Journeying South: Playa Del Carmen to Bacalar
Bacalar, a southeastern Mexican town on the border of Belize, is gaining popularity among tourists for its newly coined title, 'The Maldives of Mexico.' This somewhat hidden gem could be on the verge of becoming Mexico's newest premier destination within the next few years.
Trying to navigate your way from the beach town of Playa Del Carmen to Bacalar’s lagoon oasis but not sure where to start? Keep reading to find the only travel guide you need for a seamless and easy trip. Grab a coffee and some snacks, and get ready for this simple 4-hour journey to one of the most beautiful best-kept secrets of Mexico.
Tip: This can, of course, also be reversed to go from Bacalar to Playa Del Carmen!
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Playa Del Carmen to Bacalar
Step 1: Take the BUS from Playa del Carmen (PDC) to Bacalar
The best option to get from Playa del Carmen to Bacalar is by taking the largest Mexican bus company: ADO. However, you can opt to rent a car or take a private taxi as well. (A private taxi could cost upwards of 200-300 USD.) I recommend taking the ADO bus since it is the cheapest and easiest option. There is a direct route from Playa del Carmen to Bacalar, that makes one stop to Tulum in between. Prices vary depending on the day and time. I suggest booking ahead per usual. The bus ticket can be anywhere from 300-500 pesos.
Important note for booking your bus:
There are 2 ADO bus locations in PDC. One is closer to the ferry port (a 2-5 minute walk if that) and one is further from the ferry port. The closer one is named “ADO Terminal Turística” and the further one is named “ADO Playa del Carmen Alterna.” Be sure to check when you are booking which terminal is listed under the "more information" tab.
After searching your route on the ADO website, click “ver detalle” (see details)
and a bottom section should show (see photo as an example). Click “ver mapa,” and your screen should look like the next photo…
P.S. If you have suitcases, make sure the small suitcase icon is shown (I have circled this in pink)–not all buses have suitcase space.
This is the second screen that will pop up after clicking “ver mapa.”
Salida: This is your origin or where you are getting the bus from.
Llegada: This is your destination.
The duration of your bus can be found above the purple box.
Stops along your route can be found under the purple box.
Tip: Be sure to download your ticket to your phone in case the service is spotty.
My bus departed from ADO Playa del Carmen Alterna, the farther terminal. The GPS estimated a 17-20 minute walk, but it only took me 10 minutes, and the early morning heat was manageable with my backpacks and two suitcases. You can also opt to take a taxi to the terminal instead of walking.
Since you already have your ticket, go through the front doors, past the ticket terminal, and out the back doors to the bus waiting area. Buses have their stops indicated on signs above the windshield. If you are unsure or it is close to your departure time, ask the workers outside for assistance.
Pro Tip: There are small vendors inside the bus terminal selling water and snacks if needed. The restroom inside the terminal has a fee, while the restroom outside, near where the buses are, is free!
How Long is the Bus?
The bus ride is a little over 4 hours.
Where Does Baggage Go?
Larger bags, suitcases, and any form of bag with wheels must go under the bus. My suitcases were either locked via a built-in combination lock (thank you TUMI), or locked with a mini padlock between zippers.
All my valuables, including money, were in my backpack, which I kept near my feet throughout the bus ride. The bus was air-conditioned with cozy seats, adjustable shades, TV screens showing a movie (we had Scooby-Doo in Spanish), and a bathroom at the back.
Pro Tip: Not all people sit in assigned seats so be sure to get on the bus early! Sit further from the bathroom if possible… :)
Is the Bus Safe?
I have traveled numerous bus routes across the Yucatan Peninsula without any moments of uncertainty or nervousness. I often noticed solo young female travelers on my buses, which speaks volumes. However, I recommend extra caution as you should when traveling anywhere. Avoid riding buses at night or arriving after dark at your destination. If you are a heavy sleeper, it is best not to nap on the bus. Follow basic safety rules like keeping money discreet and avoiding conflicts with strangers.
Step 2: Arrive in Bacalar & Transfer to ACCOMMODATION
The ADO bus drops you in what feels like a random spot in Bacalar, but taxis are awaiting your arrival to take you to your accommodation. Be sure to agree to a price BEFORE getting into the taxi. I paid 50 pesos to get to my accommodation 2.5 km away.
Congrats you have made it from Playa Del Carmen to Bacalar!
To find all of the vital information you need to know about Bacalar and what there is to do, head here!
Note: Transportation throughout the Yucatán Peninsula is on its way to becoming more accessible with the new Tren Maya Railway. Head here for more information and to stay up to date on what routes are open now!
