zaksgrandma

We will be in Playa del Carmen next week and I would like to tour COba. Is there a way to get there using public transportation (collectivo or bus)? Is it a long or difficult trip? Can we "understand" the site with just a guide book? Is this recommended or is a packaged tour better?

I am not a big fan of tours but don't want to get there and have no idea what I'm looking at, so please tell me your ideas/experiences.

MFNYC

We rented a car and drove there. It was very easy. The ride was maybe 1 1/2 hrs, but went quickly, and the road were clearly marked. We left in the morning, and arrive at COba around 9:30. By the time we left, the tour bus loads had arrived and it was much more crowded. We hired a guide at the site. it was well worth it.

zaksgrandma

Not sure we want to rent a car. Is there a bus or collectivo?

jamie99

The collectivos only run up and down Highway 307, either north from PDC to Cancun bus station or south from PDC ending up at Tulum bus station with multiple stops along the way. To get from Tulum to Coba, you would have to take a cab (pricey) or take a bus, and believe the buses to Coba only run a couple of times per day.

We always rent a car, you might want to consider renting one for just a day or two, to see Coba, then stop at cenotes along Coba highway to snorkle, then have lunch and visit Tulum last late in the afternoon when most tour groups have left. Tankah has good ideas.

blondlady

Ditto to Carol above, but I don't think you need a guide, buy one of the little booklets they have. Both are very easy to walk and see. Definitely swim at Tulum, but its a long stairway to the beautiful beach. Several years ago you walked on the opposite side of the main ruin and into the ocean. That was much easier. A car is really a good way to go and very easy driving.