One the incredible advantages of vacationing in Riviera Maya is that there are so many things to do, see and experience. Once arriving at their destination, many people simply choose to partake in the relaxing resort amenities and not venture out of the resort during their stay. However there are a number of other travelers who enjoy taking advantage of the numerous other opportunities beyond their resorts gates.
When venturing out of the resort or hotel there are a number of different ways to get around the coastline.
Colectivo
By far the most inexpensive way to get around the Riviera Maya is the Colectivo. Colectivos are basically 12- 15 passenger vans or mini-vans that act as public transportation running along Highway 307 from Cancun to Playa Del Carmen and then from Playa Del Carmen south to Tulum. They are similar to a bus but with the major difference that they pick up and drop off passengers anywhere along the highway. Colectivos are used by the locals, tourists and the employees of the resorts to easily move up and down the coast. In the Riviera Maya tourist zone, they are generally nicer vans with air conditioning (although not always) and can be located either at Colectivo stands (found in Playa del Carmen and Cancun) or along with highway. From Cancun to Playa del Carmen the Colectivos generally run 24/7 in 15 -20 min intervals. However, from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, they operate from early morning (about 5:00 am) til almost mid-night (around 11:00pm). There are two companies operating the Colectivos: the Taxi Union operates between both Cancun and Playa del Carmen and Play del Carmen and Tulum; Playa Express only operates between Cancun and Play del Carmen. The cost of using the Colectivo ranges between 20 pesos (approx. $1 USD) and 40 (approx. $2 USD) pesos per person depending on the distance you travel and its important to know that the rate is fixed. No haggling over the price needed.
How to Catch the Colectivo:
To use the Colectivo while staying at the resort you either ask the hotel to take you out to the highway just outside their main gate or walk to the highway if its not too far. Then find a safe spot at the edge of the highway (preferably in the shade if possible) in the direction you wish to travel and wait for the Colectivo to come by. As the van is approaching the driver will signal you that he has room in the van by flashing his lights. Simply wave your hand to indicate you are looking for a ride. You will need to pay attention to where you want to get off the Colectivo and you will be responsible to yell out the destination (or simply say. “stop”). When the Colectivo stops you then pay the driver and get off.
From Cancun or Play del Carmen you can either try to catch a Colectivo at the highway or you can go to a designated Colectivo stand. In Playa del Carmen, the Colectivo stand is located at Calle 2 Norte between Ave 15 and 20; which is a very short walk from the main tourist shopping and dinning area of 5th Ave. In Cancun, there is a Colectivo stand in the parking lot of MEGA supermarket next to the ADO bus station in the Central Comercial in downtown Cancun. From Tulum, you can catch the Colectivos at the Mayan Ruins or the main stand located near the bus station.
Colectivos are a great and inexpensive way to get around the Riviera Maya between Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. However, they will not be able to take you to or from the airport. You will need to hire a taxi or private shuttle for that.
