Our Cancun Transportation Guide will help you in getting to and from Cancun, as well as getting around once there. Whether you have just a few hours to spend or many days in which to explore the wonders of the region, we are sure to have a Cancun tour to meet your needs. Check out our Cancun tours page and Cancun Destination Guide for further information.

Cancun Transportation Guide

Getting to Cancun

By Plane

The easiest way to get to Cancun is by air and Cancun International Airport serves millions of tourists every year.  Located 16 km from Cancun City, the airport is the second busiest in Mexico and the fifth busiest in Latin America. It handles numerous international flights as well as many connecting services from Mexico City, Miami, Havana and other destinations close by. A number of charter aircrafts also make use of the airport every day. Major international carriers operate direct flights to Cancun from North America, Central America, South America and from European countries.

Transportation services to the city from the airport include public buses, vans, hotel buses and taxis. Most of the car rental companies have outlets at the airport, so if you are planning to rent one you can do it at the airport itself.

For transport from the airport to the city (or from the city to the airport), we recommend Green Path Transfers, who offer eco-friendly airport transfers in hundreds of destinations around the world.

By Car

Driving in Mexico can be scary and it is not really advisable for visitors to rent a car and drive to Cancun. Still, there are many who do so. As for the roads, they are generally well maintained, but be prepared for a few potholes here and there. Another thing to watch out for is the speed humps on the highways, usually found while nearing towns.

By Bus

It is a 24 hour bus journey from Mexico City to Cancun and several companies run services between the two cities. Fares for air-conditioned luxury buses are quite reasonable. The bus station in Cancun is located in downtown Cancun at the intersection of Uxmal Avenue and Tulum Avenue. There is a taxi rank right in front of the station and local buses can be availed on the Tulum Avenue which is right behind the station.

Getting Around Cancun

The city of Cancun is basically made up of two sections - downtown and the Hotel Zone - and it is very easy to find your way around. While buses, taxis and cars are the favoured modes of transport in Cancun, mopeds are also available for rent and there are regular ferry services to the island of Mujeres. It is also possible to charter small aircrafts for trips to nearby attractions.

By Bus

Buses are affordable and reliable and are the most preferred mode of transport in Cancun. They can be a bit cramped though, particularly during peak season. Bus routes run up and down the main part of the city and bus services are very frequent. There are regular services from downtown to the beaches along Tulum Avenue, and also to Puerto Jaurez for ferries to the island of Mujeres. Bus drivers usually stop to take you in even if you are not at a bus stop.

By Taxi

Taxis are comfortable, convenient and are found everywhere in Cancun. Taxi fares are set by zone, which means that they are expensive in the hotel zone and the airport but much cheaper in the downtown area. Rates are fixed and fare-cards are available at hotel receptions and shopping centres, however, it is best to confirm with your driver before setting off. Drivers have the tendency to overcharge tourists and you may be able to reduce the fares by a bit of bargaining.

By Car

There are many car rental services in Cancun and you can even hire one at the airport itself as many companies have outlets there. Remember to check if all the lights are working and also for any scratches that are already there as otherwise you may have to pay up for them. The police can be very strict with tourists and demands for bribes are not uncommon.