Is there Uber in Tulum Mexico?
Hey, if you’re thinking of heading down to Tulum, Mexico and you’re used to hopping on an Uber to get around, you might be wondering if you can do the same in Tulum.
Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Uber isn’t an option there.
But don’t sweat it! There are lots of other ways to get around, so you’ll still be able to explore and enjoy your trip.
This article will cover your various options for getting around Tulum without Uber.
If you’re interested in knowing how to get to Tulum from Cancun, read this: How to get to Tulum from the Cancun Airport
How TO: Get around in tulum
If you prefer traveling by foot or bicycle, Tulum has many options for you.
You can also rent a car or hire a regular taxi to travel around the city.
While Uber is unavailable in Tulum, you’ll find plenty of exciting ways to travel around this beautiful city.
Whether you prefer to walk, bike, drive, or hire a taxi, you’re sure to find a transportation option that suits your needs.
Do you need a car in Tulum?
If you’re planning to check out Tulum, you don’t have to worry about renting a car. There are tons of other ways to get around, so you can leave the driving to someone else.
You can hoof it around town by walking, flag down a cab, or even rent a bike or scooter if that’s more your speed.
And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore the surrounding areas, you can catch the ADO bus or hitch a ride on a colectivo.
Should you rent a car?
to explore tulum
Hey, if you’re dead set on renting a car in Tulum, just remember: it can be a real hassle.
BUT, if you enjoy the challenge of dodging bikes, pedestrians, and other cars on narrow, poorly maintained roads, then go ahead and rent a car.
Just be prepared to spend more time looking for parking spots than actually enjoying your vacation.
But seriously, driving in Tulum can be a real pain in the rear.
Traffic can be unbearable, and finding a parking spot can feel like a game of Where’s Waldo.
Rewrite in a casual voice: If you do decide to rent a car, make sure you have a good GPS and plenty of patience and make sure you watch out for those crazy drivers!
If you insist on renting a car, there are several rental agencies available in town, ranging from large international companies to small local businesses.
These agencies can be found along Avenida Tulum and Avenida Cobá.
Avoid renting a car at the Cancun airport
I know it might seem like a good idea to rent a car at Cancun Airport, but trust me, it’s like rolling the dice.
The airport is known for some shady rental car shenanigans, so unless you’re up for some excitement, it’s better to hold off on renting until you get to Tulum.
But don’t freak out! Just be sure to read the rental agreement carefully and snap some pics before you hit the road.
And don’t forget to drive safe and follow the rules, because the local cops have a thing for pulling over tourists and asking for cash.
Taxis in Tulum
Hey, so you’re thinking of flagging down a cab in Tulum? Good call, amigo!
Taxis are the way to go around here, and who doesn’t love a good taxi ride? Just give ’em a wave and watch as they pull over like magic.
But get ready to cough up some serious cash. With Tulum blowing up in popularity, the taxi prices have gone up too.
For a ride from Tulum Town to Tulum Beach, you’re looking at paying anywhere from $250-500 pesos (that’s like $13.50-28.00 USD).
The price can vary depending on stuff like how busy it is, what time it is, and even what day of the week it is (watch out for weekends, they can be pricier).
Oh, and here’s the golden rule: always agree on the price before you hop in! Otherwise, you might end up with a bill bigger than your Airbnb rent.
If you’re up for some exercise and want to see more of Tulum, biking is definitely the way to go.
Biking around Tulum is where it’s at!
You can show off your skills and even give the locals a run for their money (just watch out for potholes and pedestrians, y’know).
In Tulum, there are two main parts: the swanky Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) right on the beach, and Tulum Town (Tulum Pueblo) a few miles away. But don’t sweat it, you don’t need a taxi or rental car to get around.
In town, there’s a legit bike lane that runs along the main road, so you can pedal your heart out. And if you’re looking to explore the beaches, the paved path along Avenida Cobá is your best bet (but weekends can get pretty crowded, so heads up).
Don’t worry if you’re worried about getting lost or getting too tired. There are plenty of restaurants around where you can take a break and refuel before hitting the road again.

Many hotels offer their guests free bikes, and plenty of bike rental shops charge around 200 pesos per day or less if you rent by the week.
Just be sure to lock up your ride when you’re not using it, or risk your bike getting stolen.
So, don’t let the lack of Uber bring you down.
Whether cruising the town or checking out the beaches, Tulum has plenty of bike rental options to get you where you need to go. Remember to bring a helmet, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure.
Places to rent a bike in Tulum
You can easily find a bike rental shop located off the main highway or along the road to the beach, and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
A daily rental usually sets you back around 200 pesos (just USD 11.00) and includes a bike lock and helmet.
But before you hit the road, remember to bring some collateral in the form of cash or a personal document like your driver’s license, which will be required as a damage deposit.
If you feel protective, leave your passport at the hotel and use your driver’s license as collateral. And remember, bike rentals can get pretty popular during high season, so make sure to reserve your ride online in advance or by visiting the shop.
Popular Bike Shop Options
Tulum Bike Rental: This rental shop is located in the center of Tulum and offers a wide selection of bikes, including mountain bikes, cruisers, and tandems. They also provide helmets and locks, and their prices are very reasonable.
I Bike Tulum: This rental shop is located on the beach road in Tulum and offers a range of bikes, including road bikes and electric bikes. They also offer guided bike tours and can provide recommendations on routes and places to visit.
Tulum Rent a Bike: This rental shop is located in the hotel zone of Tulum and offers a range of bikes, including mountain bikes and cruisers. They also provide locks and helmets, and their prices are very competitive.
Tulum Bike Tours: This rental shop is located in the center of Tulum and offers guided bike tours to some of the top attractions in the area, such as the Tulum ruins and the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve. They also provide high-quality bikes and equipment.
It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare prices.
Additionally, some hotels and hostels in Tulum may also offer bike rentals, so it’s worth checking with your hotel to see if they have any options available.
Another option is renting a Tulum Moped (scooter)

If you’re looking for a cheap and wild ride in Tulum, you gotta rent a scooter!
It’ll cost you around $800 to $1000 pesos a day (that’s like $43 to $55 USD, if you’re fancy like that), but think about all the money you’ll save on taxi fares and the sick street cred you’ll earn.
To find a scooter rental shop, just cruise down the one and only road in Tulum Town (or Downtown Tulum, as the cool kids call it). It’s a no-brainer, really.
Now, before you can hit the road, you’ll need a few things.
First off, your driver’s license – that’s your ticket to ride, baby. Some rental places might ask to hold onto your passport as collateral, but don’t freak out, it’s totally normal (even if it feels like you’re handing over your firstborn).
And, of course, you’ll need cash (in pesos, please) to pay for your rental. Don’t be surprised if the rental place is cash only – these scooter shops are small businesses, after all.
If you’re not ready to part with your passport or break out your pesos, a Tulum bike rental might be more up your alley. But come on, live a little! Get on that scooter and hit the road!
Walking around in Tulum
Sure, you can walk in Tulum, but be warned: the weather is about as predictable as a toddler hopped up on sugar.
Translation: it’s hot, and then it’s hotter than Satan’s sauna. 🥵
And if you’re planning to make the trek from downtown Tulum to Tulum Beach on foot, you might want to reconsider unless you’re prepared to sweat like a marathon runner in the Sahara, it’s about 1.5 mile distance.
As for the Tulum cenotes, unless you’re a seasoned hiker, you’re gonna want to find another way to get there because it’s definitely not within walking distance.
Tulum Pueblo is the perfect size to explore by walking, but be warned – this is not your grandma’s leisurely Sunday stroll.
Along Avenida Tulum, the main drag, you’ll find plenty of action packed into a 10-block stretch.
With wide, well-maintained sidewalks and shops, restaurants, and tour operators lining the way, there’s plenty to see and do.
If you’re feeling adventurous, wander deeper into the neighborhoods where the sidewalks become narrow and uneven.
There’s less traffic, but watch out for the occasional pothole or sidewalk crack.
Here you’ll find bars, small hotels, and locals just living their best life.
Now, walking the 1.5 miles from Tulum Pueblo to Tulum Playa is technically possible, but let’s be real: it’s a long, hot, and sweaty trek.
The paved path along Avenida Cobá may seem like a good idea, but it’s heavily used by cyclists and lacks shade.
By the halfway point, you might start wondering why you thought this was a good idea. Trust us, just rent a bike or grab a taxi.
Is it safe to walk in Tulum at night?
The answer is yes, but it’s important to stay smart and cautious.
Stick to well-lit and busy areas, and try not to go out by yourself.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
But if you’re feeling a little uneasy about the idea of walking at night, don’t worry.
There are tons of taxis driving around Tulum that can take you wherever you need to go without any unexpected stops.
So go ahead and enjoy all that Tulum has to offer – day or night!
Areas to avoid at night
When the sun goes down in Tulum, it’s best to steer clear of a few sketchy areas.
It is recommended to avoid the outskirts of town, isolated areas, and poorly lit streets at night, especially if you are alone.
While Tulum is generally considered a safe town, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in areas with little activity or where there are few other people around. Stick to well-lit, busy areas, and consider using a taxi or other form of transportation to get around after dark.
Especially if you are checking out the nightlife in Tulum!

tips for getting around tulum
Cash is King
Taxis in Tulum don’t take plastic, so make sure to have enough cash on hand to cover your transportation needs.
The same goes for bike or scooter rentals, as credit card machines can be hit-or-miss in this part of Mexico.
Agree on the fare beforehand
Don’t get taken for a ride by the taxi drivers in Tulum, always confirm the price before hopping in.
Some drivers may try to overcharge you, but if you’ve agreed on the fare in advance, you won’t get any nasty surprises.
Snap time-stamped photos
Before setting out on a rented car, bike, or scooter in Tulum, snap lots of time-stamped photos.
Rental companies may try to charge you for pre-existing damages, so be sure to document the condition of the vehicle before hitting the road.
Watch out for the beach road
The beach road in Tulum is a popular but treacherous route, it’s narrow and isn’t in the best condition, and you’ll have to share it with pedestrians, bikes, and vehicles.
So, be sure to keep your wits about you and ride or walk carefully, especially at night.
¡Habla Español!
If you can speak some Spanish, it can go a long way when haggling with Tulum transportation providers and taxis.
They’re more likely to give you a fair price if they feel like you’re making an effort to communicate with them. Plus, it’s always good to practice your language skills!
Stay safe when walking at night
They’re more likely to give you a fair price if they feel like you’re making an effort to communicate with them. Plus, it’s always good to practice your language skills!
Wear comfy shoes
Many roads in Tulum are unpaved or poorly maintained, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes or sandals that can handle uneven terrain. Ladies, leave the heels at home!