Welcome to the Tulum Airport, a gateway to paradise nestled in the heart of the Yucatan jungle.
This modern marvel, officially known as the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, is quickly becoming a must-visit hub for travelers seeking the beauty and tranquility of Mexico’s Caribbean coast.
As your plane descends, you’ll be greeted by a sea of green—thick jungle canopy stretching endlessly in every direction. The airport, which opened in December 2023, is a testament to sustainable design, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
Sapodilla, Chechén, and Chacá trees frame the runway, offering a lush welcome to what’s been aptly nicknamed the “jungle airport.”
While still in its early stages, the airport is already making waves.
Designed to handle up to 5.5 million passengers annually, it’s a game-changer for the region, easing congestion at the bustling Cancun Airport and cutting travel times to southern gems like Bacalar and Mahahual.
From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll notice the efficiency—baggage claim is a breeze, with just a handful of carousels, and you can be in a taxi within 20 minutes.
But the Tulum Airport is more than just a convenience; it’s a symbol of the region’s rapid transformation. Once a sleepy beach town, Tulum has exploded in popularity, with its population soaring from under 7,000 two decades ago to over 47,000 today.
The airport is part of a broader effort to accommodate this growth, alongside new attractions like Jaguar National Park and the rise of world-class events like the Zamna Afterlife festival.
The airport itself is a reflection of Tulum’s aspirational brand—luxurious, eco-conscious, and deeply connected to its cultural roots. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by the Descending God of Tulum, a striking Mayan deity that sets the tone for the journey ahead.
The design is bright and airy, with glass ceilings that flood the space with natural light, blurring the line between indoors and out.
Even the bathrooms are an experience, themed around local icons like cenotes, jaguars, and the Tulum ruins.
What to Eat at the Tulum Airport
Whether you’re arriving or departing, the airport offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. For a quick bite, there’s Starbucks, Dominos, and Farine Coffee and Bakery, which serves up French-inspired pastries and sandwiches.
Pacifico, a fast-casual spot named after the iconic Mexican beer, offers a range of micheladas and light fare.
If you’re flying out, you’ll find even more choices after clearing security. Taco lovers can head to El Fogancito, while those craving something sweet can stop by Sabaré for Mexican candies and treats. Familiar names like Carl’s Jr. and Le Pain Quotidien are also on hand, along with local brands like Ay Güey for last-minute shopping.
And yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops if you’re looking to take home a lucha libre mask or two.
Other Amenities at the Tulum Airport
The airport is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Travelers can unwind in the soon-to-open VIP Lounge, rumored to be called The Grand Lounge Elite Salas Club.
Families will appreciate the two children’s play areas, complete with jungle gyms to keep little ones entertained. There’s also a nondenominational chapel for moments of reflection before your journey.
Who Flies to the Tulum Airport?
The Tulum Airport is quickly becoming a hub for both domestic and international travel. Domestically, Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus offer regular flights.
Internationally, you can fly in with Air Canada from Toronto and Montréal, WestJet from Toronto, Copa Airlines from Canada, and Discover Airlines from Frankfurt.
From the U.S., Delta Air Lines leads the charge with daily nonstop flights from Atlanta and Detroit. American Airlines operates multiple daily flights from Dallas, Charlotte, and Miami, while JetBlue offers daily service from New York JFK.
United Airlines connects Tulum to Chicago, Los Angeles, Newark, and Houston. Spirit Airlines had plans to launch flights from Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, but these have been postponed for now.
How to Get to and From the Tulum Airport
Getting to and from the airport is straightforward, though options are still evolving.
Uber is technically available in Quintana Roo, including at the Tulum Airport, but ongoing disputes with local taxi syndicates can make rideshares unreliable. Lyft is not an option in Mexico.
For a more traditional approach, private taxis and shuttles from Tulum Airport are readily available, with fares to downtown Tulum averaging around $160. Car rentals are also an option, with agencies like
Avis, Hertz, and Europcar operating on-site.
Budget-conscious travelers can take the ADO bus, which offers affordable rides to downtown Tulum for around 11.
Final Thoughts
The Tulum Airport is more than just a transportation hub—it’s a gateway to one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Whether you’re here for the pristine beaches, the ancient ruins, or the vibrant culture, the airport sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.
So pack your bags, book your flight, reserve your transportation from tulum airport, and get ready to explore the magic of Tulum. Welcome to the jungle!