Riviera Maya is a prime destination for travelers seeking white-sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife. To accommodate the millions of visitors arriving each year, several airports serve the region, each offering unique access points to different parts of this tropical paradise.
Riviera Maya’s airport network caters to a variety of travel preferences, ensuring smooth access to this paradise for all types of visitors. Whether you’re diving in Cozumel, or relaxing in a Bacalar lagoon, these airports make getting to your dream destination easier than ever.
Here’s everything you need to know about airports in the Riviera Maya.
Cancun International Airport (CUN)
Distance from Key Destinations:
- Playa del Carmen: ~45 minutes (55 km)
- Tulum: ~1.5 hours (118 km)
- Cozumel Ferry Terminal (Playa del Carmen): ~50 minutes (60 km)
Cancun International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the Riviera Maya and one of the most important in Latin America. It handles millions of passengers annually and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights from North America, Europe, South America, and beyond.
Facilities and Airlines
The airport features four terminals, offering amenities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental services, and VIP lounges. Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, Aeroméxico, and British Airways operate flights here, making it the primary gateway to the Riviera Maya.
How to Get Around
- Pre-booked shuttles are a popular option for reaching resorts and towns in the Riviera Maya.
- ADO buses connect Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and other key areas.
- Taxis and rental cars are available at all terminals for travelers seeking convenience.
Cozumel International Airport (CZM)
Distance from Key Destinations:
- Playa del Carmen (via ferry): ~1 hour
- Tulum (via ferry and drive): ~2 hours
Located on the beautiful island of Cozumel, this airport primarily serves travelers visiting Cozumel for its world-renowned coral reefs and scuba diving spots. While smaller than Cancun Airport, it offers a good selection of flights from major Mexican cities and a few international destinations, including flights from the U.S. and Canada.
Facilities and Airlines
The airport provides basic amenities such as shops, cafes, and car rentals. Airlines like United, Delta, and Volaris operate flights to Cozumel. It’s an ideal choice for those planning to stay on the island or for diving enthusiasts.
How to Get Around
- Take a ferry from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen, which runs frequently.
- Continue by car, bus, or taxi to destinations like Tulum or Cancun.
Tulum International Airport (TQO)
Tulum International Airport, officially the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, is an international airport situated approximately 20 km southwest of Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
It serves both domestic and international air traffic for Tulum. It also supports various executive and general aviation activities. The primary airport in the region is Cancún International Airport, situated approximately 125 km north of Tulum.
Tulum International Airport is located close to Tulum’s beaches, Mayan ruins, and eco-resorts, this airport will offer a faster and more convenient option for visitors heading directly to Tulum or nearby areas.
After commencing construction in 2022, the airport began commercial services on December 1, 2023, operated by Grupo Olmeca-Maya-Mexica, a holding company owned by the Mexican military. It handled 39,768 passengers in its first month of operations.
Facilities and Airlines
Details on facilities are still being finalized, but the airport will feature modern terminals and support both domestic and international flights. It’s expected to relieve congestion at Cancun International Airport by handling a significant portion of regional traffic.
How to Get Around
Once operational, Tulum International Airport will allow travelers to reach Tulum and surrounding areas in minutes. Transportation options are expected to include taxis, car rentals, and shuttle services.
Chetumal International Airport (CTM)
Distance from Key Destinations:
- Tulum: ~3 hours (250 km)
- Bacalar Lagoon: ~40 minutes (40 km)
Chetumal International Airport serves the southernmost part of the Riviera Maya, including the charming Bacalar Lagoon and the nearby Belize border. While smaller than Cancun Airport, it is a practical option for travelers exploring the quieter, less touristy parts of the region.
Facilities and Airlines
This airport is smaller in scale, with limited amenities. Domestic airlines such as Volaris and VivaAerobus connect Chetumal with cities like Mexico City. Flights are primarily domestic, making it more of a regional hub.
How to Get Around
- Shuttles and taxis are available to Bacalar, Mahahual, and surrounding areas.
- Car rental is ideal for exploring southern Quintana Roo.
Tips for Travelers
- Plan airport transfers ahead of time for a smoother travel experience.
- Shuttle services are widely available and affordable.
- Book flights and transportation early to avoid delays.
- Ensure you have valid travel documents, including passports and visas, if required.
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