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Chetumal International Airport
CTM • MMCM
142 km • 142 km drive
Closest commercial airport; domestic links via MEX and regional carriers.
Transport: Private shuttle, ADO/Caribe bus + taxi, Rental car
Logistics · Destination Guide
Gateway to Mexico's wild offshore atoll and the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean Mexico
Updated Oct 30, 2025 • 23 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Fly into Chetumal (CTM), Tulum International Felipe Carrillo Puerto (TQO), or Cancun (CUN). CTM is the closest city hub to Mahahual. ADO and Caribe buses run limited schedules; many visitors arrange private shuttles or rent cars for the coastal drive.
Chetumal International Airport
CTM • MMCM
142 km • 142 km drive
Closest commercial airport; domestic links via MEX and regional carriers.
Transport: Private shuttle, ADO/Caribe bus + taxi, Rental car
Felipe Carrillo Puerto International (Tulum)
TQO • MMTU
209 km • 209 km drive
New gateway south of Tulum with growing domestic and international service.
Transport: Private transfer, Rental car, Tren Maya to Bacalar + road
Cancun International Airport
CUN • MMUN
330 km • 330 km drive
Major hub for the Mexican Caribbean with wide global connectivity.
Transport: Private shuttle, Rental car, ADO bus network
Town is walkable and bike-friendly. For Xcalak or Bacalar day trips, rent a car or book a shuttle. There is no rideshare network.
Most visitors from the US, Canada, UK, EU, Japan, and others are visa-exempt for short stays. You must carry a valid passport and complete Mexico's immigration process; days granted are at the officer's discretion up to 180 days. Mexico is implementing a digital FMM in many airports. Always verify current rules with INM or your local Mexican consulate before travel.
Two-tank inshore dives are standard; Chinchorro runs are long-boat days with 2-3 dives. Operators typically include park bracelets; confirm inclusions. Bring an SMB, whistle, and dry bag.
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Pesos preferred. Small businesses may accept cards intermittently; keep cash for bracelets, tacos, and tips.
ATMs exist but are limited; withdraw in Chetumal, Tulum, or Cancun if possible.
127V • 60Hz • A, B
Most travel electronics work natively; bring a small surge protector.
Communications
Telcel has the broadest coverage on the Costa Maya; eSIMs that roam on Telcel work best. Expect patchy data south of town and around Xcalak. Wi-Fi at small hotels can vary.
Language
Spanish is primary. English is widely understood by dive crews and hospitality staff.
Insurance
Carry dive insurance that includes chamber and evacuation. Confirm your policy accepts Cozumel/Riviera Maya facilities.
Packing list