If you’re traveling to Cancun, it’s important to know how to get from the international airport to the center. That’s why we’ve put together this article with lots of tips and, above all, the pros and cons of each option available.
1. From the airport to the center by cab
When you land at Cancun International Airport (CUN), you’ll see that there are plenty of cabs at the exit, readily available. They offer you the flexibility of taking you directly to your destination, but before you get in, it is advisable to agree on a fare or ensure that the taximeter is in use.
The journey usually takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around (or more than) 35 dollars. For the Hotel Zone, calculate a few dollars more.
- If you choose this option, have Mexican pesos on hand for easy payment, especially in local cabs.
- Knowing a few words of Spanish can be useful, but most drivers and service providers speak basic English.
- Transportation apps such as Uber and Cabify were not officially allowed in Cancun until recently. You may be able to find some availability of these services during your trip, but due to the lack of regulation, we don’t consider it a 100% safe option.
Important tip: Cancun is a city with many beautiful neighborhoods and tourist attractions, such as day trips and tours. That’s why our tip is to always buy your tickets in advance. We buy everything on this website that has the best price.
2. From the airport to the transfer center
In our opinion, private transfer services are the most comfortable and practical for your trip (as well as being inexpensive). There are local companies that offer vehicles with private drivers who will await your arrival (with a sign with your name on it, so you can identify it as soon as you leave the arrivals hall) and take you directly to your hotel.
The great advantage is the convenience and guarantee of private transportation without waiting, in complete safety. You don’t have to worry about talking to the driver in another language, as you’ll already have the place of origin and destination included, and you’ll know the price of the transportation well in advance, as everything is done online.
We particularly like using this transfer service because it is one of the most famous and safest on the market. Check out the prices and services and see if it makes sense for your trip.
- If you opt for private transfer services, booking in advance can ensure an even smoother transition.
3. From the airport to the center by bus
For a more economical option, consider the bus service. There are companies that offer regular transfers to downtown Cancun and the price usually ranges from 5 to 10 US dollars, but the journey can take a little longer (approximately 1 hour). Not to mention the lack of comfort, especially if you’re carrying suitcases, and security.
Important tip: to make the most of your trip to Cancun, staying in the best regions is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the main areas and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
4. From the airport to the center by rental car
If you prefer the flexibility of leaving the airport and being able to explore the area at your own pace, you can rent a car in Cancun. With it, you would have the freedom to go to tourist attractions and other neighboring destinations – such as Chichen-Itzá, Playa Del Carmen and Xcaret Park.
So, the main tip for saving money is to book in advance. Plus, don’t rent a GPS and use the one on your cell phone instead. And be aware that there are also websites that compare the price of car rental, showing you all the vehicles available during your trip. They search all the major car rental companies in Cancun and around the world.
It’s the best way to find the lowest price among all the companies, find incredible deals and save a lot on car rental. If you want to do the search, click here on Car Rental Comparator. In a few seconds, you’ll have all the options on your screen and just choose the cheapest one. It has very strong partnerships with car rental companies, so you can get unbeatable prices.
More tips: prefer larger and reliable rental companies such as Alamo, Hertz, Dollar, Budget and Avis. Take out basic insurance at the time of booking, which is super important and is usually already included in the price, but don’t fall for the companies who, when you pick up the car, try to push extra insurance on you, which isn’t worth it.
Save money on your trip to Cancun:
Tickets: find out where to buy your tickets to Cancun the cheapest and safest way. You can save up to 40%!
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
Transfer: do you need one from the airport to the hotel? Find out here how to book and for the lowest price!
