The closest airport to the Riviera Maya is in Cancun, 50 kilometres to the north of Playa del Carmen. Cancun International Airport is Mexico’s second-busiest airport and handles dozens of flights each day, mainly from the US or routed through Mexico City. Aeromexico and Mexicana are the two main Mexican carriers operating out of Cancun, but most of the American carriers also frequently service the airport.

For public transportation, Cancun’s ADO bus company operates shuttles from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen and Tulum. These buses depart the airport every hour from 10.30 to 21.30 from the main terminal. Another option is to rent a car and drive the pleasant hour south to your destination. All of the major car hire firms have offices in Cancún’s airport and are equipped to handle plenty of customers.

The Riviera Maya is rather spread out, so the most convenient way to explore the area is to rent your own car and enjoy the freedom and flexibility to see all the sights. Highway 307 is the only road that runs from Cancun to Chetumal so it’s very hard to get lost. Just be sure and obey any speed limits or traffic signs as the police in Mexico are famous for their thorough attention to the law.

Alternatively, there is a bus service that runs along Highway 307, stopping at all the towns and parks. The fares are cheap, but service can be somewhat unreliable. Private shuttle operators offer quick and easy transport between the major towns and tourist spots, and there are even a few taxis in the area though they are quite expensive.