How to get from Tulum to Tikal, Guatemala

ByAnaMarija Mishachkovska Posted on

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You can travel from Tulum to Tikal by bus + shared shuttles, taxi + shared shuttles, or private transfer.

Embark on a journey from the shimmering beaches of Tulum to the rainforest-clad ruins of Tikal, Guatemala, an ancient citadel that was once the throbbing heart of the Mayan civilization!

Envisage towering pyramids piercing the jungle canopy, intricate carvings whispering tales of a bygone era, and the echoes of howler monkeys accompanying your footsteps. 

The transition from Tulum’s laid-back vibe to the immersive history and raw beauty of Tikal is bound to be a highlight of your travels. 

Ready to traverse through time and nature? Read on and let’s plot your adventure; perhaps it’s time to lock in that guided tour to ensure you don’t miss a beat!

Distance from Tulum to Tikal

The distance from Tulum to Tikal is about 594.7 kilometers or 369.5 miles.

It takes around 9 hours to travel from Tulum to Tikal by car.

Transportation Options from Tulum to Tikal

The following table outlines all transportation options from Tulum to Tikal:

MethodTravel timePrice
Coach Bus + Shared Van Shuttles from Tulum to Tikal via Chetumal~20 hoursUSD 106-USD 144
Taxi + Shared Van Shuttle from Tulum to Tikal via Chetumal~16 hours–
Private Transfer from Tulum to Tikal~ 9 hours–

Getting to Tikal from Tulum

1. Coach Bus + Shared Van Shuttles from Tulum to Tikal via Chetumal

Travel time: ~20 hours

Traveling from Tulum to Tikal and crossing the borders between Mexico and Guatemala is a lengthy trip that involves making several stops and changing vehicles along the way. But we’ll help you out by giving you all the essential info!

Kick off your journey from Tulum to Tikal by boarding a coach bus to Chetumal, a border city between Mexico and Belize. The ride is nearly 4 hours long, and there are ample daily departures to choose from. 

We recommend going with ADO buses, which are known for their convenience and comfort, and you can secure a ticket for USD 31 online here!

Tulum to Chetumal ADO Coach Bus Schedule

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
08:55 PM12:45 AM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 24
01:30 AM05:20 AM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
09:00 AM12:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
10:00 AM01:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
11:00 AM02:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
12:00 PM03:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
01:00 PM04:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
01:05 PM04:55 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
02:00 PM05:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
03:00 PM06:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
04:00 PM07:50 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
05:05 PM08:55 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
06:05 PM09:55 PM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31
10:40 PM02:20 AM3 hours 50 minutesUSD 31

Upon reaching Chetumal, make your way to the bus station where you can catch a shared shuttle bound for Flores, Guatemala. It’s crucial to arrive in Chetumal early, preferably before 8:00 AM, as the shuttles typically leave in the morning. 

This leg of the journey is around 10 hours, meandering through the scenic Guatemalan countryside. Tickets are priced at USD 55-USD 68, and it’s advisable to check departure times and book in advance.

Chetumal to Flores Shared Van Shuttle Schedule

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
08:30 AM06:00 PM9 hours 30 minutesUSD 55
08:00 AM06:00 PM10 hoursUSD 68

Once you set foot in the quaint town of Flores, which is the gateway to Tikal, you will need to catch one final shared shuttle. This shuttle will whisk you directly to Tikal in about 2 hours. It’s important to note that after such a lengthy journey, you’ll likely have to stay overnight in Flores and visit Tikal the following day since the Tikal-bound shuttles also leave early.

For the Flores to Tikal stretch, shuttle tickets range from USD 27 to USD 45. They are popular, and spots can fill up, so it’s a good idea to reserve your seat ahead of time.

Flores to Tikal Shared Van Shuttle Schedule

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
03:00 AM04:30 AM1 hour 30 minutesUSD 27
08:00 AM10:00 AM2 hoursUSD 30
06:00 AM08:00 AM2 hoursUSD 45
08:00 AM10:00 AM2 hoursUSD 45
10:00 AM12:00 PM2 hoursUSD 45

2. Taxi + Shared Van Shuttles from Tulum to Tikal via Chetumal

Travel time: ~16 hours

For those that want a swifter alternative from Tulum to Tikal, blending a taxi ride with shared shuttles can be a better choice. Start by hailing a taxi from Tulum to Chetumal, which will take around 2-3 hours. Ensure to negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before embarking on this leg.

As you arrive in Chetumal, the next step is to catch a shared shuttle to Flores, Guatemala. As with the coach option, these shuttles typically leave early in the morning, so be vigilant to set off from Tulum at the crack of dawn to reach Chetumal in good time. The shuttle ride will have you on the road for about 10 hours.

Chetumal to Flores Shared Van Shuttle Schedule

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
08:30 AM06:00 PM9 hours 30 minutesUSD 55
08:00 AM06:00 PM10 hoursUSD 68

Flores is your penultimate stop before Tikal. From here, you have the option to either take a shared shuttle or a taxi. The shared shuttle is fairly cost-effective and gets you to Tikal in roughly an hour. 

However, for those who prefer a bit more flexibility and a personalized travel experience, hiring a taxi is a great alternative, cutting the travel time to around 45 minutes.

It’s worth noting that if you choose the taxi route, having a grasp of travel times and negotiating skills can be handy. 

Flores to Tikal Shared Van Shuttle Schedule

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
03:00 AM04:30 AM1 hour 30 minutesUSD 27
08:00 AM10:00 AM2 hoursUSD 30
06:00 AM08:00 AM2 hoursUSD 45
08:00 AM10:00 AM2 hoursUSD 45
10:00 AM12:00 PM2 hoursUSD 45

3. Private Transfer from Tulum to Tikal

Travel time: ~ 9 hours

If comfort, convenience, and a dash of luxury are your travel prerequisites, then opting for a private transfer from Tulum to Tikal is your golden ticket. Bypass the fuss of juggling between multiple transport options and bask in the ease of a direct service tailored just for you. Book your private transfer either online or through a travel agency, and a professional chauffeur will be at your beck and call, picking you up right from your hotel in Tulum.

The journey, in a modern air-conditioned vehicle, will span approximately 9 hours, depending on traffic conditions and border crossing formalities. What sets this option apart is the liberty to take breaks, soak in the sights en route, and glean insights from your knowledgeable driver.

Upon reaching the gates of Tikal, you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket before you dive into exploring the majestic ruins. Private transfers are particularly an excellent option for groups, families, or any traveler looking for ease and comfort. 

A pro tip: If you want to pack in the travel and Tikal exploration in one day, set out early!

Best day tours in Tikal, Guatemala

Explore one of the most diverse countries on Earth with Get Your Guide—an excellent choice for travelers who want to make their vacations exciting and unforgettable!

Whether you’re looking for a vacation, road trip, or adventure in Guatemala, Get Your Guide has something for every traveler.

Get ready to see the world through and experience unforgettable memories while taking advantage of personalized suggestions, guided trips, and famous landmarks!

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Tikal from Tulum?

The distance between Tulum and Tikal is approximately 594.7 kilometers or 369.5 miles.

Is it safe to travel from Tulum to Tikal?

Yes, it’s generally safe to travel from Tulum to Tikal. However, it’s advisable to be cautious, especially at border crossings, and avoid traveling at night.

Can I cross the border between Mexico and Guatemala with a rental car?

It’s possible, but not always straightforward. Make sure you check with the rental company about their cross-border policies and ensure that you have the necessary documents.

Are there any visa requirements for crossing the border into Guatemala?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. It’s important to check visa regulations for your specific country before planning your trip.

Are there guided tours available at Tikal?

Yes, there are guided tours available at Tikal, which can be booked on arrival or in advance through various tour operators. We highly recommend using Get Your Guide for finding the best day tours in Tikal!

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