Planning a trip from Playa del Carmen to Tulum can be exciting, but transportation logistics sometimes dampen that enthusiasm. This review covers a private round-trip shuttle service offered by Shuttle Service Akumal, designed to make your airport transfer seamless, comfortable, and worry-free. Whether you’re arriving or departing, this service aims to take the hassle out of your travel plans.
What immediately caught our eye is their personalized service—you get a private vehicle, a driver who speaks both Spanish and English, and the comfort of air conditioning. Plus, their GPS-monitored units and inclusion of bottled water and sodas add extra touches of safety and convenience.
One thing to consider is that alcoholic beverages are not included and are at your own expense, which may matter if you’re looking to toast after a long flight. This service is best suited for travelers who value reliable, private transport and want to avoid the unpredictability associated with shared shuttles or public transportation. It’s particularly handy for those with early or late flights and travelers carrying a lot of luggage or with tight schedules.
Key Points

- Private, personalized service ensures a stress-free start or end to your trip.
- New, air-conditioned units with GPS monitoring prioritize comfort and safety.
- This service is booked on average 18 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable.
- The price of $160 per person reflects the convenience of door-to-door service, including water and sodas.
- Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, offering flexibility if your plans change.
- It is suitable for most travelers, given the simple yet effective arrangements.
An In-Depth Look at the Tulum Airport Round Trip Service

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Playa del Carmen.
First Impressions and Booking Process
Booking this shuttle service is straightforward, with a typical advance notice of about 18 days. Once your reservation is confirmed, the vehicle will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point at the airport. The convenience of a mobile ticket means no fuss with paper vouchers—just show your confirmation on your phone.
The process is designed to be personalized, which means you won’t be sharing your ride with strangers, a significant plus for those seeking privacy or traveling in a group. The driver will meet you at the airport, ready to assist with luggage and ensure a smooth transition to your hotel.
The Vehicle and Its Comfort Level
The fleet comprises new, air-conditioned units monitored by GPS. That means your driver has real-time navigation, reducing the chances of delays or getting lost. The air conditioning is a blessing in the hot Caribbean climate, making the 1.5-hour drive more bearable, especially after a long flight or before a long journey home.
The vehicles are spacious enough for luggage and comfortable enough to relax during the trip. The inclusion of bottled water and sodas adds a thoughtful touch, especially appreciated after a sweaty airport wait or during the hot midday sun.
The Route and Travel Time
When you’re heading from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, the service promises a swift, direct route avoiding the typical Highway 307 traffic. Instead of a shared shuttle or a bus, your private vehicle provides a more relaxed and flexible ride.
The travel time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, but this could vary with traffic or weather conditions. You’ll appreciate the privacy and comfort, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with family.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package includes liability insurance, all taxes and fees, and the private transportation itself. These are critical for peace of mind—you won’t face hidden costs or surprises. The bottled water and sodas are nice touches, though you’ll need to pay if you want alcoholic drinks.
The main cost consideration is the $160 per person, which might seem steep compared to shared shuttles, but it’s justified by the comfort, privacy, and convenience it offers. For travelers valuing flexibility and a smooth door-to-door experience, this can be a worthwhile expense.
Cancellation and Weather Flexibility
The service offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before—a flexible policy that allows you to plan without stress. If your flight is delayed or canceled due to weather, you’ll be rescheduled or refunded, which adds a layer of security for your travel plans.
The Experience in Practice

While we haven’t personally taken this exact shuttle, reviews highlight its reliability and personalized approach. Many travelers appreciate having a dedicated driver waiting for them, especially after long flights. The vehicle’s safety features—GPS monitoring and insurance—are reassuring points for safety-conscious travelers.
The group discounts and private nature make it a great choice for families or small groups wanting exclusive service. The booking window (average 18 days) suggests it’s a well-established service with high demand, so planning ahead is wise.
Travelers also note the timing is flexible, with service available from noon to late evening, accommodating both early arrivals and late-night departures. The drive itself is straightforward, avoiding the busy highway, which can sometimes be congested, especially during peak hours.
Authentic Insights from Reviews
Although the rating is currently not available, reviews mention that most travelers find the service to be reliable and comfortable. The inclusion of water and sodas is a simple but appreciated gesture, especially after a long flight or before a long drive home.
Some reviews hint at the value of private transportation in avoiding crowded, noisy shuttles or taxis. The GPS monitoring is seen as a sign of professionalism, giving passengers confidence in punctuality and safety.
Who Should Consider This Service?

This shuttle service is an excellent fit for travelers seeking a seamless, private transfer between Playa del Carmen and Tulum airport. It’s ideal for those with multiple pieces of luggage, families or small groups, or anyone who prefers door-to-door service without the hassle of shared rides.
It’s also suitable for early or late flights, given the hours of operation, and for travelers who want to avoid the unpredictability of public transport or crowded shuttles.
However, if you’re on a strict budget or traveling solo with minimal luggage, you might find cheaper options, but at the expense of comfort or flexibility.
The Sum Up

This private shuttle service offers a reliable, comfortable, and convenient way to travel between Playa del Carmen and Tulum airport. Its key strengths lie in its personalized approach, modern vehicles, and safety features, making it well worth the $160 investment for many travelers.
It’s best suited for those who prioritize peace of mind, privacy, and punctuality over budget. Whether you’re arriving after a long flight or heading home, this service helps you wrap up or start your trip smoothly.
In summary, if you value stress-free travel with a touch of personal care, this shuttle service is a smart choice. It’s especially recommended for small groups, families, or anyone who simply doesn’t want to deal with the uncertainties of shared transportation.
FAQ

Is this a private service?
Yes, this is a private transportation service, meaning only your group will be riding in the vehicle.
What is included in the price?
The price of $160 per person includes liability insurance, all taxes and fees, private transportation, bottled water, and sodas.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled pickup, allowing flexibility for unforeseen changes.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and since the service is private, it’s suitable for most ages.
What if my flight is delayed or canceled?
If canceled due to poor weather or delays, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long is the drive?
The approximately 1 hour 30-minute drive is direct, avoiding highway traffic, with some variation possible due to conditions.
What are the operating hours?
The service operates every day from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, covering most flight times.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended about 18 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak travel times.
This shuttle service strikes a solid balance of comfort, safety, and convenience, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to start or end their Mexican Riviera adventure with peace of mind.
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