Is it safe to take a taxi from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen?
Post by Kelly McLaughlin Sept. 17, 2024
It is not safe to get a taxi from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen and it is definitely NOT the best way to enjoy a stress-free travel day. In 2024 it is still illegal to hail a taxi at the airport. Unscrupulous and shady drivers in pirate taxis will try to take advantage of novice travelers. Don’t be that person.
Safe taxis to Playa del Carmen? What are the options from Cancun Airport?
I don’t recommend unknown taxis from the Cancun Airport, you run the risk of being overcharged or scammed by unlicensed and unregulated drivers. Always book private transportation in advance. I like knowing I have a digital guarantee of service and the accountability of a reputable transfer company. - Kelly McLaughlin
Getting a taxi from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen is not safe and is not like other cities. You won’t be able to just walk out of the terminal and find a line of taxis. Anyone who approaches you in the airport to offer unknown taxi services must be considered suspect. Just say “No, gracias” and keep moving.
Fact: The distance from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen is about 55 kms, give or take depending on the exact location of your accommodations. Travel time to Playa del Carmen is approximately 1-2 hours.
Bus or rental car from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen? Better than a taxi?
The ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen is budget-friendly but does not run 24/7. The main drawback is that ADO will only bring you as far as the bus terminals in Playa del Carmen. From there you will need to find a taxi to get you to your accommodations. I really don’t want to hustle my own luggage in the heat all day just to get to my hotel. Pass on the bus.
Renting a car to get to Playa del Carmen is expensive and risky, driving in Mexico is a whole different type of adventure. Driving in the Mexican Caribbean is an adrenaline rush you probably don’t want to experience on your vacation.
The 307 highway can get crazy and don't get me started about the streets in Playa del Carmen , navigating in Spanish and trying to find parking. I do not recommend renting a car from the Cancun Airport, leave the driving to someone who knows their way around and give yourself a break.- Kelly
Taxis and Uber at the Cancun Airport: Is it safe?
Uber is now available at the Cancun Airport, but I still don’t recommend using the rideshare service to get to Playa del Carmen. A judge recently granted permission to Uber to service the airport but there are still tensions with the taxi union. It is best to avoid the unnecessary risk.
Safer than a taxi: Best option for transportation from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen
My best recommendation for getting to Playa del Carmen from the Cancun airport is to reserve private transportation in advance. I wouldn’t do it any other way, especially if I am traveling alone with luggage or in a big group trying to keep it all together on travel day.
Facts: Playa del Carmen is a popular beach vacation destination in the southeast of Mexico. Located halfway between Cancun and Tulum, it is the center of the Riviera Maya and an incredible launching point for exciting activities in the sea and in the jungle. Scuba diving, jungle ziplines, and nearby Xcaret Park are my top Playa del Carmen activities.
I know that private transfers are the best transportation choice for anyone arriving at the Cancun Airport. The most direct way to your Playa del Carmen resort, the safest, the most reliable and the most cost effective in the end. You’ll be backed up with receipts and never have to worry about negotiating fees or paying cash. Be safe travelers, peace and amor!
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