Bacalar to Cancun

How to Get From Bacalar to Cancun

3Options
3hFastest
$37From
MaartenElaFayeWritten by Maarten · Reviewed by Ela, Faye

Bus · Flight · Private Transport

Bacalar sits on a lagoon famous for its bands of blue and turquoise. It's 321 kilometres (199 miles) south of Cancun. Flying is the quickest way to get from Bacalar to Cancun, taking 3h - 3h 20m. By road, the bus is the cheapest option at $37 (610 MXN), and the ride takes 5h 30m - 6h 40m. A private transfer costs more and runs direct.

DISTANCE

Distance from Bacalar to Cancun

Bacalar and Cancun are about 321 km (199 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 345 km by road. The quickest way to get from Bacalar to Cancun is by taking the flight, which takes around 3h - 3h 20m.

~321 km
Straight-line distance
~345 km
Route distance
3h
Fastest
Map of Bacalar – Cancun

3 ways to travel from Bacalar to Cancun

There are three ways to travel from Bacalar to Cancun. You can choose between the bus, flight, and private transport. The journey takes 3h–5h 30m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $37 (610 MXN).

BusVia Bus TerminalDuration5h 30mincl. transfersPricefrom$37610 MXN

Bacalar to Cancun by Bus

The bus service from Bacalar to Cancun takes around 5h 30m - 6h 40m, including the short transfers to and from bus stations.

Step 1: Bacalar City Centre to Bus Terminal

10m$6.60 (111 MXN)

Buses depart from ADO Bacalar, along the main road, some 2 km west of the tourist area. If your hotel is located nearby, you can consider walking to the bus station.

If you’re staying by the beach or coming from a boat tour at Bacalar Lagoon, you'll have to take a taxi. Rates from the lagoon and anywhere within Bacalar city limits start from $6.60 (111 MXN). Note that taxis are not metered in Bacalar.

Step 2: Bacalar to Cancun by Bus

4h 55m - 6h 5m$30 (500 MXN)

Several buses run between the two cities daily.

ADO and AU are the bus companies operating on this route. ADO offers a more comfortable ride with better seats and onboard toilets, while AU is the cheaper option with simpler buses and no restrooms. Check out our Mexico Transport Guide for a full comparison of their bus types and amenities.

Ticket prices from Bacalar to Cancun start from $30 (500 MXN). The journey takes around 4h 55m - 6h 5m.

5h25mAU (Autobuses Unidos)StandardBacalar Bus StationCancun ADO Bus Station03:1004:55$30500 MXNTickets
5h25mAU (Autobuses Unidos)EconomyTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Centro03:1004:55$33550 MXNTickets
5h25mADOStandardBacalar Bus StationCancun ADO Bus Station$36600 MXNTickets
5h25mADOFirst ClassTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Centro$40660 MXNTickets
6h5mADO TLLDFirst ClassTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Centro01:45$40660 MXNTickets
Show all 9 companies
4h55mADOFirst ClassTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Conecta Aeropuerto, Cancun, QR00:49$41690 MXNTickets
5h10mADO TLLDFirst ClassTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Conecta Aeropuerto, Cancun, QR01:45$41690 MXNTickets
5h15mADOExecutiveTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Centro00:2008:1011:20$43720 MXNTickets
4h55mADOExecutiveTerminal De Autobuses BacalarADO Conecta Aeropuerto, Cancun, QR00:2008:10$47790 MXNTickets

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To

Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

We recommend booking your bus ticket online via BookAway to be assured of a seat at your desired time and day.

You can also buy tickets at the bus station. But get there at least 30 minutes before your preferred bus departure. Otherwise, tickets may be sold out and you’ll have to wait for the next trip.

Step 3: Cancun Bus Terminal to City Centre

25m$0.80 (13 MXN)

Buses park at ADO Cancun Bus Station along Calle Pino in downtown Cancun. From this terminal, many hotels in the city centre are just within walking distance.

Are you heading to the Hotel Zone? If yes, then you can get there via a 20-minute taxi/ Uber that costs around $12 (200 MXN). A cheaper alternative would be to take the local bus. Line R-1 stops right in front of the bus terminal and can take you to the beach area in around 25 minutes. A bus ticket costs $0.80 (13 MXN).

If you're heading to Cancun Airport from Bacalar, the bus will drop you off at ADO Conecta Aeropuerto.

City Centre
FlightVia Chetumal AirportDuration3hincl. transfersPricefrom$1702,850 MXN

Bacalar to Cancun by Flight

Taking a flight from Bacalar to Cancun can be quite expensive with combined rates from $170 (2,850 MXN). It’s also indirect, so you’ll still have to travel by land for half of the journey.

One great thing about it though is the picturesque views of the peninsula, which you can enjoy from a bird’s eye view.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Step 1: Bacalar City Centre to Chetumal Airport

40m$36 (600 MXN)

Since Bacalar doesn’t have its own airport, you’ll have to take a taxi to the nearest one — Chetumal Airport is located 40 km southeast.

We recommend asking your hotel in Bacalar to help you find the best deals. Rates start from $36 (600 MXN) and the taxi journey takes around 40 minutes.

A cheaper yet slower alternative is a 50-minute bus, which only costs $4 (68 MXN). However, there are no direct buses from Bacalar to Chetumal Airport. The bus can only take you up to ADO Chetumal Bus Terminal in the city centre. From here, you’ll need an additional 15-minute taxi to Chetumal Airport.

If you’re in a hurry, we recommend taking a direct taxi instead.

Step 2: Chetumal to Cancun by Direct Flight

1h 35m$130 (2,200 MXN)

From Chetumal Airport, a flight to Cancun takes 1h 35m. During this short period, you can enjoy some really amazing views of the Quintana Roo and the Riviera Maya.

Aerus and Hahn Air Technologies offer direct flights with 2-3 departures a day. Aerus generally offers lower fares compared to Hahn Air.

Prices for airline tickets can go as low as $130 (2,200 MXN) when you book at least a few weeks ahead. Regularly check Skyscanner for the cheapest flights!

Step 3: Cancun Airport to Cancun City Centre

45m - 1h 5m$7.40 (125 MXN)

From Cancun International Airport, you’ll then have to travel 18 km north to get to the city centre. There are 3 ways you can do this: via taxi, a shared minivan, or a bus.

Heading to downtown Cancun? There are ADO buses departing from any of the airport's terminals. They will take you to ADO Centro, which is just within walking distance of many hotels in the city centre. A ticket costs $7.40 (125 MXN) and you can book them beforehand through BookAway.

45mADO AeropuertoStandardCancún Airport Terminal 2Cancun ADO Bus Station$7125 MXNTickets
55mADO AeropuertoStandardCancún Airport Terminal 4Cancun ADO Bus Station$7125 MXNTickets
1h5mADO AeropuertoStandardCancún Airport Terminal 3Cancun ADO Bus Station$7125 MXNTickets
45mADOFirst ClassADO Conecta Aeropuerto, Cancun, QRADO Centro$8135 MXNTickets

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore

Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

Going straight to the Hotel Zone? We recommend taking either a shared minivan for $8 (135 MXN) or a private transfer for $25 (420 MXN) — both options are also available on BookAway.

For more info, check out our Cancun Airport guide.

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To
Cancun
Private TransportDuration4hPricefrom$2704,600 MXN

Bacalar to Cancun by Private Transport

A private transfer from Bacalar to Cancun is the easiest and most convenient option.

It's also a great way if you want to head straight to Cancun Airport. You can be sure that you can make it in time for your flight as private transfers don’t make unnecessary stops and are 2 hours faster than the bus. That gives you more time to enjoy the seven colours of the beautiful lagoon before setting off for Cancun!

The journey takes 4h, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation or the airport — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Prices for private transfer start at $270 (4,600 MXN) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $91 (1,540 MXN) each.

Daytrip
Standard Car 3 PAX
$270 (4,600 MXN)
$91 (1,540 MXN) per person
Daytrip
Standard Car 3 PAX
$285 (4,800 MXN)
$95 (1,600 MXN) per person
Daytrip
Standard Minivan 7 PAX
$470 (8,000 MXN)
$67 (1,140 MXN) per person
Daytrip
Standard Minivan 7 PAX
$490 (8,300 MXN)
$70 (1,180 MXN) per person
Wayak
Standard Car 3 PAX
$685 (11,600 MXN)
$230 (3,850 MXN) per person
Available atBookaway12Go Asia

Cancun to Bacalar guide

Travelling the other way? See our page about Cancun to Bacalar.

Reach out to our Community

No questions yet — be the first to ask about Bacalar to Cancun.

STAY

Our favourite places to stay in Cancun

Here are our favourite places to stay in Cancun for every budget.

Treat Yourself

Sina Suites

Resorts in Cancun can cost you a bomb! Sina Suites gives you that resort-style feel without the high prices. Ever wanted your own private marina in a hotel? No? Well now you probably do, and Sina Suites has one. It also has a large swimming pool set amongst gardens that overlook the lagoon.

Every day, enjoy a continental breakfast and delicious Mexican food in their poolside restaurant/bar that sits underneath a traditional thatched hut! You’ll also get more than just a room here, most suites also offer a kitchenette and balcony.

  • Views overlooking Cancun lagoon
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Bar and restaurant
  • Great location

Double rooms start from $80 (1,360 MXN) per night

Check availability
Viento Suites
Mid-Range

Viento Suites

Viento Suites is an escape from the busy and hectic Cancun. Once you’re inside the walls of this hotel, chilling in the garden beside the swimming pool, you’ll forget about the outside world.

The location couldn’t be more perfect. It’s situated within Downtown Cancun, but also very close to the Hotel Zone and beaches. The rooms look like those found in a high-class hotel, but without the extortionate prices.

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • BBQ facilities
  • Great location
  • Clean and spacious rooms

Double rooms between $40-$80 (680-1,360 MXN) per night

Check availability
Yellow Capsule Hotel
Budget

Yellow Capsule Hotel

Looking for a unique sleeping experience? The Yellow Capsule Hotel will definitely give you that. Instead of traditional rooms, you sleep in a pod. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the future when you clamber into your bright and spacious pod.

The capsules are clean and include everything you need for a comfy stay, a mirror, outlets, a safe and storage space. When you’re done hanging around in your pod, you can chill at the hotel’s terrace and enjoy their free breakfast.

  • Cool capsule sleeping experience
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Great location
  • Delicious breakfast included

Double rooms between $15-$40 (255-680 MXN) per night

Check availability
Estancia Tulbayab 36
Budget

Estancia Tulbayab 36

If you’re looking for a more homely feel than a to hotel, then definitely stay at Estancia. The owners will instantly make you feel welcome and are always there to offer advice.

The homestay offers a very convenient location, close to the local markets and not too far from the ADO bus station. The rooms are clean and spacious, plus a steal for the price. If you fancy doing some cooking whilst in Cancun, you can make use of the communal kitchen.

  • Great location
  • Clean and spacious rooms
  • Helpful and friendly hosts
  • You’ll feel at home

Double rooms between $15-$40 (255-680 MXN) per night

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Cancun?

Cancun is a vibrant beach city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With its crystal blue waters and snow-white sand, the city can be too touristy for some visitors. But its location on Mexico’s east coast makes it the perfect gateway to other destinations like Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres and Holbox.

You’ll find most tourists in the Hotel Zone, which is full to the brim with all-inclusive resorts, restaurants and lively bars. Depending on what you’re looking for, Cancun can just be a short stopover or a holiday destination by itself. Whichever you decide, make sure to explore other nearby destinations for a more authentic Mexican experience!

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Bacalar to Cancun, roughly 321 kilometres (199 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $37 (610 MXN). The quickest trip takes 3h.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Bacalar to Cancun?

The distance from Bacalar to Cancun is 321 kilometres (199 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Bacalar to Cancun?

The fastest way to get from Bacalar to Cancun is by flight and takes 3h - 3h 20m.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Cancun?

The cheapest way to get from Bacalar to Cancun is by bus with ticket costs starting from 610 MXN.

Can you rent a car from Bacalar to Cancun?

There is also an option to rent your own car from Bacalar to Cancun. Car rentals are cheap in Mexico, making it a popular way to go around. Rates for a rental car start from $19 (320 MXN) a day. Note that if you rent your car in the magic town of Bacalar, there will be an extra charge if you drop it off in Cancun. For the cheapest rates and most extensive car rental choices, we recommend booking one through Skyscanner or Kayak.

About the Authors

Maarten
Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Ela
ElaReviewer

Senior Travel Writer

Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.

Faye
FayeReviewer

Travel Writer

A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.

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