Cancun, Mexico – Despite reports that the Cancun-Playa del Carmen route of the Mayan Train is open, the construction is not completed, and tickets are unavailable.
The eagerly awaited Maya Train project, aimed at revolutionizing travel within the Mexican Caribbean, has seen increasing excitement with each section’s inauguration, starting December 15, 2023. The latest development in this ambitious transportation project was the inauguration of the northern portion of Section 5, connecting Cancun and Playa del Carmen, two of the region’s most popular destinations. The inauguration, which took place on February 29, was attended by the Mexican President, among other dignitaries, marking a significant milestone in the project, but was only for a photo op and not an inauguration.
However, despite the official opening, the Cancun to Playa del Carmen route remains non-operational, leaving potential travelers in limbo. No trips have been offered to the public since the grand ceremony, leading to confusion and disappointment. Reports indicate that construction activities are still ongoing, particularly concerning the road access and the Playa del Carmen station, further delaying the commencement of services. Additionally, it has been noted that only parts of the track for Section 5 are currently operational, complicating the full functionality of the route.
The delay has been attributed to various factors, including the controversy surrounding the environmental impact of the project, which has been met with opposition from various groups. Despite initial announcements detailing schedules and ticket pricing – $11.57 for Tourist Class and $18.50 for Premier Class – tickets remain unavailable for purchase. The planned schedule included three daily departures from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen, intended to provide a cost-effective and efficient alternative for travelers accustomed to the pricey and time-consuming journey between these two key tourist spots.
The holdup represents a significant setback, particularly given the high anticipation for this route. It promises a faster and more affordable travel option for the thousands of tourists who typically spend upwards of $100 and an hour traveling between Cancun Airport and Playa del Carmen. Workers on the project and potential passengers are left uncertain about the operational commencement date, despite previous assertions that the southern part of Section 5 would be completed by August.
While the Cancun to Playa del Carmen route faces its challenges, other parts of the Maya Train network are operational and enjoying popularity. Notably, the route from Cancun to Merida is currently the most favored, offering access to a variety of attractions including the city of Merida, the “Magic Towns” of Izamal and Valladolid, and the renowned Chichen Itza Mayan archeological site. These operational routes demonstrate the potential of the Maya Train to transform regional travel, providing a high-speed, cost-effective option for exploring the rich cultural and historical landscape of the Mexican Caribbean.
As travelers and locals alike await further updates, the promise of the Maya Train continues to generate excitement and anticipation. The project, once fully operational, is expected to offer an unparalleled travel experience across the Yucatan Peninsula, making the region’s treasures more accessible than ever.
Cancun, Mexico - Despite reports that the Cancun-Playa del Carmen route of the Mayan Train is open, the construction is not completed, and tickets are unavailable.
The eagerly awaited Maya Train project, aimed at revolutionizing travel within the Mexican Caribbean, has seen increasing excitement with each section's inauguration, starting December 15, 2023. The latest development in this ambitious transportation project was the inauguration of the northern portion of Section 5, connecting Cancun and Playa del Carmen, two of the region's most popular destinations. The inauguration, which took place on February 29, was attended by the Mexican President, among other dignitaries, marking a significant milestone in the project, but was only for a photo op and not an inauguration.
