stay and won't be carrying large suitcases. You'll be able to get to the best beaches in the area and make short trips for less money than renting a car. Plus, it's much easier to find parking in busy areas. We think this is a great option in places like Tulum or Playa del Carmen.

The roads in the Riviera Maya are mostly safe and well maintained. However, you should be aware that, outside of very touristy areas, the asphalt may not be in the best condition and you may need to use extra caution.

In addition, it is important that you consider using all safety measures when travelling by motorbike. Make sure you always wear your helmet, maintain a moderate speed and respect local traffic regulations. Also, since the weather in the Riviera Maya can be hot and humid, it is best to hydrate properly and protect your skin from the sun while riding.

2. ADO buses, a good transport option in the Riviera Maya

If you're planning a longer and more comfortable trip, the Riviera Maya also has an established bus system that is especially useful for transfers to and from Cancun airport.

ADO bus stations are central points in the main cities along the route, and tickets can be booked online in advance or even purchased at the ticket office on the day of your journey. Be aware, however, that the most popular routes fill up in high season. These buses also go to popular tourist destinations such as the Gran Cenote, the ruins of Tulum and Coba, making them a convenient way to relax the whole way.

You can even easily plan day trips from Playa del Carmen, enjoy an overnight stay in Merida or visit the impressive archaeological site of Chichen Itza. And they cover routes all over the Yucatan Peninsula. ADO buses are comfortable, air-conditioned and have bathrooms on board. In addition, you won't have any luggage restrictions.

To give you a better idea of the prices, here are some of the best routes you can take during your trip:

- Cancun - Tulum: from 23 usd

- Cancun - Playa del Carmen: from 14 usd

- Tulum - Valladolid: from 12usd

- Valladolid - Merida: from 13 usd

3. Book excursions in the Riviera Maya

In case you want a quiet holiday, staying in the same hotel for the whole stay, you won't have to worry too much about transportation in the Riviera Maya. However, we recommend you to take some excursions to see the most emblematic places in the area.

For example, you can choose to explore ancient archaeological ruins at Chichén Itzá and Cobá, dive into the incredible crystal clear waters of several cenotes and delve into the lush tropical jungle. Plus, one of the main advantages of booking an excursion is that you don't have to worry about the logistics. They will arrange transportation, give you lots of interesting information with an English-speaking guide, provide you with lunch and you will even have entrance tickets to the main tourist attractions in the area.

Another of the most recommended options is to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres. On this excursion you will start exploring the Isla Contoy National Park, where you will be able to enjoy nature and then relax while snorkelling in one of the largest coral reefs in the world. Finally, after a delicious Mexican meal, you'll have an hour of free time to explore Isla Mujeres.

If you're looking for a more economical and equally impressive trip, the excursion to Holbox Island may be your best option. During this trip, you'll enjoy stunning unspoilt beaches, including one that can only be accessed from the sea.

But that's not all, another advantage of the excursions is the chance to meet other travellers and share the excitement of discovering the Riviera Maya together. You will be able to make friends, exchange experiences and create unforgettable memories during the trip.

4. Taxis, private transfers and shuttles

Taxis are a convenient option for travelling around the area, although fares are usually higher compared to colectivos. For example, a trip from Playa del Carmen to Tulum can cost around 41 usd. Although this is a more comfortable form of transport in the Riviera Maya, it can easily get out of budget, so we recommend it if you are visiting only a couple of places or if you are carrying a lot of luggage.

In addition, the region is usually divided into zones with pre-established rates posted at major tourist sites. However, to avoid scams, we suggest you research prices online before you leave or book your transfer in advance. Another important aspect is that taxis tend to be small cars, so large groups should split up.

5. Colectivos, the cheapest transport in the Riviera Maya

If you are looking for the cheapest transportation in the Riviera Maya, even if you sacrifice your comfort, colectivos are the perfect option for you. For example, the cost of a trip between Playa del Carmen and Tulum is usually around 3 usd. However, the main disadvantage of colectivos is that they make the most of space by cramming in a lot of passengers. Therefore, they are not comfortable for long trips, nor do they have room for large suitcases.

The largest concentration of colectivos is in Playa del Carmen, specifically at the intersection of Calle 2 Norte and 25 Avenida Sur. There they are divided into two routes, one going north and one going south. These vans leave once they are full and make stops wherever there are people waiting to get on or off. This makes them an excellent option for getting from Cancun to Tulum or to the towns and beaches in between as a day trip for very little money.

It is important to note that colectivos only stop to pick up passengers when there is availability, so there may not be room if they pass you by. There are plenty of buses in the area!

6. Ferries to the Riviera Maya islands

We can't forget that some of the most beautiful places in this area are islands. Ferries are a convenient transportation option in the Riviera Maya to move between islands and coastal towns, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking scenery as you sail across the Caribbean Sea.

The journeys are short and will give you the opportunity to enjoy a unique view all along the way. For example, a ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel takes approximately 35 minutes.

If you are in Cancun and want to get to Isla Mujeres, you can also use a ferry. The journey time is just half an hour and you can also buy your ticket online. Although it is not strictly speaking part of the Riviera Maya, we have to talk about Holbox.

This little island in the north of the Yucatan peninsula should not be missing from your itinerary when visiting the Mexican Caribbean. It's only a couple of hours from Cancun and easy to get to. Even if you're short on time, you can book a day trip to Holbox from Cancun - it's one of our favourite beach spots in the world!