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Renting A Car In Tulum: Ultimate Guide + Tips (2024) 

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

This is a comprehensive guide to renting a car in Tulum.

On your holiday to Tulum and looking for a way to get around? You’re in luck because renting a car in Tulum to explore the stunning Riviera Maya is an affordable and convenient option.

Whether you’re planning day trips out of town or wanting to venture further into Mexico, having access to reliable transportation can make all the difference when it comes to making your trip one you’ll never forget! 

🚗 Find the cheapest deal on renting a car in Tulum and book your vehicle safely with no hidden cost & generous cancellation policy through ➡️ Discover Cars.

Renting a car in Tulum is a fantastic way of exploring the local areas.

Tulum is actually the perfect base for exploring the nearby attractions. There are gorgeous cenotes, lagoons and natural reserves for nature lovers and fascinating ancient ruins such as Coba or Ek Balam for history enthusiasts.

In this blog post, we will tell you how easy it is to rent a car in Tulum, covering everything from prices, rental conditions, insurance requirements, tips for driving in Mexico, and so much more.

So let’s dive right in and explore what options are available for those wishing to rent a car during their stay in one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations.

Disclaimer – Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, we hold no responsibility for any misinformation given within this article. It is essential to check the most up-to-date information with your government, rental car company and credit card company before you travel. 

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Is It Safe To Rent A Car In Tulum?

Are you asking yourself a question: – is renting a car in Tulum safe? You’ll be pleased to know that it is generally safe to do so. However, to avoid scams and being simply ripped off at a random car rental in Tulum Mexico, we recommend using a reliable car rental comparison website such as Discover Cars

This way, you can compare the prices and reviews of several car rentals in Tulum in one go, ensuring that you get the best deal for your money. 

Additionally, DiscoverCars provides customers with an insurance package which should cover any eventualities during your stay in Mexico. 

Should I rent a car in Tulum?

Should you rent a car in Tulum? Absolutely! Renting a car is your best option for making the most of your Mexican vacation. Just imagine – you can explore off-beaten track ruins such as Coba or Muyil Ruins, visit any beach you like in the Riviera Maya, or swim in the Yucatan’s best cenotes. 

Book your rental car here before it sells out:

There are so many incredible places in Yucatan that it would be a shame to just stay in your hotel for the whole duration of your trip. I will share more about the best places to visit by car later on in this post. 

A car provides convenience as you can go where you want when you want to. It can carry heavy groceries if you are self-catering or baby and child paraphernalia if you are travelling with kids. 

Plus, if you’re travelling with a group of friends or family, renting a car becomes an even smarter choice, as it often works out cheaper compared to booking multiple bus or taxi rides. 

With the open road at your command, you’ll have endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories in the enchanting region of Tulum. 

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico and drive around?

Renting a car in Tulum Mexico is generally considered to be safe. 

Driving in the Yucatan region between Merida, Cancun, Tulum, and Valladolid is a safe and enjoyable experience as long as you take the proper precautions. Roads in Yucatan are in good condition, and driving is relatively easy due to good road signage.

When driving, always remember to drive on the right and be aware of Mexican traffic signs and signals.

It is also important that you check travel advisories from your government before travelling to Mexico to make sure that areas are considered safe for driving.

Additionally, only rent road-worthy cars from reputable companies with good reviews. By using Discover Cars, you can easily find reputable car rental services in Tulum, ensuring a stress-free and secure driving experience. 

It’s always important to check the reviews of each company to gauge the quality of their vehicles and customer service. Discover Cars also prioritises car rental companies with the best reviews, so when browsing for the best deal, you’ll see them first.

Finally, it is important to note that it is illegal to drive in Mexico without valid car insurance. Before renting a car, make sure you have the appropriate coverage, as this will help protect you if anything happens while on the road. We always book our car via Discover Cars, which offers comprehensive insurance cover.

Tulum zona hotelera
Tulum Zona Hotelera.

Who is renting a car not ideal for?

Car rental Tulum is not suitable for newly qualified drivers, anyone who is not a confident driver or who isn’t confident driving in new and unfamiliar places. 

If you’re on a short vacation and are interested primarily in maximising the time spent soaking up the sun on the beach, car hire is likely not the best option. Instead, consider joining a guided tour where you can visit all the sights you’d like in one easy trip. 

Guided tours save time and hassle since they take care of all the logistics for you. Plus, you’ll also benefit from the knowledge of experienced tour guides who can provide additional information and advice about the area you’re visiting.

Renting a car in Tulum may also not be the most optimal option for solo travellers. Not only can the cost of renting a car as one person be relatively expensive, but navigating and driving unfamiliar roads and terrain on your own can be very difficult.

Finally, if you are under 21 years old, a rental car in Tulum Mexico may not be the best use of your money. The cost of renting a car for those under the age of 21 is significantly higher than for those over the legal driving age, making it more economical to join organised tours or hire a private driver instead.

Find the cheapest car rental deal here:

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Rent A Car In Tulum Mexico: Logistics

In this section, you will find the most important practical information for renting a car in Tulum. 

What is the most popular rental car in Tulum?

Most of the usual big-brand car rental companies, such as Europcar, Sixt, Hertz or Avis, have outlets in Mexico. If you use Discover Cars, you can easily find the best car rental in Tulum and the best price for your trip. 

Plus, you can compare prices whilst checking the star rating and customer reviews at the same time. Discover Cars search engine also prioritises car rental companies with the best reviews, so when browsing for the best deal, you’ll see them first.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Tulum?

During peak periods such as Christmas, prices of all vehicles, including cars, tend to skyrocket due to high demand. Depending on the specific type of car and the season, prices may vary greatly. 

For example, an influx of families around summer school holidays will push up the price of SUVs or larger vehicles, whereas smaller cars may be more expensive around Spring Break. 

The cost of renting a car in Tulum can also be determined by the age and country of origin of the driver, as well as the duration of the rental

For example, a U.S. driver over the age of 21 renting a small car for one week in the off-season can expect to pay as little as $150. The same driver renting the same car over Christmas in peak season can expect to pay around $300.

*If you want the best cheap car rental Tulum Mexico has to offer, rent a small car in an off-peak period. Also, the longer you rent for, the more discounted daily rates you will find. 

Extra charges 

When renting a car, there are several additional costs which should be taken into account. 

One of them is the one-way drop-off fee, which is applied whenever the driver decides to return the car to a different location from where they initially picked it up. This fee varies between companies and countries but is normally quite significant. 

When renting a car, it is important to ensure you return the vehicle with the same amount of petrol that it had when you received it. Failure to do so will result in an additional empty tank fee being charged for the petrol and an additional penalty charge. 

Adding an additional driver also costs extra but can be beneficial if you plan on doing a lot of driving during your rental period. In some cases, extending the rental period may incur an additional fee as well.

What kind of car should I rent in Tulum?

You should rent the type of car you’re most comfortable driving.

When it comes to renting a car in Tulum for your trip, it’s important to make sure you pick one that suits the needs of your journey. 

Going big may seem like a good idea, as it can offer more luggage space and comfort, yet if you are not accustomed to driving larger vehicles, this could be an unnecessary challenge. On the flip side, avoid going for the cheapest car option and then overloading it with people or luggage.

Similarly, do not be tempted by a cheaper automatic or manual car if you have never driven one. 

Air conditioning is a must-have, Mexico is hot all year round, and summer months are particularly hot and humid. Also, always make sure you have enough seatbelts for each traveller. 

Finally, the type of car will also depend on your planned itinerary. If you’re planning to do a lot of driving, you may want to rent a larger, more comfortable car. While for short journeys, any type of budget vehicle will be sufficient. 

Most places near Tulum do not require a 4×4 vehicle, with the exception of the Sian Ka’an reserve. 

Secure your rental car before your trip:

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Is There Uber In Tulum?

When you rent a car in Tulum, make sure you have a place to park.

At the time of writing this post, there was no Uber in Tulum, but we’ve been told by the locals that Uber is coming to Tulum soon. Until then, you’ll have to rely on cabs and rent cars.

There is also a form of public transportation available throughout Tulum called “colectivo buses”, but it’s often crowded and can be confusing to navigate if you don’t speak Spanish.

Is it better to rent a car or take taxis in Tulum?

That depends on how much travelling you’ll plan to do. Taxis are relatively expensive in Tulum, so if you’re going to travel every day, it will be much more economical to rent a car.

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Luxury Car Rental Tulum

If you’re looking for luxury rental cars in Tulum Mexico, you can also use ➡️ Discover Cars to browse the best deals. 

Can I rent a Jeep in Tulum?

It is possible to rent a jeep in Tulum, but at the same, you don’t really need it. 

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Tulum Car Rental: Requirements

By now, you know how to rent a car in Tulum, and this section covers all the required documents you need to present at a Tulum rent a car shop. 

Can I rent a car in Tulum with a US licence?

Yes, you can rent a car in Tulum with a U.S. licence. For European visitors, you will need an International Driving Licence

➡️ READ MORE: Can I Drive In Mexico With A US License? 

What do I need to rent a car in Tulum?

If you are planning on renting a car in Tulum, you will need to provide certain documents to the rental company. 

IN SHORT

A valid driver’s licence (US or International)

⭐Proof of age (passport)

⭐Credit Card (recommended & in some cases required)

⭐Full insurance cover (recommended by us)

This includes an original U.S. driver’s license or an International Driver’s Licence (not just a photocopy). Additionally, it is necessary to prove your age by showing your passport and a credit card

The rental company needs a credit card to block a certain amount of deposit as a protection against damage or theft to the car when it is in your possession and if you need to pay any fees or penalties upon returning the car. This blocking deposit is taken whether you take out full insurance or not. 

Some rental companies allow customers to use their debit card for the deposit, but we do not recommend that. This is because the rental shop will actually take the deposit money from your card

If you have a monthly spending limit on your debit card, this deposit could severely impact your access to cash throughout the duration of your trip. Depending on how much is deposited onto the card, you may be left with only a fraction of your usual spending allowance, which could make it difficult to manage your finances while travelling. 

For example, our deposit was $1,000 for only 4 days of car rental, but because we used a credit card, the money was blocked, not taken from the account.  

The money is then unblocked (on a credit card) or refunded (debit card) within a few days of returning the car in good condition. 

In some cases, a rental company may require a credit card as a prerequisite to give you a car. They will need it for their system and in case you want to extend your car rental period later on. 

On the Discover Cars website, you will be able to see if a credit card is a requirement or an option. 

For the best deals, book your car in advance:

Do I need insurance for a car rental in Tulum?

Yes, it is required by law to have car insurance when driving in Mexico.  

Renting a car requires taking the responsibility of insuring it, either through your own credit card or via a more comprehensive and secure full insurance policy. 

Discover Cars offers an excellent option for this, providing complete coverage and peace of mind that your rental is fully protected in the case of accidents or other unforeseen events.

We always go for full insurance coverage when renting a car through Discover Cars. This protects us from all claims against us, and we can enjoy exploring the country worry-free. We strongly advise you to do the same, unless you have another insurance.  

Do I need a credit card?

As mentioned in the previous section, some car rental companies allow debit cards for a deposit. However, we strongly advise you to obtain a credit card before your trip. 

Based on our experience, the average deposit for car hire Tulum Mexico offers is $1,000, and if you have a credit card, this money will only be blocked. If you use a debit card, the deposit will be taken and, later, refunded.  

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

What Is The Best Way To Get Around Tulum Without A Car?

Scooter rental in Tulum.

Scooter rental in Tulum

Exploring the stunning coastline of Tulum with a rental scooter is an exhilarating and cost-effective way to take in the breathtaking sights. A typical day rate for renting a scooter in Tulum usually ranges from 500 to 900 Mexican pesos (approximately $25 – $45). Those planning on renting for multiple days should be sure to haggle and ask for a discount.

The streets in Tulum are generally wide, so riding your rental scooter around the city is relatively easy, even for first-timers. Of course, it’s important to remain vigilant at all times and follow local traffic laws when driving your scooter.

Scooters are ideal for short distances and quick trips, such as commuting downtown to Tulum Beach, Cenote Calavera, Gran Cenote or Kaan Luum Lagoon. 

Coba, which is situated 47 km away from Tulum, is already a little too far for a motorbike trip. 

Driving licence

Check if your driving licence allows you to ride a scooter and, if so, what size. This will vary depending on your country. I, for example, owe a full UK driving licence, which gives me the right to ride motorbikes and scooters up to 125cc. 

Insurance 

Another thing to check is your insurance. Make sure your travel insurance covers you when you have an accident on the scooter. Injuring yourself on a scooter is one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions for tourists abroad! 

Travel insurance typically covers motorbikes up to 125cc, but don’t rely on this information and verify your own insurance contract. 

Bike rental in Tulum

Tulum Instagram Spots, Follow that dream sign Tulum

Renting a bicycle is an enjoyable way to explore Tulum Pueblo, get to the beach from downtown, and stay fit all at once! It’s also a great way to see the stunning cenotes in the area, such as Gran Cenote and Calavera. 

Many hotels provide complimentary bike rentals for their guests, but if yours doesn’t, you can usually rent one for around 200 pesos ($10) per day

Taxis in Tulum 

Taxis are a common form of transportation in Tulum. However, tourists often get overcharged by drivers. Expect to pay a minimum of 300 pesos ($16) for any sort of ride. Before you get into the taxi, it is essential to agree on a price first in order to avoid any difficulties.

Unfortunately, at the time of writing this post, UBER drivers were not allowed in Tulum. 

Getting from Cancun Aiport To Tulum

Travellers who are looking for an affordable, reliable, and efficient way to get from the Cancun International Airport to Tulum can take advantage of the public ADO buses. These buses depart on a regular schedule between 10:00 am and 9:00 pm, with a journey time of 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The bus will drop off passengers at the central bus station in Tulum, meaning that travellers will need to make their own way to their accommodation from there.

Arranging a private transfer from Cancun airport provides a reliable and hassle-free way to get to where you need to go with the utmost safety and convenience, especially if you’re travelling with kids or carrying heavy luggage.

Furthermore, if you’re travelling late at night or during off-peak hours, there might not be many options available for getting around Cancun. 

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Best Places To Visit From Tulum With A Car

Renting a car in Tulum will allow you to visit places such as Valladolid.

📍Valladolid

Valladolid is a beautiful colonial city located a 90-minute drive from Tulum and an excellent destination for a day trip from Tulum by car.  

The cobblestone streets are lined with brightly coloured buildings, which are remnants of its rich history. One must-see is Iglesia de San Servacio, an awe-inspiring church whose architecture is a testament to the city’s history.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, take a stroll down La Calzada de los Frailes, where you can find unique items as well as small cafes and restaurants.

And, for an even more unforgettable experience, visit one of the nearby cenotes, such as Cenote Suytun or Oxman, located just outside the city. Here, you can take a dip in the refreshing waters and marvel at its majestic natural beauty.

➡️ READ MORE: Valladolid Mexico Travel Guide & Things To Do

Cenote Suytun is an excellent day trip from Tulum by car.
Cenote Suytun

📍Cenote Suytun

One of the most famous cenotes of Mexico – Cenote Suytun, is the perfect place to visit independently from Tulum. The cenote is located a few kilometres outside of Valladolid city centre and can be easily combined with a visit to the city. 

Snap some epic shots at the circular platform in the middle of the cave that is covered with ancient stalactite formations. Visit around midday to witness a light beam illuminating the platform. 

Combine the visit to Cenote Suytun with other incredible cenotes in this area. Check out the full post for more inspiration.

➡️ READ MORE: Which Valladolid Cenote Should You Visit? – 15 Epic Valladolid Cenotes 

If you rent a car in Tulum, you can easily visit Coba ruins.

📍Coba Ruins

The ruins of Coba are located just 47 km from Tulum and are an excellent destination for history enthusiasts. Coba’s name comes from the Mayan language and literally translates to “waters stirred by the wind”, a reference to two nearby lagoons. 

Coba was one of the most important ancient Mayan settlements, consisting of multiple cities connected by a network of ceremonial roads. The most impressive structure that still stands today is Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula, rising 42 meters above the ground – even higher than El Castillo at Chichen Itza. 

Chichen Itza can also be done as a day trip from Tulum.

📍Chichen Itza

Just a two-hour drive from Tulum, the awe-inspiring Chichen Itza beckons, inviting you to step back in time to 600 AD and discover one of the most important Mayan settlements in history.

As you wander through Chichen Itza, marvel at the iconic Kulkulan Pyramid, a testament to the brilliance of the Mayan calendar, featuring 365 steps representing the days of the year and four sides symbolising the four seasons.

To fully make use of your rental car, combine your trip with a visit to the enchanting town of Valladolid and the mesmerising Cenote Suytun, both magnificent gems offering a taste of the region’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

Book your rental car in advance here:

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Best Places To Visit From Tulum Without A Car

Cenote Escondido Tulum

📍Tulum Cenotes

Visiting cenotes near Tulum is an exceptional experience not to be missed during your trip and an activity that can be enjoyed without having to rent a car in Tulum. 

With an abundance of nearby cenotes, you can spend an entire day exploring these natural wonders. 

Imagine snorkelling with tiny turtles at the mesmerizing Gran Cenote, feeling the adrenaline rush as you jump off a platform into the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Car Wash, and winding down at the off-beaten track, Cenote Escondido, immersed in a peaceful setting.

The best part? You can easily get to all of these enchanting cenotes by cycling or taxi.

Book #1 cenote tour in Tulum here:

Jet boat is the most adrenaline -pumping activity at Xavage Cancun.

📍Xavage Park

Xavage Park is the perfect place for families and thrill-seekers alike!

This half-day tour includes basic admission to the park, kayaking and a four-level high ropes course, plus a buffet lunch and unlimited soft drinks and snacks. 

You can also upgrade to an All-Inclusive Admission, which we highly recommend!

The All-Inclusive options include the above activities plus white water rafting, jet boating, a 20-metre-high zip line and off-roading in a Monster Truck. 

Book this fantastic activity at the best rate here:

tulum ruins

📍Tulum Ruins

Another excellent place to visit without renting a car in Tulum is the Tulum Ruins. 

The ruins of Tulum are a stunning testament to the 16th-century Mayan civilization that occupied the site. 

Sitting atop a 12-meter tall cliff above the Caribbean Sea, visitors can experience an awe-inspiring panoramic view while also gaining insight into the Mayan culture and lifestyle that inhabited this ancient city. 

Built as a walled settlement, the site features many structures, including the iconic watch tower – El Castillo.

Tulum Ruins are located just a few kilometres from Zona Hotelera, and you can cycle here or take a taxi.   

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Important Tips For Driving In Mexico

Here are some of the most important tips for renting a car in Tulum and driving in Mexico. 

✔️ Always opt in for a full insurance cover 

Full insurance coverage is essential for peace of mind and to protect yourself from extortionate bills, legal repercussions, and other unforeseen circumstances. We always go for full coverage whenever we book with Discover Cars.

Securing comprehensive cover will provide more protection than standard car insurance or your personal travel insurance alone. Full insurance coverage can also be called premium, deluxe or extended coverage, and it is always recommended for the most comprehensive protection when driving abroad. 

Extended or full coverage auto insurance is a comprehensive policy that provides protection for you, your passengers and your vehicle in the event of an accident. In addition, it also offers liability coverage, which means that if you cause an accident, the policy will cover damages to another person’s car or property. This type of insurance is mandatory in Mexico. 

When taking out an insurance policy for your rental car, make sure you take the time to read through it thoroughly. Pay particular attention to the small print, as this is where you’ll find all of the important details and rules. 

There may be restrictions in place about where you can park your vehicle at night and what items are permitted to be stored in the trunk. If you’re unsure of any details, don’t be afraid to ask before leaving the rental depot. 

✔️ Record the condition of the car

Before you leave the rental depot, make sure to take detailed pictures of the condition of the car. This is important to do so that you can prove the car was in good condition upon leaving. 

When checking the current state of a car, it is important to take a close look at all paperwork. Any dents or windscreen cracks should be noted on the paperwork. Make sure that the location and condition of any damage are accurately recorded. If it isn’t, have one of the employees assess the damage and update the details.

Once you have gone through all of the paperwork, record the condition of the car yourself by taking photos or videos. If you notice any damage, make sure it is verified and annotated by an employee of the rental car company.

✔️ Learn how to use the car before you leave the depot

Before embarking on your journey, it is imperative to take the time to familiarise yourself with the car. First, adjust your mirrors, so visibility is optimal and safe. Second, know where the windscreen wipers, petrol, and hazard lights switches are.

Tulum beach

✔️ Watch out for the speed bumps 

Mexico is notorious for its speed bumps, which are often significantly higher than those found in the United States. Most speed bumps are painted black and yellow, making them easier to spot. However, some speed bumps blend in with the road and are difficult to spot. 

Driving over a speed bump at high speeds can be extremely detrimental to the suspension of a car, so just be mindful of them at all times, especially in the built-up area. 

✔️ Learn how to read Mexican traffic signals

Traffic lights in Mexico have an extra step. 

The lights go green, amber, flashing amber and then red. 

✔️ Have your documents always with you

It is essential to always carry the necessary documents with you while driving a rental car, such as your International Drivers Licence, a rental contract, passport, FMM or tourist card and insurance cover certificate

Moreover, make sure to keep those documents in a secure location that is easily accessible such as the driver’s door or glove compartment. 

It is also a good idea to carry a list of emergency numbers to call plus a list of useful numbers such as the rental company and the Green Angels (Angeles Verde) breakdown assistance.

✔️ Download offline maps

Smartphones have become so integral to navigation that it’s easy to overlook the importance of preparing for situations when there is no internet connection. To ensure a stress-free experience, make sure to download offline maps to your device before embarking on any car trip. 

✔️ You may want to buy a local SIM

When travelling to Mexico, it is highly advisable to purchase a local sim card for your phone rather than relying on a U.S. or  European sim card. Local sim cards provide better signal coverage, are much more reliable and can help avoid costly roaming charges.

✔️ Pay cash at the petrol station

Unfortunately, petrol stations (or gas stations) in Mexico are notorious scam locations. Self-service pumps are non-existent in Mexico, so you must directly pay an employee for your petrol. 

It is best to use cash to avoid the risk of your card being cloned or skimmed. 

Also, take your time when paying in cash and don’t allow yourself to get distracted. Be aware of which notes you are handing over as high and low denomination Mexican notes are very similar (particularly the 500 and 50), and the unscrupulous scam artists will take the opportunity to make you believe you handed over a 50 when you actually handed over a 500 note. They may try switching the note in their hand to show you ‘proof.’

It actually happened to us in Tulum, even though we’ve been warned! You can also check reviews of petrol stations on Google maps. Other travellers tend to share their experience, and if people get regularly scammed, you’ll learn about it in the recent reviews.

Another key petrol station tip is to get out of the car to watch your tank being filled.  

Make sure that the pump you have pulled up to is the pump that is being used (and not the opposite side) and that the pump has been reset to zero before use. 

✔️ Be aware of tolls 

Toll roads in Mexico are a great option for travellers who want to get from place to place quickly and safely. These roads are usually well-maintained and have fewer cars than other roads, so it can be easier to manoeuvre and pass slower vehicles. 

Toll roads are also less likely to have bumps in the road or other debris, meaning you can travel at a higher speed while feeling confident that your car will remain safe. 

Always carry Mexican pesos in case you need to pay a toll. Toll roads are called ‘Cuota’ whilst free roads, or non-toll roads, are called ‘libre’. 

The Carretera Federal 180 is a long straight toll road connecting Merida to Cancun and is the most expensive toll road in Mexico. 

At the time of writing, the toll road costs an eye-watering $608 MXP or $33 USD for a journey of around 190 miles / 305 kilometres. Tolls must be paid in cash in Mexican pesos – U.S. dollars or credit cards are not accepted. 

You can avoid the tolls and drive the libre road from Merida to Cancun – just be prepared for the 80+ speed bumps! 

✔️ Stay within the speed limit

When driving on Mexican roads, it is important to keep an eye on your speed and to obey the posted speed limits even if other drivers around you are not doing so. 

Generally speaking, there is a speed limit of 10 kph in residential areas, 20 kph near schools and hospitals, 40 kph in towns and cities and 70 kph on major roads and 90 -110 kph on highways. 

Ven a la luz Tulum sculpture located in Zona Hotelera.

✔️ Avoid driving at night

Driving at night in an unfamiliar country can be a daunting task. Not being able to read the road signs, navigating in the dark, and having to cope with unfamiliar road layouts, can all add considerable risk to the journey. 

✔️ Watch out for left-side highway exits

When driving in Tulum, you may occasionally come across a situation where you must exit on the left side of the highway. In this event, it is important to remain calm and not rush your turn. If you miss the exit, keep driving until you find a ‘retorno’ where you can do a legal U-turn. 

✔️ Exercise limited trust

In Mexico, the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited by law. However, many people still take risks and talk on their phones while driving. It is important to stay focused and alert while driving, as other drivers may not be following the law.

✔️ Don’t give cash to the Police

It is important to know the correct procedure should you get stopped by the police. 

The normal procedure is that you would be stopped and then asked to show your  driver’s licence, vehicle registration or rental contract and proof of insurance. You will also be told why you have been stopped. 

If you are issued with a ticket, accept the ticket for your misdemeanour (whether you agree with it or not) and surrender your driving licence. 

You then need to go to the nearest police station to pay your fine by credit card and retrieve your licence. You will get 50% off your ticket if you pay within 24 – 48 hours. 

You may be asked by the officers who stop you to pay there and then in cash. This is not the correct procedure and is a scam. Accept the ticket and ask to pay by card. 

✔️ Make sure your hotel or Airbnb comes with parking 

Booking a hotel or Airbnb with on-site parking is the best way to ensure both safety and time efficiency during your stay. Not only will you save time by not having to search for a parking spot, but it also provides an added layer of security. Bonus points if the car park is gated and secured!

Playa Paraiso, Tulum.
Playa Paraiso.
RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

Renting A Car In Tulum: FAQ

Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Tulum?

Can you rent a car in Tulum for a longer time? – YES. I would initially go with Discover Cars, and once you like the car and the service, try getting a discount for the long-term rental. 

Where can I find a Tulum car rental if I am younger than 25?

If you are under 21, the cost to rent a car in Tulum may be considerably higher, but it is not impossible. 

Book your car at the cheapest rate here:

Shall I rent a car at Cancun airport to drive to Tulum?

It is entirely possible to book a car and collect it at Cancun airport, then drive independently to Tulum. The road is well-marked and straightforward. 

It is a good idea for those travellers that plan to do a lot of sightseeing and venturing out of Tulum during their stay. If you mostly want to stay on the beach, then it may be more economical to book a private transfer from Cancun airport or take a bus. 

RENTING A CAR IN TULUM

The Wrap-Up: Renting A Car In Tulum

I hope you found this post helpful and that you’re well underway in booking your next holiday.

Car hire in Tulum is a great way to venture out and explore the beautiful Yucatan. With prices starting from as little as $30 a day, it’s also an affordable option.

Happy travels!

Mal xxx

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