Cancun Airport Taxis: Safe Or Scam?

Taxis at Cancun Airport are generally considered safe, but there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is recommended to pre-book your taxi or airport transfer service before arriving at the airport, as regular taxis from the city are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. Only official Cancun Airport taxis associated with companies that pay concession fees are permitted to operate there. By pre-booking, you can also avoid the hassle of negotiating rates and ensure that you are getting a fair price. It is also important to only use authorised transportation companies, as there have been reports of tourists being scammed or overcharged by unlicensed solicitors outside the arrival terminals. Additionally, there is currently a conflict between Uber and taxi drivers in Cancun, so using Uber as an alternative is not recommended.

Pre-booking a taxi is safer than hailing one at the airport

The official Cancun Airport website states that "Cancun Airport Taxi Services MUST BE Pre-Arranged". This is because, at the airport, you risk being overcharged by unofficial drivers or falling victim to scams. By pre-booking, you can avoid this stress and ensure that you are getting into a safe, insured vehicle with a professional driver.

Pre-booking a taxi means that you will have a reservation and confirmation details, which will help you identify your assigned driver and vehicle. This reduces the risk of getting into the wrong car by accident. Additionally, pre-booking allows you to confirm the rate in advance, so you are less likely to be overcharged.

Furthermore, pre-booking a taxi means that your driver will be expecting you, even if your flight is delayed. This is especially important if you are arriving at an unusual hour, as there may be fewer transportation options available at the airport.

Finally, by pre-booking with a reputable company, you can ensure that your vehicle is comfortable and well-maintained, with features like air conditioning and Wi-Fi. This can make your journey more pleasant and help you start your trip off on a positive note.

In summary, pre-booking a taxi is a safer, more convenient, and often more affordable option than trying to hail one at the airport. It can provide peace of mind and help you arrive at your destination in Cancun smoothly and safely.

Uber is not legal at the airport

While Uber has been legalised in Cancun, it is still not permitted at the airport. This is due to the ongoing dispute between Uber and the taxi union, which has resulted in protests, traffic chaos, and even violent attacks. The taxi union has a reputation for intimidating Uber customers at the airport and targeting Uber drivers. Therefore, it is highly recommended to avoid using Uber when travelling to or from Cancun Airport, as it may put you at risk and cause significant delays.

Instead, it is best to pre-book your transportation with a reputable transfer company or use the bus. Pre-booking your transportation will ensure a safe, reliable, and stress-free journey to your destination. While it may cost a little more, it is worth it for your safety and peace of mind.

• Cancun Airport Transportation: This company offers convenient private transfers to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and other destinations in the Yucatan. They have excellent reviews and are known for their safe, fast, and comfortable services.
• Happy Shuttle Cancun: With over 10 years of experience, this Mexican family-owned company provides safe, reliable, and affordable transfers from the airport to your accommodation. They have outstanding customer service and sanitised vehicles.
• USA Transfers: This company has been recommended by several travellers and offers private transfers to and from the airport.
• Canada Transfers: Another highly recommended company for private transfers, known for their excellent service and affordable prices.
• ADO Bus: If you're on a budget, the ADO Bus is a safe and affordable option. However, keep in mind that it doesn't go directly to the Hotel Zone.

By pre-booking your transportation with one of these companies, you can avoid the hassle and potential dangers of using Uber at Cancun Airport. Remember to book in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable arrival in Cancun.

The airport taxi service is expensive

Taxis at Cancun airport are safe, but they are also expensive. In fact, they are so expensive that some travellers have reported being overcharged. This is because regular taxis from the city are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. Only official Cancun airport taxis associated with companies that pay concession fees are permitted to operate there. As a result, travellers are warned to pre-book their airport transfer with an authorised company to avoid being overcharged.

The official Quintana Roo taxi rate is approximately $3 USD per kilometre, and the Hotel Zone is about 22 kilometres from the airport, so a typical journey should cost about $55 USD. However, travellers have reported being charged up to $80 USD for the same journey.

To avoid being overcharged, it is recommended that travellers pre-book their airport transfer with an authorised company that offers discounted rates. By pre-booking, travellers can also avoid the hassle of haggling with taxi drivers at the airport, which can be a stressful experience, especially for those who do not speak Spanish.

In addition to being expensive, the taxi service at Cancun airport can also be unreliable. There have been reports of travellers waiting for extended periods of time for their pre-booked taxi to arrive, and in some cases, the taxi has not shown up at all. As a result, it is important to choose a reputable company that has a good track record of providing reliable services.

Overall, while the taxi service at Cancun airport is generally safe, it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks, including the high cost, the risk of being overcharged, and the possibility of unreliable service. To avoid these issues, it is recommended that travellers pre-book their airport transfer with a reputable company that offers discounted rates.

There is a taxi-like service which is safe but expensive

While there are no actual taxis at Cancun Airport, there is a taxi-like service that is safe but expensive. This service must be pre-arranged and booked online before you arrive at the airport. It is important to only use authorised companies, as solicitors outside the arrival terminals are unlicensed and uninsured. Authorised vehicles will display a badge permit in their windshield, and drivers will wear a uniform and carry an ID badge.

There are several reputable companies that offer this service, including Canada Transfers, USA Transfers, Cancun Valet, and Dream Days. These companies provide safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation to and from the airport, often with additional perks such as pre-ordered drinks and snacks. The vehicles are typically late models, equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and ample luggage space.

While this option may be pricier than other forms of transportation, such as buses or regular taxis, it offers peace of mind and convenience, especially for solo travellers or those travelling with a group or family. By booking in advance, you can avoid the hassle of negotiating rates and ensure a safe and efficient journey to your destination.

Pre-arranged, private transfers are a good option

Pre-booking a transfer means you can avoid the chaos of the arrivals area, where solicitors offering transportation operate illegally and may overcharge or not provide the service described. Pre-booking also means you can be sure of a fair price, as the official Quintana Roo taxi rate is about $3 USD per kilometre, but taxi drivers at the airport have a reputation for trying to take advantage of tourists.

There are several reputable companies offering pre-booked transfers, including Cancun Airport Transportation, Canada Transfers, USA Transfers, Cancun Valet, and Dream Days. These companies offer convenience, safety, and transparent pricing. They also provide private vehicles, which can be more comfortable and spacious than taxis.

By pre-booking, you can also be sure that your driver will be authorised, insured, and bilingual. This is especially important if you don't speak the local language. You will also have a clear idea of where to meet your driver, so you can avoid solicitors and get to your vehicle without hassle.

In addition, pre-booking allows you to confirm that your vehicle will be wheelchair accessible, if needed, and that it will have Wi-Fi and air conditioning. You can also pre-order drinks and snacks, which is much more convenient and affordable than purchasing them at the airport.

Finally, pre-arranged transfers offer peace of mind, especially if you are travelling with a group or family. You can be sure that your driver will be waiting for you, even if your flight is delayed, and you can avoid the stress of navigating the crowded and chaotic airport environment.

Frequently asked questions