How Do I Get From the Airport to a Hotel in Cancun?


Private Transportation

Arriving at the airport after a long flight, what you desire the most is to get to your final destination as soon as possible.  However, entering an unknown country and not knowing how to get to your hotel can be a challenge. If you assume there will be taxis waiting at the exit door, that is not the case in all airports….definitely not in Cancun.

So, How do I get from the airport to a Hotel in Cancun? You can get from the airport to your hotel by private transportation, shared shuttle, bus, or free shuttle from your hotel, but not by taxi.  There are many options to get from the airport to your hotel in Cancun, and there is definitely a transfer for all budgets. Some hotels include these services with your reservation, but it is preferable to reserve before your arrival date.  Booking transportation services in advance is the most convenient way to get to your hotel!

You Can Get to Your Hotel From the Airport with the Following Options:

Transfer to the Cancun Airport

Private Transportation Services:

The private transportation is the most popular service – your party will be the only passengers in the vehicle, and this service takes you directly to your hotel or to the exact address where you need to go.  A driver meets you at the airport holding a sign with your name on it and helps you with your luggage.   If you are coming with your family or group of 4 or more, this is the best option – you can get a car or a van.   If you are going to the Riviera Maya or somewhere that’s a long distance from Cancun, this is the best option.  There are many companies in Cancun offering these services, and the rate depends on the distance and the number of people.  It is recommended to reserve in advance, especially during the busy season.    There are booths just outside of the customs area at the airport where you can get this service, however booking in advance is the best and is definitely worth the money.

Rates for private transportation services from Cancun airport to:

Cancun Hotel Zone or downtown $35 
Puerto Morelos from $44
Playa del Carmen from $60
Puerto Aventuras from $80  
Akumal from $90
Tulum from $100
The rate of private transportation is per vehicle not per person, and if you reserve round trip services, you`ll save some $$$.  Each company has its own rates – the list above is just to give you an idea of the costs.

Shared Transportation from Cancun airport

Sharing transportation is a good option when traveling alone or for two people, because the price is affordable, and it is a good way to save some money. You will need to wait from 15 to 30 minutes until the vehicle for 8 to 12 people fills up. This service will make a maximum of 5 stops at various hotels, and you might be lucky and have the first one be yours!  Several authorized transportation companies offer such a service, and the rate is between US$9 to US$15 per person.

Bus from Cancun airport to Downtown

Buses are the most affordable method of transportation from the airport to downtown if you are traveling alone and traveling light.  The Cancun International Airport has regular bus departures from each terminal to the city every 30 minutes, beginning at 8:15 AM and running until midnight.

The buses have scheduled service from Terminals to Cancun Downtown, or other destinations like Playa del Carmen, Tulum or Merida. For itineraries, rates, and reservations, visit ADO    the buses go from Cancun Airport straight to the bus stations downtown in each city. These buses do not stop at hotels.  Make sure you have enough time after your flight arrival when purchasing a ticket online – there will be no refund if you miss your bus.  The cost is $86 pesos (US$3.5) per person. 

The bus ride from the airport to the downtown station is about 20 minutes.  You can easily catch a taxi or a city bus to get to your hotel in the city or hotel zone.

Mexico has an excellent bus system, providing a great service, and they are very comfortable. 

Free Shuttle Services:

Some resorts offer free shuttle buses from Cancun airport round trip.  You will need to confirm when booking your hotel and provide them with your arrival time and flight information.  Be aware that many of the hotel/resorts that offer free shuttle might try to sell you a timeshare.

What is the best way to get to my hotel from Cancun airport and back?

Transportation from Cancun to Hotels

The best way to get to your hotel from the airport is to pre-arrange a private transfer to minimize the time and hassle.  When traveling in high season, it gets pretty wild with all of the timeshare agents trying to convince you to buy.   This is the easiest and most comfortable

Where to get a Taxi from the airport in Cancun

Taxis are not allowed at the airport for pickups.  Only official airport shuttles are permitted.  However, you can arrange for a taxi to take you from your hotel to the airport on your departure date. Just make arrangements with the hotel concierge.  

How does private transfer work in Cancun?

Private transfer works very simply. You can reserve online, and when booking a private professional transfer, you will provide your flight information.  These private professional companies are able to track your flight and to make sure a driver is waiting for you outside of the terminal area, even if your flight is delayed or rescheduled.  It is the most convenient!

How to find the driver from the company I booked?

Your driver will be waiting outside the terminal area, or wherever your confirmation from the company indicates.  The drivers are identified with the company name, uniform and a tablet or a sign with your name and your hotel.

What is the safest way to get from airport to hotel in Cancun?

There are no “safety” issues when taking a transportation service from the airport to your hotel.  

Can I hire a limousine for transfer service from the Cancun airport?

 Limousine transfer services can be hired to pick you up at the airport – book online.  Limousine service is very popular in Cancun as a way of transport from the airport to the hotel zone, or for a wedding, a gala anniversary or to transport a celebrity.
Here are some companies that provide limousine transfer service: Xulha Cancun Transfer and Cancunlimo

Here is a list of transportation companies that provide excellent service: 
Cancun Valet
Cancun-airport
USA transfers
Namaste-transportation (Recommended Akumal and Tulum area)
SuperShuttle
Happy Shuttle Cancun
LuxTrip

Related Questions:

Should I rent a Car in Cancun?  You should rent a car in Cancun if you want to get to know the area.  You can have an awesome trip, full of great experiences.  If you are interested in the culture of another country during your vacation, it will be well worth the effort, as you can go anywhere at your own pace. Remember Cancun is not only a nice hotel and beautiful beach, but there is also so much you can do and see when you have your own wheels.  You will also have the opportunity to get to know the area’s most hidden treasures.   

Where Can I rent a car at Cancun Airport? You can rent a car at the Cancun airport online before your trip and pick it up at the airport. Once you are outside of the customs area you will find all of the car rental company booths.  Their agent will lead you to the shuttle that will take you to the main car rental office not too far from the terminal.

Recent Content

link to What should I do if I lose my Passport or any other ID in Cancun?

What should I do if I lose my Passport or any other ID in Cancun?

There are steps you must take if you lose your important documents. You should take necessary precautions to keep your travel documents secure at all times. Obtaining a replacement document could be easy but time-consuming and a hassle during your vacation. So, move fast and get it all done. So, What should I do if  I lose my Passport or any other ID in […]