The highly anticipated Tren Maya is officially in operation, and one of its key stops, the Tulum station, has quickly become a hub for travelers eager to explore the wonders of the Riviera Maya. Open to the public as of September 20, 2024, the Tren Maya has started offering regular services, making it easier than ever to reach Tulum and its surrounding attractions. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the new station provides convenience and ease of travel, linking this popular destination to other significant sites along the Yucatán Peninsula.
Location and Accessibility of Tren Maya Station Tulum
The Tulum station is strategically located between Cenote Calavera and the Gran Cenote, only about 15 minutes from Tulum’s hotel zone and its famous archaeological site. If you’re arriving at the station, you currently have several options to get there: a taxi, a private vehicle (there is a spacious parking lot on-site), or an ADO bus from the local bus terminal for a modest fee of 55 pesos per person.
Shortly, another transportation option will be available—a shuttle bus service that will take visitors directly to Parque Nacional del Jaguar, a newly designed park to enhance the Tren Maya experience. This electric shuttle service will be free for Tren Maya passengers and provide seamless transportation between the train station and the archaeological wonders of Tulum.
Tourist-Friendly Features
The Tren Maya Tulum station has been designed with tourists in mind. One of its standout features is its connectivity to the National Park of Jaguar, a park that will offer visitors direct access to the renowned archaeological ruins of Tulum. This new station provides an ideal starting point for travelers staying in nearby hotels or exploring the rich cultural heritage of Quintana Roo. With this connection, the Tren Maya aims to promote sustainable tourism while offering convenient access to cultural landmarks.
Spacious Parking and Modern Facilities
One of the key highlights of the Tulum station is its expansive parking area, making it one of the largest along the Tren Maya route, comparable to the size of the Cancún station. This is especially important as Tulum remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. The parking facility caters to those arriving by car, ensuring they have a safe and accessible place to leave their vehicles while they explore Tulum.
Once inside the station, you’ll find various amenities catering to travelers’ needs. While many commercial spaces are still being finalized, facilities such as ticket machines, waiting areas, and tourist information booths are already operational. A Walmart convenience store is planned for the station, where travelers can purchase snacks, beverages, and other necessities before boarding their trains.
Travel Classes and Ticketing
Passengers can choose between two travel classes on the Tren Maya: Premier Class and Tourist Class. Special discounted rates are available for those residing in Quintana Roo or Mexico. Students, teachers, and senior citizens can also enjoy reduced fares with the proper identification. As part of the station’s grand opening promotion, a 20% discount is available until October 15, 2024.
Ticket prices vary depending on the destination and class. For example, a Premier Class ticket from Tulum to the Tulum airport costs 62 pesos, while a Tourist Class ticket costs 39 pesos. As Tren Maya expands its services, more destinations will be added, offering an affordable and convenient travel option across the Yucatán Peninsula.
Onboard Experience and Additional Services
Once on board, passengers can expect a comfortable and modern travel experience. In Premier Class, seats are larger and more spacious, arranged in a two-by-one seating. Amenities include USB ports for charging devices, footrests, and foldable tables for working or eating. There is also a cafeteria service on board, where passengers can purchase snacks and beverages. In addition, plans are underway to offer overnight journeys where passengers can sleep onboard the train, providing a unique travel experience through southern Mexico.
Security measures are also in place to ensure a safe journey. All passengers must pass through X-ray security checks before boarding, and the train staff regularly checks tickets during the trip to confirm passengers are in the correct cars and seats.
A Sustainable Future for Tulum and the Yucatán Peninsula
The Tren Maya project aims to boost tourism and provide a sustainable travel option for locals and visitors. By connecting various regions across Quintana Roo, Yucatán, Campeche, Tabasco, and Chiapas, the train supports the development of local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Electric transport options, like the shuttle service to Parque Nacional del Jaguar, are a testament to the project’s commitment to eco-friendly travel.
For Tulum, the Tren Maya station represents an exciting step forward in connecting the world to its natural beauty and cultural heritage. With the station’s prime location and modern amenities, travelers can look forward to a smooth and convenient experience, whether visiting for a day or planning to explore the entire Tren Maya route.
As The Tulum Times continues to follow the progress of the Tren Maya, we encourage visitors to experience this exciting new way of traveling. Whether you’re headed to Tulum for its beaches and archaeological sites or just passing through, the Tren Maya offers a unique opportunity to explore Mexico’s southern wonders easily and comfortably.
