Colectivo Vans from Playa del Carmen: How They Work

A colectivo is the cheapest way to reach the cenotes and towns south of Playa del Carmen. It is a shared van, and you do not need to book.

Key takeaways

• Southbound vans leave from around Calle 1 Sur and Avenida 45 to 50, near Chedraui.
• One-way fares: Puerto Aventuras MXN 30 to 40, Akumal 40 to 50, Tulum 50 to 70.
• Pay in cash. Tell the driver your stop.
• Vans run about every 5 to 15 minutes, from roughly 5am to 9 or 10pm. There is no fixed timetable.
• The van drops you on the highway, not at the cenote entrance.

How to ride

• Go to the stop, tell the attendant or driver where you are going and board.
• Say your stop when you get in, for example Cenote Azul, por favor.
• Say aquí, por favor when you reach your stop.

Plan the return

Work out the return stop before you go, and do not count on a late van. For cenote trips, read the Eden and Azul guide.

When to take a taxi instead

With small children, lots of gear or a late return, a taxi or the ADO bus is more comfortable.

FAQ

How much is a colectivo to Tulum?

About MXN 50 to 70 one way.

Where do colectivos leave from in Playa?

Southbound vans leave from around Calle 1 Sur and Avenida 45 to 50, near Chedraui.

Do colectivos take cards?

No. Pay in cash.

Does the colectivo stop at the cenote?

It stops on the highway. You may need to walk to the entrance.