Getting Around Cancun
The first time we went to Mexico I was very hesitant to take the bus. I don't know about your experience, but where I live, the bus is not convenient. You have to switch a few times and it'll take you an hour to get anywhere, not to mention the bus only comes by once an hour. Basically, I'll take the bus if it's my only option. Plus, public transport used to seem a bit daunting to me. For those of you in larger cities, laugh away, but again, I was hesitant to take on the bus in a foreign country.
Contrary to my first opinion, in most counties, public transportation is THE way to travel. Cancun doesn't have an underground system (at least not that I'm aware of), but they do have plenty of buses and taxis. Taxis are great if you need to get to a specific location and you're in a huge hurry and don't mind paying for your convenience. Otherwise, buses are still pretty quick and much more affordable.
If you watched the video, you can see that buses are very frequent. They say it may take up to 5 minutes for the bus you're looking for, but we've never had to wait that long.
A few basics:
Cost
The bus, as of publication, costs $10.50 pesos. It would be a good idea to ask the front desk or the bus driver to make sure you have the latest rate. We were able to pay with dollars in the past, but the exchange rate isn't very good and they won't give you change. However, 1 dollar/person is still much cheaper than paying $10-$20 US dollars for a cab. How much is your convenience worth? (Maybe more if you're heading to the airport).
Location
If you're staying in the hotel, you'll see loads of buses passing by. There are bus stops outside of almost every resort (you will have to walk all the way to the road though). If you don't have a bus stop, there will likely be one within a block of your location. Most buses will also honk if you are walking and stop for you. They usually stop if you flag them down like a cab too.
If you're by the ferry terminals or in downtown Cancun, there are still plenty of buses, but you'll have to be more careful to choose the correct route.
Routes
The routes that pass through the hotel zone are R-1 and R-2. Make sure you get on one of these buses if you're trying to get back to the hotel. Almost all the buses will have destinations on the front window (such as Walmart, Puerto Juarez, etc.). This makes it very easy for you to pick the right bus. There are many more routes once you get into town, just be sure at the end of the day to get back to an R-1 or R-2. R-27 will take you Plaza las Americas.
If you want to head to another town, grab a ride to the bus terminal and bus tickets there. Someone will be able to help you get on the ride bus to your location. R1 and R2 will stop at the bus terminal. This makes it easier too if you want to grab a bus from the airport. The airport bus will stop at the terminal and you'll have to switch to and R1/R2. We haven't done this, but will consider it in the future as shuttles are much more expensive than buses.
White vans also provide shuttles between some of the locations. For example Puerto Juarez will be served by vans to the next bus stop as this is not a highly traveled route. They may be able to give you transfer slips if you ask, otherwise you will need to pay another $10.50 (approximately 50 cents) to get on the bus at the next stop.
For a list of all routes, visit:
If you're looking for routes to other towns (Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel, Etc.), see:
Times
R-1 and R-2 run 24-7. The other routes do not. Keep this in mind if you travel far from the hotel zone as you may be stuck taking a cab back if you miss the last bus. Plan to return to the main part of Cancun by nightfall. Clubs can still be reached using buses R-1 and R-2 well into the night.
Tips
Have your money ready before you are boarding the bus. Once on the bus, find a seat quickly. The bus will start moving before you sit down. The same goes for getting off the bus. Most buses will have a button you can push to alert the driver to stop. If your bus does not have a button simply shout out "Pare" or "Alto". Get off the bus quickly too. If there are two doors, you will likely want to exit from the back doors and enter from the front doors. This allows for the most efficient boarding/departure process and makes your trips even faster!
Comparison
Taxi:
Convenient, but more expensive. Make sure you get a quote for fare before you enter the car. They may charge you more than expected if you don't get a fare ahead of time.
Bus:
Cheap, easy way to tranverse town. May be more difficult to use if hauling luggage or traveling at night.
Car Rental:
You can pick when and where you go, but the rules of the road may be different here. While renting a car is cheap, getting insurance is recommended here as is getting a GPS. Be prepared to follow all traffic laws, speeds, and use caution. You may have more freedom with a car, but you will may have difficulty finding parking spots or finding your way without GPS. Parking may cost extra.
Walking:
Walking is nice if you're location is close, however many shops and attractions are farther away. Remember you're near a jungle. It will be quite warm and humid. Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring water if you plan on walking for any distance.
Biking:
This again may give you more freedom, but watch out for traffic. This can be more dangerous if you're not accustomed to biking as transportation. You must follow rules of the road.
Comments
Post a Comment