We are looking at renting some motorcycles for the day and are wondering about the safety issues going out into the country alone. Has anyone had any experience leaving Cancun alone or in a small group? 20 DAYS BABY.
I can tell you from a locals perspective from driving a car, I wouldn't dare drive a Harley. If you are going up and down the coast road, (Highway 307) say Cancun to Tulum there is nothing to worry about other than extremely poor driving standards, unsigned topes (speed bumps) potholes and over zealous cops. If you're thinking of driving inland towards Chichen Itza, there are two options - the old road or the new toll road. The old road has all the above problems, plus lots of nasty unsigned bends - so take it easy, if there's an accident it could be hours before you are found and attended to. The new road is very straight and well maintained but does have fairly expensive toll fees so take sufficient cash. I think the max speed limit is 120kph so be careful not to be caught by traffic cops who hide along the route. Gas stations can be 100 miles apart so fill up at every opportunity. Be very wary of anyone who tries to flag you down on either the old or new road to Chichen Itza, as if they need assistance. It's not unknown for it to be a set up in order to rob people. Unfortunately, this means that people who genuinely do need help often get ignored, so make sure it's not you. This isnt going to be a problem on highway 307 until you get South of Tulum.
I know I don't have the confidence to try to tackle the main roads there on a bike myself. One option you might want to consider is taking a day to go to Isla Mujeres and renting a golf cart or couple of mopeds and touring the island. Traffic is a lot more laid back and there is an awesome drive through beer store to boot!
I was in Playa Del Carmen February and June of last year. We rented a vehicle both times and drove to Tulum to see the ruins and the monkeys. I think its called the monkey place. It is in the middle of nowhere. It is a German woman who runs it, no advertising, but the BEST place I have gone to in Mexico. You need reservations and it is great. I would not leave from Cancun to drive there as it is half way between Tulum and Playa Del Carmen. Alot to give up for me as I would rather be in the sexy pool all day than with the monkeys. Anyway, we drove without issue both weeks. Never stopped by the police and the highway was not bad all the way to Tulum as far I drove it. Well marked along the way as well. Hope this helps you out.
