How to take a Tusca bus - Public transportation in Playa del Carmen Mexico
The 1st thing we do is go to a bus stop, usually marked with signs saying "Paradero Servicio Urbano". There are other areas where you will see people waiting for the bus and they will stop there too.
To get on the right bus, look at the windshield to see the route the bus takes. This one goes to these areas and buildings starting in Villimar II and ending in Cento: COLOSIO-MEGA 30-30-FINAL28 MCREACION-INSS VILLAMAR-1Y2 MUNDO-HAB TOSCANA FISCALIA-CENTRO. This bus will take you past the Walmart on 30th.
The routes can change slightly due to roadwork or other causes. If you aren't sure the bus is going where you want to go, and you don't speak Spanish, just say the name of the place and the driver will say "Sí" or "No".
At the end of the video I'll put a picture of the route this bus takes both ways. I'll also include a map of the routes of the buses in Playa del Carmen. That map is a little outdated, but it can give you a general idea.
These buses usually stop at all the main stops. If you see one coming and you aren't at the stop yet, you can put your arm out to let them know and they will usually stop for you. You get on at the front of the bus and pay the driver.
Because we are taking a bus from Villimar II to Centro the price is 10 pesos. For most places downtown the cost is only 7 pesos but this is a longer drive from an outer area. It is good to have close or exact change if you have it. Usually, they can make change if you need it, within reason.
After you get on, sit back or stand and enjoy the ride. I suggest a seat on the side away from the sun and with an open window as it can get quite hot on the bus. There is no air-conditioning.
Occasionally a performer like a clown, a singer or a rapper will come on. If you enjoy the performance they appreciate a tip - whatever you would like to give.
When you get to your destination there's a buzzer to push near the door at the back of the bus to let the driver know you'll want to get off. Or you can yell bajan (ba-han) to say you want to get off, which literally means "go down". He will let you off at the next stop.
It is nice to let the driver know you appreciate their work by saying "Gracias" as you get off and you will hear many people do this.
This is a long route.... about 40 minutes one way
Here is the map of the bus routes in Playa del Carmen. Most run from about 6am-11pm, but sometimes they end early, so the latest I would count on a bus for this route is around 9:30.
Enjoy the ride! And please "like" and "subscribe"!