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Traveling to the southern tip of Quintana Roo requires some planning since Bacalar does not have its own commercial airport. Most travelers land at Cancun International Airport or spend time in Tulum before heading south to the "Lagoon of Seven Colors." The most reliable and cost-effective way to make this journey is by using the ADO bus system. This guide provides the steps needed to navigate the bus lines and reach Bacalar safely.
Looking for things to do in Bacalar? Read "The Best Activities to Do in Bacalar, Mexico."
Understanding the ADO Bus System
The Autobuses de Oriente or ADO is the primary first-class bus provider in the Yucatán Peninsula. These buses are known for being punctual and comfortable. They feature air conditioning and reclining seats and often show movies during the long drives. For international travelers who are used to smaller shuttle vans, the ADO offers a more spacious and secure alternative for long-distance travel across Mexico.
Traveling from Cancun International Airport to Bacalar
The journey from Cancun to Bacalar covers approximately 215 miles and typically takes between five and six hours. There are two ways to catch the bus from the airport. You can take a direct bus from the airport terminals to Bacalar if the schedule aligns with your flight arrival. If a direct bus is not available, you must take a short ADO shuttle from the airport to the main Cancun Downtown bus station. From the downtown station, buses depart for Bacalar multiple times a day. It is important to keep your luggage receipts provided by the driver as you will need them to reclaim your bags upon arrival.
Catching the Bus from Tulum to Bacalar
If you are already staying in Tulum, the trip is much shorter. The drive usually lasts about two and a half to three hours. Buses depart from the ADO terminal located on the main road in Tulum Town. You should arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before your departure time to check any large bags. Because this is a popular route for people moving between beach towns, tickets can sell out during the high season from December to April.
How to Purchase Your Tickets
There are several ways to secure a seat on the bus. You can buy tickets directly at the ticket windows in any ADO station using Mexican Pesos or credit cards. For those who prefer to plan ahead, the ADO mobile app and website allow for advance purchases. However, many travelers find that the website does not always accept international credit cards. In these cases, using a third-party site like Busbud can be a helpful alternative for booking with a foreign card.
Arriving at the Bacalar ADO Station
The ADO station in Bacalar is located on the main highway on the edge of town. It is not located directly on the waterfront where many hotels are situated. Once you get off the bus, there is a taxi stand right outside the station. Taxis in Bacalar are generally affordable and can take you to the lagoon-side hotels or the town center in less than ten minutes. Most taxi drivers in this area prefer cash, so it is wise to have small bills in pesos ready for your fare.
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