Is there a safe taxi from the Cancun Airport to the Riviera Maya?

Post by Kelly McLaughlin September 23, 2024

It is not safe to get a taxi from the Cancun Airport to the Riviera Maya 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 the Riviera Maya? 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 the Riviera Maya 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 the Riviera Maya is about 60 kms, give or take depending on the exact location of your accommodations. Travel time to the Riviera Maya is approximately 1-2 hours.

Bus or rental car from the Cancun Airport to the Riviera Maya? Better than a taxi?

The ADO bus from Cancun Airport to the Riviera Maya 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 the Riviera Maya 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 let’s not talk about finding hidden beach roads of the Riviera Maya, 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 the Riviera Maya. 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 the Riviera Maya

My best recommendation for getting to the Riviera Maya 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: The Riviera Maya is a popular beach vacation destination in the southeast of Mexico.The Riviera Maya is full of exclusive luxury hotels with unbelievable tropical magic. The Riviera Maya is a dynamic destination for exciting activities in the sea and in the jungle. Scuba diving, jungle ziplines, and nearby Xcaret Park are my top Riviera Maya activities.

I know that private transfers are the best transportation choice for anyone arriving at the Cancun Airport. The most direct way to your Riviera Maya 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. 

Safest way to travel from Cancun Airport to the Riviera Maya? Happy Shuttle Cancun

Contact Happy Shuttle Cancun today to reserve your pre-paid Cancun Airport transfers to the Riviera Maya at the best price! Friendly world-class service and professionalism every single time. Travel with peace of mind with experienced professionals. Get Safe, Get Happy with Happy Shuttle Cancun!