The Complete Guide to The New Tulum Airport

If you’re wondering how to get to Tulum Mexico, you must familiarize yourself with Tulum Airport (TQO). The new International Tulum Airport Mexico opened in 2023 and has changed the Tulum transportation game.

As the closest airport to Tulum, understanding Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport is essential for a seamless travel experience. This Tulum Airport guide has everything you need to know about navigating Tulum International Airport like a pro. 

What is the Official Airport Code of Tulum Airport?

The official airport code for Tulum Airport is TQO, and the official name is Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport.

Where is Tulum Airport Located?

How far is Tulúm from airport access? Here’s the thing: Tulum Airport is in Tulum, but it’s still a good 40 minutes by car to Tulum Centro. Previously, the closest airport to Tulum was about 75 miles away in Cancún. Riding less than an hour from Tulum Aeropuerto into town is much better than coordinating transportation from Cancun Airport to Tulum or taking a Tulum to Cancun airport shuttle. 

Here are a few distances you need to know:

Distance between Tulum Airport and Tulum Centro: 40km

Distance between Tulum Airport and Tulum Beach: 44km

Distance between Tulum Airport and Playa del Carmen: 104km

Distance between Tulum Airport and Cancun: 170km

Distance between Tulum Airport and Bacalar: 185km

Distance between Tulum Airport and Mayan Train Station Tulum: 45km

There are plans to open a Tulum Airport train station, but this has yet to happen. When it does, flying into Tulum Airport will be far more appealing! 

Quick Tip: Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress. 

Best Tulum Tours: Click here to check out the top Tulum tours
Best Tulum Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Tulum
Best Tulum Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Tulum

Airport Tulum Mexico Facilities and Services

What can you expect flying in or out of Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Aeropuerto Tulum? Whether catching a Tulum airport transfer or using it as your gateway to Mexico, you’ll have a smooth experience at Tulum International Airport. This brand-new facility opened in 2023, and the amenities are top-notch. Tulum transportation is easy thanks to the designated areas where you can book a Tulum Airport car rental or catch a Tulum taxi. 

In addition to spacious and modern ticketing, baggage, and security areas, TQO Airport boasts 13 gates and will offer food and drink options once construction is completed. Some Tulum International Airport reviews suggest the Wi-Fi and air conditioning could be improved. However, getting to Tulum is significantly more straightforward, thanks to the airport’s opening. 

Airlines That Operate To and From Tulum Airport

These are the airlines currently operating at the Tulum Airport:

Destinations It Flies To and From

These are the current airports that let you fly into the new Tulum Airport:

Transportation Options From Tulum Airport 

How do you get to Tulum from the airport? Honestly, this puts me off from flying into Tulum Airport. Getting to Tulum from the airport and vice versa isn’t easy, and Tulum taxi drivers are renowned for ripping tourists off. 

Shuttle Services

You can book a private Tulum Airport shuttle to various areas throughout Tulum. The advantage of a private shuttle is your entire group (up to 10 people) can travel together and split the cost. While the shuttle can be pricy, it’s one of the most comfortable and efficient options. Eight routes give you plenty of flexibility to plan your Tulum transportation, and there’s even a Tulum Airport to Playa del Carmen shuttle. 

Zone 1: Tulum Centro/Veleta/Aldea Zama – roundtrip prices range from $282 to $327 USD.

Zone 2: Tulum Hotel Zone – roundtrip prices range from $327 to $372 USD.

Zone 3: Dreams Tulum to Hilton Tulum – roundtrip prices range from $372 to $418 USD.

Zone 4: Bahia Principe to UNICO 20º87º – roundtrip prices range from $387 to $433 USD.

Zone 5: El Dorado to Puerto Aventuras – roundtrip prices range from $418 to $463 USD.

Zone 6: Hard Rock Riviera Maya to Xcaret – roundtrip prices range from $433 to $479 USD.

Zone 7: Playacar, Playa del Carmen, Mayakoba – roundtrip prices range from $448 to $493 USD.

Zone 8: Hacienda Tres Rios to Vidanta Resorts – roundtrip prices range from $478 to $523 USD.

ADO Buses

ADO buses between Aeropuerto Tulum and Tulum Centro are significantly cheaper but less comfortable than a private shuttle. You’ll ride with strangers, and the bus route only goes between the airport and Tulum. However, the ADO bus is an excellent option if you travel on a budget. You can purchase tickets by downloading the ADO app on your phone. 

Tulum Airport to Tulum Schedule: 10:30, 12:20, 12:45,14:00, 15:30, 17:00, 17:30

Rate: $175 MXN

Tulum to Tulum Airport Schedule: 08:05, 09:40, 11:50, 12:30, 14:30, 15:00, 16:30

Rate: $175 MXN

Car Rental Options

For ultimate flexibility, consider booking a car rental Tulum Airport service. Depending on how long you’ll be in Mexico, this can be affordable if you plan to do a lot of traveling and sightseeing. Currently, the rental companies available are SIXT Tulum Airport, MEX Rent A Car Tulum Airport, and . Here’s what you can expect to pay daily based on the type of car you rent:

Mini	$27.30
Economy	$45.26
Compact	$53.01
Full-size	$56.36
Intermediate	$63.45
Standard	$74.26
Full-size Elite	$99.13
Economy Elite	$63.04
Intermediate SUV	$54.70
Van	$93.05

If you book a Tulum Airport car rental, there are a few things to know about driving in Mexico. Cars drive on the right side of the road, and speed limits range from 30-50 km/h (19-31 mph) in town to 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) on highways. Don’t forget gas prices in Tulum are in liters, not gallons.   

Private Transfers

Some companies like GottoGo offer Tulum Airport transfer services to and from Cancún. These are among the most efficient ways to arrange transportation from Cancun Airport to Tulum. While you can book a private driver Tulum transfer at the airport, you’ll save time and money reserving online in advance. Private Tulum Airport transfers can be expensive, but they’re often worth the splurge.

You can also read about: Complete Rute of The Maya Train | Tren Maya Ruta

How to Get To and From Tulum Airport

Transportation Options From Tulum

To summarize your options for getting from Tulúm to Tulum Airport:

• Private shuttle
• ADO bus: 08:05, 09:40, 11:50, 12:30, 14:30, 15:00, 16:30
• Car rental
• Private transfer

Transportation Options From Cancun

Are you wondering how to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport? You have several options:

• Private or shared shuttle
• Hotel airport transfer
• ADO bus (drops off in Tulum Centro): 6:10, 7:01, 7:31, 7:50, 8:10, 9:01, 9:10, 10:10, 10:20, 10:30, 11:10, 11:45, 11:55, 12:05, 12:10, 12:20, 13:05, 13:10, 13:15, 13:25, 14:10, 14:20, 14:30, 14:40, 15:10, 15:40, 15:50, 16:00, 17:05, 17:15, 17:25, 18:25, 18:35, 18:45, 19:45, 19:55, 20:00, 20:05, 21:05, 21:15, 21:25, 23:00
• Car rental
• Taxi
• Colectivo
• Tren Maya (coming soon): Once completed, the Tren Maya project will have a Tulum Airport station for convenient access.

Transportation Options From Playa del Carmen

There are a few ways you can travel from Playa del Carmen to Tulum:

• Colectivo
• ADO bus (drops off in Tulum Centro): 00:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:30, 7:37, 7:40, 8:17, 8:21, 9:01, 9:20, 9:27, 9:40, 10:31, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 13:40, 14:40, 15:30, 15:45, 17:37, 18:15, 18:35, 20:07, 21:35
• Taxi
• Car rental
• Private or shared shuttle

Transportation Options From Akumal

Your transportation options from Akumal are more limited, but making the trip is possible:

• Taxi
• Car rental
• Private or shared shuttle

Transportation Options From Bacalar

Here are your options if you’re unsure how to get to Bacalar from Tulum or vice versa:

• ADO bus (drops off in Tulum Centro): 9:20, 12:20, 14:00, 14:25, 15:20, 16:20, 17:00, 17:20, 17:25, 21:50, 23:50
• Colectivo
• Car rental
• Private shuttle

Transportation Options From Cozumel

Getting to Tulum is challenging, but you can travel from Cozumel to Cancun and connect through there:  

• Colectivo
• ADO bus (drops off in Tulum Centro): 17:35, 19:05, 20:45
• Taxi
• Car rental
• Private or shared shuttle
• Private plane

Practical Tips for Travelers

Best Times to Travel to Tulum

December to April is the peak tourist season in Tulum. For fewer crowds and lower prices, consider traveling from July to August or November to mid-December. The low season in Tulum is May to June and September to October. However, summer to early fall is hurricane season, so expect rainy, stormy weather.

I recommend doing this tour with Living Dreams Mexico. They are the most ethical and awesome company around and it’s a flat fee, no hidden costs. 

They even give you all of the photos included in the price, most companies charge $80 or more for this alone!

You can check the current pricing and book by clicking here.

What to Expect at Tulum Airport

Navigating Tulum Airport is straightforward, as it uses standard airport security procedures for arrivals and departures. Currently, there are no dining or shopping options available, but the airport plans to open several restaurants and stores in the coming months.

FAQs About Tulum Airport

Is Tulum Airport Open?

Yes, the Tulum International Airport (Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport, code TQO) officially opened on December 1, 2023. It is now receiving both domestic and international flights​​.

What is the Airport Code for Tulum?

The airport code for Tulum International Airport is TQO​.

Which Airlines Fly to Tulum Airport?

Several airlines operate flights to Tulum Airport. These include domestic flights by VivaAerobus, Aeromexico, and Mexicana de Aviación from major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Tijuana. Airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, United, and Spirit​​ provide international flights from the United States​​.

How Far is Tulum Airport From Downtown Tulum?

The Tulum International Airport is approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of downtown Tulum, making it a convenient option for travelers seeking to minimize travel time.

What Are the Transportation Options for Tulum Airport?

Travelers have several options for getting from Tulum Airport to their final destination:

• ADO Bus: Offers affordable transportation to downtown Tulum and other nearby locations.
• Private Shuttles: Available for personalized service, ideal for groups or those with specific travel needs.
• Taxis: Readily available for a direct route to your destination.
• Car Rentals: For those who prefer flexibility and independence to explore the region at their own pace​​.

How Do I Book a Transfer From Tulum Airport?

Transfers can be booked in advance through companies like GottaGo or at the airport upon arrival. If possible, pre-book to ensure availability and a smoother experience​​.

Yes, you can fly directly to Tulum International Airport from several major cities in Mexico and internationally. These cities include Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Dallas, and Fort Worth.

Tulum Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?

Yes! You can check out my packing list for Mexico on Amazon here.

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Mexico?

I strongly recommend using GottoGo. You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Mexico?

I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide. They have a  lot of options available!

If you are traveling from Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by clicking here and using the following discount codes for the best prices clairecaroff (car rental), claire10off (for 10% off group tours), claireprivate (for a discount on private tours). You can also send her a WhatsApp message quoting the above codes to receive the discount.

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat.

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

Kiwi offers you affordable flights. You can book service for flight, train, and bus tickets.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I personally use GlocalMe as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

You can also opt to use Solis Wifi for their Wifi plan.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here. I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack. 

Conclusion

The Tulum Airport has made travel to Mexico significantly more accessible. With this ultimate guide to TQO Airport, you’ll have no issues getting to or from Tulum. The Tulum Airport will continue to grow and offer more facilities as construction continues, so expect even more world-class amenities.