Private car transfer
from Playa del Carmen to Cancun

You take a convenient and affordable shared shuttle for the 42-mile (68-kilometer) drive, or you can use it as an opportunity to take in the natural wonders, see wildlife up close, and visit Mayan archeological sites along the way in a private car - the choice is yours!

So fasten your seatbelt, grab your sunscreen, and let's dive into the tropical paradise awaiting you just a short car ride away!

Cancun: Open for Tourism

The transformation of Cancun began in the 1960s when the Mexican government made ambitious plans to create a world-class resort destination on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. With its pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant sunshine, Cancun seemed destined to become a tropical paradise.

The government invested heavily in the development of Cancun's tourism industry, and in 1970, the first hotel, the Playa Blanca, opened its doors in what is now known as the Hotel Zone. This marked the beginning of Cancun's rise as a top tourist destination. Over the following decades, Cancun experienced rapid growth and development, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year.

From luxury resorts to hidden cenotes, Cancun has become a treasured city that balances modern luxurious amenities with its Mayan roots and unique natural environment.

Modern Cancun

Today, Cancun is a bustling metropolis full of modern amenities. Its vibrant nightlife, thriving culinary scene, and wealth of recreational activities make it a magnet for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Guests can relax by the beach, explore the surrounding nature, visit nightclubs, and book treatments at its many health and beauty spas.

Despite its transformation into a world-renowned tourist destination, Cancun remains connected to its Mayan roots. Visitors can explore archaeological sites and sample authentic Mayan cuisine, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Nature reserves are home to many exotic plants and animals.

Whether you are visiting to salsa your way through the night, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or explore ancient Mayan sites, Cancun has something for every taste. Its pristine beaches, electrifying nightlife, and rich Mayan heritage beckon travelers from around the globe.

Book Lessons and Transportation Ahead of Time

Of course, you want to leave space for spontaneity, but if you want to learn how to snorkel or surf, book your lessons ahead of time. Your time in Cancun will fly by, and you don’t want to arrive and find out your favorite class has been booked out for weeks. You may even get an early-bird discount!

Shuttle buses are a very popular option for traveling from Playa del Carmen to Cancun, so make sure you book your seats ahead of time, as they do sell out in advance.

Visit the El Rey Ruins

Amidst the modern hotels and resorts, it can be hard to believe an ancient civilization once thrived on the shores of Cancun. Right outside of the Hotel Zone, you can step back in time to an archaeological site featuring the remnants of a Mayan settlement dating back to the Late Postclassic period (circa 1200 to 1550 AD). Keep an eye out for iguanas, birds, and other wildlife that call the area home!

Stop and Smell the Roses: Cancun’s Botanical Gardens

The Jardin Botanico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin plays a vital role in conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered plant species and restoring degraded ecosystems for the Yucatan Peninsula. On your visit to the botanical garden, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along well-marked trails, taking in the sights, sounds, and fragrances of the tropical forest. Make sure to add it to your road trip’s itinerary.

Hire a Private Driver from Playa del Carmen to Cancun

Consider a private driver door-to-door service for the ultimate convenience. A private driver will whisk you away from your accommodation in Playa del Carmen and deliver you directly to your desired destination in Cancun—talk about VIP treatment! Struggling with luggage and bus schedules will be a thing of the past.

Don’t Be Shy

Strike up a conversation with your driver—they're a wealth of knowledge when it comes to insider tips and hidden gems along the way. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite taco joint or secret beach spot!

Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Private Driver

Indulge in the luxury of a private driver and elevate your journey from Playa del Carmen to Cancun. Enjoy personalized service, door-to-door convenience, and the freedom to customize your itinerary. Your professional private driver will speak English and Spanish and know the route very well.

With a private driver, you travel on your schedule and with your interests in mind. Our private fleet is also perfect for those traveling with mobility aids, like strollers or wheelchairs. You won’t find this kind of specialized service on the shuttle bus.

We know you can’t wait to get to Cancun, but with a driver, you can stop by one of the many breathtaking Cenotes. These natural wonders are the Yucatan Peninsula’s pride and joy. It's the epitome of travel in style—why settle for anything less while on vacation?

Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Shuttle Bus with Daytrip

With affordable fares and frequent departures, shuttle buses are popular choices for cost-conscious travelers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Sit back, relax, and let the scenic route along the coast unfold before your eyes. Shuttle bus rides take about an hour and cost less than a private taxi. Make sure you book your seat ahead of time so the date and time that suits you best doesn't sell out.

Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Plane

While both Playa del Carmen and Cancun have airports, they’re too close together to fly there commercially.

Go Snorkeling in Cancun

If you prefer to look under the waves instead of riding them, might we suggest snorkeling? See schools of exotic fish, eels, crabs, and corals with your own eyes in Cancun’s crystal-clear water. Cancun’s coral reefs are truly a national treasure, and trained professionals will show you the best spots and all the safety protocols. Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, and the Garrafon Natural Reef Park have the best reefs.

Visit Cancun’s White Sand Beaches

Tired of all that snorkeling and surfing? No worries - Cancun's world-famous beaches have powdery white sands that stretch as far as you can see. So put down a towel and watch the waves from your shaded spot under an umbrella.

Cancun’s Cenotes

Discover the hidden treasures of Cancun's cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water that formed over thousands of years. Dive, snorkel, or simply marvel at the surreal beauty of these underwater wonderlands. These crystal-clear pools of freshwater offer a unique opportunity for visitors to explore underground rivers, swim in pristine waters, and marvel at breathtaking rock formations.

With Daytrip, your private driver can take you right to Cenote Chaak Tun, Cenotes Kin-Ha, and Cenote Las Mojarras, so don’t miss out!

Local Cuisine in Cancun

Mexico's vibrant culinary scene is world-renowned. From street tacos to fresh ceviche, Cancun offers a tantalizing array of dishes sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

What are the must-try dishes in Cancun? Traditional Yucatecan specialties like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), ceviche (citrus-marinated seafood), sopa de lima (lime soup), and, of course, tacos al pastor (marinated pork tacos). Wash it all down with a local wine or tequila!

Party the Night Away in Cancun

Experience Cancun's legendary nightlife scene and dance the night away in one of its many clubs, bars, or beachfront parties. With pulsating beats and ice-cold cocktails, the party never stops in this lively city.

Relax and Unwind in Cancun

Perhaps the best plan is no plan! After you’ve had your fill of sightseeing and adventure, treat yourself to some well-deserved R&R at one of Cancun's luxurious spas or beachfront resorts. Indulge in a massage, get a pedicure, and relax. When you’re done at the spa, sip a cocktail by the pool and let your worries melt away in paradise.

If there is any place to truly turn off your phone and digitally detox, it is Cancun.

If you prefer quieter beaches and cooler temperatures, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to October. Although hurricanes very rarely touch down in Cancun, hurricane season is June-November and you may experience heavy rainfall and tropical storms. Some amenities and activities may be closed due to the weather.