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Explore the beauty of Cancun with our convenient car rentals

Enjoy a seamless one-way rental journey from Tulum to Cancun today!

Can I rent a car from Tulum to Cancun?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Tulum to Cancun. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for MX residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Mexico national photo ID.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and JCB (varies by dealer).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 85 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur an additional fee, which varies by dealer. Examples include US$ 10.00 per day, US$ 11.60 per day, US$ 7.24 per day, or US$ 16.24 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and JCB (varies by dealer).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 85 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur an additional fee, which varies by dealer. Examples include US$ 10.00 per day, US$ 11.60 per day, US$ 7.24 per day, or US$ 16.24 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Tulum to Cancun cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 33/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 46/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 73-US$ 122US$ 0-US$ 91US$ 99-US$ 160Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 74-US$ 185US$ 0US$ 101-US$ 433Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 86-US$ 253US$ 0-US$ 91US$ 136-US$ 633Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 156-US$ 190US$ 0-US$ 91US$ 271-US$ 449Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • Account for potential one-way fees: Confirm whether the rental company charges additional fees for one-way trips and factor this into your budget.
  • Verify route restrictions: Ensure that your chosen route is approved and without restrictions according to the rental policy.
  • Understand cross-border policies: If your trip might cross into another country, ensure you review any restrictions or additional costs.
  • Plan your fuel stops: Familiarize yourself with refuelling requirements and locate nearby fuel stations before dropping off the car.
  • Use drop-off location facilities: Check the operational hours and amenities at your drop-off point to ensure a smooth return process.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Select a vehicle suited for your route and luggage: Choose a car size that matches the number of passengers and luggage for comfort.
  • Ensure all necessary documents are prepared: Keep a valid driver’s license, credit card, and terms of rental accessible during your journey.
  • Optimize your driving route: Research the most efficient path to save time and enjoy scenic detours if appropriate.
  • Be aware of emergency contacts: Save the rental agency’s hotline number and local emergency contacts in case assistance is needed.
  • Allocate additional time for the return process: Arrive at your drop-off location earlier to handle any final inspections or delays.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning to avoid high refueling fees from the rental company.

Always use the fuel grade specified by the rental agreement to prevent engine damage.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling near the drop-off location.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price in the Cancun region is approximately $1.25 per liter for regular gasoline.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed of around 90 km/h for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Tulum Parking

Public parking spots are available near the town center, costing around $1.50 per hour.

Avoid parking in unauthorized areas to prevent fines or towing.

Use parking lots near popular tourist destinations for convenience.

Cancun Parking

Parking at Cancun International Airport costs approximately $2 per hour.

Hotel parking might be complimentary for guests; verify with your accommodation.

Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight to deter theft.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia for locating parking spots in Cancun and Tulum.

SpotHero for reserving parking spaces in advance.

Google Maps for real-time parking availability.

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Tolls and FasTrak

The route includes a toll road between Tulum and Cancun, with charges averaging $5 USD.

Ensure you have cash ready as some toll booths might not accept cards.

Toll roads are generally faster and well-maintained.

Toll Payment Options

Cash payments are accepted at most toll booths.

Some toll roads accept credit or debit cards; check signage at the booth.

Electronic toll passes like IAVE are valid on Mexican toll roads.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Driving Routes Between Tulum and Cancun:
Coastal Scenic Route
Scenic Drive 2 hours

This route follows the eastern coastline of Quintana Roo, offering stunning ocean views and access to beaches.

Playa del Carmen , Puerto Morelos , Xpu-Ha Beach
Quickest Highway Route
Direct Highway 1.5 hours

The fastest route with minimal stops, mainly using the federal highway.

None, direct route
Cultural Heritage Route
Explorative Drive 3 hours

A route designed to explore cultural and historical sites along the way.

Tulum Ruins , Xcaret Park , Cancun Downtown
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan Your Route: Study your driving route, factoring in stops for gas or snacks, and have alternatives ready for unforeseen conditions.

Refueling Stations: Ensure your rental car is fully fueled in Tulum as gas stations can be spaced around 50km apart.

Toll and Additional Costs: Have cash ready for toll roads that you'll encounter on your way to Cancun, saving waiting time.

Car Safety: Ensure your car is locked and parked in well-lit areas, especially if leaving belongings inside.

Emergency Numbers: Keep local emergency numbers and your rental company's contact on hand in case of vehicle breakdowns.

Timing Your Trip: Traffic can vary, so plan trips either early morning or late afternoon to avoid mid-day congestion.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

To ensure you select the best company for your one-way car rental needs, consider these top choices that offer reliable services for the Tulum to Cancun route.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$ExcellentWide Large selection of well-maintained vehicles , Global trust and recognition , 24/7 customer support
Avis$$Very GoodWide Competitive pricing , Flexible return policies , Reward programs for frequent renters
Budget$GoodModerate Affordable rates , Efficiency in quick processing , User-friendly booking services
Enterprise$$$ExcellentExtensive Extensive branch network , Special deals for long-term rentals , High standard of customer service
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Key Information about Rental Car Centers

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in Cancun and Tulum operate between 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Rental Location:

Car rental centers are conveniently located near downtown Tulum and at Cancun International Airport.

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttle service operates every 15 minutes between the airport terminals and rental centers in Cancun.

Vehicle Return:

One-way return locations are specified during booking to provide convenience in Cancun.

Pro Tips for Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport(TQO) Car Rentals

Book your one-way rental early to ensure vehicle availability and the lowest fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pick up a rental car in Tulum and drop it off in Cancun?

Yes, most car rental companies operating in Mexico offer the option of one-way rentals. You can pick up the vehicle in Tulum and return it in Cancun, subject to their policy and availability. Be aware that additional fees may apply.

Are there additional charges for one-way rentals on this route?

Many car rental companies impose a one-way fee for the convenience of dropping off the vehicle at a different location. This fee often depends on the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations. Check with your rental provider for specific costs.

How long does it take to drive from Tulum to Cancun?

Driving from Tulum to Cancun typically takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the exact start and finish locations.

What documents are required to rent a car in Tulum?

You will need a valid driver's license, a major credit card under the driver's name for the deposit, and an identification document such as a passport for verification.

Do rental cars in Mexico require insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have at least basic third-party liability insurance when driving a rental car in Mexico. Most car rental companies include this in their rates or offer it as an additional service. Verify beforehand to avoid surprises.

Ready to Book Your Tulum to Cancun Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ