The Maya Train first debuted in December and has already made a difference for travelers exploring the region. While it didn’t initially fully launch and further construction has been delayed, it is already making a difference in tourism, bringing it in line with other more developed tourist destinations. So far, travelers can reach Valladolid, Merida and San Francisco de Campeche on the Maya Train, but Tulum has been out of reach. However, this is about to change and that part of the route is expected to be complete by August.

Maya Train from Cancun to Tulum coming in late summer

After suffering several setbacks due to environmentalist protests, and construction delays, the long-anticipated Cancun to Tulum stretch is almost complete. Meanwhile, a Federal Government spokesperson also confirms that this part of the route will be up and running in August.

Moreover, it isn’t just Tulum that will be connected on the Maya Train route, but also other areas of Quintana Roo, including B, the capital of the state, and the newly popular lake region of Bacalar. These make up the last section of the tourist train route yet to be opened.

What does Tulum have to offer?

Tulum is likely the most sought-after location on the Maya Train’s southbound route and this is for good reason. Not only does it offer idyllic beaches lapped by the clear blue Caribbean Sea and a resort-lined beachfront, it is also filled with history. The world-famous Tulum Archaeological Zone is an incredible visit, with its well-preserved Mayan pyramids and other historical ruins dating back over the centuries.

While the Maya Train does currently take travelers to less popular, but also incredible destinations, like San Francisco de Campeche and Izamal, tourists have complained about the lack of the Tulum stretch. The problem is that those booked for Tulum who land in Cancun have limited options to get there. A coach, which isn’t the most suitable mode of travel can take them there for $14.

Alternatively, they can book a private transfer costing from $135, which isn’t exactly ideal. Once the Maya Train runs from Cancun to Tulum, this will be a comfortable and convenient way to travel. Moreover, it is much safer and cheaper than taxis, as train fares are fixed.

About the Maya Train (Tren Maya)

The trains on the route are equipped with comfortable cushioned seats and air conditioning, plus phone charging sockets and clean toilets. So far, the Cancun – Merida and Cancun – Campeche route is comfortable indeed and it is likely that the 2h30 journey to Tulum will be equally comfortable for travelers.

Despite the environmental controversies, the Maya Train has so far served some 50,876 travelers from its start date, which works out to 927 passengers each day. While these are lower numbers compared to similar train routes in other tourist destinations, the popularity of the train is steadily increasing as more routes open up.

With Tulum being the second-most visited destination in the Mayan Riviera after Cancun, it already attracts millions of American and European visitors. Once the train route opens up, it is likely to be hugely popular. So far, ticket prices for the Cancun – Tulum route have yet to be announced. However, based on the distance compared to fares for other destinations of between 2h00-2h30 from Cancun, a seat in the affordable Tourist Class will be around $27-48, a definite improvement on other modes of travel.

Visit the official Maya Train website (Spanish language) for details, or an English version here for more information.