Transfers Countries Mexico MeridaMerida to Tulum

Private car transfer from Merida to Tulum

Door-to-door
in 3 h 10 min

From €46
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Merida.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 10 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Tulum.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

259 km3 h 10 min

Overview: car trip from Mérida to Tulum

The Yucatan Peninsula lies with its rare natural and cultural heritage on the way from Mérida to Tulum. You begin in the capital of the state of Yucatan and leave the city made of Mayan and Spanish cultures and richness combined. As Mérida stays behind, you continue on to Valladolid on a straight road surrounded by the greenery of tropical trees on each side, with glimpses of small villages scattered along.

One of the best parts of this section of the car trip is the locals selling fresh fruits and handmade artifacts by the roadside; don’t skip stopping by some of their stands and picking a piece of Yucatan home with you. After enjoying your midway stop at Valladolid and exploring its historic buildings in the town square, you continue deep into the dense jungles.

Keep an eye out for traditional Mayan homes with thatched roofs, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of exotic birds, iguanas, or even a howler monkey! This 160-mile-long (259-km) journey is nothing but amazing. The views get even better once you approach Tulum, and with Daytrip those three and a half hours spent in the car are guaranteed to be worth your while.

About Tulum

Tulum used to be known as the quiet alternative to busy party cities like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, but now the fame of its miles-long beaches of golden sand, crystal clear Cenotes, and ancient Mayan ruins spread across the globe. Its beauties are appreciated by travelers from all around the world. Once you arrive from Mérida to Tulum, you might relate to those awestruck wanderers.

The most attractive feature that Tulum offers people is most likely its location; who wouldn’t be down for spending days by the Caribbean Sea, though? But actually, Tulum preserves a precious history in its borders. It was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Mayans.

Having stood out as a major port for the nearby city of Coba, it played a crucial role in maritime and land trade routes. The Caribbean Sea mesmerized Tulum’s Mayan founders as well, so much that they named the site originally “Zama,” meaning “City of Dawn.” This name obviously referred to the sunrise views over the Caribbean Sea that stunned the city’s dwellers.

Apart from its integrated history throughout the city, visiting Tulum will also be like an open exhibition of some of Mexico’s most noteworthy natural wonders. For example, Tulum sits atop a wide network of underground rivers and cenotes. A cenote is a limestone sinkhole holding cold and clear water.

Though natural, it looks like it was made just for everyone to dive right in! Cenote Dos Ojos, for example, is one of the most famous ones in the region. You’ll understand why once you see the inviting blue-green water hidden under the cave that covers it!

From Mérida to Tulum: travel tips

Traveling from Mérida to Tulum is easier and smoother with these tips; take a look!

Properly time your departure

Start your trip as early in the morning as possible and avoid the midday heat and traffic. You’ll enjoy more daylight hours for sightseeing along the way and arrive at Tulum at a more reasonable time.

Keep your energy high with snacks and water

There are roadside eateries, and stopping by one for lunch is almost necessary (explore the local cuisine on the way!), but having your own snacks and plenty of water makes sure you're not reliant on finding a stop when hunger strikes. Go for local fruits like mangoes or papayas that you can buy at the locals’ stands.

Cash is king

Many small towns and roadside vendors only accept cash. Make sure to carry small banknotes and coins of Mexican Peso for easy paying.

Be eco-friendly-supplied

Bring eco-friendly supplies such as reusable water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags to minimize your environmental impact and support Tulum’s eco-conscious ethos.

How to get from Mérida to Tulum

Given the adjacent distance between the two cities, getting from Mérida to Tulum is quite feasible and offers several options, including driving, taking a bus or a plane, joining a shuttle, or booking a private car service.

Mérida to Tulum by car

Driving from Mérida to Tulum means approximately a four-hour car trip that goes through the most direct route of Highway 180D and Highway 109. The roads are well-maintained, and toll roads (cuotas) are faster but come with a fee. You can take a free road as an alternative for more views but it would take longer to arrive at Tulum. You’ll be free to explore on the way, but renting a car comes with fuel costs, foreign traffic rules, and finding parking in Tulum.

Mérida to Tulum shuttle

Private companies offer shuttle services, which can be booked in advance. These shuttles provide door-to-door service and are a convenient option for groups or families. Shared shuttles are also available and are more economical than private shuttles. However, they will most likely have multiple stops along the way, which might take your time. Travel time is the same as driving yourself, around four hours, but it changes according to the number of stops.

Mérida to Tulum by bus

Three bus services operate between Mérida and Tulum: Autobuses Oriente, ADO, and Autobuses Mayab. While Mayab buses travel the distance between the two cities every hour a day, it takes the longest time to get to Tulum because of the route they take, which can be up to seven and a half hours.

Traveling with other services takes as much time as driving, but keep in mind that they offer no flexibility to get to know the route you are passing. Expect bus tickets to cost around $29.

Mérida to Tulum by plane

Since Tulum doesn’t have an international airport, you need to fly to Cancun if you’d like to integrate flying into your travel. You’d take one of the flights from Mérida to Cancun that lasts around an hour and 20 minutes. After your flight to Cancun, a bus or a car ride would take you to Tulum in one and a half hours.

Taking a flight and combining it with ground transportation is more expensive and less convenient since there are easier, direct overland travel options.

Mérida to Tulum by private car service

A door-to-door private car service like Daytrip is the simplest way to get from Mérida to Tulum because it’s more than just a direct car trip. Traveling with Daytrip looks like this: your local driver picks you up at your exact location, and you set off on a journey tailored just for you.

You add the stops you’d like to see when you are booking your trip, and when you’re on the way, your driver knows where to take you and waits for you while you’re busy exploring. Once you arrive at Tulum, you are not exhausted but satisfied and full of sights of new places. So why not try? Secure a seat for just $95.

Things to do when you get to Tulum

After the distance from Mérida to Tulum is traveled safe and sound (and fun), and you are finally in this City of Dawn, you’ll quickly realize you’re in for a treat from the get-go. So let’s take a look at some of the many things you’ll be enjoying during your time in Tulum:

Swim in the Kaan Luum Lagoon

Within a short distance from Tulum lies the Kaan Luum Lagoon, a swimming experience like no other. Everyone knows this lagoon for its bright turquoise waters and deep cenote at its center.

The waters of these two stark contrast in color. What really gets to its visitors is its relatively quiet and peaceful environment, so you’ll be able to relax and inhale the natural beauty in your own time. Plus, these pristine waters are enclosed by the greenery of mangroves, making you feel deep inside nature.

Explore the Muyil Ruins and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

After getting to know Tulum’s main ruins, try the nearby Muyil Ruins for a more intimate exploration of Mayan history. It sits amidst the dense jungle within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, so walking through the thick green to find this archaeological site is like discovering it yourself as you wander through the ancient city.

Definitely climb the El Castillo pyramid before taking a boat tour through the lagoons of Sian Ka’an. You can float down ancient Mayan canals and drift gently through the bright blue waters.

Participate in a Temazcal Ceremony

A Temazcal ceremony is a traditional Mayan sweat lodge ritual that offers a profound spiritual and physical cleansing experience. These ceremonies are led by experienced shamans and involve entering a small, dome-shaped structure where hot stones are used to create steam. You sit in the dark, steamy environment while the shaman chants, plays instruments, and uses aromatic herbs to cleanse you.

The ceremony purifies the body, mind, and spirit, helping everyone who joins to release stress, detoxify, and connect with ancient traditions. Many wellness centers and eco-resorts in Tulum offer Temazcal ceremonies, so if you are interested in diving deeper into the culture, this is a very achievable way to do so.

When is the best time to visit Tulum

The high season in Tulum, from December to April, offers warm, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for beach time, yoga retreats, and music festivals. This period is great for sightseeing, but expect crowds and high hotel rates if you’re planning your trip from Mérida to Tulum around these times, especially near Christmas and spring break.

The shoulder season, July to August, is hot and humid (around 83°F/28°C), and it attracts travelers for nightlife, beach parties, and bar hopping. Despite occasional rain showers, hotel rates rise, and Tulum is bustling.

If you’re a budget traveler, you should visit during the low season (May, June, and September to November). Though heat and rain reduce crowds, this period has great hotel deals. However, be mindful of poor ocean visibility and hurricane warnings. November stands out as a perfect month to visit since it combines good weather with lower prices.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Merida to Tulum

Is Mérida worth visiting?

Yes, Mérida is definitely worth visiting because of its cultural heritage, which continues to live through traditions and monuments, colonial architecture, markets full of fresh products, and its close proximity to archaeological sites and cenotes. Visiting Mérida is a deep dive into Yucatecan culture and history, with many festivals and local cuisine.

What is the fastest way to get from Mérida to Tulum?

The fastest way to get from Mérida to Tulum is by driving and door-to-door private car service. A car trip takes only around three and a half hours or up to four hours, depending on the time you set off. It also gives the utmost flexibility to get to know more about Mexico on your way.

Is Tulum close to Mérida?

Tulum is approximately 160 miles (259 km) from Mérida, which is a relatively close distance. The drive between the two cities takes about three and a half hours by car, making it feasible for a day trip or a short stay.

Can I drive from Mérida to Tulum?

Yes, you can drive from Mérida to Tulum. It would take you around three and a half hours via well-maintained highways. Make the most of renting a car by stopping along the way and choosing different restaurants to try the local cuisine.

How do I get from Mérida to Tulum?

You can travel from Mérida to Tulum by car, bus, shuttle, or a combination of a flight to Cancun and then bus or car, and finally by a private car service like Daytrip. The most direct and flexible option is booking Daytrip and avoiding public transportation or the stress of driving.

Is Mérida hotter than Tulum?

Mérida tends to be hotter than Tulum, especially during the summer months. Mérida’s inland location means higher temperatures and less breeze, while Tulum enjoys coastal breezes that help balance the hot weather.

Visit these sights on the way

Izamal

This charming yellow city was built atop a Mayan city with monuments so massive, the Spanish treated them as hills. It Was All Yellow

Cenote Yokdzonot

Roots and vines from the verdant jungle hang into the brilliant blue waters of this sinkhole. The Hanging Hole

Chichen Itza

The mightiest Mayan city in the Yucatan was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its amazing marriage of Mayan and Toltec cultures. Mayan Magic

Ek Balam

This ancient Mayan city bears some of the most intricate ornamentation in the Yucatan, including a king's tomb with a jaguar-mouth as its entrance. Enter the Jaguar

Valladolid

Filled with colorful colonial houses, simply wandering this laid-back city is a delight. Quiet Colors

Coba

The largest network of Mayan highways radiates out from the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan located in the heart of this ancient city. The High Road

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

741 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.