Are you flying to Cancun for an epic vacation? Cancun shuttle services make it easy to get around the area without requiring a rental car. It’s a cost effective way to get from A to B when you have a specific destination in mind.
While shuttles are convenient, they are best used by travelers who only have one or two stops on their trip. Otherwise, you can find more cost effective solutions to getting around. Renting a vehicle is great if you want more range. Uber and taxi services are also common across the entire Yucatan Peninsula.
Cancun Airport Shuttles
Most Cancun shuttles will run between the airport and the hotel zone. You can also find shuttles from the airport to Playa del Carmen, Holbox and other nearby destinations. Shared shuttle services are very affordable and private options run at a higher price. It’s nice to book ahead so you know a ride will be waiting when you arrive!
These are the top rated Cancun airport shuttle services:
How much will airport transportation cost in Cancun?
The rates vary and fluctuate but this list is fairly accurate overall. As you will see, a shared shuttle is the best value. Prices listed here are based on rides to the hotel zone (zona hotelera).
- Shared Shuttle Service. Expect to pay in the neighborhood of $15-20 USD.
- Private Cancun Shuttle. Most are priced in the $40-45 USD range.
- Airport Taxi Pickup. Similar to the private shuttle with a $40 USD price but some taxis do charge exorbitant rates..
- UBER. We don’t have specific pricing here yet. With surge charges and other variables, it’s difficult to know the true cost.
Resort and Hotel Shuttle Options
If you are booking with a resort, always check for free shuttle options offered by the property. Not every resort offers a free airport shuttle but many do have them available on a regular schedule. It’s super convenient and can save you time and money.
For shuttle services to specific locations outside of the resort, expect to pay or consider using an Uber to reach your destination. Many visitors spend the entire time at their all inclusive resorts however. They have everything you need to enjoy your stay located on-site.
This is a short list of the hotels and resorts with free airport shuttles in Cancun:
- Moon Palace Resort
- Hampton Inn
- Courtyard Cancun
- Fairfield Inn & Suites
- Hard Rock Hotel
- Grand Oasis
- Royal Solaris
Shuttle Alternatives for Travel in Cancun
Safety and cost are the two biggest concerns with ride services around Cancun. You can make a price assessment using our average prices listed above. Otherwise, think through the options and what you prefer in terms of reliable pricing and safety. We think a pre-booked shuttle is your best option because the price is already set and the services are very reliable.
Should you ride with Uber in Cancun?
Most Uber rides are safe, efficient and reasonably priced. That said, it’s a new thing in the area and there is fierce competition with the taxi services. Using an Uber can work well for getting around between local clubs and restaurants. Many visitors are using the service but we recommend proceeding with caution and don’t take any ride that doesn’t feel safe.
Local Taxi Services
Taxi services in Cancun are hit and miss. Reports of price gouging and bait and switch tactics are all too common. You can certainly take a taxi ride without issue but it’s a good idea to negotiate rates upfront. Always count your cash out to ensure there are no opportunities to claim a miscount.
Riding the ADO Bus and Public Transit
Most locals use the ADO bus for everyday transportation. It’s cheap, convenient, safe and it runs on a regular schedule. Carry change and small bills to have the exact amount ready for your ride. Breaking bills slows things down and it’s a pain.
Tourists rarely use the public transit option and it shouldn’t be overlooked. The R1 bus runs from the station to the hotel zone. Use the red button to indicate when you want to jump off and make sure to hit the button a few blocks in advance. If the bus is full, the driver will make regular stops to load and unload passengers. Pay attention to the stops and jump off when you are within a block or two of your destination. The R2 runs a different route, covering Xcaret Ave. It uses the same system for offloading. If you want to catch the bus, find a bus stop and wave one down.
You will also see public transit vans and they operate much in the same fashion. Flag them down to load. When you are close to the destination, say “Bajan” loudly to jump off.
Are You Confident Enough to Travel in Cancun?
It helps to know some basic Spanish, especially when using public transit. It also helps to have a few Mexican Pesos on hand for shuttles, taxis and everything else. You may want to tip and it’s just nice to have local currency handy. Otherwise, the absolute easiest option is to book a shared or private shuttle in advance.
Cancun is obviously popular with tourists and many of the locals speak English. You shouldn’t have any problems finding an airport shuttle in Cancun or a ride around the area using the travel methods above.
