Ruth Haines
San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) is one of the main gateways to the stunning Baja California Sur in Mexico. It is a popular entry point for travellers eager to explore the region's natural wonders and vibrant culture. SJD has three terminals, all offering domestic and international flights. The airport offers a range of services and facilities to enhance your travel experience, from VIP lounges to free Wi-Fi and duty-free shopping. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about navigating SJD Airport, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey to your dream vacation in Los Cabos and beyond.
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What You'll Learn
Navigate the terminals and VIP lounges
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) has three terminals, all offering domestic and international flights. Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic flights within Mexico, although it also receives some international flights. Terminal 2 is dedicated to international flights, and it is here that you will find the exclusive lounge for VIP passengers. The FBO terminal receives domestic and international private flights and has an infrastructure dedicated to charter flights.
Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have VIP lounges where you can relax with drinks and food while you wait for boarding, perfect for avoiding the crowds. The VIP Lounge in Terminal 1 is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm. You can also hire a VIP assistant to help you with your luggage and guide you through the airport, allowing you to skip the long lines at customs and get through airport security quickly. If you want these VIP services, you must arrange them before your trip.
When you arrive at the airport, you will have to walk through the "shark tank", an area where many timeshare representatives will try to get your attention. They will be very pushy and may even be deceptive, offering you special discounts or free activities in exchange for attending a timeshare sales pitch. It is recommended that you simply walk directly through this area and head outside, where the taxis and transportation companies wait.
The recommended time for passengers to arrive is 2 hours in advance for domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international flights.
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Use the airport's free Wi-Fi
San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) offers free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, so you can stay connected during your time there. This is especially useful if you haven't purchased a roaming package from your mobile carrier, as you can avoid unexpected charges by turning off roaming on your phone settings.
With the airport's Wi-Fi, you can easily communicate with your family or friends, check Google Maps, and even upload your holiday photos to social media. If you need to fill out the Mexico customs declaration form, you can also use the internet to help you. It is recommended that you complete this form while on the plane, but if you haven't done so, you can use the airport's Wi-Fi to fill it out before reaching the customs desk.
If you're looking for a hotel near the airport, you can use the free Wi-Fi to book a room at Hotel Aeropuerto Los Cabos, which is just a five-minute drive away and provides a complimentary shuttle service.
Additionally, if you're interested in VIP services at the airport, such as a personal assistant or access to the VIP lounges, you can use the internet to make the necessary arrangements prior to your trip. These services can help you have a hassle-free and simple arrival experience at SJD.
Overall, the free Wi-Fi at SJD Airport allows you to stay connected, informed, and entertained during your time at the airport, ensuring a smooth transition to the next part of your journey.
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Exchange money and shop duty-free
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD Airport) is a great place to indulge in some duty-free shopping and exchange your currency. While it is not necessary to have Mexican pesos, as US dollars are widely accepted, exchanging money can be convenient and offer a better rate for your money.
Exchanging Money at SJD Airport
The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso, and you can exchange your money for pesos at SJD Airport. The airport has currency exchange facilities in each terminal, making it convenient for travellers to exchange money upon arrival. The exchange service at the airport is called Cambio. While this option is convenient, the exchange rates may not be as favourable as those offered by banks. Therefore, it is recommended to use this option only to obtain some initial currency for immediate expenses, such as taxi fares or tips.
ATMs are also available at the airport, and they usually offer competitive rates. However, it is essential to check for any additional fees, such as exchange and international fees, that may be charged by your bank and the Mexican bank. Credit cards are another widely accepted option and can offer good exchange rates, but it is important to be mindful of any foreign transaction fees charged by the card issuer.
Duty-Free Shopping at SJD Airport
SJD Airport offers a delightful shopping experience for travellers, with a range of duty-free outlets where you can enjoy tax-free shopping. This is the perfect opportunity to purchase luxury goods at reduced prices. The airport also features Mexican-style gift shops offering a vibrant selection of traditional crafts, colourful textiles, and unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of Mexico.
For tequila lovers, the famous Clase Azul Tequila shop is a must-visit destination. Here, you can discover and savour some of the finest tequilas produced in the region, ensuring you take home a memorable memento of your time in Cabo. Whether you're looking for duty-free deals, authentic Mexican treasures, or top-tier tequila, the shops at SJD Airport have something for everyone.
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Arrive by car or shuttle
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is located on the Transpeninsular Highway, just north of San José del Cabo. If you are driving from Cabo San Lucas, you can either take the faster toll road, which takes about 30 minutes, or a longer, more scenic route along the ocean, which takes about 45 minutes. If you take the toll road, be sure to bring cash, as they accept dollars or pesos but not cards.
If you are travelling during a busy period, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours in advance for domestic flights and 3-4 hours in advance for international flights. This will give you ample time to navigate the check-in process and get through security.
Upon arrival at the airport, you will have to pass through immigration and show your documents, including your passport and the immigration form (FMM), also known as a tourist card. It is recommended that you fill out this form on the plane before arriving. You will also need to complete a Mexico customs declaration form, which you can fill out while waiting in line or on the plane. Present the completed form to a customs officer, who will determine whether or not your bags need to be scanned.
After clearing customs, you can proceed to the baggage claim area, where you can exchange your dollars to pesos at the cambio (money changer). It is recommended to do this earlier in the day, as the cambio closes mid-afternoon. Alternatively, you can withdraw cash from one of the four ATMs in the arrivals hall after customs, with the Citibanamex ATM typically offering the best exchange rate.
Once you exit the arrivals hall, you will find a range of transportation options, including taxis and shuttles. If you are staying at a hotel, you can take advantage of their complimentary shuttle service. Simply call the hotel reception after clearing customs, and they will arrange for pickup.
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Avoid the shark tank
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is located in San José del Cabo, Mexico. The airport has three terminals, all offering domestic and international flights. Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic flights within Mexico, while Terminal 2 is dedicated to international flights.
When navigating SJD, you may encounter an area known as the "shark tank". This area is notorious for pushy timeshare representatives who aim to lure travellers into attending timeshare presentations. They may offer special discounts, deals, or free activities in exchange for listening to their sales pitch.
- Have a VIP assistant: Consider hiring a VIP assistant, who can guide you through the airport, help with your luggage, and expedite your passage through customs and security. This service must be arranged prior to your trip.
- Pre-arrange transportation: Book your transportation from the airport to your hotel or resort in advance. This will help you avoid being targeted by taxi drivers or tour operators in the "shark tank" area.
- Stay focused and keep moving: If you do find yourself in the "shark tank", ignore the salespeople and focus on reaching the exit. Walk with purpose and don't make eye contact with the timeshare representatives.
- Know the layout: Familiarize yourself with the airport layout in advance. Knowing where to go and what to expect can help you navigate through the "shark tank" more efficiently.
- Arrive early: Allow yourself plenty of time to navigate the airport, especially during busy periods. It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours in advance for domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international flights.
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Frequently asked questions
You can choose from shared shuttle vans, private SUVs, vans, Sprinters and Motor Coach buses for large groups. You can also use the airport's private shuttle service or VIP Transportation Los Cabos. Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall.
Los Cabos Airport has three terminals, all offering domestic and international flights. Terminal 1 is primarily for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 is dedicated to international flights. There are VIP lounges in both terminals, offering food, drinks and a quiet space. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, and automated cashiers in the terminals and parking lot.
You will need to fill out an immigration form (FMM) or tourist card, which you can do on the plane or while waiting in line. You will also need to present your passport, which needs to be stamped, valid and in good condition. You may also need to fill out a Mexico customs declaration form, which you can get at the airport or on your plane.
