Tulum Airport

Is Tulum, Mexico Expensive?

Quick Rundown On Tulum

Tulum is a booming travel destination on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. Several years ago, celebrities started posting pictures from the beaches of Tulum, then boom!

Now, it’s the hottest destination in Mexico for party vacations. Most of the hype about Tulum revolves around the beach clubs and bars we’ve all seen, probably seen on Instagram.

A Little About Tulum

If you’re debating whether to visit Tulum, stop hesitating and book your flight immediately! It’s a must-visit destination. Tulum is currently one of the hottest places in Mexico—not just temperature-wise (though it is warm year-round) but also for its vibrant parties and stylish crowd.

In the past, Tulum was an up-and-coming destination where travelers could find great deals. However, due to the influx of celebrities and picturesque Instagram posts, it has now become a well-known travel hotspot.

The cost of a trip to Tulum varies based on your budget, timing, and trip duration. For budget travelers, a week in Tulum can cost around $600-700 USD, while luxury travelers can spend thousands, particularly if opting for upscale beachfront hotels.

Is Tulum, Mexico Expensive?

If you’ve recently heard about Tulum, you might have come across the notion that it’s very expensive. I urge you not to let this deter you from visiting.

To answer the question, “Is Tulum expensive?”—yes, it can be. However, it doesn’t have to be! We’ll delve into every aspect of a trip to Tulum, compare it to other destinations, and provide comprehensive information to help you plan an affordable visit.

Getting Around Tulum

Navigating Tulum can be challenging, especially if you need to get from town to the beach. Taxis within town are relatively cheap, but fares to the beach can be high. To save money, consider renting a bike—cycling is popular in Tulum and one of the best ways to get around.

Car Rentals in Tulum

Renting a car is an excellent option for exploring the area independently. With a car, you can visit top Tulum cenotes, the Coba Ruins (about 40 minutes away), or even take a day trip to Bacalar, known for its stunning Seven Colors Lagoon. A rental car offers flexibility and freedom, allowing you to spend as much time as you like at various attractions.

Taxis in Tulum

Taxi fares in Tulum are significantly higher than public transportation. Expect to pay between 200-500 Pesos per day, depending on your destinations. Given the cost, renting a scooter might be a more economical option, especially for visiting cenotes and getting around town. Scooter rentals in Tulum cost about 500-700 Mexican Pesos per day.

ADO Bus in Tulum

Public transportation in Tulum includes colectivos (small shared vans), ADO buses (the main transportation company in the region, serving Cancun, Valladolid, Merida, and other major cities), and second-class MayaB buses.

Prices vary based on your destination, but generally, colectivos are cheaper than buses. They cost between 10-20 Pesos per person and can take you to Playa Del Carmen, Muyil, and other locations.

💵 Always carry cash when using public transportation in Tulum, as credit cards are not always accepted.

How to Budget Your Trip to Tulum

To visit Tulum on a budget, start by assessing your finances. Airfare is usually the most significant expense, followed by accommodation and transportation.

Allocate about 30% of your budget for airfare and 25% for hotels. Plan to spend around 20% on food, 10% on local transportation, and 15% on tours. This is just a guideline—feel free to adjust based on your preferences, such as spending more on hotels or renting a car instead of booking guided tours.

How Much Money Do I Need in Tulum?
2024

For a week in Tulum, you’ll need at least $600-700 USD per person if you plan to visit cenotes, take tours, dine out occasionally, and do some shopping. This budget allows for staying in a hostel or budget hotel. For more luxurious accommodations, you’ll need to spend more.