Cancun Transport

There is no train or metro line in Cancun, so public transport services are limited to buses, taxis and tourist ferries. Taxis can be on the expensive side, so if you are on a budget, the best way to travel around the city is to take a local bus or hire a car and drive yourself.

By bus

Public buses are a good alternative for those visitors without their own means of transport. Bus routes run up and down the main stretch of the city, boulevard Kukulkan, 24 hours. Buses are inexpensive and reliable. There are rarely delays and they are always kept clean and run efficiently.

If you prefer to travel in slightly more private surroundings, but don’t want to fork out for an expensive taxi, it is possible to ride in an executive-style minibus. These travel to many of the city’s beaches as well as to some of the main tourist attractions.

Taxis

Taking a taxi is a convenient and safe way to travel around the city. As most of the petty crime takes place on public transport, you can relax more in a taxi. Cancun’s taxis are not metered, as they operate on a zone basis. Unfortunately, this means that taxis can prove to be very expensive in Cancun and more often than not, you will have to haggle over the price before getting into one.

However, taxi’s are abundant around the city and can always be found outside major hotels and shopping centres. They can also be hailed on the street, although these tend to be more expensive.

Tourist services

Small ferries operate between Cancun and the smaller island of Mujeres. It is a 20-minute journey, with boats departing from the hotel zone eight times every day. Services are run by a myriad of companies, so you are advised to hunt around for the best deal. Onboard facilities vary from ship to ship, but most have air-conditioning and some have a bar. These ferry rides are very popular with tourists and add to the fun of visiting the smaller island.

From the airport

Transportation at Cancun Airport is limited to bus services and taxis. If you are on a tight budget, it is advisable to take a pulic bus to your destination in the city. These buses run throughout the day, stopping at various hotels and destinations en-route. The airport runs a shuttle service, which is usually shared with other passengers. This service is more expensive than the bus, but is more convenient and direct.

If you are staying at one of the city’s upmarket hotels, you will find that a courtesy bus transfer is waiting for you at the airport. This will need to be arranged at the time of booking. For those who prefer a door-to-door service in a private automobile, taxis are available 24 hours from the airport. Taxis are a very expensive option, as they’re not metered, and you will have to agree on a price before setting off.

If you would prefer to make your own way to your hotel in your own time, it is possible to hire a car from the representatives in the Arrivals area.